The Express Crew stood before Krokok Film Park, listening to the rustle of fallen leaves around them.
There was no one else in sight.
"What's going on?" March 7th looked around.
"Where are the tourists?"
"Wait, where's the Hound Family?"
"Weren't they working here earlier?"
Himeko said gravely:
"Everyone, keep your eyes open."
"They've clearly come prepared."
The five of them advanced slowly. Aventurine's voice came over the speakers ahead once more.
[Ladies, gentlemen, Dream Chasers, magnates, and esteemed guests of the Clockmaker and The Family—]
[And the famous Nameless of the Star Rail Express!]
[Welcome to the Interastral Peace Corporation's show!]
At the far end of Krokok Film Park stood a stage with a massive screen.
The Express Crew pushed aside the crimson curtain and stepped inside.
"Fashionably late, everyone from the Star Rail Express. And you over there... our [uninvited guest]."
Himeko was the first to step forward. She said gravely:
"We've come as promised, Mr. Aventurine."
"Courtesy dictates that you show yourself, too."
For now, they could only hear Aventurine's voice from the screen ahead. He was nowhere to be seen.
"Haha, of course I will."
"But before that, I'd like to properly introduce tonight's star."
"Please give a round of applause for—Mr. Yan Huan!!"
Click—
A spotlight fell on Yan Huan, who stood with his hands in his pockets.
"...?"
Yan Huan's image suddenly appeared on the massive screen as well.
"Mom, I'm on TV!"
Ignoring Yan Huan's shout, Welt narrowed his eyes.
"Allow me to remind you that this stage and Yan Huan have nothing to do with catching the real killer."
"Mr. Aventurine, what exactly are you doing?"
"No, no, no, Mr. Welt. You've got it wrong." Aventurine's voice grew deeper.
"Of course this has to do with catching the real killer. Why else