Almas, glorious capital at the heart of the greatest political experiment Golarion has ever known. A beacon of prosperity, equality and fair governance - if you listen to the criers on the street corners at least. Anyone who spends any time in Almas realises the truth - Andoran is everything its supporters say it is. But it is also a nation of people - honorable and venal, generous and corrupt, fair and false by turns. Andoran may be a shining beacon of virtue but the people who run it... well, everyone knows the saying about laws and sausages.
Councillor Trand, befitting his station as one of the most junior members of the People's Council, has taken a relatively small house in Almas for the Council's month long legislative session. It isn't large enough to house all of his staff but it does have a well-sized dining room which has served admirably as a war-room and conference center over the last three weeks.
You all arrived this morning expecting nothing much - there is a meeting this morning and a vote on a special taxation round to support 'Andoran's navy and its continued efforts against piracy', which is thinly veiled funding for the Grey Corsairs. As this is a matter close to the hearts of Trand's faction he was always going to attend, which in turn means less work for you. Which makes it all the stranger when you arrive and are met by Frederick, Trand's valet, who ushers you each into the conference room and implores you to "Stay here until the Councillor returns. He was most explicit."
Fortunately the drinks cart is fully stocked and Mrs Lant the housekeeper has left a tray of excellent pastries. All you can do now, is wait.
Sitting back into one of the more comfortable chairs in the conference room and ignoring the drinks and pastries, Melenae looks oh-so-casual - to the outsider that is.
For anyone who knows her better, her well-manicured right eyebrow has that odd angular quirk and her foot is quietly tapping away, this usually means that her she is racing through all the possibilities of what might be going on with Trand today.
Unfortunately, or fortunately, for everybody else that means she is completely oblivious to their presence.
Evangeline, with her characteristic poise, steps into the room. Her heels make a muffled sound against the plush carpet, drawing the attention of everyone present. The glint in her eyes is unreadable, but there's a smirk playing at the corner of her lips.
She gracefully approaches the drinks cart, selects a glass, and pours herself a drink. As she takes a sip, her gaze shifts and settles on Melenae. A moment of silent acknowledgment passes between the two women, a dance they've performed countless times before.
With practiced grace, Evangeline pours another drink, deliberately choosing a glass that she knows Melenae would prefer. Balancing both drinks, she then delicately picks up one of Mrs Lant's renowned pastries, her fingers barely grazing the flaky crust.
As she approaches, she clears her throat to get Melanae's attention. "Miss Westora," she greets, her voice carrying just the right hint of warmth.
Evangeline hands Melenae the drink she poured, the movement smooth and deliberate. "For you," Evangeline says, her voice soft, yet firm. She then raises the pastry she's holding, making a show of contemplating taking a bite, her lips teasingly close to the treat. Yet, with a playful smirk, she refrains, placing the pastry delicately in front of Melenae instead. "We both know your stomach, darling. You know, when you're famished?" she remarks, her tone playful, leaving those around them guessing whether it's a sincere gesture or a subtle jest.
Pushing past the moment before Melanae can respond, Evangeline straightens up, her demeanor shifting from playful to inquisitive. "By the way," she begins, her tone casual, "did you end up attending the opera? I heard The Incomplete Devil was quite the comedic spectacle and I'm dying to hear your take."
Across the room, Reiko smirks at the familiar dance between Evangeline and Melanae. She leans against the wall with her muscular arms crossed over her chest, her feathered hat sitting an appropriately jaunty angle on her head. She waits patiently for Concilor Trand's delayed arrival.
"I'm sure the show was a riot," Louis declares, entering the room with a long stride. His destination clear - the drink cart.
"Unfortunately, I was in the company of the ever annoying young Miss Sandarlesko, and her constant, inane giggling keep me on edge enough that I didn't follow anything at all on stage."
He pours himself a double shot of dwarven rum and downs it in two swallows. Behavior quite unusual for the normally sedate young man.
"I swear that the Dame Sandarlesko plans to have her daughter wed to me before spring." He shakes his head and sighs. "Oh, the trials I suffer for the esteemed Councillor Trand."
Pouring a lesser amount into the glass, he takes a seat at the table and turns a smile to the ladies present. "So what were you doing last night, Miss Westora?" he asks with a wink.
Evangeline's gaze shifts from Melenae to Louis as he regales the room with his story, a smirk playing on her lips as she catches Reiko's eyes. She listens with mild amusement to his lamentations about Miss Sandarlesko's intentions. When he speaks, Evangeline's eyes glitter with mischief.
"Oh Louis," Evangeline interjects playfully, a mock pout forming on her lips, "Why is it that you never take me to the opera? Surely, I'd be a more delightful companion than Miss Sandarlesko." She leans in slightly, emphasizing her words with a sly grin, clearly relishing the playful banter.
Evangeline, taking another sip of her drink and glancing sidelong at Louis, remarks with a teasing tone, "Seriously Louis, with the number of operas you attend, one might think you're single-handedly funding the arts in Almas. What's next on the docket? Becoming a patron for the entire opera house?" She winks, adding a light chuckle to soften the jest.
"Being a patron to our councilor is more than sufficient for me," Louis replies with a sigh. "And you're teasing me now, aren't you, Evvie? Because every time I've asked you to join me for an evening's entertainment, you've found something else more important to occupy your time."
He reaches out and lightly brushes a hand along a strand of her hair with an equally playful grin.
"Although, for all the times you've used the excuse of having to wash your hair, it is rather lustrous."
"Smooth, Louis. Real smooth," Reiko says with a laugh. "Careful you don't tug on her hair too hard, though. If even a single strand gets out a place, she'll make sure you pay for the damages!"
Evangeline, playing along with a smirk, feigned indignation as she brushed her fingers through her hair, ensuring it's perfectly in place. "Oh, please. With hair this fabulous, it's practically a public service making sure it's in top condition. But since you've noticed, perhaps next time you invite me, I'll reconsider," she quipped, raising an eyebrow towards Louis. "But only if the company is more engaging than washing my tresses." She finishes with a playful wink.
Smoothly transitioning from her banter with Louis, Evangeline glances over at Reiko. "Reiko," she began with a hint of mock reproach, "How is it that in a room stocked with the finest beverages, you've managed to be without one?" With a gracious gesture, she offered her own glass. "Here, take mine. We can't have you parched while we're all indulging."
Without waiting for a response, she moved gracefully towards the drink cart, her steps confident and poised, to refill her glass, making sure she was well-equipped for whatever discussions the evening might bring.
Louis pulls his hand back and holds them both up in mock surrender.
"I concede. But I take it as a personal affront that none of you lovely ladies have accepted my offer for an evening of pleasurable entertainment. That doesn't mean I won't stop offering, but my enthusiasm is suffering."
His smile belies his affected affront and Louis takes a sip of his drink then stands up to gaze over the dainties on offer by their host.
"Oh, sweet Louis. I fear that if any of us did take you up on your offer, we would be the ones who would end up suffering!" Reiko retorts. She gives the mesmerist a good-natured wink, though, to let him know she's only joking. This sort of back-and-forth had become commonplace over the past few years.
She accepts the drink from Evvie with a nod, sipping at it thoughtfully.
Evangeline, having returned with her own refilled drink, chimed in, playfully rolling her eyes as she addressed Louis. "Perhaps, Louis, it's the company you keep during these 'pleasurable entertainments' that deters us," she teased, giving him a sly grin. "Though, I must admit, your persistence is admirable."
Turning her attention back to Reiko, she lifted her glass slightly, "Cheers, my dear. To long evenings, delightful company, and the unending amusement Louis provides."
She took a sip, her eyes dancing with amusement, enjoying the camaraderie of the room before leaning in slightly closer to Louis, her eyebrows raised in playful inquiry. "Now, Louis, with all your evenings out and those eager ears of yours, surely you've picked up some tantalizing gossip? Do share."
After posing the question to Louis, Evangeline shoots Reiko a sly, conspiratorial glance, her eyes gleaming with mischief, silently conveying their shared anticipation for any juicy tidbits Louis might divulge.
"Gossip? Gossip?!" Louis declares, one hand fluttering to his chest. "You wound me, my dear Evvie. To suggest that I would give credence to spuriously whispered words." He shakes his head. "Gossip," he repeats, rolling his eyes. "I deal in facts, my lady. Verifiable facts."
He feigns looking over his shoulder before returning his attention to the listening ladies. "And I did pick up some juicy facts last night." He grins. "Lord Mashton's son managed to corner me last night when I escaped the esteemed Miss Giggles on the pretext of tending to urgent needs. Not the older son, the younger one with the blue eyes that a feeling soul could simply get lost in." He frowns in annoyance. "I can never remember his name for some reason. Anyway ... He let casually slip that Maestro Fili may be on the outs with a number of the greater families."
Maestro Fili is a renowned hairdresser who's star has been on the rise with those of the prestigiously concerned crowd.
"Blue-eyes has been spending time with the Maestro's apprentice who is quite worried about his future as hairdresser to the elite."
Louis' lip curls up into a crooked grin.
"I know for a fact that the Maestro has been on the receiving end of countless confessions and confidences. With his image suffering, he might be willing to share some of that privileged information in exchange for cleaning up his reputation and turning his outing back into an ... inning?"
The young man's brow furrows as he considers the appropriateness of the word.
"Anyway, that's what I learned last night."
The room was a gathering of formidable individuals. Among the four, Evangeline might not boast the deepest pockets, the sharpest intellect, the greatest strength, or the most seasoned combat or adventuring experience. Her charm, too, might be eclipsed by another. But her drive was undeniable, though this was not to discount the determination of the others present. She shared many attributes with those in her company, yet where they might hesitate, she brazenly crossed lines of ethics and law. For Evangeline, the end often justified the means; no sacrifice was too great if the price was right. In a world where knowledge equaled power, she yearned to reign supreme.
Evangeline's eyes locked onto Louis, absorbing every detail he shared. The flicker in her gaze betrayed the wheels that were turning in her mind, scheming and plotting.
"Maestro Fili in a precarious situation? Now that's information worth its weight in gold," she mused aloud. "Louis, your ability to gather the most interesting tidbits is truly unmatched."
She took a moment, allowing her mind to wander over the possibilities. Perhaps there's a way to become Fili's saving grace. Aligning with him could open doors, not just for me but for those I choose to bring into the fold. And Lady Salvios? An introduction with her could be beneficial. It's all about weaving the right web.
Evangeline snaps back to reality from her pause, locking eyes with Louis, "Keep me informed, won't you? I have a feeling there's more to this story."
Filing the tidbits away, she turns to Reiko "And your evening, darling? Tell me. What mischief did you get yourself into?"
"Miss Vale! Well, I am shocked!" Reiko says, feigning indigation. "The implication that a person of such high esteem as myself would find herself embroiled in mischief has my garters in a twist!"
She gives up the pretense with a giggle. "Nothing too wild tonight. Simply nudging a rumor going around towards the councilor's favor."
Melenae starts out her reverie to find a glass and a pastry balanced on the arm of her chair and three of her colleagues nattering away about some business with a hairdresser. Bursts of laughter and smiles show that someone is teasing Louis again and Melenae's lips quirk into a grin of her own as she sips the glass. Just watching these three is a comic opera in its own right.
Still her thoughts can't help but take a darker turn. Why would Trand be summoning them all here? The vote should be a forgone conclusion - no-one on the People's Council is going to vote against an increase in naval appropriations, not with the way relations are going with Taldor. There's already talk of pulling back some of the eastern garrisons after the Empresses latest overtures.
"It can't be the money," She says suddenly, interrupting the banter like a thunderbolt. "The vote is sure to pass. So what's the problem? The session is almost over, we're going back to Riverford in, what, four days? So why are we all here?"
It's a problem, and Melenae hates problems, especially when she can't find an answer or set Evvie on it.
Louis turns to the dark-haired woman and shifts almost instantly into business.
"If there's no question of the vote passing, then there must be something else that's caused our normally non-plussed councilor to interrupt our relaxed morning. We shouldn't attempt to manufacture problems in our own mind when he'll quite likely lay it out for us quite clearly."
Evangeline, taken aback by Melenae's sudden shift in tone, takes a moment to gather her thoughts. She swirls the liquid in her glass thoughtfully before looking up, her gaze piercing. "Mel, you're right. The timing is... peculiar, to say the least. But Councillor Trand has always played his cards close to his chest. Perhaps there's something he knows that we don't—some underlying motive behind this summons. And if there's a hidden agenda, trust me," she leans in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "we'll uncover it."
Reiko laughs. "Indeed. You know how Evvy gets when there's a mystery at hand. She's like a dog with a bone!"
Evangeline's eyes take on a distant glint, seemingly looking through the room and into the intricate webs of politics and power that entwined the city. A flurry of scenarios dart through her mind, each darker and more complex than the last. Could the shadowy influence of the Grey be bearing down on Trand, leveraging him for his vote on taxation? Foreign intervention was always a risk, but in this delicate climate, it would be a bold move. And Trand, for all his complexities, didn't strike her as the sort to be caught in the clutches of blackmail. Then, there were those persistent rumors from Riverford about a potential Kobold uprising.
It is perhaps another half hour before the door opens and Councillor Trand sweeps in. He looks upset and offers the most cursory of nods to each of you before heading straight to the drinks and pouring himself a large brandy.
"I voted against." He says, before tossing an envelope to Melenae. "Read it. Everyone needs to know."
The letter is a collage - cut from at least one, most likely several, of the dozens of pamphlets that circulate in Almas either daily or weekly.
to our esteemed councillor trand. certain People have been seeing a man matching your description neAr a noted public house the merrY maid. why do you care? yOu should. because we know what else you find theRe. boYs. vOte against the next bill and yoU'll only pay the basic Rate. ten Grand in twenty four hours. if you dont I wondeR what liv wouLD say in rivErford. scared? gooD.
The signature is simply a cut out illustration - a small songbird that usually rides the top of the 'Song of Liberty' pamphlet.
Trand has been pacing up and down as Melenae reads and when she finishes he slams a fist into the table.
"Who could be doing this, damn it? Yes I've been to the tavern - it's been recommended to me half a dozen times. I had no idea that... I've never..." He breaks off, spluttering. "I need you to fix this, now."
Louis follows along over Melenae's shoulder as she reads the letter aloud.
"Someone has way too much time on their hands and an overly developed sense of the dramatic," he says once she's finished. He turns to Trand. "We'll take care of this - there's no need to panic," he says in a calming voice. "Let's start with simplicity; Who, specifically, recommended this particular tavern to you?"
Evangeline's eyes lock onto the letter, its insidious collage of threats more personal than any public proclamation. Taking a steady breath, she addresses Melenae, her voice even yet carrying an undertone of urgency, "May I see that, Melenae?"
After poring over the letter, Evangeline's eyes rise to meet Trand's, radiating a mixture of sympathy and determination. "Councillor Trand," she begins, her tone deliberate and measured, "this is undoubtedly a malicious act meant to manipulate you. Remember, truth and reputation are distinct, and this letter thrives on blending both. We'll get to the bottom of this, find out who's behind this vile attempt, and ensure they can't harm you or any of us further. We've faced shadows and whispers before; we will confront this one together. These types of threats thrive on fear and insecurity. By the time we're through, this menace will regret ever thinking they could target one of our own." Her eyes lock onto his, emphasizing her commitment and determination to resolve the situation.
Like Louis, she searches her memory for anything relevant from the letter and what Trand has told them.
Trand frowns. "I... the first time I went was with Vordmann and Teren. I think one of them must have suggested it. But it's well known. You can hardly move in there for patrons. It's the food. Simple stuff, country fare really but they do it so well. Everyone goes there."
Louis and Evangeline both know that Trand is overstating, but not by much. The Merry Maid is a popular tavern that specialises in seafood - particularly a chowder that is practically a national treasure in its own right. The couple who own it are halflings (as so often with the best taverns) but the titular 'Merry Maid' is a young red-headed woman named Abigail. She plays music, holds and judges boisterous 'debates' and is generally the life and soul of the tavern.
Evvie has had conversation with Abigail a few times and remembers a fiercely intelligent and independent young woman with a fondness for sugar nuts. Admirers and prospective suitors spend a fortune on chowder and beer in an attempt to impress her but as far as Evvie knows Abigail has no significant other.
Evangeline takes a moment to process the information, tapping a finger thoughtfully on her chin. "The Merry Maid has quite the reputation, not just for its chowder but for Abigail as well. She's got eyes and ears everywhere within the establishment. If there's any talk or whispers of interest, she's likely privy to it," Evvie muses.
Turning her gaze back to Trand, she continues, "Vordmann and Teren may not necessarily be involved, but it's possible that they might have overheard something or noticed any unusual behavior during your visits. It might be a good starting point to speak to them. However, I think a discreet conversation with Abigail might also be in order. If anyone knows what's happening in her establishment, it would be her."
She then smirks a little, "And if it takes a few bowls of that chowder to get some answers, well, I consider that a bonus."
When she notices the confused look on Reiko's face, she explains "Abigail is fiercely intelligent and quick-witted. I've had a few conversations with her, and trust me, she's no mere tavern maiden. She has a sharp mind, always engaged in the boisterous debates she holds."
Evangeline's eyes light up with a sudden realization. "We need to stop by the Harath's on the way and pick up some sugar nuts. It's the key to loosening those lips of hers."
Melenae had turned quiet, barely moving an inch after passing the note to Evvie.
Eventually after everyone's rush into action, she pipes up. "Councillor, you need to get on with business as usual this morning rather than stay locked in here with all of us. It is no surprise that people will have expected you to support this vote and this sudden fluctuation in the norm will have piqued curiosity."
She walks over to the classically handsome Councillor and puts a gentle hand on his elbow, tilts her head and smiles gently. "If you go now - get out and about as usual - on with your daily tasks - it will seem as if nothing has caused anything of concern. Don't you worry about this, I promise you. We will make sure there is no threat here - we will make it our sole purpose immediately. One of us will catch up with you more later." Melenae gently tries to guide him towards the door and lowers her voice. "This is probably nothing. Liv will never need to find out."
Closing the door softly behind the swiftly exited Councillor, she turns back to the room.
"Hold fire. I know Trand was just saying he knew nothing, but in this moment, can we be sure there is nothing to this note? Before we start digging we need to be certain we are not going to dig up anything to make matters worse. Liv doesn't deserve this."
Trand nods at Melenae's plan - his faith in her is near absolute after a years campaigning and another year in government. "Right. I'll speak to the leadership, explain that I was making a show of independence for the voters back home. We don't have any coast line so they should understand that." He nods firmly, the image of a confident politician back in place. "Thank you, all of you."
As he leaves Melenae can't help but think that was easier than she expected. She has the distinct impression that, while he is definitely shaken, Trand has left something out. He's not an especially good liar, especially to people that saw his first attempt at a stump speech. That might be why he left so readily...
Reiko shakes her head once Trand has left. "There's definitely more going on then what the councilor is willing to admit. I wonder what it is that he's not telling us."
Evangeline purses her lips thoughtfully, taking a moment before voicing her concerns. "Trand was too quick to accept Melenae's suggestion and exit. It's possible he's hiding something. Or he's scared enough to want to distance himself from the situation as quickly as possible. Whatever it is, we should tread carefully. If there's a deeper secret at play, we need to be sure we approach it in the right way."
Looking at her companions, she adds "Right now we need more information."
Louis nods distractedly, his eyes still on the doorway through which Trand exited. "Hiding something, yes," he murmurs. Turning to the others, his smile returns. "So why don't you ladies pay a visit to the Merry Maid while I have a more private conversation with our nervous Councilor."
---
Catching up with Councilor Trand, Louis gives the man a friendly smile. "Nasty business, eh?" he says in a conspiring voice. "A fellow can't get out and have a bit of fun without some nosy-body spoiling it all. I mean what we do in our private life should be left private - we are men of the world, are we not?"
He meets the man's eyes with a knowing gaze.
Trand glances at Louis and nods slowly. "It's common blackmail." He says, sounding genuinely indignant. "I know Almas isn't like Riverford but still... don't people have a right to their own business? I know there's a level of scrutiny that comes with being on the People's Council but this... this is beyond anything I could have imagined."
He walks a little further and then hesitates. "Louis... I know how much you have supported me and my campaign and I hope you never have cause to think me ungrateful... Could you pay it? If I had to. If worse comes to worse, could you pay them what they ask? I don't like the idea of giving blackmailers what they want but... the threats. I can't take that risk - not if they hurt her."
"Ten thousand gold is quite a bit of coin and not one easily arranged on such short notice," Louis replies after considering it for a moment or two. "I'll have to see what I can do. I'd much rather we stop the source of the story, though. Even if we pay, there's nothing keeping them from asking for twenty the next time."
Another thought seems to occur to him.
"We should also get on the other side of this. Is there anyone else they might have contacted that is less likely to be able to pay? Someone that would have something to lose?" He holds Trand's eye. "Is there someone else we should make sure is safe and not talking?"
Trand whirls on Louis and there is genuine anger on his face although he retains enough common sense to lean in, wrap an arm around the other man's shoulder and speak in a hushed tone - as friends might.
"Didn't you read the damn letter? It's too late! They have her! That's the f***ing point Louis! They have her! Just find her. Please. That's all I'm asking."
With that he releases the younger man and turns away, striding off with such speed it's clear he doesn't want to be caught.
Evvie leads the others to the Merry Maid, stopping to pick up sugar nuts along the way.
Once at the establishment, she attempts to track down the red-head.
By the time the small squadron of investigators reaches the Merry Maid it is lunchtime and there is a queue to enter the tavern. It moves fairly quickly and the four soon find themselves inside a busy, fast moving food place. People are eating, servers are serving and food comes out from the kitchen at a rapid pace. The only thing missing is the Merry Maid herself, the tall stool she normally occupies on a small raised stage is empty and there is no-one in the entire establishment with red hair at all, apart from Reiko.
An exceedingly wide halfling man looks up at you all with a professional smile. "Good afternoon and welcome to the Merry Maid. I can seat four here, if you want to wait for a booth it will be perhaps twenty minutes. May I get you some drinks while you wait?"
Reiko returns the halfling smile, tipping her hat to him. "Hello there. We were actually hoping to speak to Abigail. Is she around?"
Evangeline stands on her tiptoes over Reiko's shoulder and adds with a pleasant smile , "And yes to the drinks, please."
"I'm afraid she isn't in today." The proprietor replies to Reiko, producing a pencil and notebook from an apron pocket as he does so. "What can I get for you Miss?"
It isn't until you are all sat that a server comes over bearing a tray and a surprisingly grim expression.
"Did I hear you asking about Miss Abby?" He asks, leaning over the table to pass out drinks and making your conversation a modicum more private in the process. "She wasn't in last night or this morning. I know she's got a new man she's seeing but she's normally in every day no matter what. Pip won't say anything to customers but he's worried as well. If you do find her could you come by and let us know she's ok? She's family to us all."
He straightens up and clears his throat. "Are you ready to order food then Ladies and Gentleman?"
"Almost."
Evangeline tilts her head slightly, giving the waiter a gentle and empathetic look. "Thank you for sharing that with us. We're genuinely concerned about Abby. Can you tell us more about this new man she's been seeing? Any details might help in making sure she's safe."
"Some political guy, that's all I know." The server replied. "Of course madam, I'll get that for you in a moment. He's been in a lot recently and she seems to like him. He's on the People's Council I think. Not seen him in town before though."
He bows and moves on to another table.
Reiko sips her drink as the waiter walks off. She looks around at the other patrons. "Maybe somebody else here will be more forthcoming?"
With a smile, she moves off to hobnob and work the room.
Louis nods at the information. This would lead one to assume a number of things, but in politics one never assumes that one has all the facts. Someone is always adding another angle.
"I'm going to see if I can find out where Miss Abigail resides," he says, also taking to his feet.
"Louis, wait a moment, just two seconds." Mel asks, just as he aims to get to his feet.
Leaning in and lowering her voice to ensure people around her do not overhear, she asks. "How did it go with Elias? Do you think the situation is as I suspected?"
"He is convinced that the letter writer has someone and it doesn't appear to be Miss Olivia," Louis replies, his eyes turning to the stool where Abigail normal reigns from. "So it's a fair assumption that it could be our missing hostess." He turns back to Melenae. "It is only an assumption and may prove incorrect, but we don't know which assumptions are true and which are false until we delve into them deeper."
Reiko gathers a number of rumors, ranging from the politically interesting ("Councillor Lor has at least two illegitimate children - or so I've heard") to the laughably absurd ("Cheliax is trying to infiltrate Almas using trained rats and pigeons as spies!"). It is clear however that Abigail the Merry Maid hasn't been at the pub since at least yesterday and a number of regulars are somewhere between annoyed and genuinely concerned about her.
Louis meanwhile takes advantage of the lull that comes at the end of the lunch service to speak to Pip. The vast halfling takes some persuading but he does eventually admit his worries about Abigail and, after being persuaded of Louis' good intention, tells the man that the Merry Maid has a small flat in Easthill, not far from the Grand Exchange.
When you arrive the neatly maintained tenement is quiet and it is easy enough to find Abigail's flat on the third floor. The door swings open at the gentlest touch...
Inside are clear signs of a struggle. Furniture is disarrayed, the bed in the corner has its sheets scattered across the floor and specks of blood fleck the mattress.
An open archway seems to lead into a small kitchen area, where a screened off corner provides privacy for natural functions.
Evangeline's face tightens as her gaze fixates on the bloodied dagger. Her heart rate quickens, and she can feel the weight of the situation pressing down on her. Drawing in a sharp breath, she swiftly retrieves the dagger, examining it for any discernible marks or clues.
"Everyone, be cautious," Evangeline warns in a low, steady voice, signaling them to come closer. She presents the dagger and its sheath. "It seems Abigail defended herself. There was a struggle here."
She scans the room meticulously, pointing out the disarrayed furniture and the splatters of blood. "We need to be careful and check every nook and cranny. There might be more clues to what happened and who took her. But more importantly, we need to find her, and quickly."
"Well, it appears that our Merry Maid, Miss Abigail is no wilting violet," Louis declares with satisfaction, kneeling down and pulling a blooded dagger out from under the bed. "She clearly got in a few jabs before they managed to cart her off."
His eyes search the room for any more clues.
"Perhaps someone in the building heard or saw something?" he questions with growing concern. "We should ask around."
Reiko looks to see if the attackers left a trail.
Mel's stomach churns, this situation was turning from bad to worse. Quickly.
"Should we not....report this to the authorities? This seems like its more than just blackmail at this point? Someone has been hurt - if not killed"
She pauses for a moment, and then gasps looking stricken. "But...how discrete do you think they would be? If they are not the discrete type I have a feeling Trand might be dragged into this."
She falls back onto the chair behind her just as Reiko leaps into physical action. Mel talks at anyone who will listen. "Right, we need a plan - a full plan. We need to ensure Trand is kept in the public eye the whole time we are looking into this so there is no question as to his whereabouts for whatever we are about to do. We also need to find this girl but we do not want to have ourselves linked to her. We need to ask around but nobody should know we are the ones who are interested. First thing we could do is check the employee ledger for this place to see if we can find her address. Any other ideas? "
Evangeline's analytical mind kicks into overdrive, her eyes moving rapidly as she assesses Mel's suggestions and considers the implications. She understands the importance of keeping Councillor Trand's reputation untarnished and the need for discretion in their investigation.
"We need to split our tasks. Time is of the essence here," Evangeline decides with a tone of leadership. "Louis, take Mel and quietly ask the neighbors. Be subtle. We're concerned friends, nothing more. No mention of Trand or the note. Afterwards, continue looking for a trail. Anything that could give us a lead on where Abigail or her abductor might have gone."
Addressing Mel's concerns, Evangeline nods. "You're right about the authorities, Mel. We'll need to report this, but only after we secure any evidence that could point back to Trand. Let's not give the blackmailer more ammunition. Reiko and I will take care of the authorities, ensuring that our involvement remains anonymous."
"And one more thing," she adds, "while we're looking around, let's try to find out if Abigail received any unusual visitors or messages in the days before she disappeared. Gather information without drawing attention."