The Worst Investigator

"Ahem!" Xia Lin coughed heavily, interrupting the conversation between the two women.

"Inquisitor Sky, you came all this way to thank us, yet we've just had you sit here drinking tea. That's terribly rude."

"Not rude," Sky replied seriously. "The tea meets the standards."

"—" Xia Lin choked for a moment. "What I mean is, um, Lady Sky, since you said you'd help us get familiar with the capital, how about—taking me around the city?"

Sky froze.

Take him sightseeing?

(Th-this wasn't part of the plan—but—)

Her superior, Grand Inquisitor Calderon's order echoed in her mind: "Use the favor she owes you to get close to him, monitor him, and find out everything about him."

("Get close to him"—going sightseeing also counts as "getting close"! This is simply the perfect way to carry out the mission!)

"A guide." Sky finally worked it out and nodded stiffly. "That is a reasonable proposal. I accept."

"Great!" Xia Lin smiled like a fox.

"Xia Lin—" Celia gave him a worried look.

Xia Lin quietly turned away and gave Celia an "it's fine" gesture, silently mouthing, "I'll handle it."

"Celia, stay home and keep watch," Xia Lin said, picking up his coat. "And tell Sera that I've gone with Inquisitor Sky to inspect the common folk's lives!"

As he stepped out the door, Xia Lin glanced back toward the attic.

He saw Sera watching him through the window, a hint of amusement in her eyes.

Just you wait— Xia Lin gritted his teeth inwardly.

But on the surface, he still flashed a brilliant smile and said to Sky, "Then I'll be in your care today, Lady Sky."

"Just call me Sky." Sky sounded slightly uncomfortable.

"All right, Sky." Xia Lin smiled. "Then don't call me Mr. Xia Lin either. It sounds too distant."

"—All