Illusory Contemplator

"Right, perhaps Angel knows some of Sleepless City's inner workings too." Vifit's eyes suddenly lit up, but they quickly dimmed again. "Still, this Angel has always been elusive. He didn't even show himself when his music box sold for a sky-high price last time. Who knows where he is now."

"If we run into him, we can ask him then. Besides, I'd very much like to meet this talented junior myself."

While Vifit spoke, Beers' eyes had been gleaming the entire time.

Vifit did not know where Angel was, but he did! Perhaps he could trade Angel for firsthand news of the Eternal Night Kingdom. That would greatly benefit the development of their merchant caravan.

But how could he trade for information from Angel?

Beers hesitated. Remembering a question Angel had asked before, he unconsciously murmured, "Cassini..." Should he ask around about Cassini's identity, then use that information to make an exchange with Angel?

Vifit was still sighing with emotion and did not notice Beers' quiet mutter. Yet the phantom that had been sitting calmly to one side suddenly stirred.

The phantom's movement immediately drew both men's attention.

Under Vifit's slightly reverent and puzzled gaze, the phantom asked in a tone that seemed capable of making one submit from the depths of one's soul, "Say that name you just muttered again."

Vifit was suspicious. "What name? Angel?"

The phantom ignored Vifit and silently looked toward Beers.

Beers did not know why the phantom had reacted so strongly. That voice had even made his skin crawl, showing that its strength was certainly no trifling matter. Nor had he missed the reverence Vifit had shown the phantom earlier.

Could this phantom have some tremendous background? Was there such a figure in Western Mosa?

As Beers guessed at his identity, the phantom asked