Chapter 224 - Back-office dealings
“—your investigations should primarily concentrate on Brook Tower and Ustrum’s acquaintances, likely around 800 A.R. The exact time period, however, is somewhat uncertain,” Scarlett said aloud, sitting alone in her office.
Before her, on her desk, was a small bluebird carving perched on a circular marble base, emitting a faint glow.
“Gathering reliable information from that far back could prove difficult, depending on the circumstances,” came Beldon’s voice from the bird sculpture.
“I understand, but I still ask that you do what you can.”
“Certainly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. That said, most of my people are currently preoccupied with other matters, especially given the recent upheaval around Bridgespell. It’s been dominating the conversations of many important figures in the empire lately. Quite the coincidence that an event like that would happen during your visit to the city, wouldn’t you say, Baroness? I have even heard tell of rumors suggesting your involvement in the citadel incident, alongside the Followers of Ittar and Duke Valentino’s men. Such talk inevitably piques one’s curiosity about the true events there.”
“I advise against delving too deeply, Tyndall.”
“You do tantalize me so, Baroness. You should know that your warnings only heighten my curiosity about what I’m missing,” the man replied, his voice carrying an almost palpable sigh. “Ah, but nevertheless, I shall respect your wishes on the topic. And regarding your investigation request, I will have my available people look into this Delmon character. It’s hardly an uncommon name, but if he was indeed a noble of that era, as you suggest, identifying a list of potential matches should be manageable.”
“That will be a satisfactory starting point for now,” Scarlett said.
Her progress in completing Arlene’s latest quest hinged on finding out what had happened to the woman’s brother. Locating Arlene’s necklace came after that.
“I presume you’re not inclined to divulge the reason for this sudden interest in a long-gone noble?” Beldon asked.
“I do not particularly mind, actually. It is simply that the matter is of little consequence to you. I am seeking an heirloom that I believe will aid me in gaining access to a set of ruins mentioned in my research, and Delmont was the last confirmed possessor of the heirloom.”
A soft chuckle came from the communication artifact. “That is hardly a satisfying answer, but perhaps I am to blame for hoping for more. As ever, you are nothing if not a masterful tease, my lady.”