After the unprecedented train attack, the early evening in Thebe was anything but quiet. Despite rumors of the serious incident having begun to spread, the night of the city remained as lively as ever. Magical lights illuminated the streets, and the night market in the central plaza had a festive atmosphere.0

"Quite a view," Caron remarked.0

They were inside the ornate conference room of the City Hall, a building that stood at the heart of the bustling city. Outside the windows, the prosperity of Thebe was visible in every direction. Despite the late hour, Caron and his group, along with Thebe's mayor and city council members, were gathered for a meeting. The reason for that was simple.0

"Mayor Grine, this is your responsibility!" one council member shouted.0

"Why are we being questioned at this hour? There's no one more innocent than us!" another protested.0

They had been summoned without warning, and the council members were clearly unhappy about it.0

As a small commotion erupted in the conference room, Caron quietly observed Mayor Grine. According to Hans, Grine was a puppet mayor, often swayed by the council and lacking the will to enforce his authority. It wasn't that he lacked political skill, but he simply didn't have the drive to lead. But the man standing before them didn't match that description at all.0

"I'd appreciate it if you all shut your mouths. Is there a problem with me, as the mayor, summoning you here?" Mayor Grine snapped.0

The passive mayor who usually accepted the council's demands and collected his salary without complaint was now gone.0

"Today, the direct descendants of the Ducal Family of Leston almost died...0