"Oh, good afternoon, Shade, my friend. You finally came."
When Shade arrived at Doctor Schneider's psychological clinic through the snow that afternoon, the doctor gave him a rather enthusiastic hug.
For that afternoon's celebration, Doctor Schneider had postponed appointments with two important patients and reserved the time specifically for Shade. He warmly led Shade to the second-floor reception room, the room where the group met every Saturday. The violin case containing Night Watchman was resting quietly on the tea table.
"Although there were a few minor mishaps, Sunday's operation went quite smoothly overall."
The doctor had already prepared wine for the celebration. After handing Shade a glass, the two smilingly clinked their glasses together.
"But we should still be careful. I have friends in The Church. Though The Church has recently been tied up with other matters, they certainly won't stop investigating when a Third Epoch evil spirit has appeared in the city."
Shade reminded him while holding his glass, and the doctor nodded.
"I understand. Our main task for the next half month will be preparing for the year-end exams. Oh, Detective, as the group leader, I bear far more responsibility than any of you."
The doctor rested a hand on the windowsill and leaned there in a relaxed posture, with the snow-swept city behind him.
Strangely, even in the season of falling snow, In The City remained shrouded in gray fog. That was one of Steam Capital's distinctive features.
"Doctor, after you devoured the Demon of Proliferating Desire, what new ability did you gain?"
Shade asked from the sofa. He set his wine glass aside and opened the violin case to inspect it. After taking it back, the doctor had probably not dared to open it at all. Night Watchman was still wrapped in Shade's coat.
"Fanni himself