Chapter 123: Alone once again
"Does it mean something to you?" Riku asked.
"Yes," Seraphina nodded, her expression grim. "That is the crest of Marquis Valerius. An old, influential house known for its discretion and... less savory dealings in the capital’s underworld."
The pieces were clicking together. A disgraced house, ties to the Vaynes, and now directly implicated in the cover-up of the Chamberlain’s disappearance.
"And the Warden," Seraphina continued, her voice low. "He said the Grand Luminar would be pleased. This confirms your earlier accusation. The corruption... it truly reaches the very top." Her voice held a note of profound betrayal.
"We have to go to the Valerius estate," Riku said, his tone urgent. "We need to find out why one of his men was here."
"I agree," Seraphina’s resolve hardened. It seemed like she had to accept the fact that her superior, the Grand Luminar, was indeed involved in this mess.
The time for doubt was over. Now was the time for action. "Marquis Valerius has questions to answer."
They turned to leave the silent, empty study. However, just as they were about to step into the hallway, they heard footsteps approaching from the main staircase. They were calm, measured, and authoritative footsteps.
The study door, which was slightly ajar, swung open.
Standing there, his expression a mask of polite inquiry, was the Grand Luminar himself, along with other acolytes from the church
"High Archon Seraphina," he said, his voice smooth as silk. A faint, unreadable smile played on his lips. "I had heard you were conducting an investigation here. I came to see if I could be of any assistance."