Kingsley's Bride

Chapter 5 : Darius with a Sword

In the realm of medical practice, my days flowed with the steady rhythm of stethoscopes and thermometers. Amidst the sterile scent of disinfectants and the soft hum of medical equipment, I found myself immersed in the meticulous art of healing, under the guidance of Dr. Josephus Sinclair. Each day unfolded with new challenges and new techniques, as I delved into the science of concocting medicinal pills, learning methods that often bordered on alchemical.

One afternoon, as I was grinding herbs for a particularly intricate recipe, Dr. Sinclair's voice cut through the air like a beacon of intrigue.

"Scarlett," he said, adjusting his glasses, "have you ever heard of Edward Hughes?"

"Edward Hughes?" I repeated, looking up from my task. The name reverberated in my ears, striking a chord of curiosity.

"Aye," he nodded, a glimmer of respect in his eyes. "He's the finest detective this town has ever seen. A true master of deduction and analysis."

My curiosity piqued, I leaned in a bit closer.

"Tell me more."

Dr. Sinclair's lips curled into a knowing smile.

"Edward Hughes has a history that stretches back to the very corridors of power. He once held the title of a royal detective, employed directly by the king himself. His ability to solve even the most perplexing cases earned him the moniker of 'the Hound of the Empire'."

"Such accolades," I mused, "he must be truly remarkable."

The doctor's expression grew more serious. "Indeed. But his reign as a royal detective came to an abrupt end. His pursuit of truth became a threat to those who held secrets, and in the end, his official identity was snatched away by the government."

"That's unfortunate," I remarked, feeling a twinge of sympathy for the man.

"Yet, he did not abandon his calling," Dr. Sinclair continued.

"Edward continues his work as a private investigator, albeit with a hefty fee that only the wealthiest can afford. His abilities, they say, are worth every penny."

The notion of engaging Edward Hughes's services as a private detective seemed both enticing and daunting.

"His fee," I murmured, "it must be astronomical."

Dr. Sinclair nodded gravely. "Indeed, Scarlett. A fortune that few possess."

As I continued my tasks, my thoughts circled around the enigmatic detective. Meredith's image danced before me, a reminder of the stakes involved. I knew, in the depths of my being, that only Edward Hughes could untangle the web surrounding my sister's disappearance.

Days later, as I was about to broach the topic of Edward with Dr. Sinclair, he turned to me, his expression grave.

I could not shake off the relentless notion that Edward Hughes held the key to finding Meredith. But the reality of his financial demands left me conflicted and desperate. As I turned to my mentor, a question tumbled from my lips.

"Is there no way to bridge this gap, Dr. Sinclair?"

He regarded me with a knowing glint in his eyes. "There may be, Scarlett, but the path is not an easy one."

A surge of determination coursed through me.

"I'll find a way," I declared, my resolve firm. "For Meredith's sake."

Dr. Sinclair's smile was tinged with pride.

"Your spirit, Scarlett, is unwavering. Pursue your path, and may you find the answers you seek."