Julian sat comfortably in his well-worn armchair, his inquisitive gaze shifting between Adrian and Artemia, who had taken a seat close to each other on the plush couch opposite him. A sly grin played upon his lips as he ventured into personal territory, asking, "So, are you two an item?"
Adrian and Artemia exchanged subtle glances, an unspoken understanding passing between them. Artemia spoke first, her tone carrying a hint of mystery, "Our connection is a tale too intricate to unravel at this moment." She nodded toward Adrian, who chimed in, "Indeed, Julian. We have more pressing matters at hand."
Leaning back in his armchair, Julian signaled for Adrian to continue, his curiosity unabated. "Alright, then. Let's get back on track," Adrian began, clearing his throat. "The ideal course of action would be to approach Niko Cliffnail and learn how he came to control the orphanage, as well as the whereabouts of Mrs. Komash and the children." Adrian's expression grew somber. "However, that won't be a straightforward task. Niko has no incentive to cooperate unless we offer something in return."
Julian furrowed his brow, musing aloud, "What could we possibly offer?" He turned his attention to Artemia, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "The Cliffnail Syndicate and the Labor League have their differences. Perhaps you could provide them with some valuable information?"
Artemia's arms crossed resolutely. "Absolutely not. I won't compromise our cause under any circumstances."
Adrian interjected, his voice measured, "It doesn't have to be entirely truthful information, Artemia. A semblance of truth, enough to massage Niko's ego, could be the key."
Julian vehemently disagreed, shaking his head. "That's far too risky. Niko could verify any information we provide. If he discovers our deception, not only will he withhold crucial details, but he might also mark us for death, especially considering our roles as law enforcement officers." He glanced at Artemia, acknowledging the added complication. "Your affiliation with the Labor League might not sway Niko Cliffnail in our favor either. In his eyes, it could even work against us."
Adrian's leg jerked involuntarily in visible nervousness, a clear indicator of the weight of their dilemma. "There has to be something we can offer. Niko's made enough enemies; maybe we can tip them off with some information."
Julian's eyes widened in realization, and he sprang from his armchair, advancing toward Adrian with newfound energy. "I have something!" He emphasized his point, turning to Adrian. "Remember that peculiar attack on the 'Fat Beaver' that I went to investigate with Vincent? The one that was hastily pinned on the Alderians, despite the glaring discrepancies?"
Adrian nodded. "I recall."
Julian elaborated, his voice laced with determination. "I delved deep into that incident. I set aside your initial theory about E.C.H.O's involvement because they've been dormant for a while, and there was none of their signature graffiti or pamphlets at the scene, something they copied from A.L.L no less. I dug further into the ongoing gang conflicts between the Eastern and Southern slums, and a few months back, I stumbled upon reports of a skirmish between the Cliffnail forces and the Viper Valley Gang."
Adrian, intrigued, scratched his forehead as he processed this revelation. "Interesting. If your assessment is accurate, it adds up. Cliffnails might have been striving to establish a foothold in the Northern District, encircling both the Eastern slums and Viper Valley Gang."
Julian sank back into his armchair, his hand massaging his temples. "But it still doesn't explain how they acquired control of an orphanage. Did they coerce the police into vacating it? Would Niko take such a risk, confronting the Royal Department head-on?"
Adrian pondered the possibilities, arriving at a tentative conclusion. "It's more likely the first scenario. Niko wields considerable influence over the police; he could have simply ordered them to withdraw from the premises. Perhaps he claimed the orphanage as compensation for the damages incurred during the pogrom on his establishments and the subsequent lack of police support."
Julian added a note of caution. "It does make sense, Detective, but do recall the Chief-Inspector's words. All of Lady Juliana's letters, including those connecting the Zorkin orphanage homes to the Alderian Labor League, were confiscated by the Royal Department."
Adrian shook his head, his skepticism unwavering. "While I'm willing to concede that Cliffnail has considerable sway over the police, I find it difficult to believe that he possesses the means to influence the Royal Department. This complicates matters further."
"Unless the Royal Department is using him?" Artemia interjected, her voice carrying a note of insight after intently listening to their conversation.
Adrian and Julian turned their attention to her in near unison, curiosity etched across their faces.
Artemia rose gracefully from her seat and walked deliberately toward the bookcase, her fingers delicately tracing the bindings of the volumes. "Consider this," she began, "the Royal Department is currently at odds with the Alderian Labor League. It's only natural for them to seek out potential allies who share their disdain for the League."
Julian nodded thoughtfully. "That does make sense."
Adrian, however, bore a troubled expression. "Regardless of the Royal Department's intentions, it still leaves us in the dark regarding Tally and the children." Suddenly, his face transformed, his eyes widening with realization. He sprang from his seat, his urgency palpable. "I need to go to the Eastern slums!"
Artemia, taken aback by his abrupt change in demeanor, inquired, "Why the sudden urgency?"
Adrian stared at her with intensity. "There's a second Zorkin Orphanage home in the Eastern slums, exclusively for girls. I have to check on it to see if something's happened to those children as well. It might provide clues about the whereabouts of the others." He began readying his jacket and hat. Artemia watched him, understanding the gravity of his decision.
Julian chimed in with concern. "Are you certain this is a wise course of action, Adrian? It's late, and you don't know what you're walking into."
Adrian froze in place, contemplating his next move. "Where's your telephone?"
Julian, taken aback but cooperative, pointed toward the corridor where the phone was located. Adrian hastened toward it, his fingers swiftly dialing from memory. After several long rings, a male voice answered, somewhat suspicious. "Who is it?"
"It's Adrian."
"I thought you were kicked out. Why are you calling me?"
"I need your help. Urgently."
"I suppose I shouldn't mention that it would cost you?"
"Yes, yes," Adrian responded impatiently, "We need to meet. Tonight."
"Tonight? I'm afraid I can't for tonight."
"Don't test my patience, X, or I'll add another scar to your face."
After a brief pause, X conceded, "Fine, but mark my words, the day you become my end, I'll become yours. Meet at Satki Bridge in thirty." With that, he hung up.
Returning to the living room, Adrian found Julian and Artemia engaged in conversation. Both turned their inquiring gazes upon him. Julian inquired, "So what's the plan, boss?"
Adrian grinned at the notion of being referred to as the "boss." "I'm going to meet our informant in the Eastern slums, at Satki Bridge. I'll be going alone."
Artemia chuckled, her tone resolute. "Not a chance, bucko. You won't be driving Johan's car alone."
"Johan? Who's Johan?" Julian queried.
"Johnny Terenkin. I've found him," Adrian clarified, meeting Artemia's gaze. He shrugged off his jacket and declared, "It's time to go. Julian, try to figure out how we can arrange a meeting with Niko. We'll touch base tomorrow." Adrian moved toward the exit, but just as he was about to open the door, he turned back to Julian and nodded appreciatively. "Thank you for everything, partner."159Please respect copyright.PENANA7bDV9LRonI