"So that detective has already arrived in Clot City?"
The old man stood at the window, looking out over Clot City, his expression unchanged.
"Yes, my lord."
Behind him, a middle-aged man answered uneasily.
"I just received word that Sir Li Wei has gone to the Railway Company to investigate-what if he really discovers something..."
A man's reputation carried weight. Li Wei had not become famous in the Empire by drawing comics or making films. He was a detective, and one who specialized in mysterious cases at that. So far, at least, he had never failed. The arrival of such a man in Clot City was bound to make certain people nervous. "Don't worry."
The old man glanced at him, a trace of displeasure appearing in his eyes, but he kept his temper in check as he spoke.
"No matter how he investigates, he won't find any clues. If he wants to pursue the train angle, let him waste his time. The same goes for you. Leave him alone, and don't even think about interfering with him. That young man is difficult to deal with. If you interfere, you'll only convince him that something underhanded is going on. Then things will become even more troublesome."
"Well... yes, my lord. I understand."
"Do what you're supposed to do. Everything else is none of your concern. Is that clear?"
"Yes, my lord."
The man bowed and left the room. The old man looked out over Clot City and gave a quiet snort.
Young and impatient, just as he had expected. He understood the man's thinking. This was Clot Territory. With a little manipulation, they could make that young man disappear for good. Admittedly, the idea was tempting, but only a fool would actually try it.
The Thistle Knight was not so easy