When Treadwell next returned to his shop, there would be a sealed envelope waiting for him. Its dark red wax bore an imprint of the mark of House Aldred; a letter from his fellow Councilor, then.
[indent]To Aloisius Treadwell, Councilor of Administrative Sanctions:
Salve, Councilor Treadwell. Good health and fortune to you.
I will be brief, for I have many other matters to attend to ere the day is done.
You and I have met, but in passing -- we shared a table at a meeting in the seemingly distant past. I would change that. I invite you to dine with me at my estate, so that we may discuss any topic that interests us both.
Please send reply at your earliest convenience, Councilor.
Sincerely,
Aston Jylan Aldred
Lord of Aldred
Councilor of Defence & Civil Security[/indent]