Chapter 102: Starry Villa
Abel followed Jet down Fifth Street, where cobblestones gleamed underfoot, flanked by homes in various stages of grandeur. These were houses for the elite of Reinhart, echoing the style of First Street but with fresh touches of their own. The air carried a mingled scent of cut wood and freshly hewn stone, punctuated by the rhythmic clang of hammers and low grunts from the workers. The street buzzed with the activity of artisans, carpenters, and stoneworkers, giving life to the row of lavish new homes, each hinting at opulence and tailored elegance.
As they walked, Jet pointed to houses in different stages of construction. Some structures boasted tall, wide windows framed with polished wood, while others showcased intricately carved stone facades. Jet, his voice steady and personable, greeted passing townsfolk with a nod or a smile, a gesture of familiarity and respect that was returned by those who recognized him as the mayor’s son. His calm voice cut through the noise as he asked, “So, what exactly are you looking for in a home, aside from, I imagine, having private spaces?”
Abel thought a moment, eyeing a nearby house with tall iron gates and ivy creeping along its stone wall. “A basement,” he began, turning his gaze back to Jet. “Somewhere I can work, study, and avoid disturbances—a place where I can manage my affairs in peace. Privacy is essential, along with enough space to be comfortable without feeling excessive. Spacious, but not flashy.”
Jet nodded, gesturing for Abel to follow as they approached the first villa. The building was grand yet reserved, constructed from dark-stained wood and accented with elaborate carvings that wrapped around its facade like a shadowy tapestry. The front gate, crafted from matching dark stone and wood, opened onto a gravel pathway that led up to an imposing front door. Abel admired the detailed craftsmanship, noting how the darker tones of the structure gave it a distinct air of mystery, almost like it was meant to keep secrets rather than reveal them. However, as he studied the property, he couldn’t ignore how close it stood to its neighboring villa—too close for his liking.
"Too close for comfort," Abel murmured, shaking his head with a faint smile.
Jet chuckled knowingly. "I figured you’d say that. You’ll have to decide quickly, though. Noble families from nearby towns are moving into Fifth Street fast. These two homes are the latest to become available, but if they’re not to your liking, it might be some time before others are ready."
Jet gestured subtly to the rows of similar estates in various stages of construction along the street, bustling with activity as carpenters and stonemasons worked. The newcomers brought commerce and influence, yes—but also new dynamics, which Jet’s father hoped Abel could monitor. “My father hopes that by staying on Fifth Street, you’ll have a safe vantage point and be able to keep an eye on things… in the mayor’s interests, of course,” Jet added with a meaningful glance.
Abel’s gaze narrowed. Being surrounded by noblemen was not particularly appealing. They were prideful, nosy, and more trouble than their titles were worth. But he caught Jet’s hint and knew this aligned with the task before him. If the mayor’s concern was security and vigilance, Abel could make that work.
They approached the second property, a villa that managed to be both grand and welcoming. Its exterior combined marble and light wood, the creamy white stone catching sunlight while the pale wood gave it a warm, grounded feel. Abel felt an immediate sense of calm. The massive windows illuminated the spacious interior, bathing it in natural light. In the living room, a stunning spherical skylight opened directly to the sky above, framing a perfect view of the stars when night came. Abel envisioned himself here, beneath that open sky, feeling connected to his ethereal affinity.
Outside, the garden extended into a private oasis bordered by thick, towering trees. The garden was adorned with soft yellow flowers, their fragrance filling the air. Despite being in the heart of Reinhart, the yard felt secluded, almost like a personal sanctuary removed from the bustle of town. Abel liked the feel of the smaller, more manageable space—only half the rooms of the previous house, allowing the garden to occupy a generous portion of the property.
Jet led him to the basement, which was unfinished and bare, a simple, wide room with cool stone walls. Abel ran his fingers along the rough stone, his mind racing with the possibilities for transforming the space into a hidden lab for his research.
“This one has potential,” he said, his tone final, though a subtle smile hinted at his satisfaction.
Jet grinned. “So, does this mean we’ve found the one?”
Abel nodded. "Yes. I’ll take it. I’ll call it… the Starry Villa.”
Jet beamed at the decision. "I’ll get the paperwork started at the mayor’s office and send over the staff we hired for the house. It’s a beautiful place, Abel."
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Abel’s smile widened slightly. "Thanks, Jet. I appreciate the help."
Jet nodded, making a note in his journal before continuing, "Oh, and before I forget—there’s been some information on that black market you were curious about."
Abel raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Jet handed him a small list of names, each with strange nicknames, and basic information on them. Jet then mentioned a bar near Maple and Second Street that might house people with useful information and at least some people of interest.
"Be wary of the Vander and Morman family," Jet added, his tone dropping. "The Vander family is a noble family that moved here a few years ago, and they’ve been gaining influence rather quickly. They may have some connections that could interfere with your goals. The same goes for the Mormon family, but they have been in Reinhart for as long as my Fuzon family. They have their own motives and might be trying to cause chaos in the town.
Abel took note, thanking Jet for the information. After a few more exchanges about the paperwork, Jet left to handle the formalities, and Abel made his way toward Maple Street, determined to learn more about the strange happenings and this black market.
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The bar on Maple Street was tucked between an apartment building and a few businesses. From the outside, it appeared cozy—wooden beams framing the entrance, with ivy creeping up the sides. Inside, the dim lighting and low hum of conversation created an intimate, comfortable atmosphere. The scent of wine lingered in the air, mixing with the scent of leather and wood.
The bartender, a gruff man with salt-and-pepper hair, greeted Abel as he took a seat at the bar.
"Evening," the bartender said, wiping a glass. "You from out of town?"
Abel nodded, putting on a polite smile. "Yes, just moved here recently. It’s a nice town—looking forward to settling in."
The bartender smirked. "Well, welcome. Word of advice—stay away from gray flowers. They can be pretty addictive if you’re not careful."
Abel had heard of gray flowers in passing, usually smoked by the younger people in town, it gave them a momentary high but it was quite addictive. Abel had no interest in such things but did wonder if it would affect an apostle the same way it did a mundane.
"Thanks for the tip," Abel replied with a nod. "What drink would you recommend?"
The bartender reached for a bottle of red wine. "This is produced in North Bask by a wealthy family that has been growing these grapes for many years—the technique is from the Central Region, though. You’ll taste the difference."
Abel accepted the glass, taking a sip of the deep red liquid. The taste was bold, with strong notes of plum and a sharp acidity that lingered on his palate. He enjoyed it, all while keeping his ears open. Abel’s heightened senses allowed him to catch snippets of conversation from the patrons nearby.
One man excitedly told his friends about a small bag of gray flowers he had bought, eager to enjoy them. Another man complained to his girlfriend about his new, rude neighbors from Pipa Village. But it was a strange riddle whispered between two figures at a nearby table that truly caught Abel’s attention.
One of the men obviously bigger than the other was wearing a hooded cloak over his cotton clothing, while the other simply looked like a normal civilian. Abel didn't gaze at them too long to avoid getting attention.
The bigger guys spoke first, “Tell me little brother, what did they tell you?”
“Towards Mareka, under the sand, lies the meeting of a lifetime, happening on the day after the Flower Dance,” the small man said quietly before murmuring a few more things to one another and then proceeding to get up and leave the bar together.
Abel froze for a moment. The name Mareka was one of the brightest stars in the sky, often visible in the northern hemisphere. But what puzzled Abel was the mention of sand. There were no deserts or areas with sand north of Reinhart. In addition, what was this Flower Dance that was mentioned? Abel had to ask Jet when he saw him again. He wanted to ask the bartender but decided against doing so as he wasn't sure about the significance of the Dance of Flowers and if it was a secretive thing.
Intrigued, Abel decided to follow the two men from a distance, keeping his pace slow and casual. They walked in silence, heading from Maple Street towards First Street, occasionally glancing around to ensure they weren’t being followed. Abel used his great senses to maintain a comfortable distance, keeping his presence hidden.
The two men eventually split off from one another, each going their separate ways. Abel chose to follow the smaller man who had taken a path toward Chestnut Street. The man didn’t seem in a hurry, walking calmly down the street until he reached a modest house. He entered, closing the door quietly behind him.
Abel walked by the house nonchalantly, taking note of its location. He was sure that this man could lead him to more answers regarding the black market and possibly even the strange happenings in Reinhart. But for now, he wouldn’t make any sudden moves. Patience was key.
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As Abel strolled back to his villa, his thoughts were consumed by the strange riddle. "Towards Mareka, under the sand…" he muttered to himself. The faint star he had focused on during his meditation earlier flashed in his mind. Could it be connected?
His gaze flickered to the sky as he neared his villa, the stars twinkling brightly above him. He knew there was more to this town than what met the eye, and his instincts told him that magic was just the tip of the iceberg. With the black market and the potential involvement of the Vander and Morman family, Abel was prepared for what lay ahead.
Returning to his villa, Abel reached for his badge and sent a message to his old companions and friends to see how they were fairing in their first days thus far. In addition, he sent greetings to the surrounding apostles too, Iron Knight, Flaming Iris, and Huntsman were the closest, so building a relationship with them now could prove to be helpful in the future. Besides, who knew what these families were planning, it was best to be well prepared.