No Solace (The Flames of Retribution - Book 1)

Chapter Twenty-Nine - Schemes in the Embassy

After bidding farewell to the Sanfelton princes, I made my way back to the Calashan embassy. The streets were bustling with people going about their daily business, but I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled in my gut. 

As I approached the grand building, I marveled at its beauty despite my unease. The Calashan embassy was a sprawling complex with white marble pillars and intricate carvings adorning the walls. The courtyard was filled with lush greenery and a fountain at its center, adding to the serene atmosphere.

I was greeted by Ursula, and the ambassador once I entered the doors.

"Thank goodness you're back! I was worried sick when the princes whisked you away. Are you alright?" Ursula asked as she pulled me towards the seating arrangement in the foyer, her voice filled with genuine concern.

After embracing her, I collapsed into a nearby chair, completely drained. "It was all just a reminder of where I stand," I explained, still reeling from the experience. "But I ended up learning more about the Sanfelton Empire than I ever wanted to know."

"What happened?" she asked, taking a seat across from me and looking concerned.

"I just learned something truly shocking," I started. "The magicores that power our technology aren't solely made from the remains of the dead or the bodies of our enemies. People are actually selling fragments of their own lives for a quick profit."

Her eyes widened in disbelief. "And why did they reveal this to you?"

"It was a clear warning that if I continued to investigate Jasni's disappearance, I could easily become one of those volunteers. I can't believe I had such blind faith in the magicores."

While Ursula patted me, Ambassador Nule's expression darkened at my words. "This is a grave matter indeed. We must inform the Calashan government immediately and take action. We can't possibly allow the two of you to take on this challenge by yourselves."

I reached forward and placed a hand on his arm. When he looked down at it, I realized my misstep and quickly removed it. "No, not yet Ambassador. If we start making waves already, it could hamper our movements."

He touched the place where my hand had been on his arm. "I understand your concern, Taleat, but I'm not comfortable with risking your safety." He flexed his hand and let out a jagged breath. "We must take action and bring this to the attention of the Calashan government. They have a responsibility to protect you as their agents, and we must hold them accountable."

"That's a valid point, ambassador, however if we start sending messengers it might alert the princes to our plans to not only investigate Jasni's disappearance, but the disappearance of the Beltritian Tavla and his wife."

Ambassador Nule considered my words carefully before responding. "I agree with your analysis. Truly your mind is a marvel. However, we cannot delay action for too long. It could bring danger to all of us."

Blinking at his compliment, I decided to ignore it for now. "Our first step is this ball I've been invited to this evening.  Ambassador, who would be integral for me to meet at this event?"

"Ah, the ball," Ambassador Nule said, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "I regret that I cannot be at your side. Truly it's a shame as I would love nothing more than to help you in a more personal capacity. It is a prime opportunity for us to gather information and make connections." He stood up to pace, his expression a mixture of calculation and worry.  "There will be many individuals there that would be of use, but all of them are pit vipers. I would rather you not meet a single one on your own. If I could rebel against the crown's orders, I would indeed keep by your side through all this."