All these documents need now is consolidation. I've put the references on the table, listed out the specifics, and also left some notes. Phew, the work for today and tomorrow is almost wrapped up… If you don't mind, I think I'll have a little nap…

Yes, I lost my sight in that one during the Bank of Mitsukue robbery. Indeed, there were two or three thousand who took part. Verily, it was an absolute bloodbath. There I was, protecting my little food cart, and with a single bamboo skewer, I killed a thousand men... Don't sweat the details. Enough about me, I'm here to hear your stories, Doctor. C'mon, out with them already.

Today, a student working part-time asked me about information science. I'm not much of an expert, so I shared a few stories showing how I wheedle information out of the clients at my various jobs. He did say it'd be difficult for him to include them in his university summer report, but he still looked pretty satisfied.

Special report! I suggest heading to the canteen early today, Doctor, something nice awaits. And remember to go to your physical later, or you'll suffer for it. Also, watch your head when passing through the upper deck. Alright, I'll take one thousand for my troubles. When did I learn divination? Why, I just happened to overhear some chatter is all.

Every year, I would make the same wish at that shrine, but I'm not too sure what to wish for this year. I really envy that priest. Walking alongside the kami-sama should make life easier, right? Then again, every kami-sama's got a different personality, so if you run into one that's a real pain to work with...

The whole time I was mirage-chasing, I thought I was simply experiencing another story to tell, but I ended up tying threads of fate that connected us together. With the proprietors and customers of Mitsukue, with Hoshiguma, and with you... Ahem. Anyway, I won't dismiss our friendship just because we met during a bank robbery!

Tsk, back then, numbers like these were so monumentally oppressive, you'd throw yourself off a high-rise just to catch your breath. But in today's economy, they're gained and lost in a matter of seconds. Alright, I've decided. Doctor, I'm going to set up an education fund, to help out people like me who never finished school—Hey, wait, don't go!

When I first set foot in the underworld, I upset some people I really shouldn't have, over some nearly worthless clues, and lost an eye for my indiscretions. Hardly a tale of fantasy and adventure, just the story of an idiot. It's ridiculous how that sort of thing turned my life around. Heh, what, you interested? Alright then. It all began one rainy night...

I've had too many chats today. Heard too many stories, said too many words, so I'm a little tired. Oh, don't mind me. Getting to stand with you under a vermilion sky, lost in our thoughts, is rest enough for me.

Where is everyone? So busy they forgot what time it is? Hmm, what should I sample from the liquor cabinet next...?

Irrashaimase, okyaku-sama. Codename Matsukiri, at your service. I am but a humble barkeep and proprietor of a wandering food cart, and perhaps also an individual skilled in the finding of things. So, what is it you need from me right now, Doctor?

Hmm, an exquisite arrangement. I should be able to put it to use in my side hustles.

Such kindness and magnanimity! It is my pleasure to be able to help you. Seems my part-time travails were not suffered in vain.

Oh...? Another promotion? For me? D-Doctor, there's nobody else here, so be honest with me. What do you actually want me to do? Let me make one thing clear, I won't be able to sniff out the Northern Court's secrets for you!

Alright, alright, I'll take care of everyone. I will say, I'm not much of a fighter. If it's discreet inquiries you want, then you've got the right man.

You want me to command? Command these mighty warriors who could all level me in a fight? C'mon, give me a break here...

I specialize in information gathering, I am no generalist. When it comes to fighting... *sigh* Well, since you asked so nicely, watch me kill another thousand on my own.

Nrmph—Alright, let's get serious. There's work to do.

What can I get you, okyaku-sama?

No need to be so pushy, boss.

Is it my turn? Don't rush me, this hand needs to be dealt slowly.

Err, is this place safe? Why do I feel like there's people watching us from the shadows?

Your private room. Please, enter.

Koi-koi!

Why must someone always kill the mood when we're enjoying our game?

These gatecrashers are no customers. I'll invite them to leave.

Doctor, you... rest up first. To get us out of that situation in one piece, and win, even... Burning yourself out like this can't be how you normally do things. It's all thanks to your efforts.

Tonight, we've got chikuwa, radish, burdenbeast tendon and boiled fowlbeast eggs. Have as much as you want, on the house! Here's to a job well done, everyone! Drinks, though, those'll be going on your tab.

It's fine, a few ran away is all. Don't worry, I let some fake news slip out. We won't be looking over our shoulders.

Heads up! Don't chase them. Safety first. I do still have a little shop in Mitsukue. If things don't work out, Doctor…

Wow, this place is incredible. It's like you made it the perfect spot for me to set up a few food stalls.

Don't bother me, I'm still on the clock.

Bored? How about some hanafuda?

Arknights.

Oh, you're here too? Happy New Year! I normally take this day off, but old habits made me an early riser. Habit has me walking down a long road and climbing some tall stairs, all to see if that little one's returned... But that's a story for later, haha. Since you're here, Doctor, how about climbing those stairs with me?

Irrashaimase, Doctor. Here, your usual, at your usual seat.

Happy Birthday, Doctor. Here, a coupon for 90% off at my bar/restaurant/convenience store/food-cart, today only... Just my little joke. Look on the back. Voucher of Wish-granting. Rather generous, isn't it? Feel free to wish away. Considering how wide my network in Mitsukue is, I'll be able to find someone to make it come true.

Finally tracked you down, Doctor! I've composed a haiku commemorating the year we've shared, understanding and supporting each other... Hah, glib? Certainly not. What about my new tanka? A recited one you say? Tsk Tsk, I bet something's troubling you. Don't worry, I'm here. I'll hear you out.