Episode 64 — The Silent Garden and the Cloaked Guest

Tama came back three days ago.

With that single event, every priority in my world was rewritten. Public security in Felsen? The Black Corridor? The Royal Capital? Not my problem. Today, my task list has only one entry: Play with Tama.

My house in the forest is as quiet as ever. I’m sprawled on the sofa, stroking the back of the black cat curled up on my lap.

"Mrrp. (A little more to the right.)"

"Feels good, doesn't it? There, there."

...She’s adorable. Take a nap like this, wake up and pet her some more, then roll around together in the evening—I was busy constructing the perfect schedule in my head when it happened.

Ding-dong.

Tama’s tail gave a sharp flick. The intercom monitor showed two familiar faces standing there.

"Master Zect, please forgive the intrusion!"

"Mr. Zect, do you have a moment?"

(I don't have any moments. Can you guys just go home today?)

Of course, I didn't say that out loud. I’m an adult with corporate experience. I can read the room.

"It’s fine. Come in."

I led them into the living room, where both of them stood with perfect posture. I remained on the sofa, settling into a listening position while keeping Tama on my lap.

(...Alright, I'm listening. I'm listening, but I'm playing with Tama today. Keep it short, please.)

Gustav opened the conversation with his usual politeness.

"Regarding the remnants of the Black Corridor, we have detained every last one of them. The transfer to the Royal Capital Knights has been completed."

Bartos placed a hand over his chest and bowed deeply.

"It was only through your timely advice, Master Zect, that such a swift resolution was possible. We are all profoundly grateful for your guidance."

(I mean, don't make it sound so grand... I was basically just petting Tama the whole time.)

Gustav continued.

"Now that security within the territory has stabilized, we will be prioritizing restoration work and citizen care moving forward."

"I... well, I’ve got things to do at the house. I’ll leave all that to you, Gustav."

(Things to do = playing with the cat. Read between the lines, please.)

Bartos took a step forward.

"In order to reduce the burden upon you, Master Zect, we shall put forth our utmost—"

"Bartos, didn't you just get back? You must be tired. That’s enough for today. Anyway, get home safe."

(Seriously, just go home... please.)

Gustav let out a faint, wry smile and lightly tapped Bartos on the shoulder.

"...Then, we shall take our leave."

"By your leave, Master Zect!"

Once I saw them off down the forest path, I let out a long, heavy sigh.

"...Phew. Finally, some peace. ...Was I a bit too cold to them?"

"Meow. (It was written all over your face.)"

I scooped Tama up and sank back into my Throne of Sloth.

(...Whatever. Today is for playing with Tama.)

***

The office in the Felsen Manor was filled with the silence of the night. As Gustav was tidying up documents, a young man in a black cloak—Léonard—took a seat across from him.

"I have to say, Gustav... I’m impressed. I didn't think Felsen could change this much."

Léonard looked out the window at the city lights, offering his honest thoughts.

"It’s like a different city compared to when I was last here. The security, the streets, the look on people's faces... everything is different."

Gustav lowered his gaze for a moment, choosing his words carefully.

"...It is the result of everyone's hard work."

"Everyone, huh? ...I know your craftsmen are talented, but having it all take shape this quickly? That’s not normal. What happened all of a sudden?"

Gustav’s hand paused for a fraction of a second.

"...Felsen is blessed with excellent people."

"Hmm. I’ll take your word for it. Well, regardless of who's behind it... it’s a good city. It’s a lot easier to breathe here than in the Capital."

"I’m glad to hear that," Gustav replied calmly.

Léonard gave a light shrug.

"The remnants of the Black Corridor have been processed by the Royal Capital Knights. A group of that level shouldn't be an issue."

"I see. That’s a help."

"Don't mention it. ...Well, I’m heading out for tonight. I’ll put this incident on your tab. I’ll be back again, so let’s have a proper talk then."

Léonard adjusted the hem of his cloak and stood up quietly. As the door closed, silence returned to the office.

Gustav exhaled deeply and looked down at the documents on his desk. His expression was a mix of relief and a faint, knowing smile.

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