Published: July 4, 2025
The group arrived in the City of Nomon in the evening.
They immediately entered a large inn.
Naturally, a reservation had been made in advance.
With about thirty people in the party, and considering that it was the entourage of Earl Bashu, this was only to be expected.
"Ryo-san, Mr. Abel, please accompany me after this. Inspector Li Wu is also staying at this inn, and we have an appointment to meet at six o'clock."
"Understood."
At Roshu Ten's words, Abel nodded.
The promised time of six o'clock arrived.
Leading the way, Ryo and Abel entered Inspector Li Wu's room with Roshu Ten.
"Oh, Roshu-dono, it's been a while."
"Inspector, it's good to see you are well."
The two exchanged greetings.
Inspector Li Wu had a large build, nearly two meters tall, with a completely shaved head and a striking appearance.
If one were to describe his demeanor in four kanji characters, it might be 豪放磊落 (gouhou rairaku).
"Are those the ones you mentioned?"
"Yes, this is Ryo-san and Mr. Abel."
Ryo and Abel greeted as well, and they quickly began recounting the events in Spring Village.
What they spoke of was exactly the same content they had shared with Roshu Ten.
"Hmm..."
Once they finished, Inspector Li Wu muttered to himself and fell deep in thought.
About a minute passed when Inspector Li Wu finally spoke.
"That was quite enlightening. Thank you."
Saying this, he bowed his head.
"No, no..."
Not knowing how to respond, Ryo inadvertently said this.
"Phantom beings... They appear in some historical texts, though they are more like tales, but they do appear."
"Is that so? I wasn't aware of that."
Inspector Li Wu replied, and Roshu Ten admitted he didn't know either.
Tales are somewhat like novels.
They are certainly different from proper historical texts, but they should not be dismissed entirely.
"Ah, that's a story from before many dynasties ago. It's so ancient that it could be said to be legendary. I'll have to return to the imperial capital and ask the historians about it. Also, there's the part about them causing monster attacks in various regions. It has happened in many places, but in 'Central Yellow,' nothing has occurred at all."
"Is that so?"
"Yes. Including Spring Village, as far as I know, there have been fifteen locations. However, because nothing has happened in 'Central Yellow,' the movements of the imperial capital are very slow."
Inspector Li Wu's expression was bitter.
"Currently, the troop placements are quite distorted due to the marriage procession of the sixth prince's principal consort. His Highness Lyun, the sixth prince, is not involved in the power struggles for the throne, but it has been five years since a principal consort has entered the palace. It's understandable that the imperial palace is being cautious."
"Indeed... It’s the first time since Your Highness Crown Prince passed away. In fact, it seems Princess Shio Fen, who will become the principal consort, has faced several assassination attempts. Just the other day, there was an incident in our Boago Kingdom as well."
"Ah, I heard about it. It seems the princess's convoy had already set sail, but the daimyo got involved, right? It’s all quite suspicious..."
Both Roshu Ten and Inspector Li Wu frowned as they spoke.
Ryo and Abel exchanged glances but did not say a word.
Both had encountered the site where the princess was attacked... but it seemed that was not merely an issue within Bosunta Kingdom.
Within the larger movements across the Eastern Nations, including Darwei... various events might be unfolding.
"Oh, my apologies, it seems I was addressing you as Lord Ryo and Mr. Abel. I’ve understood the discussion thoroughly. I will take this information back to the imperial capital."
"I will continue to talk with the inspector a bit longer, so you two can head to your room. Feel free to have any meal you like. The attendants will guide you."
With those words from Inspector Li Wu and Roshu Ten, Ryo and Abel were released.
"After all, this marriage procession of Princess Shio Fen seems incredibly difficult."