"Huh? You have connections?"
Lumine and Paimon both raised their eyebrows. They had never expected this local big shot in Ritou to be capable of arranging an introduction to the Raiden Shogun.
It truly caught them by surprise.
"That's right, I can indeed introduce you to the Raiden Shogun. However... connections like these are a very valuable commodity too. You understand, right?"
Thoma gave a light cough as he spoke.
"Hey, you! Don't tell me you're trying to fleece us too!"
Paimon put her hands on her hips and glared at Thoma with her starry eyes, looking as though she had misjudged him.
"Haha, do I seem like that sort of person? Relax, I won't charge you any Mora. I just wanted to ask you for a small favor."
Thoma smiled as he spoke.
"I already suspected you were being so helpful because you wanted our help with something. Go ahead and tell us. If we can help, we certainly won't refuse."
Li Qiuzhi smiled casually and nodded.
"Haha, you really are sharp, Brother Li.
"As you know, I have a wide circle of friends. Recently, one of them ran into trouble, and I don't have the means to help him here, so I can only turn to you."
Thoma sighed as he spoke.
"Huh? Even a local big shot like you can't manage it?" Paimon touched her smooth, snow-white hair, feeling a little puzzled.
"Who is it?"
A trace of surprise also flashed through Lumine's amber eyes.
"...Don't make me out to be so all-powerful." Thoma first answered Paimon's question, then looked at Lumine and Li Qiuzhi. "You heard about the International Chamber of Commerce just now.
"Their president, Kurisu, is a friend of mine. He's been troubled by taxes lately. Since this involves the Kanjou Commission, there really