Chapter 46 – Caught Red-Handed
Yawnee had left as the sun had begun to rise to go and speak to Sally about joining them at the Tower. It was almost 07:30 AM when the pair of them came hurrying back.
"Sorry," Yawnee said as they approached.
"It's fine. There was no defined time. Thanks for coming, Sally."
"There's no need to thank me. As soon as Yawnee told me, I jumped at the chance. Also, I've never been to the Tower," Sally laughed nervously.
"There's nothing to be worried about," Sally had worn what looked like her best dress. So had Yawnee, and even Lurtew had his best tunic on. SJ could understand their apprehension. The Tower, for many, was an exclusive and elusive area of the city, where the rich and powerful could be found. Almost 90% of Asterfal's population had no idea what went on in there. Their own lives kept them too busy to even consider issues of the wider city.
"Shall we go?" Lurtew asked; he had called to see Caperca first thing this morning and had borrowed his cart to take them.
The journey to the Tower took almost thirty minutes, as they had to wait to be let in through the gates with a cart, in a queue with others taking goods inside. Even at an early hour, the streets were alive. Yawnee and Sally spoke quietly to each other as they travelled, and it was just after 08:00 AM when they arrived at the Tower.
"If you continue to the stables, we can leave the cart there. The horse will be tended to while we are inside," SJ said. This morning, she was again in her full emerald dress. Easily recognisable to those who worked in the Tower.
After dropping the cart off, they walked back to the Tower. The large sets of double doors stood open, and the usual guards, dressed in the city's colours, checked everyone who entered.
"Morning, Ambassador," a guard, SJ recognised as Nevil, said as she approached.
"Morning, Nevil," SJ had spent time trying to remember the names of many of them. "Have you seen the deputy chancellor this morning?"
"He arrived recently."
"Excellent, thank you."
"Are these your guests?" Nevil asked, looking at her three companions.
"They are."
"No problem then," he smiled, allowing them all to pass unhindered.
Sally and Yawnee were taken aback by the Tower's entrance; they both gasped at its size and the impressive architecture. SJ took it for granted, not even considering it; she had been here so often, and Lurtew had been here before, after he was saved from the cage fights with Jay.
SJ walked up to the desk, where a clerk stood patiently waiting for her arrival.
"Good morning, Ambassador. Were you requiring an office today?" the clerk asked.
"No. I would like to arrange a meeting with the Deputy Chancellor if he is available. Please inform him that SJ is here to see him with some serious news." SJ said, emphasising the word serious.
"Of course. Please wait in the dining hall, and I will have a runner come and see you when I find out his availability."
SJ nodded, thanked them, and escorted them to the dining hall. After sitting at a table, a server approached asking if they would like anything.
"I'll order at the counter," SJ said, smiling. She wasn't here in her official role and didn't like the idea of assuming she could get food or drink for free.
The server nodded politely as they placed a basket of fresh rolls on the table.
"Anyone hungry or would like a drink?" SJ asked.
"I'd love a breakfast," Lurtew replied.
"Lurtew, you can wait until we return home," Yawnee scolded him.
"It's fine," SJ chuckled. "Anything else? I'm going to get some food myself, so don't worry."
Eventually, both Yawnee and Sally gave in, and SJ ordered four breakfasts and two pots of coffee. They sat talking as SJ updated Sally on what she had discovered during her investigation of the scam. It wasn't long after they had finished eating that a kobold runner approached them.
"Ambassador, the Deputy Chancellor is available to see you now if you would follow me," he said.
"Is he in his office?"
"He is in the chancellor's while he is away."
"That's fine, I know the way," SJ said.
SJ couldn't help but grin as they walked through the halls to the chancellor's office.
"I see what you mean about this place," Yawnee whispered to Lurtew as they approached.
"I told you it was impressive," Lurtew replied, his own face now tense, showing nerves.
The chancellor's door was open as they neared Darwinial, who was sitting at his usual desk to one side, while Alec was standing next to him as they talked.
"Morning, Alec," SJ said as the guards allowed her to enter.
"SJ. What brings you here so early? Especially with a concerning message about serious news." Alec said, turning to greet her. Alec glanced at her companions, directing his attention back to her.
"I've uncovered a scam in the city. It's not just local to one district but spread over several. They are conning many beings out of their life savings through false investment opportunities."
Alec frowned, concern etched on his face. "Please sit," he directed them to the sofas that sat in front of the chancellor's desk.
"I assume those with you have been affected by this scam that you mention?" Alec asked.
"Yes. Both Yawnee and Sally have lost their investments as a result. I have also discovered that they have started a new scam in District 10 since the first one was completed. The same individuals are offering the same scheme, offering impossible returns on investments. I attended a meeting myself and have to say the individual behind it is very persuasive and good at his job. Yawnee, Sally, would you like to tell the Deputy Chancellor what you know as well, please?"
Sally took the lead, clearing her throat before she started to speak and explain what had happened to her. Yawnee either supported key points or added further details. SJ then filled in the gaps between what she had witnessed herself. Alec asked several questions as they spoke, and SJ could see Darwinial making notes as he listened in.
After some time, Alec turned to Darwinial. "I think we should indeed get the Tower involved. I still don't trust District 10's guard force, and since this crosses district boundaries, it makes sense to handle it rather than leave it to the individual districts."
"I agree," Darwinial replied. "I'll go and get the duty captain."
"Thank you," Alec replied as Darwinial left the office.
"Would anyone like refreshments?" Alec asked as they waited.
"No thanks," SJ replied. "We just ate breakfast."
"Could I have a water, please?" Yawnee asked nervously, her voice sounding hoarse. It was obvious her nerves were playing havoc with her.
Alec smiled kindly and stood before collecting a glass of water and bringing it back to her. Yawnee stuttered, thanking Alec, embarrassed that the Deputy Chancellor had got her water.
"Ah, Captain Hamilton," Alec said as she entered the office. SJ knew her and smiled when she saw her enter.
"Natalie," SJ said, seeing her.
Natalie blanched slightly, taken aback seeing SJ there. "Ambassador."
It took several minutes to confirm the details with Natalie again, and once she was aware of them and the locations, she spoke again.
"Ambassador, I would like you to accompany the guard. You can recognise the individuals involved and identify them."
"I would prefer not to," SJ said. She didn't really wish to be seen as the being who had reported the problems.
Natalie frowned. "May I ask why?"
"I believe that this scam goes further than the front that is on display, and if it does, I would prefer to be in a position where I can investigate further without being known."
"I see. We require someone to accompany us," Natalie said.
"I'll go," Sally interjected.
"Are you sure, Sally?" Yawnee asked nervously.
"I'm too old now to worry about repercussions," Sally said. From the little SJ knew about the thieves' guild, there could indeed be repercussions.
"No," SJ said. She wouldn't allow them to place themselves in danger. "If I think who is involved is involved, I will go, but I won't go openly alongside the guard." SJ turned to look at Natalie. "I'm due to go back there this morning to confirm my investment. So I can confirm their positions and let you know who they are. If I'm inside when it goes down, it should provide me with the cover that I didn't report it, as long as no one identifies me from the guard."
"That's understandable," Natalie agreed. "I'll go and sort out who we need."
"Thank you, Captain," Alec said as Natalie left again. "Once again, SJ, you prove yourself as a source of information."
"I'm always here to help," SJ replied as they stood to leave. "Is the chancellor back today?"
"Yes, the caravan should be returning this afternoon from the latest communication."
"Excellent. I need to see Petunia when she returns."
SJ and her companions left, with obvious relief on their faces.
"I'll go and meet up with Natalie," SJ said as they reached the entrance.
"Thank you," Sally said as she stepped forward and hugged SJ.
"No need to thank me," SJ said. "It's not all over yet."
"You've done more than any district guard would have done."
SJ waved to her friends as they left before crossing the foyer to the captain’s office.
It was late morning by the time everything was arranged and in place. Tower guards had been posted around the store on nearby streets. They weren't wearing their usual armour, and it was more like an undercover sting. To SJ, they still stood out like sore thumbs, but to the general population moving about the streets, they paid no attention to the pairs of rather burly-looking beings stationed around the area. Natalie would initiate the raid on SJ's signal once she confirmed their attendance.
It was just before 11:00 AM when SJ reached the store. Outside, there was already a crowd of almost forty beings waiting for the doors to open. SJ wasn't sure if the shop could even hold forty.
These must be the investors who have early access, SJ thought.
"They're going to be in for a shock," Dave said.
Yes. I doubt they will see any of their money again, but at least this should put an end to the scam continuing.
As SJ approached in her emerald dress again, she spotted one of the beings from the store area, who was busy erecting a sign outside. 'Grand Opening Today. '
"Is Tarquin in?" SJ asked, approaching him.
The man looked at SJ and nodded toward the store.
"Thanks," SJ said as she walked to the door and knocked.
It didn't take long for Evelyn to appear, seeing who it was. She unlocked the door and allowed SJ inside. The store was complete now, with flamboyant clothes and designs on display and the shelves filled with items.
"Nice to see you again," Evelyn said, smiling at SJ. "Tarquin is in the office."
"Thanks," SJ said as she crossed the store to the rear door. "Hello?" She said as she entered.
Tarquin was sitting at his desk writing in the ledger. "Lauren, wonderful to see you again. I hope you are here with good news?"
"I am," SJ smiled. "I spoke to my husband, and he has agreed that it's an opportunity we can't miss out on. He did ask me to ask one last question before I signed the contract, though," SJ said as she took it from her inventory.
"Of course, what would you like to know?"
"He asked that I enquire about the opportunity not just to invest but to join in a partnership?"
"Where in ogre's bile did that come from?" Dave blurted.
I just thought of it, SJ thought.
Tarquin's expression changed to one of surprise. It was the first time SJ had witnessed his facade change so much, even if only for a moment.
"Partnership, you say. I see. Well, it's not something we've ever considered." SJ could imagine Tarquin thinking of the potential scam a partnership could bring and the potential money involved. "I would like to discuss the matter with our main financier before I can answer that question. We had only been working on investors, not extending our partnership agreements."
That confirms there is someone above him, SJ thought.
"Impressive work," Dave said with admiration.
"My husband believes it could be a fantastic opportunity to secure our future in the city. His ambassadorial role only brings so much coin after all."
"I see. Could you give me a moment? Could you also state how much you may be willing to bring to the table?"
"If it's agreeable, my husband is willing to set up a meeting and would be willing to consider investing up to three platinum."
Tarquin definitely couldn't hide the surprise this time as he spluttered a response. "Three platinum? That much?"
"Yes. That is what he asked me to discuss with you this morning. He would have come himself, but unfortunately, he has several meetings that were already scheduled."
Tarquin stood and walked to the door, opening it before calling. "Orlan. Can you go and get a message to Wernig for me, that I need to speak to him?"
Dave gasped. "Now, this could be problematic."
SJ's brain went into overdrive at hearing the name. You're telling me. I can't have a run-in with him. SJ's nerves had just gone on edge as she tried to compose herself at hearing the name; the last thing she needed was to draw the attention of one of the Chief's henchmen.
"He won't be available yet," the being replied. SJ couldn't see who he was speaking to, but the response allowed her to take a breath, which she had been holding.
"Okay. Can we at least get a message to him?"
"I can send a runner, but it will take time for a reply."
"Thanks," Tarquin replied as he returned to the desk.
"Sorry about that," Tarquin said as he sat again. "Our backer is a very busy being. I'm sure he will reply in due course. Are you able to wait for a reply?"
"Of course. We just don't wish to miss out on the opportunity," SJ smiled calmly. Although she felt anything but calm inside. If what she had just heard was the same being, then the scheme was linked not just to the thieves' guild but could potentially be directly linked to the Chief. It shouldn't have been a surprise to SJ, given what Fas had shared about her dealings and what she had read in the black book, but it was still nerve-racking.
"Do you still wish for me to invest today?" SJ asked casually.
Tarquin thought for a moment. "No, I believe that it is more viable to wait for an answer about a partnership deal. I'm sure that I can confirm details by later this afternoon."
"That would be amazing if you can," SJ said.
Evelyn entered the store area. "Tarquin, it's opening time," she smiled broadly.
"Excellent," Tarquin said. "Lauren, please, do stay for the opening."
SJ smiled, stood and followed them out to the front of the store. The doors were eventually opened, and beings began filling in. The shop hardly had any room left, and a couple of the helpers moved around the crowded shop front, handing out glasses of wine to those in attendance as SJ slowly made her way through the crowd to the entrance.
Tarquin climbed onto the countertop and raised his arms to quieten the gathered crowd before he started speaking.
"Dear friends. Thank you for joining me this morning for the start of our shared enterprise."
Several in the crowd cheered in response.
"I would like to invite our jewel to speak. Evelyn, please?"
SJ watched as Evelyn joined Tarquin on the counter. "Thank you for the kind words, Tarquin." Before she spoke to the crowd. "It is with great pleasure and privilege that I am here today, by your kind and generous investments, to open the first of our stores. Without your generous offerings, what was my dream would never have come to fruition. I would like to thank you all, and please do spend your time browsing the goods and remember, as investors, you do get a 50% discount," she winked playfully. Some in the crowd chuckled at her comment. "And please, all raise your glasses in celebration of our joint endeavour."
More cheers erupted, and glasses clinked as SJ managed to reach the entrance. She could see out onto the street where further crowds had started to gather. Some looked interested; others were more focused on the spectacle, with so many beings drawn to the storefront. SJ spotted who she was looking for. Natalie was dressed in everyday clothing, a leather jerkin, and her grey hair pulled back in a tight ponytail. SJ nodded towards her.
Natalie raised a whistle to her lips and blew three times in quick succession. Very few really paid any attention to it until the shouts of the approaching guard could be heard. Each one of them now wore a brightly coloured sash showing the tower's colours as they neared.
"Out of my way," an exceedingly large and broad orc shouted as he pushed the crowd out of his way. SJ stood back as far as she could from the doorway inside the shop as he reached the entrance. He stood taller than most inside, his massive form filling the entrance and shop exit.
"Anyone inside the store is under arrest," he bellowed from the doorway. Various beings turned to look at him, some laughing, thinking it was a joke, until they then spotted the tower's colours emblazoned on the sash and the other guards who were still arriving outside.
"For what?" a haughty-sounding elf called.
"Until we identify the culprits behind the scam, everyone here is under arrest."
Captain Hamilton appeared next to the orc. Her voice carried over the gathered crowd, who were now complaining vehemently. For her stature, she commanded a significant presence.
"I'm Captain Hamilton of the Tower Guard. We are investigating claims of a scam involving Tarquin Evergreen, Evelyn Dashwin, and their compatriots. Until they are identified and taken into custody, no one may leave."
Several stood in shock, others turned their anger towards Natalie, while others immediately turned to where Tarquin was standing and Evelyn, who SJ could see was making her way to the rear store from behind the counter area. Tarquin was trapped amongst the crowd, where most of the other shop workers were.
"She's running," SJ said in Natalie's ear from where she stood to the side of her.
"We have guards at the rear," Natalie flashed her a smile, as Evelyn disappeared into the store's rear.
The next couple of hours passed amidst a mix of chaos, confusion, anger, frustration and tears. Natalie revealed that she had recovered forty-five gold from a lockbox hidden in the rear. There was no sign of any other funds, and Tarquin, Evelyn, and the others would be taken to the tower for questioning. Every being's name in attendance had been taken. Much of the confusion turned to anger and hatred as they understood what had been happening. Tarquin and his gang had to be taken out of the back of the store, where they were placed in a caged wagon for transport to the tower.
It hadn't taken long for the news to spread, and a large crowd had soon gathered, only slowly dispersing as the culprits were taken away.
SJ had played her part as a trapped investor, following the tower's instructions, providing details and confirming that she hadn't personally invested anything yet. Eventually, she was allowed to leave the location. She spoke to Natalie before she left, saying she would check in with her later. As SJ left, she spotted Yawnee and Sally standing at the end of the street watching everything unfold, and she crossed to be with them.
"Thank you," Yawnee said, a tear falling down her face.
"My pleasure, although I don't think it ends there," SJ said as they headed back home.
This chapter has a really satisfying payoff the tension builds cleanly into the sting operation and makes the reveal feel earned. What larger consequences are you planning for SJ now that she’s brushed so close to something tied to the thieves’ guild leadership?