Obsidian Dagger Secrets

Chapter 7: A Family Feud

The storm outside had intensified, the rain drumming against the windows of Montague Manor like a relentless crescendo. 

Detective Aidan Blackwood, accompanied by Constable Harris, was drawn further into the intricate web of family secrets as they delved into the history of the Montague family, specifically the strained relationship between Edgar Montague and his estranged son, Nathaniel.

In the grand study of the manor, where the eerie silence was occasionally interrupted by distant thunder, Blackwood and Harris had gathered the remaining family members: Amelia Montague, Henry, and Jonathan, Edgar's estranged brother. The family's faces revealed a mix of apprehension and curiosity as they awaited the detective's questions.

Blackwood began, his voice measured. "It's come to my attention that Nathaniel Montague, your estranged son, had recently reconnected with his father, Mr. Edgar Montague. Can you provide insights into the nature of their relationship and the circumstances of their reconciliation?"

Amelia Montague, her face etched with sorrow, spoke first. "Nathaniel and his father had been estranged for years. They disagreed on many matters, particularly regarding our family's financial situation. But recently, Nathaniel had reached out to Edgar, expressing a desire to mend their relationship."

Jonathan, the estranged brother, interjected, his tone tinged with skepticism. "I was aware of Nathaniel's return, and I must admit, I found it peculiar. He had always been at odds with our family's decisions, especially when it came to the estate's finances."

Blackwood's curiosity was piqued. 

"Do you think, Mr. Jonathan Montague, that Nathaniel's return and the family's disagreements could have escalated into a situation where harm was intended?"

Jonathan's eyes held a trace of doubt. "It's difficult to say, Detective. Our disagreements were heated, but I wouldn't have thought it would lead to violence."

Amelia Montague added, her voice filled with sorrow, "Nathaniel was troubled, Detective. He faced financial difficulties and had been desperate for a fresh start. I had hoped that his return would bring reconciliation, not tragedy."

The detective's mind was a whirlwind of theories and possibilities. The family's history of disputes and the recent reconciliation with Nathaniel painted a complex picture, one in which old grudges and financial troubles could have escalated into a deadly confrontation.

Blackwood decided to delve deeper into Nathaniel's recent activities and interactions with his father. 

"I need to know more about Nathaniel's actions and whereabouts in the days leading up to his father's death. Can any of you provide information about his movements during that time?"

Henry, the young son, hesitated before answering, 

"Nathaniel had been staying in a nearby town, and he visited us at Montague Manor a few times. He and Father seemed to be working on mending their relationship, but I didn't know the details of their discussions."

As the rain outside showed no signs of relenting, Blackwood knew that they had only scratched the surface of the Montague family's secrets. 

The estranged son's return, the history of family disputes, and the recent reconciliation were all pieces of a puzzle that needed to be fitted together.