I Don’t Know the Original, I’m Too Busy Trying to Make a Living

That afternoon, Penelope received a visit from Sir Ralph. After a much-needed nap, her exhaustion had completely lifted.

The office was filled with her vassals and Ivetta, creating a serious atmosphere—save for Ahwin, who sat leisurely on the sofa, legs crossed, sipping tea.

Sir Ralph, choosing to ignore Ahwin entirely, proceeded with his report on the events of the previous night. The vassals listened intently.

"Last night, we conducted a surprise raid on Hamp Street and apprehended those engaged in illegal activities. Notably, we managed to capture all the ringleaders. I must admit, Jack proved to be quite helpful."

"You captured all the leaders? That’s an incredible accomplishment!"

The administrator was full of admiration, and the other vassals looked at Sir Ralph with pride.

"We are currently interrogating the detainees and identifying those who were either absent last night or managed to escape. Efforts to track them down are underway."

Sir Ralph’s tired complexion revealed the strain of a sleepless night spent dealing with the fallout. Despite this, he had made reporting back his priority.

"And one of the gambling dens had a secret passage."

"A secret passage?"

Sir Ralph nodded grimly and continued.

"It’s possible someone used it to smuggle out critical ledgers."

"Or to escape," Penelope noted.

"Yes. Evidence suggests someone fled through the passage. We are doing our best to identify and apprehend them."

A secret passage. Why was it always a secret passage?