Otome Game Mob Villain

Chapter 701

**"Johan, where have you been all this time?"**

Hearing my question, Johan simply laughed and waved a hand dismissively.

"Don't worry about the details. More importantly, that subordinate of yours is really something. I never imagined someone could drink my mother under the table to claim the Dragon-Slaying Crescent Blade."

"Emma isn't my subordinate - she serves Chris from the Christy Company."

Johan tilted his head at my response.

"But doesn't the Christy Company ultimately fall under House Baldia? Doesn't that make her effectively your subordinate?"

I shook my head firmly. "Not at all. The Christy Company operates completely independently - no capital from House Baldia is involved. They're trusted allies, but entirely separate."

Their independence was precisely what gave the Christy Company its flexibility, and I'd never considered Chris or her people as mere subordinates.

My gaze drifted to where Chris and Emma stood surrounded by nobles at the center of the hall, fielding a barrage of questions.

Ever since Emma's drinking victory over Sekmetos, the two had become the center of attention. For better or worse, Emma's bold move had thoroughly cemented the Christy Company's reputation among the Felin clans - perhaps too thoroughly, judging by the overwhelming response.

"Trusted allies, huh?" Johan murmured thoughtfully before breaking into a grin. "As expected, your way of thinking is fascinating, Ridd."

I scratched my cheek modestly. "Thanks, but it's nothing special."

Just then, Johan leaned in closer. "Actually... there's a place I want to show you. Alone. Everyone's drunk anyway - why don't we slip away?"

I blinked in surprise. The banquet would likely wind down soon, but disappearing now as a guest of honor would be rude.

"I appreciate the offer, but-"

Before I could finish declining, Johan lowered his voice to a whisper near my ear.

"Don't you want to know the secret behind the Felin's strength?"

My pulse quickened. The idea was undeniably tempting.

But I had responsibilities here. Sneaking off would be irresponsible.

"Sorry. Even so-"

Johan wasn't done. "How about this? I'll even teach you one of our hereditary spells."

Hereditary spells? My breath caught. A magic passed down exclusively among the Felin - potentially comparable to the Beastkin's transformation abilities.

Through Kiel, I'd already obtained copies of countless magical texts from the Empire's archives. Fara and Curtis had helped me access materials from Renalute too. But records of Zveara's spells remained elusive, especially after the fires that destroyed key documents during Elba and Gareth's downfall.

This could be a priceless opportunity.

My resolve wavered badly.

Seeing my hesitation, Amon unexpectedly chimed in. "Ridd, if you're curious, just go. The banquet's nearly over anyway. If anyone asks, I'll explain."

Johan pressed his advantage. "See? Even Amon agrees. Unless... you don't actually want to learn the Felin's spells?"

With both of them pushing me like this...

I sighed. "Alright. If you insist."

Johan's grin widened. "That's the Ridd I know! This way."

After quickly instructing Tinuk to explain our absence to Chris, I followed Johan into the night with Capella at my side.

The cool night air was a relief after the stuffy banquet hall. Johan led us through the inner gardens toward a torchlit training ground.

"You seem more excited than you were at the banquet, Lord Ridd," Capella observed quietly.

I couldn't help but smile. "Learning magic from Johan beats making small talk while watching my manners."

Capella's expression turned serious. "Be cautious, my lord." Her voice dropped further. "I sense faint presences in the darkness. Too unnatural for mere guards."

I kept my voice low. "You think this is a trap?"

"Not necessarily. He may be unaware - being used as a pawn, like Prince Reisis once was."

The comparison gave me pause. My brother-in-law had been similarly manipulated by nobles in the past.

Before I could respond, Johan announced our arrival. The narrow path opened into a circular training area illuminated by torches.

Johan turned with a grin and tossed me a wooden practice sword. "Catch."

I caught it reflexively. "A bokken? What's this for-"

My question died as Johan snatched up two short sticks - tonfa - and lunged without warning.

Wood cracked against wood as I barely managed to parry.

"Johan?!"

He flipped back, landing lightly as he twirled the tonfa. "Sorry, Ridd. The secret and the magic? All lies."

Before I could process this, he continued, his smile turning fierce.

"I just couldn't wait until the Beast King Tournament. I need to fight you now." He settled into a ready stance. "Besides, testing each other's strength beforehand will make our official match even better, don't you think?"