45. Arcady: Promises Kept
Summary
- Arcady returns to Kelwyn, the dealer, alarmed at the thought of him betraying her by stealing the wraithwright (a valuable coin) with another character, Larkin. She makes him sign a binding, magical confession written on parchment where the words turn to literal pain if the signer lies.
- Kelwyn admits he doesn't know where Larkin is and confesses that he suspected Dwell, who was murdered right in front of him, was the potential buyer of the claw relic. Kelwyn voice his remorse for running away during the ordeal.
- Arcady forces Kelwyn to complete the confession by adding her fake surname, Dalca. Once Kelwyn signs it using his magical abilities, Arcady breaks the spell by throwing the parchment into the fire, freeing him from his promise.
- Arcady returns to her place and discovers that her money and jewelry are still there but all her safes have been opened and a pile of wraithwright coins, much less than what she was owed, was left for her.
- She finds a note from Larkin, who confesses to taking out insurance by stealing Arcady's old seal which could potentially be traced back to her. Arcady, distraught from the betrayal of Larkin as well as Everen, decides to leave her haven.
- Knowing Larkin could easily bypass her wards, she packs her belongings, sets the wards for a few more months and leaves, expressing appreciation to her former dwelling before locking the door.
- Returning to Kelwyn's, she finds a wraithwright coin left on his windowsill with a lark drawing. Depressingly optimistic, she decides to start anew with her little money, magic and hopes to uncover the truth about the first Strike by the time the school year starts.