Don Featherington Featherington leads Kareem through guarded gates into a receiving room at his estate. The Palace Messenger and Imperial Guard Captain remain at the imperial hall, preserving the ruling’s records and protections.
Ledgers, ward maps, and sealed petitions cover a broad table beneath hanging lamps. Two family crests appear repeatedly beside contracts promising water only after public representation is abandoned.
Don Featherington
We got a serious problem, pal. Two powerful estate families put a killing contract on your head to stop the water reform and the lower districts speaking freely.
Don Featherington sets one sealed petition beside a marked route map, his cigar ember glowing as his usual theatrical confidence gives way to measured concern.
Don Featherington
I can send trusted guys to intercept whoever comes looking. Or I accompany you straight to the families’ heads, and we ask who signed the order.
Don Featherington
But hear me, Kareem. The attackers and the officials pushing those coercive contracts may be connected. This could run deeper than two rich families throwing a tantrum.
Beyond the shuttered windows, estate bells mark the quiet hour. The maps, petitions, and unopened seals wait across the table, while Don Featherington leaves the choice before Kareem.