Page 90 of Arcane Entanglement

Does that mean Millbrook knew he was in danger and had his family go into hiding?!

“Millbrook’s family might be able to tell us who Rosa is and what this key opens.” Evander turned to Rufus. “We should send a message toNightshade. Viggo and his people can help us track them down.”

Rufus nodded reluctantly. “I’ll get Fitch onto it.”

It was late afternoon by the time they finished checking the workshop for further clues and finding none. Bartley was snoring softly where he leaned against the wall when they exited the building.

The constable woke up with a guilty start when Rufus shut the door sharply.

“It’s a good thing we weren’t attacked by dark mages, Bartley,” the inspector said sourly.

“I’m sorry, sir,” the constable mumbled, cheeks growing a more ruddy colour than usual. “My ma says I have the constitution of a sloth.”

“Why don’t you two take the evidence back to Scotland Yard before you sign off for the day?” Evander suggested to Shaw and Rufus. “We should give that cylinder and the key to the Artificers to analyse.”

Rufus frowned. “Won’t Graham be waiting for you at the Met?”

“I told him I wish to walk home today.”

“Alright,” the inspector said reluctantly. “Be careful.”

Chapter37

The setting sunwas painting colourful streaks across the sky as Evander set off towards Mayfair. The streets grew busier, the shadows lengthening as people hurried home from work while others ventured out for evening entertainments.

He almost missed the figure that detached itself from an alley when he passed Piccadilly Circus and entered Regent Street, so engrossed was he in his thoughts.

The man moved with purposeful stealth towards him.

Magic coiled beneath Evander’s skin. Though he was reluctant to showcase his powers in the middle of one of London’s most glamorous shopping districts, he would defend himself if he had to.

A familiar voice reached his ears before he could act.

“Fancy seeing you here, your Grace.”

Evander’s shoulders loosened at the sight of Solomon.

“Mr. Barden,” he acknowledged with a smidgen of caution. “I wasn’t expecting company.”

“Please, call me Sly. I owe you that much after what you did yesterday.”

“Alright.” Evander met the thrall’s gaze steadily. “And you can address me as Evander.”

Solomon grimaced. “How about we take it one day at a time?”

They fell into step.

“Why are you here?” Evander said curiously. “You can’t have found Millbrook’s family already.”

“Viggo thought it would be prudent to keep an eye on things, given recent events.”

Evander’s eyes widened. “He sent you to guard me?”

Solomon sighed. “I know. You, the Archmage, being protected by me, a thrall. I told him it was ridiculous, but he was having none of it.”

Evander found himself suppressing a foolish smile. He forced himself to focus on the business at hand.

“HasNightshadeuncovered anything about the city’s dark mage problem?”