"What is it, Polaris?"
Chen Lun asked.
Polaris stepped forward, took out a book, and handed it over.
"Teacher, I happened to find this yesterday... It's a work by that enemy of yours, Howard, the Tragedy Writer."
"Hm?"
Chen Lun took it, somewhat surprised.
He looked down, and his brows furrowed.
The cover depicted a cartoon character, a very common, conventional-looking hero: a blond man in armor, sword in hand, battling an enormous sea monster.
The book was titled The Adventures of Philip!
Suppressing the powerful urge to leaf through it, Chen Lun took a deep breath and first asked Polaris:
"Where did you find this book?"
"Teacher, it's a children's book commonly found in bookstores. It's considered a fairy tale and is very popular with children..."
Polaris answered honestly.
Chen Lun's brows knitted tightly.
I remember Howard was already placed on the Empire's S-Rank Wanted List by the Containment Bureau. Why are his books still circulating on the market...? Could his power be invisibly influencing ordinary people? Blinding the Containment Bureau's investigations?
He raised his head, took out a [Serpent Hand] Scroll, and smiled.
"Polaris, you did well. This book is very valuable... Here's your reward, along with 50 Contribution."
A look of delighted surprise appeared on Polaris's face.
He soon received a quest notification on his panel. The Side Quest "Investigation" showed one completion, and the Circus Contribution points were promptly credited to his panel as well.
"Thank you, Teacher!"
After accepting the [Serpent Hand] Scroll, he bowed respectfully.
"All right. If you find any more clues about him, tell me promptly... You may go back now."
Chen Lun waved a hand.
Seeing this, Polaris stayed no longer. He obediently acknowledged the instruction, then turned and left.
Sitting alone in the courtyard, Chen Lun leafed through The Adventures