Scarlett stayed with Lord and Lady Withersworth for a while, participating in conversations with the group of gentlemen to the best of her abilities. Lady Withersworth wasn’t subtle about her intention to help Scarlett make connections during these talks, but none of the men seemed to mind. Surprisingly, they even appeared pleased with the opportunity. She wasn’t one to look a gift horse in the mouth, however, nor did she intend to waste Lady Withersworth’s efforts. Though the exact reasons behind the woman’s focused support remained somewhat unclear, Scarlett couldn’t deny that it was a positive thing.

Eventually, after becoming more familiar with Lord Withersworth’s ‘friends’—Dean Godwin had acted naturally with her throughout—and promising to introduce some of them to her sister who was in charge of most business matters, the band playing in the corner of the chamber quieted down as a soft ring echoed through the room. People’s attention turned in the direction of the ballroom.

“It appears Duke Tyndall intends to give his address,” Lady Withersworth announced, looking at the group of predominantly elder men. “This is where we will have to say our goodbyes. You have had free reins over my husband for long enough. It will do him good to spend some time with his family as well.”

“We wouldn’t dare to keep him for any longer than we already have,” Arthur Windermere, one of the men, replied. “Nor do we want to,” he added with a chuckle, earning a glare from the man in question. Windermere then turned to Scarlett. “Baroness, it has been a pleasure. Next time the Western Merchant’s Alliance has business in Freybrook, I will make sure that they explore potential prospects with your barony.”

She nodded graciously. “The feeling is mutual.”

She imagined Evelyne would be delighted to hear that, although she herself wasn’t quite sure where the man’s enthusiasm came from. While she had managed to make conversation with these gentlemen, she didn’t think it was on a level where they would actively seek to deepen their connections with her, despite Lady Withersworth’s efforts. The woman must have a lot more pull over her husband’s friends than one would initially assume.

The other men echoed similar sentiments, with Godwin being the last to speak. He studied Scarlett for a moment. “I hope we will meet again soon, Baroness.”

“I am certain that we will,” she said.

If he wanted to, there was probably little stopping him from visiting her whenever he pleased. She understood his personality well enough to know that he wouldn’t shy away from delegating his responsibilities at Elystead Tower to his subordinates while he pursued other interests.

After saying their final goodbyes, Scarlett accompanied Lady Withersworth and the woman’s husband as they made their way back to the ballroom. The space was now filled with people streaming in from the connecting rooms, and the dance floor had been replaced by a stage adorned with dark green velvet banners. A podium stood at the center.

Spotting Evelyne in the crowd, Scarlett noticed the younger woman standing near some tables along with Livvi and, to her surprise, Raimond Abram. The deacon belonging to the Followers of Ittar was dressed in a vibrant, ankle-length red overcoat, his blond hair pulled back into a ponytail as he engaged in animated conversation with the two women.

“My husband and I will try to find wherever it was that our children went,” Lady Withersworth said beside Scarlett. “You are, of course, free to join us, if you wish.”

Scarlett shook her head, gesturing towards Evelyne. “I should first meet with my sister.”

The older woman looked in the direction she indicated. “The young woman standing next to Knottley’s daughter, I presume?”

“That is correct.”

A smile played on Lady Withersworth’s lips. “I see. It is always good to keep with family. You will have to introduce us later.”

Scarlett nodded. “I will do so when the opportunity arises.”

“Then I wish you the best of luck for now. I am sure we will see each other again later.” The woman nudged her husband’s arm, who seemed preoccupied with picking up a sweet from a passing servant’s tray. “Dear, aren’t you going to bid the Baroness farewell?”

He blinked, his brows furrowing as he turned to look at Scarlett. “Hmph. Since my wife insists, I suppose we will see each other again, Baroness. I am sure you can survive on your own until then.”

His wife gave an apologetic look along with her smile. “The skies will likely fall before my husband learns to be polite, but don’t mind him.”

“I am quite experienced in dealing with such individuals by now, so there is no need to worry,” Scarlett said.

That earned a small laugh from Lady Withersworth and a grumble from her husband.

With one last goodbye, the couple left to find the rest of their family, and Scarlett made her way towards Evelyne. The auburn-haired woman noticed her soon enough, and both Raimond and Livvi turned their gaze in her direction.

“Scarlett,” Evelyne greeted as she reached them. “Has everything gone well? I didn’t see you for a while, but Livvi mentioned that you were with Lady Withersworth earlier.”

“There have been no issues,” Scarlett said. “I just left her as she and her husband left to find the rest of their family, after engaging in talks with some of their acquaintances. This included the dean of Elystead Tower and a few other influential figures. I will apprise you of the details at a later time.”

Evelyne appeared surprised at that, but Scarlett shifted her attention to Livvi and Raimond, focusing on the latter. “I was not expecting to encounter you here tonight, Mister Abraham. Are you familiar with my sister from before?”

The man smiled a bright smile at her. “Ah, Baroness. Always a pleasure, to be sure. As a wandering priest, I was fortunate enough to be extended an invitation to this splendid event through a dear friend of mine. I thought it unfair of me not to grace these magnificent halls with my presence and perhaps offer some insight into Ittar’s will to a weary soul or two if needed. Of course, it would be a crime not to also partake in the delightful accommodations and refreshments provided.” He raised the wineglass in his right hand, tilting it toward Livvi. “As I was administering my homilies to some eagerly amenable subjects, I just so happened to catch sight of a familiar face engaged in conversation with your sister here, and I thought it a prime opportunity for a light social rendezvous with an old acquaintance and to make a new friend. I did not know that our lovely Evelyne here was the Baroness’ younger sister until she introduced herself, but it was a pleasant surprise.”

A small blush played across Evelyne’s face, while Livvi wore the expression of someone well-accustomed to the man’s rather excessive personality. Scarlett wasn’t quite sure what they might have been discussing, but she could imagine how most conversations with Raimond would unfold, especially when he was acting as ‘Ray Abraham’ in his traveling priest guise.

She studied his face for a moment, searching for any signs that he hadn’t simply stumbled upon Evelyne by ‘pure coincidence’. It was like trying to determine when Rosa was being serious or not, though, so it was hard to tell anything.

He didn’t seem to be lying, at least, nor was he acting any different from the last time she had met him. Besides, if he harbored any suspicions about Scarlett, this wasn’t the approach he would take. It was unlikely that he knew anything about her involvement in the heist on the Sanctuary of Ittar, which meant he probably wanted to maintain a good relationship with her because of what information she might have about other holy artifacts.

The four of them held some brief discussions as more guests filled the ballroom. Eventually, the noise subsided as everyone’s attention shifted to the stage at the center. Scarlett turned her gaze in that direction and spotted a tall man with slicked-back dark hair and a stern demeanor approaching the podium on the stage. He surveyed the gathered crowd with a piercing gaze.

Duke Santon Tyndall, the host of the evening.

“Esteemed guests, I welcome all of you to my home.” The man’s voice resonated through the ballroom, and the attendees fell silent. “It is a peculiar thought, but I often forget that tonight’s event has become an annual tradition, tracing back to the days of my father. He conceived the idea of gathering the empire’s most notable and distinguished individuals to celebrate the ties that bind us together as servants of this glorious nation. Yet, I doubt he ever envisioned what we have here today. I dare say there is no other function like it. I see before me the pillars of the empire; an assembly of talent and authority unmatched in the world.”

He paused for a moment.

“I often take this opportunity to address you all as equals, reminding you of our duties and bringing to attention important matters that I believe are overlooked or neglected. However, this year, I will keep it brief.” His expression grew even sterner as he looked out over the faces before him. “While some of us may differ in our opinions and ideals, let us remember that our loyalty lies first and foremost with His Majesty and the realm. We must remain steadfast in our duty to uphold order and justice in our lands, especially now that it appears trying times are upon us once again. Let us not forget that those of us who possess power and privilege also bear considerable responsibility. So, tonight, let us revel in the festivities — let us take this night to relax after a fruitful year, as we brace ourselves for the challenges that lie ahead. But do so with the grace and dignity befitting our station. May this evening be a testament to our unity and resolve. Thank you.”

A chorus of applause filled the room as the Duke left the stage. People began to move around again, and the music resumed, albeit in a more subdued manner, better suited for casual conversation now than dancing.

“The recent events seem to have affected the Duke more than expected,” Evelyne remarked.

“I was expecting more as well,” Livvi said. “His lands have been relatively untouched by the current troubles, and my father has told me trade is thriving here in the north. Even after the Dragon Rampage ravaged his southern borders, I don’t remember the Duke appearing this laconic.”

“An attack by an ancient dragon could be likened to a natural disaster.” Raimond shook his head. “It is a tragedy, but often a one-time event. It doesn’t instill as much uncertainty about the future as this year’s events have.”

Scarlett observed him curiously. She wondered what his reaction would be if he knew that the Cabal had instigated the Dragon Rampage. It probably wouldn’t even occur to most people, considering how powerful even young dragons were in this world. Ancient dragons were well above that.

“You think he is that worried about the Tribe of Sin’s attacks?” Livvi asked.

“Perhaps,” the man mused, briefly glancing in the direction of the Duke with a solemn expression. “Or perhaps he has heard about things we have not.”

Evelyne wore a hint of worry on her face. “Like what?”

Raimond paused for a second. The serious air around him vanished, replaced by a smile once more as he turned to her. “What indeed? I am hardly the most knowledgeable about what important matters are unfolding where across the empire, so I’m afraid I cannot tell you much. But I’m sure those who need to know are aware, and they are doing what they can to protect us all.”

He gestured toward Scarlett. “In fact, I happened to hear that the fiancé of the Baroness here, Sir Leon, recently participated in a joint operation involving several mage towers, the Shields Guild, and the Followers of Ittar against the Tribe of Sin. His accomplishments were rather notable. A hero of the empire in the making, it would appear.”

Scarlett knitted her forehead. She had heard no specifics related to it, but she assumed that was related to whatever mission Leon had gone on after helping her in Autumnwell. The question was whether he was still busy or if he was here tonight.

“That’s more than I knew,” Livvi said. “I was actually involved in managing some of the logistics on the Guild’s end, but I haven’t been informed about all the results yet. However, I did hear that the estimations are that the Tribe suffered significant losses.”

Raimond nodded. “Large losses of life are always tragic, but in this particular case, I will admit to some relief at that the news. If Ittar permits, it will hopefully help prevent further bloodshed in the future. I—”

“If it isn’t Baroness Scarlett Hartford,” a harsh voice interrupted, cutting through the nearby conversations.

Their group turned to look at a portly middle-aged man with rosy cheeks, surrounded by a small crowd of men and women not far away. He wore a lavish outfit that appeared slightly too tight for his frame but also made him stand out among the other guests. Judging by the way his companions’ heads turned toward Scarlett, it seemed as though he had been engaged in a discussion with them when he coincidentally noticed her and called out her name.

She doubted that was the true reason behind his behavior. After all, she recognized the man.

This was Count Tizian Soames. Although she had never spoken with him directly, she had paid close attention to his appearance during the Elysian Proclamation, making note of his face. It only made sense to do so, considering this man was a servant of the entity lurking inside Rosa. Not to mention he was the bargaining chip Scarlett had used to strike a deal with that entity.

The man seemed to excuse himself from his group before starting to walk over towards Scarlett. Other guests moved out of his path.

“Never would I have expected to see you here tonight, Lady Hartford, on account of what happened during your last…” He coughed into his hand. “…public display. I would have expected you to take some time for yourself before making another appearance. I realize now that was rather presumptuous of me, and I offer my apologies.”

He made no effort to hide the derisive look on his face.

Scarlett scowled.

What the hell was he up to?

Whispers began to circulate among the nearby guests, and many conversations came to a halt.

“You must have been incredibly excited to attend tonight, considering you took time out of your busy schedule to grace us with your presence. I can only imagine what other important matters someone as esteemed—” he emphasized the word in a snide tone—”as you must have forsaken to be here.”

Her scowl deepened, and the anger she had been bottling up inside threatened to rise to the surface as she realized what was happening.

Count Soames wouldn’t target her like this simply because he recognized her and remembered what happened at the Elysian Proclamation. No, he would only act this way if he had something to gain from it. If someone had told him to.

Scarlett couldn’t directly interfere with the being inside Rosa, and the being couldn’t directly interfere with her or her surroundings either. That was the pact they had made. But it seemed the being could circumvent those constraints to some extent by having its pawn harass her instead. It wouldn’t surprise her if this was simply the demon’s way of messing with her. Actually sending Count Soames to harm her would almost definitely break their pact.

That said, even this much was a lot more than Scarlett was willing to tolerate.

“Count Soames, am I correct?” Raimond spoke up from beside Scarlett. As always, he maintained a relaxed smile even as he addressed a high-ranking noble. “I have heard word of your estimable and impressive personage, but never would I have expected it to be exactly as…” He coughed lightly into his hand, just as the man had done before “…impressive as they say. I am sure you are blessed with nothing but the best when it comes to the realm of taste and cuisine. As a fellow connoisseur of the finer things in life, I can only express my utmost admiration for what is undoubtedly a testament to your unwavering dedication.”

A frown creased the Count’s face as he stared at the priest. Livvi and Evelyne wore worried expressions, their eyes fixed on Raimond.

“With that said,” Raimond continued. “Perhaps there is a more appropriate time and place for this conversation? While I can certainly understand your wonder at Baroness Hartford’s presence this evening—I, too, as a Follower of Ittar, was deeply moved by her devotion and humility shown in the past—tonight is a night meant for celebration and joyous conversation, is it not? We wouldn’t want to inconvenience the host who has been gracious enough to invite us into his home to partake in the festivities.”

The Count turned his gaze towards the center of the ballroom, where Duke Tyndall was visible through a small gap in the crowd. The man was looking at them, and his eyes seemed to linger on Scarlett specifically. Then he turned away, returning to another conversation as if she didn’t exist.

A smirk crept across Count Soames’ face. “I do not believe that will be an issue…” He studied Raimond’s appearance, likely noting the symbols of the sun that adorned the man’s clothing. “…priest.”

“Excuse me,” Livvi interjected, and Evelyne appeared ready to speak up as well, but Scarlett raised a hand to silence them both.

She focused her attention solely on the Count, disregarding the numerous eyes fixed upon them.

“Count Soames,” she spoke deliberately, allowing some of her irritation to seep into her voice as she walked towards him. “Correct me if I am mistaken, but this is the first time we speak, yes?”

His look turned slightly warier, though his confident stance remained unchanged. “Indeed, it is our first official meeting.”

“I thought as much,” she said. “You see, those who are acquainted with me know not to make the mistake you just did.” It didn’t take her long to reach the man, and she stopped one step short of him, meeting his eyes.

“Mistake, you say?” He didn’t shy away from her gaze, a hint of amusement showing in his expression. He likely believed she was the one making a mistake. “I don’t think there was anything inaccurate about what I said? In fact, my words were—”

“Allow me to correct you.”

The man’s eyes widened as Scarlett’s pyrokinesis took hold of him, instantly raising the temperature of the air immediately surrounding his body. His mouth opened, but before he could speak, she leaned in closer to his side.

“Do not think that your master will protect you simply because they were the one who ordered you to meddle in my affairs,” she whispered.

The man’s words blubbered off, and he gaped at her. Clearly, he hadn’t been told much about his job or why he was targeting Scarlett.

“Your master has seen fit to use you as a pawn in a flippant attempt at pestering me when she herself lacks the power to do so. I am not above pettiness, so do not presume that I will not stoop to swatting away a bothersome fly, regardless of whom it might serve. I have been keeping a close eye on your activities in the Silkspindle Ward of Ambercrest, Count. A few words from me would be all it takes to ensure you lose everything that you have, so I suggest that you be very careful with how you choose your words.”

Sweat began to drip down the man’s forehead from the heat. He tried to hide it, but Scarlett could tell he was also struggling to breathe. She had to commend his self-control and the fact that he hadn’t cried out, though. Maybe the fear evident in his eyes, as if he were staring at the devil herself, played a part in that. It was amazing how quickly his attitude had changed.

She leaned back, speaking louder for everyone to hear. “I seldom bother with correcting others’ mistakes or offering advice, even when I see they are misinformed. Lately, however, I have been trying to change, so I can forgive a situation where a misunderstanding has occurred.”

She released the hold her pyrokinesis had on the man, and the tension around him seemed to relax. He regained his composure impressively quickly, though, producing a napkin from his pocket to dab away the sweat and disguise his small coughs.

It must have been a bizarre sight for the onlookers.

“I…see what you mean, Baroness,” the man said, his voice slightly strained. “No, when you put it like that, I realize that my previous words could have been interpreted differently than I intended.” He returned the napkin to its pocket and ignored the perplexed gazes aimed at him with gusto, his attention focused solely on Scarlett. Though he did avoid looking her in the eyes now. “My apologies for any confusion created. In the future, I will exercise more caution in case of similar happenings. I have caused quite a disturbance, so I shall take my leave for now.”

He appeared collected, but it seemed he couldn’t wait to escape. Without waiting for a response, he turned and walked away, passing the group he had been conversing with earlier.

Scarlett watched as he disappeared into the crowd.

The being inside Rosa probably didn’t care about what transpired today. It knew Scarlett couldn’t touch Count Soames as long as their deal stood, and it wouldn’t rely on means like this if it actually intended to oppose her this early. Most likely, all of this was just a game to amuse it.

But Scarlett didn’t like playing games in this way. It had made the first move against her now. That only spelled what it thought of her. Like hell she would just let it pass.

Though all eyes were on her, she ignored the attention and turned back to her own group. Evelyne and Livvi stared at her as if she had just pulled down the moon, while Raimond regarded her with curiosity and amusement. It wouldn’t surprise her if the priest had been able to see her use of magic even without casting a detecting spell.

She walked back up and stopped before them.

“So, where were we?”