Standing at a distance from Aeon, Shan whispered to Chloe,
“…Do you think he’s the real Astar?”
“Are you asking me that again, senior? I believe I’ve already given you an answer.”
“Intuition is a detective’s weapon. What does yours tell you?”
“It tells me that the senior’s intuition is likely flawed.”
Shan’s eyes narrowed at Chloe’s response.
Once the airship took off, the Marchioness assigned private rooms to everyone.
Even though it’s such a grand airship, it’s merely being used as a passenger vessel. It’s astonishing that they would fly it to transport a single treasure. The nobility here seems to have a skewed sense of fiscal prudence.
Later, the Marchioness led everyone, barring the children and Dorothy, to the cabin at the front of the cockpit, the airship’s fore. As the Marchioness left to fetch the Turquoise Wings, Aeon stood alone, hands clasped behind him, gazing at the ascending terrain.
When Shan inquired why he was joining her, the Marchioness explained that he wished to view the Turquoise Wings as well. This did nothing but heighten Shan’s unease.
“You’ve been running around a lot today. You think you’ll survive?” Shan teased.
“…Please cut me some slack. I had plans to meet Jessie after work.”
“…My apologies.”
Well, he’s quite easy to handle.
“Didn’t you just break up with someone? Last week, you mentioned a different name… Anna, wasn’t it?”
“Well, I have to enjoy my youth while I can, right? Senior, aren’t you dating anyone?”
“Me? What woman would want a man too busy to even replace his worn-out handkerchief? Besides, with Astar working so hard lately, my already scant free time has shrunk even further.”
Chloe rubbed his cheek. Darn, I should’ve been more tactful.
“Gentlemen, I apologize for keeping you waiting.”
The Marchioness stepped out of the cockpit, a red velvet-covered box in her hands. It contained the Turquoise Wings, an artifact of unknown form.
The two detectives, along with Aeon—who had been gazing out the window—converged around the Marchioness as she lifted the cloth from the glass case. Peering inside, she clasped her hand over her mouth, her eyes widening in shock.
“…Oh my.”
“……?”
“…Damn it. Has Astar already laid his hands on it?”
Where the Turquoise Wings should have been, there lay only a withered winter dragonfly. Shan, unable to hold back his expletive at the empty case, spoke up urgently.
“Madame, we must assemble all staff and commence the search at once! He can’t have leapt outside; he must still be here!”
Before Shan could frantically reach for the ship’s receiver to alert security, the Marchioness calmly placed the glass box on a pedestal and soothed his nerves.
“It’s all right, detective. The Turquoise Wings are still safe.”
“What?”
Chloe, who had been lost in thought, was jolted back to reality by the Marchioness’ words. With a look of confusion, Shan gestured towards the winter dragonfly.
“If the Turquoise Wings are safe, then what is this…?”
We’re sorry for MTLers or people who like using reading mode, but our translations keep getting stolen by aggregators so we’re going to bring back the copy protection. If you need to MTL please retype the gibberish parts.
“This is the Turquoise Wings. It shifted slightly off-center during transport, and that alarmed me.”
“Qtja?”
Vtjc delmxis yfca vbkc ab lcrqfma atf klcafg vgjubcois gfralcu bc atf qfvfraji, tlr rxfqalmlrw fnlvfca. Jtibf, ecvfgrajcvlcu tlr vlryfilfo, rtjgfv j uijcmf klat tlw.
You’re suggesting that this dragonfly carcass is the work of an imperial master craftsman? It lacks any of the beauty, dignity, or essence of artistry. No matter how I look at it, it’s just a common dragonfly specimen.
Jtibf fzjwlcfv atf Zjgmtlbcfrr’ fzqgfrrlbc, rfjgmtlcu obg j tlca bo pfra, yea obecv cbcf bo atf reyaif jkxkjgvcfrr atja jc jmagfrr wluta vlrqijs.
Pa yblifv vbkc ab akb qbrrlylilalfr: flatfg atlr kjr lcvffv atf Kegdeblrf Qlcur mgjoafv ys Zjrafg Oeah, bg atf Zjgmtlbcfrr kjr ecvfg atf lwqgfrrlbc atja la kjr.
Chloe lifted the lid of the glass box and observed the Marchioness, who was delicately extracting the twisted winter dragonfly with gloved hands, taking care not to damage it.
“…Is this not simply an ordinary winter dragonfly?”
The object she retrieved was unmistakably a winter dragonfly specimen. It was not a piece of jewelry or a craft resembling a dragonfly, but an actual insect. Its yellow compound eyes shimmered with a lifelike glow in the light.
This object was not unlike Seth’s dragonfly specimen, save for its slightly larger size. The notable distinction lay in its presentation: rather than being framed with tweezers, this one was encased in gold and jade atop red velvet.
Chloe squinted at the stiff dragonfly, its wings outstretched, and cocked his head.
“It looks just like a real dragonfly… Could this truly be the work of a master craftsman?”
“Indeed. I too initially suspected the Marquis of jesting when I first laid eyes on it. However, it is unmistakably Master Lutz’s creation. The moment the emperor presented it was witnessed by all.”
Could the emperor have scammed the Marquis? If prime ministers can deceive, why not an emperor? Wouldn’t it have been simple for him to insert a preserved dragonfly and attribute it to the renowned craftsman Lutz? After all, the recipient would be none the wiser. And given the Marquis’s unwavering loyalty, he surely wouldn’t doubt it, right? It is obvious, after all, that he would be the last person to suspect the emperor of switching it out.
Chloe’s mind was reeling with distracting thoughts. Though, leaping to conclusions is dangerous. It’s uncertain what secrets that dragonfly might hold if it were properly assessed. It appears to be a genuine dragonfly, yet… Chloe, ceasing his observations, casually inquired of Shan.
“What’s your opinion, senior?”
“If Madame is correct, then she is undoubtedly so. Whether it be a dragonfly, an ant, or a grasshopper, our sole duty is to shield it from Astar. Let’s discard this pointless curiosity and instead focus on how Astar might infiltrate this place.”
Regardless, Shan’s approach to dismiss his previous embarrassment and concentrate on his responsibilities was commendable. His remarks were exclusively about Astar.
Is it his strong sense of professionalism or his excessive rigidity? Either way, positive traits are just that—positive. It works to my favor.
Having someone influenced by his actions felt surprisingly gratifying. In response to Shan’s resolute words, Chloe cleared his throat several times and adjusted his stance. It was then that Aeon extended his hand towards the Marchioness and requested,
“May I examine it?”
Aeon, wearing gloves, received a quick glance from the Marchioness before she swiftly handed him the dragonfly specimen. As he rotated the dragonfly, examining it closely, Shan inquired about the storage location for the dragonfly during the flight.
“Madame, since the notice has been dispatched, Astar will surely try to execute the theft mid-flight. Where will the dragonfly be kept during this time?”
“If it were placed in a concealed vault and vanished, we’d be at a loss to determine the exact moment of the Wings’ disappearance, which would be problematic. It’s known that Astar excels in locating and pilfering from any secret vault.”
“Indeed, no common safe is a match for him.”
“Then, I propose we display it openly and guard it in shifts. What are your thoughts on this, Detective?”
“Your judgment is wise. Typically, people withhold trust and don’t disclose the safe’s location even to the police, so your trust in us is appreciated. Rest assured; we will not disappoint you.”
Shan made a resolute decision. The sliver of trust the Marchioness placed in Shan ignited a fiery determination in his eyes. Observing the young detective’s fervent spirit, the Marchioness offered a gentle smile in response to his zeal.
However, lively conversation or not, Chloe found himself unable to divert his gaze from the dragonfly that Aeon was idly twirling.
To the right, dragonfly. Then to the left, dragonfly. Wings, dragonfly. Legs, dragonfly. Head, dragonfly. Tail, dragonfly. All signs point to it being merely a winter dragonfly.
To Chloe’s scrutinizing eyes, it was unmistakably a desiccated winter dragonfly.
“…Would you like to take a look?”
It seems my observation was too intense. Aeon, who had been studying the dragonfly, looked over at Chloe with curiosity and inquired. Realizing his intense focus was apparent, Chloe, feeling a bit sheepish, scratched the back of his head and hesitantly asked,
“Ah. Um… Would that be alright?”
Aeon met the Marchioness’s gaze, and with a nod, she handed Chloe a pair of gloves. Once Chloe donned the gloves, Aeon passed him the specimen. Shan cautioned,
“Are you certain this is safe? Take care not to damage it needlessly.”
“Don’t worry, senior. I’m thrilled; it’s my first time handling the master’s work! When else will I have such an opportunity, if not now? I feel like I’m in the big leagues!”
Shan could only shake his head at his junior’s excitement. Chloe, mimicking Ronald’s playful manner, took the specimen from Aeon, and his demeanor shifted as he began a meticulous examination. He rotated it, squinted one eye, and scrutinized the dragonfly under the ceiling light. While inspecting the transparent wing patterns and the luminous compound eyes, Chloe queried,
“Hmm… But if the wings of this dragonfly aren’t turquoise, why is it called Turquoise Wings?”
“I was informed that the master himself chose the name,” replied the Marchioness.
Chloe’s lips curled into an unseen sneer upon her answer.
***
The time Astar had set for the heist was ‘before reaching the western land,’ meaning before the airship landed. Since the Western Kingdom is only a night’s journey by airship, the detectives established a perimeter around the Turquoise Wings in the inner cabin, which boasted the highest security.
Guards from the Marquis encircled the detectives. Despite Astar’s efforts, penetrating such a defense would be challenging. Shan, confident in this security, found himself trying to dismiss a loitering individual.
“This place is in safe hands, Your Grace. You can rest easy and retire for the evening.”
“I can’t sleep. Don’t mind me; just carry on with your work.”
After the Marchioness retired to the nearest room, the man suspected to be Astar lingered near the Turquoise Wings. The Marchioness vouched for his trustworthiness, yet Shan’s suspicions persisted.
Could he be the real Astar? Shan eyed Aeon warily, like a cat bristling its fur, when Aeon, gazing out the window, suddenly addressed Shan.
“I understand you’re the detective assigned to Astar.”
“Yes. Is there a problem?”
“I was just curious. Astar is known as a master of disguises, but how does he manage them so flawlessly?”
“You seem quite interested in Astar.”
“As you can tell.”
Aeon’s response was curt. Although he spoke of Astar as if inquiring about another person, Shan harbored distrust towards him. In fact, Shan was roughly 75% convinced that Aeon was Astar.
Yet, without concrete evidence, accusing him was not an option, and even with proof, there was no chance of prevailing, as it was clear he would be shielded by the Marchioness. When Aeon confirmed his interest, Shan, anxious about inadvertently divulging information to Astar, hesitated before asking,
“…What brings you here, Your Grace? Weren’t you present at the crime scene during Astar’s last appearance? I suspect you might have insights about him that exceed mine, and I would like to hear them.” Shan straightforwardly remarked.
Aeon, fully aware of Shan’s suspicion, as he made no effort to hide it, replied calmly, showing no sign of emotional disturbance.
“How could I possibly know more about Astar than you, the detective in charge? I’ve only recently arrived in the Empire. Of course, there may come a day when I surpass your knowledge of Astar, detective. But, alas, that day is not today.”
“A day when you’ll know Astar better than I do, Your Grace? I don’t know who you are, but that seems impossible.”
“I understand. Why is Tipurya, the god of truth, considered an evil god? The truth is often harsh.”
As Aeon traced his finger along the display case housing the Turquoise Wings, he questioned Shan in a markedly casual tone, contrasting with Shan’s growing agitation.
“Do you know what he truly desires?”
“Isn’t it the Ashtartes?”
“That’s common knowledge.”
“And who are you to claim insight into Astar’s true desires?”
“Only those who truly understand can capture Astar.”
Aeon, tapping the glass box’s surface with his fingernails, subtly lifted the corner of his mouth at Shan, who watched him nervously with unreadable eyes.
“Well, I’ve waited long enough. Now, the uninvited guest spouting nonsense will vanish. If you can, wake the detective beside you, or let him rest comfortably in his room; he seems to have dozed off.”
At Aeon’s pointed finger was Ronald, sleeping soundly with his back against the display case’s pedestal. How could this fool sleep at such a crucial moment? By the time Shan roused Ronald, Aeon had vanished from the room.
“Wake up, wake up! What time do you think it is, sleeping like this?”
“Uh…? Huh? Was I asleep? When did I fall asleep?”
“We’re only about five hours away, so get it together, damn it.”
“Oh, sorry. I’m going to go wash my face then come back.”
Ronald, who had been rubbing his face, rose swiftly and exited the room. Now, only Shan and a few of the Marquis’ guards remained. Shan crossed his arms and scowled at the Turquoise Wings until Ronald’s return, when one of the guards by the cabin door called out to him.
“Detective. There’s a kid here looking for a detective, perhaps for you?”
“…?”
As Shan looked towards the door, just as the guard had indicated, he noticed a child peering in, searching for someone.
“…Huh? Where did the other detective go?”
It was the younger of the two children from Aeon Worth’s group. Approaching the child, Shan crouched to meet his gaze and inquired,
“He’s gone to wash his face. Why aren’t you asleep, searching for him at bedtime?”
“I just came to hear a story.”
“What story?”
“I’ve always wondered what it would be like to have a twin brother rather than an older brother.”
“And?”
“Sometimes, I lie awake at night wondering if having a twin brother would be as wonderful as I imagine.”
“Are you suggesting Ronald has a twin? He only has two sisters, one older and one younger.”
“What? But on the carriage ride here, I saw a man who looked just like him leaving from the police station. I was the only one who saw him, but I saw him clearly. But, I know it’s impossible for that same man to be here. The police station and the airship boarding area are in opposite directions, but when we arrived, the detectives followed right after….”
What is this child talking about now? As the boy continued his tale, Shan’s expression grew increasingly somber. The child, intimidated by Shan’s fearsome grimace, stopped mid-sentence.
Shan’s intuition—a detective’s prime weapon—had finally kicked in. He released all the pent-up fury as he stormed out, spewing profanities.
“Curse you! ASTAAR!!”
– – –
Translator’s Corner:
Oooo~ Seth’s reaction to Chloe earlier was because he saw the real Ronald on the way there! Sneaky author. I love how she weaves in all these little details!
Aeon seems really confident about getting to know Astar. I wonder what Chloe thought listening to him say such things. xD
Poor Shan, once again. He is definitely aging prematurely. Anytime now, he’s gonna have a full head of white hair and perpetual high blood pressure. 
lmaoo
Thanks for the chapter!! <3
HAHAHAHAHAHA eat dirt Shan
Oh my xD Shan gets no respect in this house 😂