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Backlund is busy at this time of the year. Nobles flock to Loen’s capital; trading in their large castles for average manors to mingle and attend various social functions. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of the capital, it seems the ballrooms and salons are filled with talk of only one lady.
This lady had not graced the stage of high society for a few months, and many wondered what—if anything—had happened to her. However, the lady has recently taken the capital’s gaze by storm when she finally appeared again.
Come along now, watchful reader, so we may witness Audrey Hall’s return to Backlund.
In the last Tarot Club gathering, Audrey accepts a mission from Mr. Fool to assassinate the Intis Ambassador to the Loen Kingdom; a man known by the name of Bakerland Jean Madan.
Admittedly, she does not know him very well; however, she has resources at her disposal. Resources she can use to find out about him. It is at this time that she recalls Countess Jaria’s invitation for tomorrow evening. A ball where she frequently invites ambassadors such as the target, Bakerland.
At this revelation, she calls for Annie and sends her to accept Countess Jaria's invite for the evening ball.
Now, how is she to assassinate him? First of all, Audrey knows she lacks strength. A Telepathist, much like the Spectator, does not have combat abilities. Second, Audrey, absolutely, cannot openly involve herself in this matter. She has a lot to do in preparation for her revenge—hell, she hasn't even taken the first step, far from it actually. Also, if she were to implicate herself in this matter, it is well within the bounds of reason to assume that her parents and brothers are going to get caught up in this too.
In the sweeping turmoil within her mind, her thoughts land on Fors and Xio. Though the two were low-sequence beyonders like her, they undoubtedly knew someone who could take on the job. It is only a matter of payment. A matter which she can handle.
As an adult woman in the Loen Kingdom, Audrey now has control over a large part of her assets. Along with the ares of land area gifted to her by Duke Negan during the Qilangos commotion, she also had various investments, courtesy of her father, both of which produce income for her. Thus, as far as Audrey is concerned, money is not one of hers.
Aside from these, she also has liquidated approximately one thousand pounds because she wanted to travel around with him before he. That's enough, she supposes. Combined with the money she kept for Tarot Club transactions and her monthly budget, it added up to twenty thousand pounds. An assasination cannot possibly exceed more than that amount, she guesses, unless the target is one of those pirate admirals and kings she hears about from Mr. Hanged Man. If she needs more money, she can just withdraw some more.
Her thoughts wander back to Fors and Xio, worry filling her heart. They were friends for quite some time now. Several months, she guesses. It was before she returned to Tingen when Viscount Glaint introduced them to each other.
What if someone traces back the assasination order to them? What would happen? No, she shakes her head. I should trust that they know what they're doing. After all, they've been living this life far longer than I have.
The morning before Countess Jaria's ball, Audrey leaves to visit the small cathedral of the Church of the Evernight Goddess in Empress Borough. Along the way, she chances upon Lady Norma, Duchess Della’s sister, on a morning stroll. The two of them chat for quite some time when Audrey finds herself invited to a tea party hosted by the former. It seems her interest in mysticism has made itself well-known in certain circles and, as such, she is being invited with it in mind.
After confirming her attendance at Lady Norma’s tea party, she sets off for her original destination. Once Audrey arrives at the Church of the Evernight Goddess, she heads for a pew on the left side near the altar where she is a small distance away from talking priests. She sits and bows her head down, appearing to be deep in contemplation or prayer.
In reality, she is listening in on the whispered conversation between the group. Several minutes pass and unfortunately, there is not much to be gained from it. There were no mentions of Ince Zangwill and although she had low expectations, Audrey is still disappointed. Alas, there is nothing she can do for now but wait and find more sources of information.
She soon decides to leave the cathedral and return home to prepare for the ball hosted by Countess Jaria.
The sky is a mix between blues, pinks, and oranges by the time that Audrey leaves for Count Wolf’s—Countess Jaria’s husband—house. Though lavishly decorated, the lobby exudes a sense of elegance. She thinks it fits her impression of the countess.
“Good evening Countess, my deepest gratitude for providing me an opportunity to attend tonight.” Audrey greets the host.
“Lady Audrey.” Countess Jaria smiles upon seeing her. “It is my honor to be hosting you.”
She seemed surprised to see me, but her tone carries a hint of curiosity… Is it due to the rumors about my absence…? It’s likely. The other guests are probably curious too, which makes their stares understandable. Audrey walks around the room after exchanging some more pleasantries with the countess, greeting both people she knew and those she did not; all the while enduring the prickly gazes to the back of her head. As she does so, she lets her eyes roam, attempting to find the real reason she attended—the target: Bakerland.
Soon enough, she spots him currently conversing with Count Wolf.
Audrey does not wish to approach him, lest it give rise to new rumors about her. Hence, she formulated a plan to get him to be the one approaching her.
First, she passes by him and Count Wolf, pretending to look around when she “accidentally” catches his eye, slightly opening her own in a gesture of shock before immediately looking away and walking to greet other nobles. She then positions herself to be looking at him while conversing with others from a distance. Always getting caught “unintentionally” staring.
Audrey knows this plan will succeed. Why? First is because she knows she’s eye-catching, enough to make anyone who lays their eyes on her do a double take. Second, if she were to combine that with the “charm” lessons she received with her etiquette lessons, she is certain that she will be able to make him think she has taken a vested interest in him. Klein used to say that she took all his attention when she looked at him like that. Third, Kance Leershen, a friend of hers, had off-handedly mentioned Bakerland’s involvement with various women when she asked about the guests at the start of the night.
And it does succeed.
Sometime in the middle of the event, the target approaches her. She feels his salacious gaze sizing her up before she spots him from the corner of her eye. Shivers crawl up her spine as his stare leaves her skin with a nasty, sticky feeling that she wants nothing more than to scrub off at the moment. However, Audrey stays rooted to her spot and pretends she doesn’t see him coming. She even turns to look at the tall, ornate windows behind her, feigning interest at the gardens of Count Wolf’s house.
She acts surprised when a deep voice sounds from beside her. He greets her by taking her hand and placing a [supposedly] chaste kiss on the back of her hand. “You are truly the most beautiful lady I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.”
Ignoring his faux pas (as she hadn't even raised her hand), Audrey raises her eyebrows at the man and lets out a slight chuckle. “Do all the people of Intis speak with such…distinct prose?”
Bakerland processes her words for a split second before smiling widely. “Yes, we are generous with our praises.” He let his gaze wander over her figure as he continued. “Especially for beautiful things.” He then chuckled as he added, “If it wasn't for the customs of Loen Kingdom, I would have called you my angel.”
Audrey meticulously keeps a small smile on her face despite feeling nauseous from the interaction. This perv. It’s a shame I haven't received any qualitative changes from being a sequence 8 Telepathist and that my husband is dead or harm will certainly subtly befall you.
At the thought of Klein, the wedding ring she keeps in a special pocket on her dress suddenly feels heavier.
She inwardly shakes her head, no. She cannot afford to lose her composure in front of an opponent right now. Audrey calms herself and responds to Bakerland. “There really are differences between the people of Loen and Intis.”
The Intis Ambassador then proceeds to laugh at his own [distasteful] joke about the aftermath of a rendezvous with a man hailing from Loen and a man hailing from Intis.
I don't want to converse with this man anymore. I've gathered the necessary intel anyways. “...People who can laugh at themselves hold a certain charm about them.” She said politely. Then, spotting Kance somewhere behind Bakerland, she bids him farewell and heads to her friend.
The night ends without much fuss after that.
When Audrey gets home, a letter on her desk catches her attention as soon as she walks in. It is in a slightly yellowed envelope with no crest-imprinted wax seal. When she flips it over, the handwriting that indicates her address is familiar—Leonard’s.
Audrey,
How’s the Land of Hope treating its beloved gem? Have they rejoiced at your presence yet? Regret fills my very soul at the thought of being unable to witness such a scene. I am sure my dear friend would have my head if he knew I was unable to act as your guardian.
Audrey rolls her eyes. Leave it to Leonard to imbue even his letter with such dramatics and indirectly mention Klein.
Regardless, I am proud to say that I have followed through with my plan on joining the Red Gloves. As of the time of writing, I am undergoing training at the Cathedral of Serenity and have recently advanced to Sequence 7, Nightmare. I’ll keep an eye out for the potion formula of Psychiatrist as well as members of the Psychology Alchemists.
Oh, speaking of that organization, our contact, Daxter Guderian, seems to still be active. I got Frye and the others to send me a letter on any updates he gives on potion formulas from sequence 7 onward. However, judging from secret organizations’ patterns, they will definitely have a better reach within larger and more populated cities.
Actually, she replies, I think I might have found them in Backlund. Nonetheless, Audrey is grateful for the support Leonard offers. I’ll be sure to support him similarly once I establish my own network here, she promises. Then her mind drifts to the Tarot Club. Would it be possible to get Leonard to join them? Maybe when he’s assigned to Backlund or East Chester County, she’ll attempt to get him to recite the honorific name of The Fool. She just knows he would be an invaluable asset to the weekly gathering. For now though, she’ll place the matter on the backburner.
As for the other matter, there are still no signs of him. However, everyone here is on high alert after he managed to steal another sealed artifact. If you insist on conducting your own investigations, as I am well aware I cannot stop you, remember to be wary dear Audrey. Be wary of unnatural coincidences and chained happenings. I believe it won’t be easy to detect, but you have an advantage as a spectator—or so I believe.
If you find yourself needing help, I am sure Ma’am Daly will be willing to assist you as long as she isn’t busy. You are familiar with her, right? Even if Klein had not mentioned her, you probably noticed her beside Captain’s grave. You’ll most likely find her at Saint Samuel Cathedral.
Audrey remembers that day and recalls the appearance of the woman standing silently in front of Dunn Smith’s grave. The pretty black-haired woman who wore blue eyeshadow and blush and whom she sensed an immense sadness from (comparable to hers, really). At the time, she’d attributed the woman to be the late Captain’s lover. However, the succeeding events made her lose her bearings and grip on reality. Hence, she was unable to draw much conclusions.
I have not been made privy as to how entrance to the Nighthawks’ headquarters can be found from that church, but it probably won’t be as different as Tingen’s. In case he didn’t tell you: go to a confessional then tell them you are in danger and need to see Spirit Medium Daly Simone. Once you see her, tell her I sent you. Though this method will probably make them investigate you thoroughly, so I don’t recommend it if you wish to continue being an unaffiliated beyonder.
An idea pops into her head. She has an inkling of how to build good rapport with the church and establish communications with Ma’am Daly.
Finally, I might be unable to frequently reply to your letters due to my situation. However, I have still enclosed an address you can send letters to. Please do NOT send letters to the Cathedral of Serenity as I can’t be too sure who might be monitoring these.
Leonard
Audrey places the letter down, a small smile playing on her lips. It is always nice to receive a letter from a friend. She briefly thinks of penning a response but then thinks against it. It is safer for the two of them to exchange as little correspondence as possible due to hostile forces that may be observing them.
She folds the letter according to its creases and slides it neatly into the envelope.
Somewhere in West Balam, a man with distinctly Loenese features who wears an attire similar to the locals wanders about a beyonder market in search of Deep-Sleep Flower Powder. The man’s sharp gray eyes darts to and from different stalls, scanning the area for the last ingredient needed for his advancement.
Finally, in a hardly noticeable corner of the market, he finds what he needs and heads home to brew the potion.
The man bearing a likeness to the deceased Tingen Nighthawks’ Captain pours eighty milliliters of Blessed Holy Water into a pot over a fire then drips seven drops of a Rotten Shepherd’s Pus into it. Afterwards, he weighs seventeen grams of Soil mixed with an Exotic Deep-Sleeper’s Shadow as well as ten grams of his recently-purchased Deep-Sleep Flower Powder. Then, he puts the two ingredients one after the other before stirring it gently.
A palm-sized, irregularly shaped, deep-black crystal with a core that looked like a cloudless night sky full of brilliantly shining stars is thrown in by the man with a striking appearance. The concoction boiled with a single ever-growing bubble that popped into an illusion of a starry sky accompanied by the hushing of wind on a silent night. The man slightly nods at his creation, seeming to be satisfied at the result.
He then pours the potion into a glass bottle, admiring the way the mirror-like black liquid glinted in the soft candlelight. He takes a deep breath as he steadies himself before bringing the bottle to his lips and downing the Soul Assurer potion in one go.
Ten thousand pounds is the fee for Intis Ambassador Bakerland Jean Madan’s assasination by Mr. A of the secret gathering. Audrey pays additional fees to both Xio and Fors for taking on the danger of commissioning an assasination, to an ambassador to the kingdom no less.
It is mentioned at the next gathering and is delighted to sense the shock from Mr. Hanged Man and satisfaction from Mr. Fool.
There is a new member joining them, “The World”. Audrey senses something irregular about him. He is far too staid for anyone she has ever encountered. I can’t see any discernible features about him. He’s cloaked and the fog around him seems thicker in comparison to both Mr. Hanged Man and Mr. Sun.
However, Audrey is surprised when he speaks. His voice is hoarse as though he has been battling a case of sore throat for years now. But it carries a hint of familiarity that quickly vanishes, the gray fog overtaking the peculiarity before she manages to dwell on it.
She finds the matter easy to forget when Mr. Fool issues an examination for Xio and Fors by finding Lanevus. She finds a suitable time to give them his portrait and issue the mission after the gathering.
Audrey attends Lady Norma’s tea party the next day. There, she meets two mysticism experts: Mr. Hilbert Alucard, a jewelry designer and psychologist, as well as Miss Escalante Oseleka, a psychiatrist. They chat about mysticism over tea until it becomes evident that the event will soon be over. She loathes that she is unable to gain much of anything, but alas, no new endeavor is sure to yield favorable results.
Besides, if she were to bring up the Psychology Alchemists or any related topic, she is sure they will notice with how closely they have been observing her since earlier. A test, hopefully. And then maybe they might refer me to the organization.
She can only hope that she is invited once more, or that they would agree to her invitation.
Before she leaves, however, she is stopped by Lady Norma on her way out. “You seem to hold quite an interest in psychology, Audrey. Why not consider being a psychiatrist before getting married? There’s no doubt in Count Hall and his wife being supportive of this as they are followers of the Evernight Goddess.”
A psychiatrist? Why would she mention it? Could this be a clue that I’m on the right path? Audrey sighs in her heart responding to another matter brought up by the lady before her, I already am, Lady Norma. But then again, it isn’t known at all and even if people were to find out, it would be disregarded as I married a commoner…who is now deceased.
Though she was still of marriageable age at 22, according to statistics most women in the kingdom started a family at the age of 26.
One that she and Klein had not even seriously considered before the catastrophe, even as she knows she would have liked to build one as long as it was him. But time brings about changes that are fickle and volatile as the ever-changing wind. One could attain great happiness in a day and plunge into despair in the next. Audrey learned that nothing is ever slow or kind when fate is concerned with time.
Audrey smiled, “I will need to be educated on these matters more in that case.”
“Escalante and Alucard are good teachers,” replied Lady Norma.
“Perhaps I could consider asking Miss Escalante to be my tutor on psychology.” She nodded in agreement then bade farewell.
On the way home, she decided to take a detour to Saint Samuel Cathedral.
She stays for a few minutes, her head bowed in prayer all while listening for…well, anything. Information about Ince Zangwill and 0-08, if any (there is none), about Ma’am Daly, if she was mentioned (she is not), and other general information she could stand to learn (there is a surgeon called Aaron Ceres suffering from a bout of bad luck).
For how much of a secret these people hold from ordinary citizens, it seems they lack secrecy or have much sense to not chat about it in the church. In their defense, Audrey does have heightened senses as a beyonder and there are very few people occupying the pews near the conversing priests at this time.
But still.
She taps her chest four times as she stands from her place and heads for the grand doors of the cathedral. Along the way, she greets two priests with a nod and a smile.
Count Hall’s house is lively as ever. Servants move from one place to another, completing chores as they have always done. The place is not noisy, but it is definitely not quiet. There is a certain charm that the place exudes with this level of activity.
It makes her think of the contrast between her parents’ house and her home. She does not want to think of the last time she had been there. Audrey prefers that the only memories she keeps of home are the ones with Klein in it.
There is a particular memory that surfaces to her mind at the thought of this. Melancholic tears of a haunted home that haunts her brings fresh tears to her eyes as she hurriedly blinks them away.
*~*~*~*~*
“Audrey,” he called softly.
She vaguely sensed his presence behind closed eyes and the veil of a good dream. She felt the bed dip beside her and a warm body with an all too familiar scent cradle and embrace her to its side. Her hands touch soft fabric, one that she subconsciously clenched in a fist and pulled closer to herself. Hello, welcome back Klein, she wanted to say. But her mind is muddled, more than half of it plunged into a dream where they are off adventuring in a place she imagines is Mr. Sun’s City of Silver. She dreamt of bringing the sun back to that place with Klein, of bringing with them hope for a better future.
In place of the greeting she expected from him, he chuckled instead.
She knew she said something, felt her vocal chords vibrate. But she did not know why he reacted that way. Although strangely enough, she could not find it in herself to care enough to wake fully. Really, there must be something in the warmth he provided that made it so much easier to be at ease.
Soon, his chest rose and fell with her own, his breathing a soft whisper beside a kiss on her forehead.
Later, when they are both awake, he tells her how she mumbled an indistinct form of Jotun much closer to gibberish than the actual language.
*~*~*~*~*
Audrey is inside her room before she knows it. She feels as if she let her subconscious control her body while her mind was away in the recesses of cherished memory.
Mr. World issues a request to provide as much information as she can about all the nobles in Backlund.
Audrey accepts, then makes her own request for the potion formula of the Psychiatrist known. Afterwards, she managed to provide the information that The World needed in three days’ time.
In the basement of Saint Samuel Cathedral, a woman graced with a mystical beauty sits in the office near Chanis Gate. It is her turn to guard the room of dangerous Sealed Artifacts and prisoners. The woman has a book on spirits propped open before her on the table as she scans for information to communicate with a specific human soul. A deceased human’s. She has yet to find any.
Perhaps she’s just not looking in the right direction.
So far, the books that she’s read suggest the summoning ritual she uses for her messenger. However, that only summons spirit world creatures; a deceased human’s soul is not one of those.
Midway through the book, the woman shakes her head and chuckles as if partaking in self-ridicule. She recalls the letter that a ‘friend’ has sent her regarding their old coworker. How he’d apparently lost control due to the effects of grief. How he’d attempted a ritual to bring back the dead.
She finds it laughable that she can now draw parallels between her and that deceased coworker. Haa, she sighs, the only man I’ve ever been interested in is now a corpse. After all that she'd said about a man being a dead body before she even takes a second glance at him comes back with a vengeance—wielding irony as its weapon.
Later, Audrey’s brother, Hibbert, informs her of a ball that the Duke of Lastings, Prince Edessak Augustus, is holding. Apparently, the Duke personally handed Hibbert the invitation for her. And he made the fact known to her.
“Do with that information what you will. In the eyes of high society, after all, you have never left the marriage market.” He states before leaving as he laid the ornate invitation on her table, ignoring the way she frowned when he did so.
In spite of what her brother said, Audrey refuses to think much of it. She is no stranger to the advances of the Duke of Lastings. He has not been subtle in making his affections known to her since before she came of age.
And Hibbert. She suppresses a seething rage at the nonchalant manner with which he informed her. What does he mean to imply by doing that? Is he on the side of the Duke? Is he encouraging a romantic involvement with Prince Edessak?
“Audrey, you need to calm down.” Susie makes herself known as she sits near Audrey's feet. “Very strong feelings can lead to a loss of control, remember?”
Susie's calm voice helps to placate her emotions. “I understand,” she whispers softly. Her previous anger melts and stores itself to be used for another day. It's not fair, is it? She complains in her mind. Klein just– just died, for goodness’ sake. How can he be so casual about this? Is this really the Hibbert I know? How could such a change happen so drastically?
She shakes her head. No, Audrey, think carefully. Although that is what he may be implying, he may just be worried for you. That did not sound right, either. If he was worried, why did he think that another marriage is in order? Perhaps getting linked with Prince Edessak romantically serves a strategic interest for Hibbert. But then why didn't he just tell her? Or maybe that is his way of telling her?
Focus, Audrey. What have you noticed that's different with your brother. First is his indifference to her marriage—to Klein. It makes no sense to her since, as far as she knew, they were on good terms. Her brother seemed to approve of him. As a matter of fact, Alfred was the one more wary of Klein than Hibbert.
Second is the Duke of Lastings. He supports the Conservative Party, while her whole family, including Hibbert, remains neutral. Perhaps Hibbert is thinking of choosing a side? Then why the Conservative Party of all of them? These were the ones vehemently against the bills that the National Atmospheric Pollution Council was proposing.
Third is…something I have yet to understand. There is a lack of clues that connect these points into a whole. She lets her imaginative mind bridge the gaps in the story. Unless, Hibbert is being manipulated? Maybe threatened with something?
She had to find out. So she agrees to attend the party, sends her reply and chooses a brilliant gown that's sure to make herself stand out. It goes against her acting method as a Spectator, but that potion has been fully digested anyway. She is a Telepathist now.
The ball is scheduled for the next weekend, providing her enough time to do what she needs to do. That afternoon, she visits Saint Samuel Cathedral and attempts to find out information.
She gets none.
Afterwards, she informs her parents of her wish to study psychology under Miss Escalante’s tutelage, and after receiving their permission, sends a letter to Lady Norma—informing her of the development and her eagerness to learn.
Lady Norma’s response is predictable. She wishes Audrey luck on her studies and says that she's contacted Miss Escalante on her behalf.
A few days before the ball hosted by the Duke of Lastings, she holds a tea party of her own. She invites her closest friends who have the same interest in mysticism as she does and steers the conversation to topics with predictable answers. Thereby, helping her digest the Telepathist potion more efficiently.
It is through this that she also attempts to establish herself a network of information.
It goes well, she thinks.
The newspapers say Lanevus is dead. Audrey nearly rejoices out loud. Furthermore, there are Tarot Cards scattered around Lanevus' body, some even stabbed into him! Combined with the knowledge that Mr. Fool is looking for him, she knows that the deity’s adorer may well be the one who ended him!
Our Tarot Club is amazing! She thinks as she feels around in the hidden pocket for her wedding ring. We're halfway there, Klein. Just one more. Just that Ince and you'll be avenged.
She decides then and there to write a letter to Leonard. She needs to share this information with him even as he might already know of the situation. She also tells him of her investigations and how it has not borne fruit as of now. She relays how she suspects she may have made contact with the Psychology Alchemists and how she hasn't laid her eyes on Ma’am Daly yet. Audrey sends the letter to the enclosed address contained within his last letter and hopes Leonard may read it soon.
The day before the ball is her schedule for tutoring with Miss Escalante. The lessons are all well within her expectations. Miss Escalante did not go into detail with a lot of concepts relating to mysticism. Instead, she really did focus on psychology.
This is alright, Audrey concludes. It is better to make them think that I am a regular person and then let them introduce me to the organization.
On the night of the ball, she dresses in an exquisite light silk gown and lets Annie place ribbons into her coiffure. She selects a modest pair of earrings and slips on silk gloves and slippers before she deems herself ready. Audrey arms herself with her wedding ring in a hidden inner pocket and a randomly chosen, silver-lined tarot card along with it.
She arrives at the ball with Hibbert accompanying her and they greet Prince Edessak together. Afterwards, the duke asks her brother to escort her in place of Hibbert.
He agrees.
I suppose I should take this time to observe him, she ruminates. Audrey then curls her lips into a polite smile as she takes his hand.
Prince Edessak attempts to make small talk with her, and so she entertains him. Her answers, coupled with the way she didn’t seem to be so repulsed by his mere presence anymore, leads him to believe that she may hold some minute affections for his person. He thinks that there is hope for him yet; hope for him to capture the attention of Backlund’s darling.
Inwardly, Audrey takes note of the way he speaks so highly of himself, takes note of his interests and current endeavors, even the strength of his perfume and the way he dresses. She creates a mental dossier for her observations and files them away for later use. Perhaps upon careful investigation she may be able to find the source of her brother’s oddity—and it all had to do with this man.
Through the title of the Duke of Lastings and his escort of her, she is able to project an image of herself to the nobles in attendance. One that is powerful and well-connected, even without the influence of her father and brothers, with the only con being that Prince Edessak’s image replaces the role of said family members. However, she thinks she may be able to use this to her advantage.
The scent of power attracts the nobility in high society as the smell of blood attracts sharks in water. Those whose ambitions of control are as potent as the fear of starvation are the ones she may be able to sway to her side. And maybe, there is a chance of converting them fully into her own allies. Allies tied to her name and her humanity, with no pretext of power in between.
A grand and lofty ambition, surely; but certainly not impossible.
For now, it is Prince Edessak’s introductions that pave the way for her. For now, she shall make it count.
The ball ends sometime before dawn.
The next day, Audrey learns of an exhibition of Emperor Roselle’s items in a museum and decides to schedule a visit for his diary pages. She visits Saint Samuel Cathedral and engages in a conversation with a priest. After, she sorts through a pile of invitations addressed to her, which she busies herself with writing replies for until evening.
Somewhere in St. George Borough, a certain detective by the name of Sherlock Moriarty learns about the Emperor Roselle exhibition too.
The following days blur together and superimpose over each other in a flurry of activity. Audrey attends psychology lessons by Miss Escalante, builds a personal connection with the church, holds her own tea parties, and exchanges letters with Prince Edessak. The Tarot Club gains another new member, Miss Magician, who she is certain is Fors Wall.
She decides to visit Saint Samuel Cathedral today, as evidenced by later events, it is a good thing that she does so.
When she arrives, it is routine for her to find an unoccupied pew a few rows from the altar. As always, she listens to her surroundings while praying. And then she senses the presence of someone taking a seat beside her. She does not mind them for a while until she has finished praying, and then she looks.
There is a woman dressed in black with interior accents in blue. She has her black hair twisted up into an elaborate braid. However, her most striking features are her green eyes given emphasis by the blue eyeshadow and blush she wears.
Audrey is unable to keep the shock of familiarity off her face when she sees the woman sitting beside her. Ma’am Daly!
“I see you’re already familiar with me…or are you perhaps just surprised by my presence?” Clearly, Daly has noticed her expression.
She nods, as she observes the woman. Though a small smile has formed at her lips, her expression remains solemn when she looks at Audrey. Does she recognize me from that time? Composing herself, she agrees with the statement. “Familiar, yes, Leonard told me about you.”
Daly raises an eyebrow. “Leonard? I didn’t expect that.” She turns her gaze up front, to the altar.
Audrey debates whether she should tell her about the scene at the graveyard. Yes, she confirms, it is better to be honest with someone like her. “I also saw you that day, Ma’am Daly. At the funeral.” She lowers her head.
Daly does not speak for a few moments, then, “Ah that. I think I also remember seeing you there.” A moment of tensionable silence prevails between the two of them when someone calls for her. “Let’s talk again, shall we? Tomorrow morning, at the cafe near here.”
Not much else happens after that. Neither does she hear about the whereabouts of Ince Zangwill, and so Audrey returns home. She is making the final preparations before her private visit to the exhibition tomorrow afternoon when she receives a revelation from Mr. Fool. He says that his adorer would like to request her to slightly damage a bookmark in Emperor Roselle’s study.
Why? Well, I guess if Mr. Fool allows it, then there must be a reason. She selects a pair of earrings for her visit and sharpens the pin of one of them in preparation for tomorrow.
The next day inevitably comes and Audrey is greeted by the recollection of the letter from Prince Edessak last week. It appeared in her dreams, seeming to remind her about its existence. The letter states something along the lines of herself being invited to tour the Red Rose Manor while containing implications of marriage with him and she cannot take being reminded of this so early.
It is morning and she has just woken up and yet she already feels emotionally distressed because– because these people are treating her as though she is an unmarried maiden, completely disregarding that yes, she has a husband, and yes, she loved loves him and she does not wish to leave him behind in that house. They do not see the haunting spirit of the man in the home that haunts her. Yet, Audrey is also aware that they do not know about Klein, does not know about the marriage in Tingen—does not know that she is a widow.
It is difficult to feign ignorance alongside them. It takes a great deal of composure to maintain the image she so wishes to cultivate for her future plans.
She drapes her arm over her eyes and leans back on the headboard, effectively wiping away the gathering drops of tears on her waterline.
Right, back to business Audrey. This is the chance you’ve been waiting for. Golden daylight illuminates her surroundings and she is reminded of the goal she is working toward. For the sake of keeping her sanity, she will step perfectly into the role that they expect her to. The spectator shall now play as an actor. Hopefully, my abilities won’t be in too much of a disagreement, she lampoons.
Audrey remembers the reply she sent to Prince Edessak, confirming her presence and filling her letters with vague responses to his obvious intent. She hopes it is enough. Then, she prepares to meet Daly in the cafe near Saint Samuel Cathedral. Audrey wears the most ordinary dress she owns—the one she used when she visited Klein after Member of Parliament Maynard’s banquet in Tingen—to avoid people recognizing her. She pairs the dress with a wide-brimmed hat which hides her blonde updo and refrains from wearing jewelry, or anything that might be eye-catching.
“What did you wish to talk about?” Audrey takes the initiative of asking.
Aware that the conversation ahead could possibly discuss sensitive topics, she instructs Annie to wait outside the cafe. There are seats to accommodate customers outside, so she provides her maid with some money to purchase a snack for herself while she meets with Daly.
“You are a beyonder, yes?” Daly is straightforward.
Audrey stiffens, a criminal caught red-handed. “What–” she exhales slowly, calming her racing heart, “makes you think so?”
Daly chortles before sipping her tea, “A guess.”
“...” To think I almost said yes. I would’ve only confirmed her suspicions!
“Well, either way,” the lady before her starts, “I just wanted to warn you, since your husband probably was unable to–”
She knows Klein and I are married? Audrey is unable to keep the shock from her face.
“Oh,” Daly laughs, “yes, I do know about your marriage. Dunn and I kept frequent contact and he told me how his newest team member was getting married. I didn’t know it was you, of course, or that you were a noble, but I saw you that day and drew my own conclusions.” She gestures to the side with her free hand, as if saying ‘that’s that’.
What am I supposed to say to that? “I see.” Anyway, it makes sense. I should have expected it.
“Yes, well, 0-08 is a quill.” Daly’s expression turns serious. “I trust that this information won’t leave this conversation?” She asks expectantly.
Audrey nods.
“Good. It is a quill that writes down events which will eventually turn into reality.”
Seriously? An item that powerful exists? Then again, it is a grade 0.
“Technically, even I should not be privy to this information. It is through my own investigations that I am able to find this out. I advise you to lay low as you’ve most certainly always had since becoming a beyonder, as even the mere mention of the description is enough to draw attention to yourself.”
…It’s really powerful. “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind, thank you, Ma’am Daly. If there is anything I can help you with, then please don’t hesitate to tell me.”
Daly nods indiscernibly and proceeds. “As for the method to contact me, as I’m sure is the reason why Leonard mentioned me to you, here’s the procedure and incantation.” She hands Audrey a folded piece of paper. “This will summon my personal messenger. As we both are in Backlund, the message you send can reach me in a half to an entire hour. Of course, as the distance increases, so will the time needed for the message to reach me. Remember to spell a wall of spirituality in place before doing this, else you want others to find you in the middle of casting.”
Audrey nods in turn, grateful for Daly’s expression of support.
The exhibition is closed for ordinary citizens now and Audrey is with her friends at the museum. A guide stays with them as they tour through the recreation of Emperor Roselle’s study. There, she spots what is likely the bookmark that Mr. Fool’s adorer wishes for her to do damage to. As such, she enacts her plan. Susie distracts the others while she pricks the bookmark with her sharpened earring while she chants “Pirate King” in her mind in both ancient Hermes and Hermes.
There is a reaction.
Audrey “drops” her earring after the test and a maid helps her put it back on.
Afterwards, she asks to borrow Roselle’s diary notebook and memorizes as many pages as she can for recreation above the gray fog. Then she reports her findings to Mr. Fool after getting home and asks about the item.
Later, she receives a response. It is a Card of Blasphemy made by Emperor Roselle.
Klein has successfully gotten a Card of Blasphemy. It is the card containing the Dark Emperor Path.
It has been a hectic night for him, getting the card, getting lost, stumbling upon the devil dog serial murderer, a lady who appears out of thin air who seems to know that he’s the one who stole the card. Really, tonight has been tiring. So he rests after he investigates the card above the gray fog.
The following day, he meets with Detective Isengard and afterwards goes to the Quelaag Club where he is asked a question out of his depth by Talim. “I have a friend who has fallen in love with someone he shouldn’t have. How should he deal with such a situation?”
…Are you referring to yourself? Isn’t it usually the case when you say it is your friend that in reality you are pertaining to yourself instead? He activates his Spirit Vision and observes the colors superimposed on Talim. There are no indications of pain in his aura, however there are indications that he is going through a dilemma so he's likely to be telling the truth. “I’m sorry, I'm not an expert when it comes to these matters. The only advice I can give in this matter is to not break the law.” He laughs at the bewildered face of Talim. “I’m joking, I'm joking. What do you mean when you say ‘he shouldn't have’? Is there a feud between families?”
Exasperated, Talim replies in resignation, “This is not Romeo and Juliet!”
Klein felt the urge to strangle Emperor Roselle. Even William Shakespeare couldn't escape your grubby hands, senior? He apologizes to Shakespeare before attributing the timeless love story to Roselle Gustav in his excuse to Talim. “Why shouldn't they be together?”
“For one, my friend already has someone he's in courtship with. Though it may not be official yet, it's pretty obvious that the lady has an interest in him, and he's been trying to woo her since… well, since a few years back!” Talim explained in frustration. Then, as though he spilled something he wasn't meant to, looked warily around the club to see if anyone had heard.
Man…what's going on? I keep getting involved in adultery cases. Seriously… “Ah, that indeed sounds very complicated,” Klein remarks. “What’s the other reason?”
Talim sighs, “I have to keep that part confidential. I’m sorry, please just pretend I didn't ask.”
The appointed day for Audrey's tour around Red Rose Manor has arrived.
She is met by the Duke of Lastings when she enters his property. As is etiquette, she greets him and he greets her in turn. However, there is a distinct, yet subtle, difference in the way he returned her cordiality.
The way he greeted me is different from how he usually would. It's polite, yes, but rather distant. He seems to rein in his amorous advances, yet why now? He's had no problems with public displays, so shouldn't it follow that he grows even more brazen in private? Hmm…something doesn't add up.
Well, of course it would also be possible that he is afraid of rumors spreading about the two of us. Does that mean that there's someone unreliable beside him that will attempt to smear his name? But even so, hasn't rumors been his goal for a few years now? All to give an excuse to provide a proposal that cannot be refused.
Audrey finds his actions strange, but ultimately leaves the matter alone until she can find other clues.
Red Rose Manor is beautiful. The gardens are colorful, the grounds wide, and there's even a large forest beside it. Klein would love this, she thinks.
When his butler leans into his ears and whispers in a hurry, Audrey thinks that there is a matter that requires Prince Edessak’s attention. She takes the time to observe his study, where they are currently situated, and finds nothing too obvious. The reports on his table comprises of various investments’ stock prices, concerns about his estate, and unopened letters with the royal family’s seal. She turns to look back at him and finds a conflicted expression. He seems to be thinking about whether to attend to the urgent matter, or to continue with their tour.
Finding an excuse to leave for now, she takes the opportunity to ask for permission to excuse herself so that he may focus on this business of his. Prince Edessak’s face brightens at her suggestion, though he attempts to conceal it—to no avail, nothing escapes her observation after all. As Audrey passes Prince Edessak, she vaguely hears him say “where” before she is ultimately led outside by one of his maids.
At a post office in Backlund, Cherwood Borough, a letter is delivered today. There is nothing but ‘Backlund’ and the name of the recipient scribbled on the envelope. There is not even a return address for the sender if the letter was unable to be delivered.
Backlund
Sherlock Moriarty
Fortunately, the mailman in charge of Minsk Street is familiar with the private detective who posted a small ad in the newspaper. He knows that this fellow, Sherlock Moriarty, lives in 15 Minsk Street, near the lawyer and his kindly grandmother who once fed the mailman.
So, lucky indeed, is Mr. Moriarty, for his mailman knows where he lives and can thus deliver this letter to him.
The next day, Klein receives an unaddressed letter. Upon receiving a negative answer from his divination of the letter’s danger, he opens it and is pleasantly surprised that it comes from his former Captain, Dunn Smith. Though in his letter, he now goes by the name Klein came up for him, Gregor Kafka.
He chuckles before he gives the letter another read because the reference is not lost on him just as the source of his name isn't.
Sherlock,
How are the affairs in Backlund? Similarly, how is your detective business coming along? Have you found out any new developments regarding Tom and his mystical pen?
Not really, no. Tom was the name they’d given Ince, in reference to a popular book series’ main antagonist—though Dunn didn't know that—from Klein's past as Zhou Mingrui. In the same sense, they referred to 0-08 as a mystical pen, in order to avoid any mention of it.
I’d like to thank you for your assistance in getting me to West Balam safely. I’ve since sought out the potion formula for Soul Assurer, my pathway’s sequence 6, and have thus obtained its ingredients, bar one. As of the time of writing, I am to head out to find the last ingredient and by the time you've received this letter, I will have advanced.
Congratulations, Captain! Klein immediately thought when he read that sentence.
Furthermore, I have made contact with the Numinous Episcopate and have subsequently become a member of their organization. In actuality, both the potion formula and the beyonder characteristic I used for my advancement were provided by them; as well as some of the supplementary ingredients. Fret not, for I do not plan on severing my connection with the Lady.
Inwardly, he taps his chest four times and chants ‘Praise the Lady!’ as he takes in the news. Captain making contact with the Numinous Episcopate is definitely a boon. However, the motives of that group is currently unknown to me. Should I warn the Captain? Well, he should already be wary so I don't think there is a need to emphasize it much.
Enclosed with this letter is a note containing my current address. I did not deign to write it upon the envelope as the letter may very well not make it to you and it may be traced back to me. Please include—in the form of a note—your address. Or if sometime in the future you plan on getting a messenger like Daly did, please inform me of the incantation.
Speaking of Daly, I ask that you tell me of any encounters with her or any Nighthawk in Backlund, though I remember you telling me that you'll stay far from Saint Samuel Cathedral and will be taking on an identity that believes in the God of Steam and Machinery.
Additionally, regarding the hidden existence you speak of, I will attempt to pray to ‘Him’ once I’ve managed to get the illusory ravings to calm themselves for a while.
Gregor Kafka
Klein takes out the address given to him by Dunn while he shakes the letter, setting it on fire. He quickly pens a reply to Dunn, congratulating him on his advancement, warning him to tread cautiously beside Numinous Episcopate members, and agreeing to inform him of the Nighthawks’ activities in Backlund. He also informs him of the death of Lanevus at his hands, of the Nighthawks operation led by Crestet Cesimir that night, and of his complete digestion and subsequent advancement into Sequence 7, Magician.
Klein pointedly does not acknowledge the existence of The Fool that was mentioned by Dunn. Soon, he sends out the letter addressed to Gregor Kafka.
Later, Klein hears male stacked illusory pleas coming from the gray fog. Who is it? The Hanged Man? The Sun? Or is it Captain? He takes four steps counterclockwise and heads above the gray fog. Immediately, he sees a new crimson star expanding and contracting rapidly.
He extends his spirituality and peers into the star. Klein's eyes take in the praying figure. He observes for a moment, seeing the surroundings before recognizing the man as Dunn! The top of his black hair faded into a slightly rusted shade of deep, dark brown, no longer in the slick, polished hairstyle as Klein remembered him. His hair was ruffled as though he repeatedly ran his hands through it, while his skin turned a few shades more tan than when Klein last saw him. It seemed that he repeatedly exposed himself to large amounts of sunlight to aid his disguise.
However, when Dunn opened his eyes, the impression of a great undisturbed lake remained. This allowed Klein to confirm that he is, indeed, Dunn Smith—former Tingen Nighthawks’ Captain.
“Please send Klein my regards,” prayed Dunn. It was the agreed upon phrase that they had when Klein introduced The Fool to him.
Initially, he was, understandably, wary. After all, both of their ‘deaths’ could be considered a terrible effect of praying to a non-orthodox existence. However, Klein managed to convince him by saying that he had received help from this hidden existence by revealing to him the acting method. Moreover, he stated that when he ultimately ‘died’ he'd seen this deity's palace and had even spoken to him before being thrown back into his body! [Not that he was lying, well, there are pieces of the truth scattered in between.]
After that, he managed to convince Dunn that it is through this deity's interference that they were both standing and not lying dead in coffins right now.
As The Fool, Klein acknowledges his prayer and sends a scene of the identity, Sherlock, praying to The Fool saying that he has sent a letter addressed to Gregor in West Balam, to Dunn.
In West Balam, Dunn has just finished praying when a vast expanse of thick, gray fog appears in his periphery. There is a large throne emanating mystery above it, as though its occupant spends ‘His’ days looking down at puny existences like himself. On the throne sat an unfathomable figure cloaked in an even thicker layer of nearly opaque gray fog. From it, a voice sounds, “I am aware.”
Then, Dunn sees a moving image of Klein—well, Sherlock—praying and asking to relay that he has sent a response to the letter. The scene that plays out unknowingly lifts a weight on his shoulders. He had been wondering how Klein was settling in Backlund, and now he’s aware of the latter's situation!
A passing thought stabs through his mind when he thinks of Backlund: Daly!
He wonders how she’s doing. If she’s finding fulfillment in working as a Red Glove in Backlund. Surely, someone as talented as her will be able to reach new heights in her career. Dunn admires that about her; sometimes finding himself wishing to be just as gifted. In that way, maybe—just maybe, he’ll work his way into being somewhat worthy of her.
However, Dunn Smith is now confined in a coffin, buried underground and will likely never see the light of day again. Dunn Smith has a death certificate, a grave, and an inscribed epitaph on a tombstone. He is dead in all manners of the word, yet he is anything but.
Prince Edessak is not replying to her letters and Audrey is worried. Though the man may not see her as anything but a potential marriage partner, she finds that beneath his egoistic self, there exists a man that she has found a friendship with—tentative and fragile though it may be. Besides, if their connection is broken, she does not know what consequences it may spell out for her brother as well as her future plans.
Granted, she did attempt to get Susie to listen in on conversations between her father and brother to gain clues, however there was none. This, she finds even more odd.
As the days pass with seemingly no link between these events and minor oddities, she starts to suspect that maybe this is a result of the machinations of Ince Zangwill. Clearly, the connections are not mere surface-level ones.
At this thought, she feels something break within her. It is akin to when she first fully digested her Spectator potion, however she feels as if there is still a rather large fragment that has yet to be broken down. This is a good sign, she realizes, I just digested a significant part of the potion. I’ve been acting in the right way, then.
Audrey writes a letter addressed to Prince Edessak, expressing her concerns over the absence of correspondence from him, stating that she would like to visit him, if that was okay. She orders Annie to mail it out before attending her lesson with Miss Escalante.
There, she tells Audrey that this lesson would be different from usual, focusing instead on its roots doused in mysticism. She even tells Audrey that if she wants to, she can meet others who are both involved in psychology and experts in mysticism (the Psychology Alchemists! She inwardly celebrates). Audrey, of course, agrees to the arrangement. Afterwards, she heads to a tea party and strengthens her connections with the ladies of the nobility.
In the Quelaag Club, Klein notices that Talim’s disposition has improved significantly from when he approached him with his friend’s problem. Using the time when both Dr. Aaron and Reporter Mike leave, he asks him. “Has your friend’s problem been settled, Talim?”
Talim pauses, thinking it over. “Yes, I suppose so.” Then, after another pause adds. “As it turns out, the problem wasn’t too serious. I guess it only appeared that way because I was thinking too much about it. Simply put, an illustrious young gentleman fell in love with a commoner—which isn’t allowed, as you know. To a man of such status, even the daughter of a rich man wouldn’t do.”
Really? Klein is reminded once again of himself and Audrey. With Talim’s words, he draws a conclusion. In the eyes of high society, her choice of marrying him truly would have ruined her image then. Her father warned him, however he was unable to fully grasp the consequences if their marriage were to be found out. He can’t help but breathe a sigh of relief even as it pains him to do so. At least Audrey is free of that now. Free of…us.
Talim continues. “Also, the noblewoman involved with the gentleman seemed unaware of the situation so there was no problem on that end. Whether he wishes to end things with her is something he said that he will think deeply on.”
However… “As far as I know, gentlemen of high society don’t mind having a mistress.” Klein still feels pity for the noblewoman who might eventually end up with Talim’s friend.
“No, Sherlock, you don’t understand. Love. Love! The gentleman only wishes to marry that commoner woman but he understands the benefits that a marriage alliance with the noblewoman affords him.” Talim sighs as he explains.
Then shouldn’t that gentleman make a choice on which is more important to him? Klein wishes to say, however he could not, in good conscience just blurt that out to Talim. So, he remained silent, causing Talim to sigh deeply.
“I once thought of asking you to help me find people willing to covertly…heh, deal with the woman for the sake of that young gentleman. But, you know I am a law-abiding citizen so I ultimately abandoned that idea.”
“So how was the matter resolved?” Asked Klein.
“It involved a more simple solution than I thought. I brought up the matter with the woman and she understood, choosing to leave the gentleman of her own accord, and even asked for my help to do so!” Talim then continues to describe and praise the woman as well as express his willingness to kiss the back of her hand in gratitude (or so he says, but Klein suspects there to be another reason).
“Seems you didn’t need my help, after all,” he comments.
Weeks pass by and revelations are made. There is the matter of the assasination of human trafficker Capim, the publicization of Hero Bandit Dark Emperor’s deeds, the killing of Desire Apostle Jason Beria, and Talim’s Dumont’s death. Time has turned into a convolution of events only able to be viewed as a fast-forwarded recording.
In that span of time, Audrey has joined the Psychology Alchemists and has advanced to Sequence 7: Psychiatrist; Leonard has since returned to Backlund, joining a team of Red Gloves under Soul Assurer Soest; Dunn, under his new identity, has strengthened his standing in the Numinous Episcopate and has even made contact with well-known pirates in West Balam; Daly is deep into investigations on the whereabouts of Ince Zangwill, yet having no significant progress as of yet.
The world turns with no regards to its inhabitants. Take my hand, o weary one, rest is nigh.
Klein is approached by the Duke of Lastings, Prince Edessak, to investigate the death of his friend—Talim. Originally, he wished to decline, but upon the promise of a large compensation and a chance to throw the officials off his tracks as the Hero Bandit, he took the job. Upon first meeting, the Prince has already earned Klein’s ire by a throwaway line he is in part shocked, and in another realizes that he should have anticipated it, by.
“Before meeting her, I always thought that I liked the daughter of Earl Hall very much. She has the perfect looks, an elegant demeanor, a rich fortune, a distinguished family, and a very powerful father. She is someone that no one can find fault with, not even princes. However, now I know what I want. I yearn for someone with a unique temperament and a profound soul born from experience. Now, I’m not saying that Miss Hall is quite lacking in any way, but I’ve realized that she isn’t what I want after all.”
Well that’s too bad isn’t it, you f*ck– Klein barely managed to restrain the twitch of his eye with his abilities as a Clown when he heard the Prince’s words. He fought the urge to run his hands over his face in frustration and calmed himself down with the beginning of his visualization for cogitation. Without realizing it, he tuned out the Prince’s next words as his thoughts rambled.
First of all, Audrey is married. Second, even if that marriage were to turn invalid, I don’t think you’re the kind of man she, or her father, would want for her. Third– Klein cursed the man, his ancestors, and all his future descendants in Chinese. Fourth, thank you for falling for that commoner woman. At least there is now little to no chance of Audrey ending up with you.
Audrey heads to the cafe near Saint Samuel Cathedral with Annie and Susie. Once they arrive, she instructs her two companions to wait outside while she meets with both Leonard and Daly. The three of them discuss the latest updates regarding their own investigations as well as events that have happened in the last several weeks.
As a last attempt to grab at straws, she finally recounts her brother and Prince Edessak’s oddities to others aside from Susie.
“You think this may be the work of Ince?” Daly questions.
Audrey hesitated, suddenly being unsure now that it has all been laid out. “...Not decisively, no. But I took note of unusual happenings and managed to find no connection between them. Yet something tells me that there is.”
“Trust the intuition of a Spectator,” Leonard says encouragingly.
Daly nods, “We can’t rule out the possibility, we are investigating after all. As long as there is no evidence that completely removes that possibility, it is on the table.”
Audrey sighs, the feeling of relief overwhelming as a weight drops from her shoulders.
Some days later, she—rather, her brother—receives a letter from Prince Edessak stating that he wishes to end their business partnership. Hibbert, in a way so unlike himself, takes Audrey with him and visits Red Rose Manor right then. As unannounced and sudden as their visit is, the manor’s servants are rushing about to accommodate them. However, the house’s owner, Prince Edessak is nowhere to be seen.
In an act she had never seen before from Hibbert, he demands to meet with the Duke of Lastings and– and a woman peeks out from one of the doors in the hallway? Audrey’s eyes drift from her brother’s unusual act to the beautiful woman at the doorway. Her red-rimmed eyes exuded sadness but held a hint of curiosity. There are red handprints on her dainty wrists that hold the wooden trim and her round face is marred with dried tear tracks.
Her entire being looks as though she is asking for help. Is she a servant? She immediately felt pity for the girl who looked to be younger than her and showed signs of being punished cruelly. And then the pitiful girl was violently pulled back from the doorway and the door slammed shut. Moments later, Prince Edessak emerges from that same room. His hair is tousled and his clothes in disarray, he goes to meet her brother who looked furious.
Audrey is stunned, to say the least.
Prince Edessak has a lover. Moreover, that lover is not one of the nobility. At least, not one she recognizes. Either way, her mind races with the possibilities. Could it be that she is the reason the Prince’s correspondence has lessened to almost a complete stop recently? Who is this woman? Is she willingly here? Or does the Prince keep her as some kind of captive? Shall I lend her my aid if that were the case? And in the mess of her thoughts, one that she categorizes as selfish ultimately prevails in her mind. Will I be able to utilize this situation to create an opportunity to sway more people to my side in the conservative high society?
After all, one must know to wield a weapon handed over willingly.
Some months ago, Melissa and Benson received a letter from Audrey that the special exam for civil servants had been approved and was being put into action. Days later, they saw the same news announced in the papers. From Klein’s urging even before he died, Benson started studying again. Now, he may be able to use it for the exam.
Benson tells Melissa that they will be moving to Backlund at the start of the new year since it is also at this time that the exam will take place. Furthermore, they found out news about the Backlund Technical School becoming the Backlund University of Technology and Industry where Melissa can take the exams for next year’s June.
After informing Audrey about their decision through a letter, she arranges a comfortable, yet not too large—as per their wishes—house for them in North Borough near the Backlund University. Initially, they refused the help she offered, but Audrey being Audrey managed to convince her two in-laws to let her spoil them. It is what Klein would have wanted, echoes her voice through Benson and Melissa’s ears.
It’s chaos. A meteor has struck somewhere near the Red Rose Manor. Following that, a thick, yellow fog blankets the East Borough, taking the lives of thousands of residents. The aftermath of the incident when the Church of Storms blew away the fog, is a plague. A plague that took tens of thousands of lives. A disguised Audrey, who has just taken the Psychiatrist potion a day ago, rushes to Saint Samuel Cathedral where some victims are still being treated.
There, she finds a chance to both speak with Daly and Leonard as well as lend aid to those who’ve seen their neighbors, friends, and family members drop dead due to the yellow fog. That day, and the following days afterward, she feels her potion rapidly digest through the first quarter or less.
News arrives, the Duke of Lastings is dead. Shot in the head. Nighthawks investigations reveal reports of Ince Zangwill being spotted on the day of the Great Smog, later this leads her to the conclusion that all of them are mere puppets for 0-08 to control.
In West Balam, news takes some time to reach if it comes from the Northern Continent. The passage of time is even more obvious to someone who has been very, very busy and has not been checking the newspapers as often as he would like. As such, Dunn is completely caught off-guard when news reaches him that there has been an event called the Great Smog of Backlund and that a meteor has hit the same region within the same day. This must have taken place even before Klein took on the identity of Gehrman Sparrow! He thinks and recalls the letter he received a few days ago.