The room is silent for a moment after Rosemary's departure, the only sound the gentle ticking of the grandfather clock in the corner. Beatrice sets her teacup down, her eyes fixed on Alaric with an intensity that makes him shift uncomfortably in his seat.
Aerion glances between the two, sensing the tension in the air. He clears his throat, breaking the silence.
Perhaps we should... continue our discussions? (Aerion)
Beatrice ignores him, her gaze on Alaric's face.
Tell me, Alaric, what is it about Rosemary that has you so... captivated? Is it her beauty? Her grace? Or perhaps... something else?(Beatrice)
Her voice is low, almost hypnotic, as she leans forward, her elbows resting on the table.
Alaric's heart races, his palms growing sweaty as he tries to formulate a response.Alaric's mind races, his cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and something else, something he can't quite put his finger on. He opens his mouth to speak, but no words come out. Instead, he finds himself stammering, his thoughts tumbling out in a jumble.
II don't know what you're talking about, Beatrice. I'm just... I'm just trying to focus on the case. Rosemary is just a maid, nothing more. He pauses, his brow furrowing as he realizes the weakness of his own words.(Alaric)
The truth is, Alaric can't deny the pull he feels towards Rosemary, the way her presence seems to ignite something within him. It's a feeling he's never experienced before, and it both confuses and excites him.
Aerion, sensing the growing tension between Alaric and Beatrice, decides to intervene. He clears his throat, his voice taking on a businesslike tone.
Perhaps we should discuss our schedule for the coming days. We have much to accomplish, and time is of the essence.(Aerion)
He pulls out a small, leatherbound planner from his pocket, flipping it open to a blank page.
I propose we start by visiting the royal archives this week. I have a contact there who might be able to provide us with more information on the noble families with celestial connections.(Aerion)
Beatrice's gaze lingers on Alaric for a moment longer before she turns her attention to Aerion, her expression cooling slightly.
I'll accompany you both. My knowledge and connections with the noble families may prove useful.(Beatrice)
Alaric nods, grateful for the change in subject. He takes a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart.
Yes, that sounds like a good idea. We should also consider visiting some of the ancient temples dedicated to the celestial beings. Those kind of places might hold clues to the ritual.(Alaric)
......
The carriage rolls to a stop in front of the grand manor, the horses snorting and stamping their hooves impatiently. Alaric and Aerion descend the steps, their bags in hand, ready to embark on their journey back to the capital.
Alaric pauses, glancing back at the manor, his mind drifting to Rosemary and the strange encounter with Beatrice. He shakes his head, trying to push the thoughts aside as he climbs into the carriage.
Aerion follows, settling into the plush seat beside Alaric. He notices his friend's distracted expression and raises an eyebrow.
Everything alright, Alaric? You seem... preoccupied.(Aerion)
It's nothing. Just... thinking about the case, that's all.(Alaric)
Aerion's eyes widen slightly, a knowing smile spreading across his face.
Ah, I see. Well, try not to let it distract you too much. We have a long road ahead of us, and much to accomplish.(Aerion)
The carriage jolts forward, the horses' hooves clattering against the cobblestones as they begin their journey back to the capital. Alaric and Aerion settle into the plush seats, the rhythmic rocking of the carriage lulling them into a contemplative silence.
We could both use some rest before diving back into the case. It's been a long and trying few days.(Aerion)
Alaric leans back against the seat, his eyes drifting closed.
Indeed. And perhaps some distance from Beatrice's estate will do us both some good.(Alaric)