The New Year arrived quickly, and the entire Tatshaw Territory was blanketed in an atmosphere of boundless joy.
Yet things contrary to that atmosphere were also taking place.
"Has everything been investigated clearly?"
It was still the same shop as last time, still the same old man, and still the same two dark guards dressed as merchants. The only difference was that this time, they had brought definite news.
"Yes. We received information from various sources, as well as intelligence from the God of Protection. The Ice and Snow Kingdom did indeed send someone here some time ago, specifically to deal with my lord." The two dark guards exchanged a glance. One of them bowed and answered, "As for the specific person, we do not know."
"The Ice and Snow Kingdom—it really was the Ice and Snow Kingdom... Good. I will report this news immediately. You have both done very well this time. I will remember your merits." After hearing this, the old man frowned and paced a few steps on the spot. Then he stopped and spoke to the two dark guards.
He was the leader of this region. To these two men, words like those meant that promotion was now in sight.
"Thank you, sir." No one who could become a dark guard was foolish. Hearing the old man say this, the two guards immediately bowed in delighted thanks.
"All right, you may leave for now."
"Yes."
"It seems I must make a trip to the Lord's Villa." After dismissing the two dark guards, the old man thought for a moment, then left without further hesitation. He boarded a carriage and headed straight for the Noble District.
The distance from the commercial district to the Noble District was by no means short, but the carriage was moving swiftly.