A trace of surprise finally crossed Dunn's face. After a moment's thought, he asked, "Then do you know if there's anything special about her?"
"Hmm, as far as I know, Fors is an extremely, extremely lazy lady. Apart from writing novels, she usually just lies on the sofa resting. If it weren't for her friend, she could even dispense with socializing altogether. Oh, right, she's also a Beyonder."
"You mean her social circle is uncomplicated, and she has very few opportunities to make enemies?"
"Exactly."
Dunn put his pipe back between his lips and sank into thought.
Edward hurriedly added, "Of course, it's also possible that I don't know her well enough and have no idea what she's done in private."
"All right. I'll keep investigating this lady. Contact me anytime there's a new development."
"Captain, be careful."
He settled his gentleman's hat back on his head, smiled, flicked its brim with a finger, and opened the door to leave. If not for his bushy beard, the whole sequence would have looked quite dashing.
"How much would Xio know about Fors's disappearance?"
Edward wasted no time and immediately prepared to set out.
Lilith let out a full-bellied burp and was happily washing her face. Seeing Edward getting ready to go out, she scrambled onto his shoulder in a few quick movements and said brightly, "Edward, where are you going? I want to come too."
Cherwood Borough, the house Fors and Xio rented.
Edward found no one there.
This wasn't surprising. Given how close the two were, if one went missing, the other naturally wouldn't sit at home waiting.
Offering a silent apology, he slipped inside. Lilith immediately darted out of his arms and looked around curiously.
"Ah, Edward, it's such a mess in here!"
The living room was a