When Scarlett returned to Freybrook, the courtyard was shrouded in darkness, illuminated only by the faint glow from the windows overlooking it. The air here was starkly colder than on the Rising Eye, and the abrupt shift in temperature was somewhat jarring.

Using her pyrokinesis to warm herself up, Scarlett allowed herself a brief moment to observe her surroundings before tapping into her bond with the [Obedience’s Solitude Loci] to survey the estate in full. Through a cursory check, she could confirm that all appeared as she had left it, but to her surprise, Dean Godwin was still here.

She had assumed he would have left by now, but his presence might be a fortunate turn of events. This meant she could immediately inquire about how matters went with Rosa. There was also another detail she’d wanted to double-check with him that had come to mind during her visit to the Zuverian outpost.

At the moment, he and the others were convened in the dining hall, including Evelyne, who appeared to have returned while Scarlett was away.

Crossing the courtyard, Scarlett stepped into the mansion’s foyer and was met by a servant cleaning the windowsills. The girl stopped in her work, bowing low in a respectful curtsy. “Welcome back, my Lady. I hope you have had a pleasant trip outside.”

Scarlett acknowledged the greeting with a nod. “I have.”

This girl was a newer hire, if she recalled correctly, and thus didn’t share the typical nervousness around Scarlett that was more prevalent among some of the longer-tenured staff. While things had generally improved on that front, there was still the occasional moment where she managed to unintentionally startle a servant or two moving around the mansion.

“Are Evelyne and the others in the dining hall?” she asked, even though she already knew the answer.

“Yes, my Lady,” the servant responded. “I think they’re currently dining with the Dean of Elystead Tower?”

“I see. Then I will have to see if they have made accommodations for me as well.”

“I’m sure Master Garside has anticipated your return, my Lady.”

“Knowing him, he likely has.”

Scarlett left the foyer and headed towards the dining hall, reaching out with the Loci’s perception to gauge the ongoing discussions there. As she neared her destination, she caught the younger woman’s voice through the closed doors.

“—we’ve contracted several traders passing through Freybrook to supply their produce to us at a premium, which the barony is storing in the harbor warehouses. These are easy to keep dry, so we expect the produce to last for several months. However, I’ve been told that transporting it in bulk over long distances in cases like emergencies can prove difficult. When I last spoke with a representative from the tower, they told me that you have spells for both preservation and temporary spatial expansion, which might be a more cost-effective solution than enchanting a fleet of wagons for the same effect. That’s why I had been wondering whether it would be possible to reach some sort of agreement regarding those as services?”

It seemed they were discussing Evelyne’s efforts to organize and prepare the barony’s relief operations.

“It is indeed possible,” Dean Godwin replied. “Although I would not call them ‘services’, since your particular use case diverges quite a bit beyond the usual scope of Elystead Tower’s operations. We are also quite stretched at the moment, but I will consult with the heads of our departments to explore how we can assist the Hartford barony in this matter.”

“Really?” Evelyne’s voice brightened slightly. “That would be immensely helpful, and I would appreciate any support you might be able to extend. I’m sure Scarlett would as well.”

“That I would,” Scarlett confirmed as she entered the dining hall.

All eyes turned towards her. At the center of the dining hall was a long table, with Allyssa, Shin, and Fynn seated on one side—with assorted dishes in front of them—and Evelyne, Dean Godwin, and Rosa on the opposite side. Garside stood attentively at the room’s corner, monitoring the ongoings.

“Scarlett?” Evelyne showed a trace of surprise. “Did you catch our conversation just now?”

“The end part of it, yes,” Scarlett replied, crossing the room to the head of the table where her seat awaited.

Garside quickly approached from his position by the wall, bearing a tray with covered dishes which he placed before her.

“I took the liberty of preparing a meal for you as well, my Lady.”

“Thank you, Garside,” Scarlett said as she settled down.

The butler lifted the silver lids covering the dishes, revealing a succulent roast pheasant with honey-glazed root vegetables.

Appreciating the presentation for a moment, Scarlett then turned to address Dean Godwin. “I am surprised to see you still here. Did you not have urgent affairs that required your attention?”

“I did.” He nodded. “However, I received word that my people decided to proceed without me after I may have become somewhat too absorbed in matters here. I expect that there will be some rather choice words waiting for me upon my return, and I am in no hurry to face those.”

Scarlett regarded him thoughtfully. “…I do not envy those placed under your charge.”

He waved a hand dismissively. “Oh, they manage quite well. Rowley, in my stead, is perfectly capable of handling most of my responsibilities in my absence. Moreover, this visit has afforded me the pleasure of engaging in some pleasant discourse with another promising young mage.” He gestured in Evelyne’s direction.

The woman blushed slightly under the praise. “You give me too much credit.”

“Not at all. Though I did not know the man myself, I am certain the late Lord Hartford would be immensely proud of the two daughters he left behind, both accomplished mages in their own right.”

“I would prefer if you forwent the unnecessary praise,” Scarlett said, her tone slightly brusque.

“Is that so? My apologies, then.” With a casual flick of his wrist, Dean Godwin levitated a beaker of gravy over his plate, where it tipped and drizzled the sauce with precision. “Anyhow, as you’ve gathered, Baroness, Lady Evelyne here has been sharing some insights into the considerable effort she is currently undertaking in her current ventures,” the man explained as Scarlett began her own meal. “It is not often that I involve myself with the dealings of the nobility, so discussing these challenges is quite refreshing. It is altogether different from many of my own experiences in the realm of magical pursuits.”

Scarlett glanced over at him, noting that the man had already finished most of his meal and seemed content with just the gravy. “Given by the company you kept at the Tyndall Ball, I would have thought you quite accustomed to such things. Do you not regularly mingle with high-ranking nobles like Lord Fitzroy and Lord Withersworth?”

Godwin chuckled. “Our meetings rarely delve into such weighty topics. More often, they’re filled with leisurely pastimes and trivial pursuits. Were our conversations as substantive as you seem to think, I suspect their spouses would be far less vexed by our gentlemanly gatherings.”

Scarlett raised an eyebrow. “Hmm. I do indeed recall Lady Withersworth expressing her… reservations regarding your influence on her husband.”

“Ah, Lila can be one ruthless woman, that is for sure.” His laughter continued for a couple of breaths, though his expression briefly shifted to contemplation with a slight furrow creasing his forehead. “It is to my own misfortune that many of the formidable women in my life seem to increasingly resemble her with time. I often wonder how I would fare if she were to ever get her claws on my daughter.”

“Perhaps that would bring some peace to those around you,” Scarlett suggested. From what she knew of the man, she could understand Lady Withersworth’s grievances.

“It would appear she has already influenced you, Baroness,” Godwin noted. “It is often said that the social circles of the nobility are a battlefield on their own, and one that is well-suited to Lila’s talents. I wouldn’t dare to compete with her there, nor her new protégé.”

“Calling me a protégé might be overstating things,” Scarlett replied. “Although I will concede that Lady Withersworth has offered me helpful guidance before.”

“If she’s earned your recognition, then she must be quite the character,” Rosa joined in on the conversation.

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

“She certainly has a very strong personality,” Evelyne said. “Even my brief encounters with her at the ball were enough to confirm many of the stories I’d heard.”

Dean Godwin nodded thoughtfully. “There are many who would concur. And though I could hardly admit as much to his face, much the same can be said for her husband. If you are considering expanding those initiatives of yours, Lady Evelyne, perhaps you should consider securing their support. It could prove invaluable.”

Evelyne gave him an intrigued look. “You think they would be willing to help?”

“Why not? Lord Withersworth’s extensive experience and connections far surpass mine in this regard, and there is no doubt in my mind that they would be of great benefit to someone with your talents. From what I gather, they also owe a debt to your sister. Knowing him as I do, he is likely to seize any opportunity to repay it.”

Evelyne turned to Scarlett. “Do you think that’s an option? It would be advantageous to have a reputable house like the Withersworths on our side for this.”

“I see no reason why not,” Scarlett said. “You already have my full support to proceed as you see fit. If you believe securing this alliance will aid your efforts, I will not stand in your way. The task of convincing them, however, will be left to you, though you are welcome to use my name if it helps.”

Evelyne nodded with determination. “Okay. I’ll come up with something.”

Scarlett decisively cut into her roast. “I trust that you will.”

“Might I ask what your broader objective is here?” Godwin asked. “To an outsider, it might appear as if you are bracing for some major calamity.”

At that question, Evelyne glanced over at Scarlett, as if silently seeking a cue. Scarlett maintained a neutral expression, continuing to savor her meal as she looked at the wizard. “Are you perhaps insinuating something, Dean Godwin?”

He met her gaze with a congenial smile, stroking his beard. “Just an observation.”

“I see. Then let us leave it at that. Considering the current challenges facing the empire, including attacks by the Tribe of Sin and now demonic incursions, it is only logical to prepare for any eventualities. Our barony, though small, is fortunate in wealth, and it is part of our duty to utilize that where possible for the good of the empire.”

A knowing glint showed in the man’s eyes as he studied Scarlett. “A commendable stance, Baroness. You’re a very generous woman.”

“At times, yes.”

A brief silence fell over the room as they regarded each other.

As far as Scarlett was concerned, he could make whatever he wanted out of the barony’s actions. It was inevitable that their movements would attract attention, and Godwin was already aware of her foresight. If he took this as a sign to take some additional precautions against the Hallowed Cabal, then that would hardly hurt Scarlett.

“Ehm, by the way,” Allyssa’s voice pierced the silence. The young Shielder looked at Scarlett curiously. “Where did you disappear to earlier? Shin and I didn’t even realize you were gone until we got here and you were missing.”

“I paid a visit to the Resting Eye,” Scarlett revealed.

Evelyne’s fork stopped mid-air, and she stared at her, blinking. “You went to Darkshore, Scarlett?”

“I did.”

“How? You didn’t arrange any transport through the Kilnstone.”

Scarlett motioned towards Godwin. “Do you not have one of the empire’s most esteemed wizards next to you? He was kind enough to assist me.”

Evelyne’s gaze shifted to Godwin, who confirmed with another nod, then back to Scarlett, clearly waiting for her to elaborate.

“I was interested in inspecting the Zuverian outpost on the Resting Eye,” Scarlett explained. “I had never visited it personally, and with the Dean’s presence, it seemed an opportune moment to circumvent the nuisances that come with traveling.”

“And you went alone?”

“It seemed the simplest approach.”

Evelyne’s gaze lingered on her for a moment, then gave a slight shake of her head before returning her attention to her meal.

From there, the conversation gradually shifted to lighter topics. Rosa, among other things, teased Shin about his role as Allyssa’s guinea pig, prompting more than one protest from their resident alchemist. As the dinner progressed, Evelyne eventually excused herself to look into how she could enlist the Withersworths’ support, and Allyssa and Shin withdrew to continue their alchemy work. That left Scarlett at the table with Godwin, Rosa, and Fynn.

Scarlett considered Fynn and Rosa in particular for a while, mulling over whether she should ask them to leave so she could have a private chat with Godwin. Ultimately, she decided against it. Their presence wouldn’t compromise her plans, and she had been intending to integrate Rosa more closely into her ‘circle’ now that the issue with Anguish was mostly resolved.

“Garside,” she spoke up, addressing the butler at the edge of the room. “Ensure our privacy, if you would?”

“Of course, my Lady. I’ll see if Lady Evelyne requires my assistance,” Garside responded before exiting the dining hall.

Scarlett turned to face Rosa and Godwin. “I am eager to hear how things progressed in my absence. Dean, did we reach a satisfactory conclusion that aligns with both our ambitions?”

The man seemed to consider her question. “As satisfactory as one could hope for, given the complexities involved. While I cannot be entirely certain, it appears the Heartstone has indeed quelled the Vile’s presence within Miss Hale. The specifics of this suppression remain largely a mystery, but it proved a very fascinating case study to examine the interplay between an Astral Soulstone and a demonic heart. I would welcome the opportunity to delve deeper into this phenomenon in the future if that is a possibility.”

“You would have to discuss that with Miss Hale.” Scarlett looked to the bard.

Rosa gave a light-hearted smile. “I’m open to whatever comes next. My head remaining on my shoulders and still breathing is a win in my book. Plus, I feel like I might have picked up a thing or two myself today.”

“Very well. There is your answer, Dean,” Scarlett said. “When you are available again, you are welcome to visit, provided that I am present and not otherwise engaged.”

“Much appreciated, Baroness.”

“Will you ask for him to teleport you away again if he returns?” Fynn asked.

Scarlett paused briefly, considering the white-haired youth’s gaze before responding. “Most likely, yes. The circumstances will dictate, but I see no reason not to make use of his abilities when beneficial.”

Fynn’s amber eyes held hers for a moment longer. “…And would you go alone again?”

“I cannot say. That will also be decided by the circumstances. However, I do not think I will. Today’s journey, while seemingly carrying little risk, underscored the necessity for vigilance in the future.”

“Wait,” Rosa cut in. “Did something actually happen during your trip?”

Fynn’s expression worsened slightly, his brow furrowing. “Were you attacked?”

Scarlett watched them both for a moment, slightly taken aback by their reactions.

A small sigh left her.

“Something did indeed happen,” she admitted with a slight sigh. In a room filled with people who could detect lies, she couldn’t exactly lie. “Although it was not an attack. I simply crossed paths with a member of the Hallowed Cabal known as Nol’viz. I believe you have met her briefly before, Fynn.”

“The masked girl?” he asked.

“Precisely.”

“She was strange.”

“Yes, she does leave that impression,” Scarlett agreed, choosing not to mention Fynn’s own peculiarities.

“Okay, wait, hold up for a second,” Rosa interjected, her expression a mix of concern and confusion as she looked between Scarlett and Fynn. “I feel like I’m out of the loop here. What’s this all about?”

Scarlett turned to her. “The Hallowed Cabal. They are the group that attacked this mansion some time ago, if you recall.”

Rosa’s brows knit together. “I thought that was the Tribe of Sin?”

“It was, in a sense. The Hallowed Cabal is the group behind many of the actions performed by the Tribe of Sin.”

“…Alright, I’m clearly out of my depths here. I’ll just sit back and be pretty, because apparently, I have no idea what we’re talking about now.”

“I will fill you in on the details afterward,” Scarlett said.

While she had disclosed the existence of the Hallowed Cabal to Fynn, it remained mostly a secret from the broader public, including Rosa.

“Just to check.” Rosa gestured with a thumb towards Godwin. “Was he privy to this before me? Not that I’m jealous or anything.”

The man in question didn’t show any thoughts on his face as the conversation shifted towards him.

“Yes,” Scarlett confirmed. “But he knew of the Cabal’s existence before we met and deduced my connection to them on his own.”

“…Alright, if you say so.”

Seemingly judging that it was his time to speak, Godwin met Scarlett’s gaze. “So, you engaged in talks with this Cabal member, I take it?”

“I did, yes. Confronting her was not an option, given my standing non-aggression pact with them, as you are already aware.”

The man’s expression remained unreadable. “Their presence on the Resting Eye is curious. What could possibly draw them there? Were their reasons perhaps aligned with yours?”

“Unfortunately, I do not know. As far as I could tell, that was not the case. If you wish, you may attempt to investigate it yourself, but I suspect that you will not find anything substantial.”

Even if Nol’viz remained on the island, the girl was skilled at hiding. It would probably take someone of Fynn’s calibre to possibly spot her.

“I see…” Godwin looked thoughtful now. “However, the Cabal’s actions are seldom without purpose, and the Resting Eye’s proximity to several key settlements is concerning. I do indeed think a personal inquiry on my part may be warranted, if only to be certain.”

“If you do uncover anything, I would appreciate any findings you might share,” Scarlett said.

“I will do what I can.”

“That is enough.” Scarlett paused, observing the man for a few seconds, before continuing. “Setting that issue aside, I have a question for you.”

“And what might that be?”

“Do you recall our discussion about the opening of Beld Thylelion and the Tribute of Dominion during your last visit?”

“I do.”

“Are you familiar with what the Tribute of Dominion is?”

Godwin’s eyebrows lifted slightly. “I am not, no. I have since looked deeper into the subject, but there is scant information available, and the legends are vague at best.”

Scarlett frowned. That was similar to what Raimond had said about the tribute. It truly appeared as if knowledge about it was even rarer here than it had been in the game. Was she correct in suspecting that the Cabal was responsible for this, then?

“From your expression, I presume that wasn’t the answer you hoped for,” Godwin said.

“Ultimately, it does not matter what answer I was expecting. What is important is that you continue your efforts to locate Beld Thylelion. I have already mentioned how crucial Adalicia Mendenhall’s research is in that regard, if you recall. How is that progressing?”

“While I am not fully updated on all the details, I understand she’s fully dedicated to examining the Tabernacle on the Rising Isle and the one recently discovered by you near Faybarrow. She seems to share your conviction that they hold key secrets, and I’ve had her usual duties reassigned so that she can focus solely on this.”

“Then it should only be a matter of time before she makes a breakthrough,” Scarlett said.

At least this development was somewhat reminiscent of what she remembered from the game. Maybe her interventions had even accelerated events on this front.

Dean Godwin studied her for several seconds, likely wanting to prove the extent of her knowledge on the matter. But he also seemed resigned not to overstep their boundaries — whether out of respect or a belief that he wasn’t capable of extracting any more information from her remained unclear.

Scarlett’s thoughts were interrupted by movement beside Godwin. She shifted her focus to Rosa, who had raised a hand into the air.

“I recognize that I’m the proverbial village hick in this conversation,” the bard said, scratching the side of her head with an air of self-deprecation. “But if we could perhaps circle back to square one… What exactly is ‘Beld Thylelion’?”