Prologue

Under the guidance of Kiyotaka Yagashira, skilled counterfeiter-turned-painter Ensho (real name Shinya Sugawara) had quickly gained recognition from one of the wealthiest men in the world. Ensho’s brilliance was awe-inspiring, but it went without saying that Kiyotaka was also incredible. Despite calling himself an apprentice, he was an excellent appraiser with an exceptional eye for observation and discernment. His accomplishments were already well-known around the world.

“Ensho and the kiddo really are amazing.” Katsuya Komatsu, head of the Komatsu Detective Agency, chuckled and looked up. He couldn’t believe that such great people had been working at his tiny office, even if it had only been a temporary arrangement.

“Didn’t I tell you not to use my mug?”

“Pfft, it’s just a mug. Who cares? You’re such a stingy guy.”

“Is that really how you should be talking after using someone’s property without permission?”

“Whaddya mean, ‘someone’s property’? There’s no ownership