* * *
Reaction was not long in coming. Her father came in from his office while she was still at breakfast, two days later.
“Aleria, you have received an official document.”
“I have?” She reached out. It was an envelope of heavy, cream-coloured paper. She glanced at the seal.
“The Office of the Royal Aribiter?” She used her dagger to break the seal, slipped out the document and scanned it. “Hmm. It seems I am invited to the Arbiter’s office to help the police in their investigation of an assault on two young gentlemen of the Esteemed Class.” She glanced at her father. “I wonder what kind of story they told.” She frowned. “I wonder how they knew it was me. I’ve never seen either of them before.”
Her father shook his head. “I’m afraid a lot of people know who you are, Aleria. In all sections of town.”
“What kind of ‘invitation’ is this, father?”
“The kind you had better not decline. When are we going?”
“Are you coming with me? Stupid question. Of course you are.” She glanced at the paper. “Tomorrow mid-morning. I’m allowed counsel, it says.”
“Perhaps Master Ogima would like to know about the situation.”
“I’ll send him a message. I have to anyway. I’ll be missing Weapons practice.”