July, Saturday 5th, 1961, 08:02. Wetborough, North Georgina Kingdom, United Countries of Faeldris.

I was waiting at the train station to head my way to Springtrove. I needed to go there and do some digging myself. Grinkle was only willing to take some scrying stills and some observations on Grizzlebats. He didn’t want to be caught digging through paperwork and other things that might cause him to have a paper trail for the wizard to follow. I’d need to do that digging myself.

I straightened my clothes and loosened my tie a little. The oppressive heat of the south permeated the air with a dense muginess that wouldn’t let my sweat be slicked off into the wind. I sat as my hard leather shoes were worked to a shine at the stall nearby the boarding platform. My ironed slacks with their sharp pleats that could practically cut your finger hung from my hidden suspenders. The dry cleaner might have used too much starch though as the whole ensemble was stiff and itchy.

Setting down my small suitcase I lit my cigarette and looked at my ticket. The arrival time will be shortly after 10am. I couldn’t call ahead of time to get a hold of anyone of importance and would need to introduce myself. I talked to my boss and senior partner Mandrake about my desire to track down and see where this trail led me. Who knows if this could be the perfect first case in my career. I’d need to ingratiate myself into the community so that they would talk to me and I could dig into what the Tinglepots had said.

The chugging of the magi train sounded down the tracks. Large gems were decorated around a brass cylinder. Filled with fire spirits to heat up the water tank inside it, pressurizing the system. A marvel in gnomish abilities to mix technology and magic to achieve clean energy. I had been tempted to take my auto car but I didn’t want to push its old body beyond its ability. I hadn’t made much money as my internship had just ended and I needed to make it big with my first case.

I waited as people unloaded from the train and the place was filled with chatter of everyone that was making their way to one of the biggest cities in North Georgina. I approached and the Orc conductor stopped me with a hand. His tusked smile was warm as he towered two heads taller than me. “Ticket good sir.”

I handed my ticket as I looked the massive man up and down. His brass buttoned coat and tailored hat made him look so professional and I could feel the enchantments on it radiating magic into the air. I looked at the intricate rune threads and could see quickly why he wasn’t sweating his balls off. Cooling enchantments and those of wakefulness lined the jacket and pants. His feet were bare though, thick calloused soles and clawed toes in the standard Orc style.

“I’m sorry sir but you’re in the non-smoking section of the train. I’ll need you to put out your cigarette before you board. You have five minutes if you would like to finish.” The conductor punched my ticket and handed it back to me.

“No problem,” I bent down and snuffed out my smoke on the floor and tucked it back in the pack for later. Standing up with my suitcase in hand, “Is there a cooling enchantment in this compartment? I didn’t see if it had that luxury.”

“You’ll find yourself very comfortable sir. The seats are stuffed with phoenix down feathers and the enchantments are at full capacity. Enjoy your ride.” He stood aside and I walked into the train.

The train car I was in had great cushioned booths with tables in between them. Great velvet cushions lined the seats and back. Silver runes lined the ceilings and I could feel the air become almost chilly from the precious magic. I took an empty seat and stretched my legs out in the luxurious leg room. I slipped off my jacket and folded it next to me. The heat from the outside completely dispelled and I felt the sweat on my brow disappear.

The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

I watched as several more people boarded the train. All of them of different races and sizes. Most of them were in nicer clothes and they filtered into the various booths. As they filed past I noticed one beautiful elven woman looking around for somewhere to sit.

Her hair was spun golden silk, with full emerald orbs for eyes. She must’ve been much closer to the Fae heritage that elves came from. My gut told me she had a parent that was full Fae. She was tall and lithe with a modest chest barely visible under her blouse. Her long legs ended in elegant heels that made her calves flex into an attractive shape.

I sat up and smoothed my clothes, cleared my throat, and called out, “Miss I’d be honored if you sat with me.” I lifted a hand and motioned towards the chair opposite me.

Her smile was like sunshine after a rainy day. Pearly white pristine teeth shined as she sat demurely across from me. With a voice as smooth as aged brandy flowing into the air she spoke, “Thank you. I appreciate the generosity.”

I reached out and offered my hand, “John Smith, a pleasure to meet you.”

She draped her hand into mine as I held it for a brief moment. I took note of the lack of a ring on her finger, “Tulip Everpetal, pleasure is all mine.”

Retracting my hand I idly tapped my fingers on the tabletop “How far are you headed on the rails?”

“Oh I’m just headed home to Springtrove. I was here on business and have quite a lot to look forward to when I return.” Tulip’s perfect face was what soldiers fought for. I swallowed my nerves.

“What a coincidence I’m headed to Springtrove myself. Mostly for business but maybe a spot of pleasure,” I winked at her and she blushed prettily.

“What’re you doing heading to my hometown?” She placed her purse next to her hip and took out a chocolate bar. “Would you like to split?”

“I would love a small piece of chocolate, if you don’t mind. I’m a lawyer, I was looking into something that might lead to a case for me to work. You might be able to give me some insight.” She placed a small chunk of the delicious treat into my hand and I popped it into my mouth and let it melt across my tongue. I closed my eyes as I swirled it for a moment to enjoy this fine delicacy.

“A lawyer, I didn’t think there was anything of worry in Springtrove, I hope I won’t be prying but why don’t you elucidate on your business.” Her eyes sparkled and burned with curiosity.

“I can’t tell you who but someone came to my office and told me that you have a new man in town that has been snatching up businesses and making a small mess of the place, breaking promises. I just want to look into it and see if it is worth my time.” A part of me itched to finish my cigarette but the train whistle blew and the whole thing lurched underneath us.

Tulip smirked with mischief in her eyes, “Oh really. Sounds intriguing, who do you plan to talk to about it? I mean, I have know idea where you would start.” She placed a piece of chocolate into her mouth and her moan of pleasure gave me ideas a gentleman shouldn’t have. She tucked it away though leaving more than half the bar for later.

“Well, most of my work is in paper trails. Finding clues that might point to foul play. I’ll need to talk to the mayor and get some access to files. Maybe even look into the treasury. Might have to wine and dine a few people,” I stroked my chin as I thought. “If I find anything that is suspicious I’ll have to talk to the judge that presides over the city too. See if I can get a warrant for some more private records.”

She pouted prettily as she looked at me, “Oh I thought it would be something more exciting. You always hear on the radio dramas of such drastic things that happen.”

“Not everything can be like that, however, if you ever want some company to listen with, I do love a drama.” I gave her my best winning smile hoping my flirting was going well.

A waiter dropped by and handed out small menus, “We have a fine breakfast on offer and would like to extend you an offer for something to dine on this morning.”

“I’ll cover this young ladies bill,” I addressed the young man and then looked at Tulip, “A gentleman should always treat a lady.”

“I’ll have the eggs benedict, with some link sausage on the side.” She hardly scanned the menu and I had the feeling she was on this train a lot.

“I’ll have the same, and some orange juice to wash it down.”

Tulip smiled at me and propped her chin on one hand looking at me. “Such a gentleman. What were we talking about?”

I smirked and pulled a card out of my pocket. “I was giving you my number if you ever wanted some company for a late night radio drama.” I slid it across the table. She put her hand over mine and warmth radiated through my chest at the contact. She slid the card out from under my hand and looked at it.

“Well, best I don’t lead you on anymore. You said you wanted to talk to the mayor of Springtrove. Well, here I am. Wine and dine me.” She winked as she leaned back and crossed her arms. The flirtatious atmosphere melted away and her face turned firm.

Shit.