As Vyce studies the matching blue grit, a loose floorboard shifts beneath the mayor's desk. An oilcloth-wrapped purse lies in the hollow, its seal stamped with the mayor's household mark.
The office door opens before anyone can reach it. A pale, rain-streaked middle-aged man steps inside, clutching a soaked ledger beneath one arm, his narrow face sharpened by suspicion.
Seldo Rusk
Do not touch that purse. It was stolen from me this morning.
The mayor rises so quickly her chair scrapes the floor. Tovin shifts beside Vyce, placing himself between the desk and the newcomer without reaching for a weapon.
The Mayor
Seldo Rusk. You entered my office uninvited, and now claim my household seal marks your property?
Tovin
That purse was hidden beneath Marra's desk. If it belonged to you, why was it under her floorboards?
Seldo Rusk
Because someone wanted suspicion pointed at the assessor. I came for evidence, not an argument. Hand it over, and this can remain orderly.
Secure the sealed purse