After speaking to the city guard, Siyu felt like he could vaguely see where this story was going, so before seeing the Mayor, he decided he would look up an old acquaintance.
“Ah, Siyu. I’m glad to see you again.” The man says with a smile. This long-haired merchant was a man to whom Siyu had previously vouched for so that he could sell his wine to the bars and inns of the city of Starr. The wine wasn’t something he previously had a liking for, but he could see the appeal for it and recommended it to a few inns he was acquainted with. It wasn’t long before the popularity of the wine grew as did his liking for it. He was uncertain about the taste at first, but as he continued to drink it, his exploration of the light flavors also continued, and it eventually became his favorite drink.
“Roger, how are you?” Siyu asks with a smile. “You must offer me some wine while I’m here. Hopefully something with a more mature taste than what you offer in Starr city.” He says.
“Of course, of course; there will always be wine here for you to drink, but if you’re looking for deeper flavors I can give you the contact number of a friend of mine. As you know, the aim of our wine is light and soft, and I’m unsure if we can satisfy this particular palate.” Roger says courteously.
“Maybe next time. Today, I’m here for other matters.” Siyu says, changing the tone of the conversation. “I’m here to investigate the matter regarding the death of councilperson Seizi. If I’m not mistaken, you employed a small information gathering operation. I was hoping you would have information on a certain matter concerning this case.” He says.
Roger gives Siyu a bitter smile as he says, “I guess nothing gets past the Don of Turtle Shell Inn.” Roger had never told Siyu of this matter, but he seems to have simply accepted it as Siyu's reputation was associated with this sort of thing. “Come into my office.” He says.
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“This matter is not hard to look up as councilperson Seizi did not try too hard to conceal it. Before his mysterious death, councilperson Seizi had been having an affair with a woman named Sharonah, which isn’t unusual as he does this once every few months. But unlike this case, the situation usually ends harmoniously. Councilperson Seizi has his fun, and after being wined and dined for a few months, the woman usually leaves happily; with a large sum of gold of course.” Roger says with a chuckle. “As for why this particular matter ended in such an ugly manner, we don’t know. Do you think this is connected with those other murders?” Roger asks with curiosity.
“These five people are connected in some way; as for how, I’m not entirely sure. As for this matter regarding councilperson Seizi and this woman named Sharonah… I’m not sure if it’s relevant.” Siyu says with a pondering look. “Anyways, I appreciate the information. If you could send a few crates of wine to the Turtle Shell Inn, I’d appreciate it; you know, the usual. Just tell Freya I asked for it.” Siyu says, moving to shake Roger’s hand.
Roger laughs. “Of course, sir Siyu. I wish you luck on your investigation.” He says.
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“Any luck?” Count Crey asks from behind his desk.
“We are getting closer, sir,” Siyu says with a bow.
“Ah, don’t try too hard. I’m not expecting much. Divination is our last resort, but if it bears no fruit; at least I won’t be taking the blame.” Count Crey says with a light laugh. “I called you here for a different matter. I’m trying to arrange a marriage for my son and the daughter of a merchant that he fancies; but the girl doesn’t seem to be very accepting of the matter. Do you have any advice?” Count Crey asks in a relaxed manner.
Siyu lets out a laugh lightly. “If I advise on such a matter, wouldn’t it cheapen the experience, sir?” He ask with a smile.
“Ah, I guess you’re right.” Count Crey says with a sigh. “Alright. As for the other issue, if this matter isn’t solved within a week, I’m closing the case. Report to me when it’s solved; otherwise, there’s no need to go any further. And before you go, could you hand this off to the messenger waiting outside? He knows what he should do.” Count Frey requests as he hands Siyu an envelope.
Siyu grabs the envelope and heads out of the office. After leaving he sees that it’s the same messenger he first saw when he arrived in the city of Coin.
Siyu approaches the young man and hands him the letter. “Count Crey asked me to give this to you,” He says, quietly observing the man.
“Thank you.” He says, receiving the letter.
As he turns to leave, Siyu pats down on the man's shoulder. “Wait a moment.” He says.
The young man turns back around and says with a raised eyebrow. “Yes, sir? Is there something else you need?” He asks.
Siyu looks the young man in the eyes but finds nothing. “Do you work for the city?” He asks, hoping to learn something.
“No, sir. I work for a private company. We have runners throughout the city and are also involved with package deliveries.” The young man explains. “If you require our services, our office is not far from here.” He says.
As the young man speaks, something clicks in Siyu's mind. He looks at the young man and says with a smile, “Bring me there.”