The Alchemist in the Shadows

4

Having been warned by Marciac that Rochefort — which amounted to saying Cardinal Richelieu —

was seeking to lay hands on his daughter, La Fargue had kept his fear firmly in check. But once night had fallen he retired to his bedchamber, carefully locked his door and used the flame he had brought to light some candles, filling the room with a red and amber glow.

He took out a small key which he always kept on his person and used it to open a case tucked away among his clothing, removing a silver mirror which he placed on a table in front of him. That done, he gathered his spirit, keeping eyes closed, and in a low voice uttered ancient words in a language that had not been invented by men.

The surface of the precious mirror rippled, like a pool of mercury stirred by a breeze. It ceased to send back the reflection of a tired old gentleman, replacing it with the image of the one answering his call. The mirror did not lie. It revealed the true nature of those who used it and, in this case, revealed the slightly translucent head of a white dragon.

Such was the nature of La Fargue's contact.

But what did the dragon see, when it looked back at La Fargue ?

'I need to meet with one of the Seven,' said the captain of the Blades.

'Impossible,' replied the dragon. 'It's too dangerous.'

'Do whatever is necessary.'

'No.'

'No later than three nights from now.'

'Or else what?'

'No later than three nights from now. In the usual time and place.'