The old man looked reflective:
"Just wait and see. This matter will become even more eventful than expected."
"Since you mentioned Stone Osenfott, I know he briefly apprenticed at the Stone Masons Association. What kind of person do you think he is?"
Shade asked again, and the Old Stone Mason replied with a smile:
"You've really come to the right person with that question. I knew Stone Osenfott back then. He was still a sailor at the time, but he often made time to come here. Later, work on the ship became too busy, so he couldn't continue his studies. Yes, the people in the city have a fairly accurate impression of him—bad-tempered, evil by nature, willing to use any means necessary. But I have to admit, he's remarkably talented at sculpture."
Shade nodded:
"Then that is all I need to know. If your superiors ask, you can mention that I came here."
The Old Stone Mason stood up, preparing to see him off:
"Sir, I'm very curious. Which side do you actually belong to?"
As expected, he did not fully trust Shade. After all, Shade's visit did not conform to Military Intelligence Section Six's contact protocols:
"That isn't important. You can even think of me as the Gray-headed Eagle of the Gray Gloves. None of the intelligence I asked about was particularly crucial, and your superiors won't make things difficult for you."
He pinched his hat and placed it on his head. In truth, the best thing the Old Stone Mason could do was mention him to no one. But if the old man truly was loyal, he would certainly report this matter.
"I wish you a smooth retirement. I won't pay you for the intelligence, or it might cause even greater trouble."
With that, he waved at him,