Without spending a single moment pondering the danger, Lynch had already decided to accept the commission.
Even just to save his own life, there was no room for hesitation.
Yet to seize the initiative, no matter what he thought inside, he still put on a hesitant expression, as if locked in an internal struggle. “Tell me the details first. I can only decide after hearing them.”
“Heh, child, you’ve already got the word ‘yes’ written all over your face.” The old man smiled kindly.
Lynch considered the situation: he was trying to put on an act in front of a sixty- or seventy-year-old high-ranking dignitary who had spent decades reading people.
It felt a bit foolish.
Dropping the act entirely, he said sullenly, “I can accept it, but you have to at least let me know what I’m supposed to be investigating.”
“Bester Tunnel is part of a new railway. I need you to conduct an investigation regarding this railway and ultimately provide me with an investigative report.”
“And the contents?”
“During the single month of the railway's planning and design, three of the twenty-four master craftsmen invited to research and discuss it died in Rhine City. One broke out in festering sores all over his body for no reason, one crawled into a steam forge and was hammered into mincemeat, and another slashed his own throat after cutting open the bellies of three pregnant women.” The old man’s face darkened as he spoke. “During the year of mountain surveying, reports of survey team members dying arrived every month, including an archaeology and geology professor from Norin University in the royal capital.”
“During the six months of project preparation, the project commander was replaced three times in a row. Of the first two, one drowned in his own dry latrine, and the other choked himself to death on an apple right into the roasted suckling pig platter on his dining table.”
“And those were just the relatively prominent figures. The deaths among ordinary workers were far greater. Added to today's incident, the victims are simply beyond count.”
“Therefore, I want you to launch an investigation into this railway. Make it as systematic and detailed as possible—not only what happened, but also uncovering the truth behind it. Is mystery at work, or human interference, or half mystery and half human? If it is mystery, is there a possibility of resolving it? If it is human interference, which part is man-made, which factions are involved, what are their respective stances, what might they have done, what hidden motives lie behind it all, and whether it touches upon evil gods or even true gods.”
“I have only one requirement for this report: you may omit uncertain details, but whatever appears must maintain an objective and neutral stance as much as possible, and you must guarantee its truthfulness—at least subjective truthfulness.”
Lynch took a deep breath. The entire project seemed cursed; every single detail reeked of bizarre occurrences, far stranger than what he had experienced the night before last, sending wave after wave of chills down his spine.
Is this the norm in the world of mystery? Once I become a Soul Severer, will I be dealing with this sort of thing all the time?
Alongside the horror, an irrepressible curiosity and anticipation welled up within him. After pondering for a moment, he replied, “I need to know more details.”
“There are no details. I will not tell you any more details, including information on the tunnel itself; you must investigate everything yourself.” The old man spoke without hesitation. “I require you to be objective and neutral, but every word I tell you contains my stance and subjective views. Moreover, as the client, you can filter out others’ attitudes, but it would be hard for my position not to influence your final conclusion. Therefore, I will reveal nothing. Find a way to investigate on your own—none of this is particularly secret anyway.”
Lynch pressed his lips together. He had no objection to that, but the old man’s attitude only piqued his curiosity about the commission further, prompting him to ask, “So this has been going on for years—has your church never investigated it?”
“I am not the client; his identity must be kept confidential, and I only learned of this this morning.” The old man explained, “I was not late this morning because I overslept, but because I went to meet him. He asked me to scout a candidate for the investigation. He isn't that perceptive regarding mysterious events and didn't take it seriously before, but lately, he has felt more and more that something is amiss.”
No wonder.
Lynch nodded. “But why look for me? I really can't figure it out. I do need the Red Moon's memory, but what made you entrust this commission to me so comfortably? Not only do you have so many subordinates, but there are also plenty of more professional private detectives out there.”
“The scope of your investigation includes the attitudes and hidden motives of various factions, child,” the old man chuckled. “Indeed, both he and I have plenty of more suitable subordinates, but the moment they move, it declares our stance. Clergy cannot take sides, and his own stance is even less something to be casually revealed. Furthermore, it is impossible for our candidates not to harbor preconceived notions, making it difficult for the findings to meet expectations. As for third parties, aren't you one? I believe you fully fit the criteria, and they are even less reliable than you.”
“Hm?”
“You have absolutely no affiliation with us. No matter what you do, no one will link it back to us, and your intellect is up to par. The key point is that as I observed you along the way this morning, I found you to be a silly novice who couldn't even land a proper blow with a sneak attack, yet you possess principles in how you conduct yourself. Why shouldn't I hand the task to you?”
“And I'm just a rookie you picked up off the street—no heartbreak if I die, right?”
“No, it would be heartbreaking. I actually quite like you. When the time comes, I will personally pray to the Goddess on your behalf.”
“I'll pass; I don't think that'll be necessary.” Lynch pondered, then pressed further, “What about investigative methods and confidentiality? Any requirements?”
“None. You decide for yourself. You do not need to deliberately conceal my existence either; just limit the commission to the specific incident from this morning. With such a massive incident, it would be weirder if no one sent people to investigate. Half the private detectives in Rhine City will probably focus on Crown Square soon anyway; one more of you won't attract any attention.”
Such high freedom.
Lynch was already tempted, but his eyes darted around as a crafty smile crept onto his face. “I can take this commission, but there is an issue I need to clarify in advance.”
“Go ahead.”
“Do you think it's possible to complete the investigation of such a complex commission with such wide ramifications in just one month?”
The old man paused, falling silent for a moment before saying, “It truly is difficult. So what do you propose?”
“Asking you to pay the Red Moon's memory in advance would be shameless, but paying it after the fact would cost me my life. How about we compromise? I will complete a preliminary investigation within one month and give you an initial investigative report. You will pay me the Red Moon's memory in advance at that time, and then I will complete the follow-up investigation. As you said, the investigation is exceedingly dangerous—whether mystery or the factions under investigation, either could claim my life. Doing this also strengthens my capabilities, which indirectly improves the investigation's results.”
“Heh, you certainly know how to calculate, but your reasoning is sound. I accept this proposal.”
“Wait, wait, wait, there's more.” Lynch rubbed his hands together. No matter which world, the church was bound to be loaded. If he went soft now, he’d regret it for the rest of his life. “Dear Lord Archbishop, I am a very down-on-my-luck detective, and my pockets are empty...”
“Do you know how much a holy memory sells for on the black market? Even the cheapest starts at a hundred pounds,” the old man said with a half-smile. “For twenty pounds, I could hire a very well-off private detective.”
“Hiss... Still, I really am a poor man.” Lynch practically had 'I'm poor, please give me money' written across his face. “An investigation doesn't just require frequent contact with various factions; it requires bribing informants and maybe conducting on-site investigations at relevant locations. All of that costs money. I used to know an unethical small workshop owner who refused to give me an advance payment. Representing the divine will of a deity, you certainly wouldn't do something like that, would you?”
“Praise the Lord. All for the glory of the Black Night.” Churches were indeed rolling in wealth; without even hesitating, the old man burst into laughter, catching his breath as he said, “Fine, fine. To uphold the Lord’s honor, I cannot engage in such unethical behavior. How about this: for an estimated three-month investigation period, I will grant you a monthly reimbursement limit of five pounds. However, it must be strictly reimbursed based on actual expenses, and the receipts must pass the church's audit. Additionally, within one month, you must submit the initial investigative report, and I will hand over the memory of the Crimson Lady to you. But you must guarantee that within three months, you will deliver the complete report to me.”
Tsk, I really am a genius. Not only did I save my life, but I also squeezed out fifteen pounds in reimbursements. Although it was reimbursement based on actual expenses, having been thoroughly steeped in bureaucracy before transmigrating, he knew all too well how to “reimburse actual expenses.”
Of course, such a secret commission could not have a written contract. Lynch shook hands with Archbishop Trinlais on the spot to seal the deal, then picked up his cane, carried the cardboard box, and departed the Black Night Cathedral contentedly.
The threat of death still loomed over his head, but at least he had found a clear direction: complete the preliminary investigation of the commission, reclaim his soul from the evil god, and then thoroughly enjoy his new life.
But how was he supposed to investigate such a bizarre case?
Exiting the Black Night Cathedral, Lynch followed his old habit of watching crime dramas to organize his thoughts, listing out the information he needed to understand.
First, detailed information about this railway. This was the foundation of all issues; only with this could he look further into those bizarre incidents.
Second, relevant information about Bester Tunnel. It was currently causing great controversy, and he had to figure out why.
Third, today's protest. While the other related incidents remained unknown information for now, today's protest was a concrete extension of the case and had a massive impact, so he had to understand it clearly.
Someone had attempted to create panic from four directions simultaneously. Even though he and Archbishop Trinlais had thwarted one direction, the incident still occurred. This was clearly someone intentionally creating chaos, very likely aimed at disrupting the protest. Although the culprit had escaped amidst the ensuing turmoil, at least the weapon was left behind—this could be a breakthrough.
Right, clarify the first two questions first, then approach through the third breakthrough. Alright, that's the plan.
It's just that these investigations, especially the third one, will face huge resistance and extremely high danger. I'm still just an ordinary person holding a lousy cane that can't even hit anyone properly. I have to find a way to protect myself first.
I'll proceed on both fronts simultaneously.
Having made up his mind, Lynch exhaled a long breath. When he looked up, he saw a face almost pressed against his own, staring right at him.
Holy crap.
Lynch recoiled violently, his head slamming into a roadside lamppost. He immediately clutched his head and crouched down, though he had already recognized the beautiful, upright, and familiar face.
Officer Natalie Angel.
“Ow, that hurts! What are you doing here, Officer Natalie?”
“I was about to ask you the same thing. You’ve been standing here for several minutes. The officers were just debating whether to send you to the Hall of the Departed or the Hall of Order.”
Only then did Lynch realize that ever since leaving the Black Night Cathedral, his mind had been wandering, and he had inadvertently walked all the way back to Crown Square.
The scene here had mostly been cleared. A group of blue uniforms carrying buckets and mops were cleaning up residual blood and filth. Not a single pedestrian was around the square for the time being, as it remained under lockdown.
Not far away, five or six people in dark formal suits had gathered. Among them were several familiar faces he had seen yesterday in the bar at the Scarecrow Club, and even the refined Mr. V was present.
Right, with such a massive incident involving a mystery relic, the Watchers would definitely step in.
“Huh? In just those few minutes, you happened to run right into the outbreak of the incident?” Listening to Lynch’s explanation, Officer Natalie eyed him suspiciously. “How does this kind of occult bad luck keep finding you?”
Yeah, I’d like to know why too. It’s only been three days since I transmigrated, and I’ve run into mystery multiple times. Does this count as good luck or bad luck?
“Whatever. If you’re done with your business, leave quickly. This place will be locked down for a few days; the Watchers will probably be focused entirely on this matter for a while.”
Hm? A sudden thought struck Lynch.
Right, the Watchers had entered the field too.
The Archbishop had repeatedly emphasized how dangerous this investigation was. As an ordinary person, there wasn't much Lynch could do on his own, but the lady officer’s combat prowess was far from low. If he could get her involved in the investigation, he would be much safer.
If it had nothing to do with her, he certainly couldn't drag her into danger.
But investigating the tragedy was inherently the Watchers’ duty; the two sides could entirely cooperate.
Besides, the method of investigation for this commission was entirely up to him. Operating behind the official identity of the Watchers would make things even more convenient—all upside, no downside. And... Lynch turned an eager gaze toward Officer Natalie.
The lady officer suddenly took a step back, putting on a fierce expression as she stared at Lynch with vigilant eyes, which actually startled him.
“What are you plotting?” The lady officer bared her teeth, her hand already resting on the hilt of her sword. “Your eyes are filled with wickedness. You definitely aren't thinking of anything good.”
Crap, I accidentally showed the look of someone eyeing a fat sheep.
Lynch hurriedly rubbed his face, squeezing out a serious expression. He hooked his finger at Officer Natalie, leaning close to her side to whisper, “I experienced the incident firsthand.”
“Tell me something I don't know.” The lady officer eyed Lynch warily.
“How do you rate my tracking and analytical deduction abilities?”
This time, the lady officer nodded without hesitation. Throughout the entire night before last, Lynch had left an extraordinarily deep impression on her.
“Then do you think it would be helpful if your Watchers hired me as a consultant for this case?” Lynch put on an honest, dependable smile. “In a moment, let them continue investigating according to the original plan, while you and I launch a separate investigation. To borrow a phrase I once heard, it's called 'walking on two legs.' That should make things much more reliable.”
“I still feel like you're up to no good.” Lynch realized a woman's intuition was truly terrifying. The lady officer pondered for a moment, then shook her head. “Today's situation is different from yesterday's. Today's case is far too serious. Hiring an outsider would require substantial justification. Conducting separate investigations isn't impossible, but it also requires proving the necessity. It's not just a matter of me thinking you have the ability; you would need to convince Victor. It's impossible.”
“How about we make another bet?” Lynch raised an eyebrow. “Help me call Mr. V over, and I'll talk to him. I can definitely convince him to agree. If I lose, the previous bet is void, and you won't owe me anything. But if I win, hehe, you'll owe me another condition. How about it?”
Officer Natalie's face instantly flushed red, and she gritted her teeth, glaring at Lynch.
“This is giving you a chance for a graceful exit. Or do you really want to agree to anything I ask? Or were you planning to renege on your debt? I'm doing this for your sake. Rare opportunity—better grab it, Officer.”
“Hmph, you asked for this; don't regret it! I don't believe you can convince Victor to mess around with you on something like this. Just you wait, I'll go call him over. Let's see how you lose.”
Lady Natalie stomped her foot and turned away with broad strides, leaving Lynch behind with a half-smile.
It seemed Mr. V indeed valued Lynch quite highly. Although he was busy listening to reports from subordinates, after Natalie went over and spoke with him for a moment, he set aside his work and walked over with her.
“Good afternoon, Mr. V.” Facing this leader of the Watchers, Lynch respectfully put away his teasing demeanor, slightly lifting his top hat and bowing. “Pardon the intrusion.”
“No matter, Mr. Lynch. I heard your suggestion from Natalie. Do you have a specific plan, or did you make an additional discovery?”
Now this is what a steady leader looks like. Lynch smiled, handing over the cardboard box in his hands. Opening it revealed a gift box tied with a ribbon. “Please look at this first.”
“A mystery relic?” Mr. V frowned, silently asking with his eyes what he meant.
“William's Holiday Surprise. Its lore states: ‘I shall do my utmost in exchange for the innocent smiles of children.’ Although I haven't actually used it, its effect should be twelve clusters of light resembling fireworks. I also just obtained this today.”
“Fireworks?” Mr. V suddenly realized something. Pulling out a monocle, he put it on and carefully inspected the box, saying in a low voice, “The investigation reported explosions and flashes appearing in the east, south, and north directions at the time, but none from the west...”
“Yes, because I came from the west, intercepted it on the spot, and gave the wielder a heavy strike on the shoulder with my cane. Unfortunately, he managed to flee amidst the ensuing confusion,” Lynch said nonchalantly. “I think Officer Natalie and I can follow this lead separately.”
“Natalie, cooperate with Mr. Lynch for the next two days to follow up on his lead. If necessary, you may mobilize agency resources as normal.”
Blink, blink. The lady officer’s mouth hung slightly open, her face full of bewilderment and disbelief. Then she heard Mr. V continue:
“Mr. Lynch’s suggestion just now was very good. For this case, the Watchers will hire Mr. Lynch as a consultant. Natalie, when you have time, draft a commission contract. An advance payment of five pounds, and upon successful completion of the commission, another five pounds as the final payment. Are you satisfied with this, Mr. Lynch?”
Selling the same goods twice truly is immensely profitable. Now that I have some money in my pocket, I can find a way to buy some real self-defense gear instead of thinking about setting myself on fire every time.
Thinking this, Lynch nodded to Mr. V, then turned to Natalie with a radiant smile and flashed two fingers.
Staring at the fingers and his smile, the lady officer’s face grew redder and redder, as if steam were rising from her head. Suddenly, she stomped down hard on Lynch’s foot, and amidst his wails of agony, grabbed his arm and dragged him away.
Rate on N.U.
