Chapter 329 - Official prospects
“My apologies for not receiving you at our originally agreed-upon time,” Scarlett said, lifting a delicate porcelain cup of winter mint tea to her lips, the blend expertly prepared by Garside. “It is unfortunate that you were preoccupied both yesterday and the day before, but I trust we can finally reach an agreement today.”
“That is…quite alright, Baroness,” the man seated across from her replied, his tone carefully measured. He wore a crisp navy-black uniform adorned with the gold insignia of the Imperial Surveyors, his posture rigid, both hands neatly folded in his lap. “Lady Withersworth assured me you had pressing matters to attend to. Besides, preparations for the Barrier Pylons in Freybrook are still underway, so we remain well within the acceptable timeframe despite a few delays.”
From her own seat on a nearby couch, Lady Withersworth offered a warm smile, sipping her own tea with unhurried ease.
“Ah, before we proceed, allow me to introduce my colleague,” the surveyor said, gesturing to the grey-robed man beside him. The balding wizard, his round spectacles glinting under the light of the chandelier hanging above. “This is Rogelio, a Docent Wizard from the Ustrum Assembly. He has been assigned as the mage assessor for the Freybrook site selections.”
Rogelio offered a small nod. “Baroness Hartford. I have heard of you. It is an honour to finally make your acquaintance.”
Scarlett returned the nod. “Likewise.” She then refocused her attention on the surveyor, who was the head of the Imperial Surveyors overseeing the Freybrook region.
A short distance behind him, by the large windows overlooking the snow-covered rear of the estate, Fynn stood, his sharp gaze never straying from their guests. Though he hadn’t said anything, his intense scrutiny had clearly unsettled them when they first arrived. Scarlett had reassured them that he was harmless, but she couldn’t exactly fault them for their unease.
She was fairly certain Fynn wouldn’t stir up any trouble. That said, he had been somewhat on edge ever since she returned a few days earlier from her meeting with the other Scarlett, which he’d—somehow—figured out just by looking at her. Convincing him that everything was fine had taken some effort, and she doubted she’d be able to move without his watchful eye for the foreseeable future.
Which, all things considered, was probably for the best.
“Now then, if you don’t mind, Baroness, I believe it would be best to dispense with further pleasantries and move straight to the matter at hand,” the surveyor said, fixing his gaze on her. “As you are already aware, the Imperial Office of Barrier Works has been established as the provisional body overseeing the planning, construction, and enchantment of the Empyreal Barrier. Our role as imperial surveyors is to identify and evaluate suitable sites for the Barrier’s pylons, as well as determine the necessary structural reinforcements and arcane adjustments required for their timely construction.”
“I am aware,” Scarlett replied.
“I understand you were present during the Conclave where the Barrier’s implementation was formally sanctioned,” he continued. “If that is the case, you should already be familiar with the necessity of the project and the role it plays in safeguarding the empire.” He paused briefly before adding, “You should also have been informed that your estate has been identified as a prime candidate for the Freybrook pylon.”