The morning after his disastrous day of side hustles, Shunya woke to the sound of drums. Not the playful street beats of performers, but deep, commanding booms that echoed through New Fornia's narrow streets like a warning.
He sat up quickly. Naomi was already awake, adjusting her sword belt with a grim look. Vikoria entered holding a folded notice, her expression unusually tight.
"The city gates are closed," she said quietly. "The National Cultivation Government has sent investigators from the capital."
Shunya blinked. "Investigators? For what? Did they find out I was a fake fortune teller?"
Naomi gave him a sharp look. "This is not a joke. When the capital sends investigators, it means trouble. They only come when they suspect corruption, rebellion, or worse."
