The Story on the Wall

After six o'clock, the sky gradually darkened, and all of Zou Island seemed to fall beneath a mysterious veil.

Cat Snake Belly's rule had officially begun for the night. Members of the Musketeer Squad emerged, seven or so Minks in all. One of them looked strikingly like a rhinoceros, a sight that caught Swain by surprise.

Creatures with a rhinoceros-like form were rare in this world. The Mink was massive, with a thick, sharp horn, and the patterns on his skin seemed to speak of long years and hard-won resilience.

Pedro had arranged lodgings for Swain in what was supposedly the finest place on the island.

But when Swain looked over this so-called luxury, he could only smile wryly. Compared with the magnificent buildings he had seen on Hachinosu, it was nothing.

The buildings on Hachinosu towered toward the clouds, glittering with wealth. Every detail spoke of exquisite luxury. This place was a firefly beside the moon; there was no comparison.

"Cat Snake Belly built these two houses for guests. They're the best rooms we have," Pedro explained with a broad smile, choosing his words with utmost care.

Unease filled his eyes. He feared Swain might be displeased with the arrangements and mistake them for a deliberate slight.

Swain merely glanced at Pedro, but his calm gaze left Pedro feeling an invisible pressure.

"I understand. We'll talk tomorrow." Swain's voice was as still as water, betraying no emotion.

Pedro looked as though he had been pardoned. He bowed respectfully and hurried away, as if another second there might bring disaster down on him.

Given Swain's status and strength, Cat Snake Belly ought to have received him in person. Unfortunately, Cat Snake Belly was dead drunk. Swain had also decided to search for the Ancient Weapons alone, so he had at