Van Deloney: To My Dearest Emma [[BOOK ONE]]

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑿

DIABOLIC WALTZ UNDER THE CARTRIDGE

November 23, 1882

        AS CHARLOTTE stepped into the backstage space, a feeling of uncertainty washed over her. She could not help but feel perplexed by the unexpected encounter with Luciana Del Fiore she had recently shared with Lindice. A chill ran down her spine as she took in the surreal moment she was living. As she took time to process her current situation, an intense sense of anticipation began to grow within her, as though the stars were aligning to witness the unfolding of a remarkable event.

At that time, Luciana had already started making her way out of the backstage area, presumably in preparation to leave. Yet, her intention was momentarily interrupted by a vision she caught of two unfamiliar individuals intruding upon the area. In a show of surprise and concern, the woman exclaimed, "Who are you? Who permitted you access to this restricted area? Guards!" However, Charlotte had other plans. Without hesitation, she interjected, determined to prevent Luciana's call for help from coming to fruition.

"With all due respect madame, there is no reason for such an extreme measure! Let me elaborate, we have been dispatched to conduct a private investigation in this venue." Charlotte spoke with a tone of respect, while extending her arm in offering of a letter to Luciana. The woman was caught by surprise at the unexpected visit from the two investigators, making her wonder about the purpose of their sudden appearance. As she read the content of the letter, a look of sudden recognition could be seen on her face.

Dear Luciana,

It is my utmost pleasure that I hereby request your concern in allowing my dear children to engage a delight conversation with you concerning the assignment of a confidential enquiry under my behest.

Sincerely Yours,
Dorothea Grimoard

"My oh my? A private investigation, is it now?" Del Fiore spoke with sense of curiosity mixed with perplexity, while simultaneously glancing from the letter to the two investigators standing in front of her. "The Countess, eh? That would be Lady Dorothea Amelia Grimoard of Dovestone if I'm not mistaken? Oh, but whatever could she have to do with a place like this?" The woman asked, raising an eyebrow as she continued to ponder about the investigation of the private investigator's visit.

The duo consisting of Lindice and Charlotte diverted their gaze towards one another, before facing Luciana once more. With a straightforward approach, Lindice announce, "Our sole purpose for our presence here today is to investigate the demise of Mary Emmaline Dover Calestinia." The declaration was precise and to the point, with no room for doubt and confusion.

As she approached the mirror table to touch up her appearance, Luciana voiced her surprise towards Emmaline's tragic death, which had occurred several decades ago. "Emmaline, the celebrated ballerina of the Luxtonia? That was four decades ago if I remember correctly, wasn't?" The woman inquired, with a sense of surprise evident in her tone. Although the event in question had transpired many years ago, it seemingly remained an important part of Luciana's memory, prompting her curiosity towards the investigators' goal.

Charlotte directed her question towards the woman in front of her, with the intention of gathering more information regarding Mary Emmaline Dover Calestinia. "Do you have any knowledge pertaining to Emmaline?" She enquired, while applying red lipstick on her lips. "To be perfectly honest, I am familiar with the lady. However, I rarely conversed with her during the relevant occasions." Luciana responded, as she continued to look at her reflection in the mirror, busy with fixing her make-up.