By the time the delegation was formally received, dusk had fallen, yet the city was as bright as day.
Magic stone lamps traced a curve along the main street, stretching toward the administrative district's tower.
Sorel was led into the administrative headquarters.
The heavy door opened with a gentle push, without so much as a creak from its hinges.
Waiting for him at the entrance was a gray-haired, impeccably dressed old man-Bradley.
The old man in charge of Red Tide City's administrative center carried himself with a composure utterly out of place in the Northern Frontier.
Bradley bowed slightly, neither servile nor arrogant. "Welcome, Lord Sorel."
Sorel noticed that every gesture was perfectly measured, yet lacked the flattery nobles usually offered an envoy of the Royal Family.
He unconsciously straightened his back. "Might I ask where Earl Louis Calvin is? I have important matters to discuss with him in person."
Bradley maintained his gentle yet distant manner. "The Earl is inspecting the new mineral deposits and glacial shipping routes. His return date is uncertain, but it should take roughly ten to fifteen days."
Sorel froze for half a second, instinctively searching the other man's face for some sign of deliberate obstruction. He found none.
He sneered inwardly. Hmph. Wearing me down.
After years in diplomacy, he recognized this classic show of dominance immediately: no audience, no refusal, no explanation.
Want to talk? Then wait.
But Sorel did not lose his temper. With the roads blocked by snowstorms, he had never intended to leave within ten days anyway. His original plan had been to remain in Red Tide City until spring.
Sorel smiled and expressed his understanding. "Excellent. I can use this opportunity to appreciate the splendor of the Northern Frontier's pearl."
"Of course." Bradley nodded slightly, his voice steady. "Aside