Researching Immortality

Upon entering the Lord’s manor, Vim was shown into a reception parlor. A sofa and a table sat in the center of the reasonably spacious room, with expensive-looking furnishings lined up against the walls. He couldn’t tell exactly how much they were worth, but he had a vague sense that they were highly valuable.

“Please wait here for a moment,” the attendant said, bowing solemnly.

Vim sat down on the sofa. After waiting for a few minutes, the parlor door opened once more.

“Sorry to keep you waiting. I’m happy to see you’ve visited again,” the Count said in a gentle tone.

“Not at all. My apologies for dropping in so suddenly.”

“I don’t mind. Despite being a Count, I’m essentially just a retired old man,” the Count replied with a self-deprecating smile. “Is Ms. Hana doing well?”

“Yes. Thanks to you, she’s doing great.”

“That’s good to hear. So, what brings you here today?”

“I actually have something I wanted to consult with you about,” Vim said, cutting to the chase. “Have you ever heard of a curse of immortality?”

“Ho… Immortality, you say?”

Count Dion placed a hand on his chin and began to ponder.

“I’ve read about it in ancient texts, but I find it hard to believe there’s anyone left who can achieve such a thing today.”

Several hundred years ago, research into immortality was indeed conducted. It was said that high-ranking mages sought undying bodies. Ultimately, the research reportedly ended in failure, though it was said to be the closest anyone had ever come to obtaining an immortal body.

“Still, you’ve brought me quite an interesting theme. I’ll try doing some research on my end as well.”

“Thank you. I appreciate it.”

“But tell me, why are you looking into immortality?” the Count asked.

“Well… various reasons…”

It wasn’t that he didn’t trust Count Dion, but Vim felt it was better not to reveal that he was currently under a curse of immortality. He intended to disclose it when the time was right.

“Well, I suppose you have your burdens. I won’t pry,” the Count said, sensing the situation.

“Thank you.”

It was a case of “wisdom comes with age.”

“By the way, how did you like those tea leaves I gave you last time?”

“They were delicious. We’ve been enjoying them very much.”

“Glad to hear it. Actually, I’ve come across some more excellent tea leaves, but I can’t finish them all by myself. Take them with you.”

The Count handed Vim a brown paper bag filled with black tea leaves.

“I’m sorry to always be taking things from you.”

“Think nothing of it. It’s too much for one person, so you’re actually helping me by taking them off my hands.”

“In that case, I’ll gladly accept them.”

Vim took the paper bag.

“I heard that an internationally wanted criminal was spotted around here recently.”

“Indeed. I’ve tightened security, but we can’t afford to be careless.”

“If anything happens, I’m happy to help.”

“That is reassuring,” the Count said with a smile.

“Well, I should be taking my leave. I still have things to do in the Royal Capital.”

“I see. Take care.”

“I will. I’ll drop by again soon.”

“I look forward to it.”

After leaving the Count’s mansion, Vim took flight once more and headed back toward the Royal Capital.