191
Klein froze, then frowned deeply, considering how to phrase his words. "No, Old Kohler, you don't need to do this."
"I previously hired you as my informant to help investigate conditions in East Borough, so this money is what you deserve."
"As for Liv, I don't even know whether I can help her find her missing younger daughter. Besides, I simply want to do it. I don't need payment."
"Even so..." The guilt of deceiving Klein tormented Old Kohler. He had concealed the fact that members of the Aurora Order had successfully hidden in East Borough with Miss Maria's assistance, and that Mr. A was preaching there. They were all good people, but they undoubtedly belonged to an evil cult. Although the clever detective might discover it very soon, the feeling of deceiving his benefactor was still agonizing, and he could not help lowering his head.
"Please accept it."
"..." Klein sighed and had no choice but to take a five-soli note, stopping Old Kohler from continuing to press money into his hands. "I appreciate the gesture, but, Old Kohler, you have a daughter to support too. Your daughter is so frail. Don't you want to buy her more food? Keep this money, if only for your Tyler."
Old Kohler froze. Thinking of his daughter, who was exhausted and haggard every day, he could no longer utter the words on the tip of his tongue.
"Th-thank you. You truly are a good person." He rubbed his eyes hard. "I understand."
Klein sighed in relief, put on his hat, and smiled. "Then take me to Liv's home."
192
Cherwood Borough.
Xio had resumed her life as a bounty hunter, while Fors, seeking to speed up progress on her new book, had finally completed the manuscript of the play she was