Enamored of foreign mystery writers like Doyle and Poe, yet a mere nobody and a wanderer between low-paying jobs, Taro crosses paths with the legendary detective Shirai Saburo and ventures into the world of detectives. Taro would later be known as the famed mystery writer Edogawa Rampo.

Hamada Gaku - Profile
Born in 1988, Hamada has graced the screens of numerous dramas and movies since his TV drama debut in 1998. He has seamlessly embodied an extensive repertoire of both lead and supporting roles. In more contemporary times, his appearances in NHK dramas, including Light of Vietnam (2019), To Heal the Heart (2020), and Come Come Everybody (2021), have earned him great acclaim.

An elementary school teacher in Toba, where Taro used to work at a shipyard. She is Taro's pen pal whom he holds dear, and whenever he pens a new novel, he always sends it to Ryuko and eagerly awaits her response.

A friend whom Taro met during his time at the shipyard in Toba. He followed Taro to Tokyo and became a freeloader, invading his lodging, where he's taken a liking to sleeping in the closet. He is frail and unable to read or write, having grown up in poverty.

As a reporter for Teito Newspaper, Junji pursues sensational scoops that ignite public interest and is currently tracking the whereabouts of the legendary detective Shirai Saburo. After giving a scathing review of Taro's novel when he came to the newspaper company, the two have become bitter enemies.

A bewitching dancer who portrays the heroine in a highly acclaimed performance at the Opera House at "A" Park. Enthralled by Ohyaku's stunning performance, Taro falls in love.

Tokiko runs a secondhand bookstore called "Futari Shobo" on "D" Hill with her husband. Whenever she sees her tenant Taro, who keeps changing jobs, she never fails to remind him of his overdue rent.

Tokiko's husband. He runs the secondhand bookstore Futari Shobo on "D" Hill with his wife.

An art dealer and member of The Red Chamber who receives a threat from the phantom thief.

The daughter of art dealer Megurido Shobei. Her life is thrown into utter chaos after the phantom thief threatens her father.

A phantom thief who sets the public abuzz by announcing his crimes.

A trumpeter and barker at the Opera House. He has discovered talent in Ohyaku and aspires to make it big as a stage director someday.

A subordinate of Inspector Hazama. Confident in his physical strength, he always approaches cases with a reserved and cool-headed demeanor. Although he harbors hidden ambitions, he rarely expresses personal emotions.

The proprietress of the secret members-only club "The Red Chamber." She caters to the privileged class, such as traders, art dealers, and bureaucrats, while pursuing a hidden agenda.

A member of The Red Chamber and Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs. He possesses an exceptional understanding of the political situation in Russia and a unique network of connections at his disposal.

A police inspector of Teito Police who was once a colleague of Saburo during his tenure at the same department. He is a man of unwavering principles and an uncompromising temperament, who loathes any form of dishonesty. He and Saburo are bitter foes.

The bartender of Bar "K" located in "A" Park. With an air of quiet reserve, he keeps a watchful eye on Saburo, a longtime regular.

A mysterious individual who appears in front of Taro and Saburo.

A new member of The Red Chamber and a merchant who has just returned from Shanghai. He has captivated Mimako with his graceful demeanor and enigmatic words.

Adorned in a pristine white suit, this illustrious detective has solved numerous enigmatic cases. Though his name is widely recognized, he had declared his retirement three years prior and vanished without a trace. Upon encountering Taro, he sets forth toward a showdown with the "phantom thief," with whom he shares a profound destiny.

Kusakari Masao - Profile
Born in 1952, Kusakari made his grand entrance into the world of entertainment as a model in 1970. Soon thereafter, he pivoted toward acting and embarked upon a prolific career, gracing numerous dramas and films with his presence. His handsome countenance and remarkable acting prowess endeared him to fans of all ages. He has cemented his place as one of Japan's top actors, having appeared seven times in NHK's period drama series over its 60-year history. Without question, he stands tall as one of the country's most distinguished performers.