Journals and Diaries
Chapter 2
-Part 1
"Whenever I see a trail of blood, I can't help myself but wanting to see where it ends... and how it started. You can say it's a... hobby of mine." -Jack
The train shook lightly as it made its journey through the mountain range. The heavy rain pattered against the window making small chattering sounds. A lightning flashed outside followed by a loud thunder seconds later, jolting awake a sleeping Jack.
Jack sat up from the sudden noise accidently knocking a brown plaid patterned newsboy hat onto the ground. He groaned, bending down to retrieve the fallen item and placed it on his lap. Running a hand through his hair, yawning, Jack took a peek through the glass, the sky was gloomy and dark, lightning in the distance lit up the cloud intimidatingly.
The rain had been relentless in the past week, Jack wasn't superstitious, but he couldn't help but feel as if it was some sort of a bad premonition. When his father died, the weather was the same.
Reaching inside his long brown coat, Jack pulled out a handgun, observing it for what seemed to be the hundredth time.
A short barrel six-shooter, DW-series, compact and comfortable, easy to conceal. Even easier to pull the trigger. It had special floral patterns along the barrel and the letters J.O.F. engraved at the bottom of the handle, a custom design.
Jack opened the gun's cartridge, popping it to the side. His fingers ran on the back of the six bronze bullets inside the container. He spun it around before putting it back in and tucked the gun in his back pocket.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we will be arriving in Arensten in approximately 20 minutes. Passengers please check your belongings and make sure nothing personals are left behind. Thank you." The speaker in Jack's cabin went live, announcing that he was close to his destination after the lengthy 8 hour trip.
Jack sighed with relief, being on a train for hours was not exciting to say the least. Even as the seats were starting to feel harder as time went on, forcing him to switch with the empty seat across the cabin every once in a while. Digging in his favorite blue vest's breast pocket, he fished out a pocket watch.
Jack flipped open the silver lid, showing a clock with Roman Numerals. Its hands telling him the current time.
11:26
Inside the watch's lid contained a small black and white picture. Jack's 17th birthday, and that was 9 years ago. It showed his younger self and 3 other people. A short little girl perched on his shoulders, a woman stood by his left side, and a man to his right. They were all smiling, happy, with little care in the world.
Jack sighed and looked back to the clock.
11:29
He closed the lid, his eyes looked around the cabin as he hummed an old tune his mother used to sing when he was little.
11:35
Picking up his thin and black wooden walking stick, he twirled it a few times expertly. A gift from a friend 3 years ago.
11:38
Jack stood up to reach the overhead compartment, he pulled out a luggage with bronze trims. Unhooking the latches, he opened it, checking the inside contents. His clothes, spare bullets, and a small sized, paper wrapped box labeled Delivery T-13. Nothing seemed to be missing.
11:44
Looking out at the window, through the harsh rain, Jack could see the train station getting closer. He closed the luggage's hatch, put on the newsboy hat, preparing himself for the arrival to Arensten.
11:47
The train had stopped.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we have now arrived at Queen Eli Station, Arensten. Please check your belongings once more before stepping off. Thank you, and have a nice evening."
Jack held the luggage with one hand with his cane under the arm. The other occupied with a traveling black umbrella. He went out of his compartment, making his exit off the train and onto the station's cobblestone platform along with many other passengers.
Leaving Queen Eli Station, Jack opened the umbrella, rejecting the rain from soaking his clothes. It was dark out, the street lights gloomed over his head in different directions. He would have to start finding his contact tomorrow. He walked to the edge of the street and raised a hand signaling for a cab service.
A brown and gold stripe flat-box shape automobile stopped in front of him, its headlights reflected against the falling rain. Hand holding the door handle, Jack pulled it and entered the vehicle. Sitting down onto the leather seat, the driver looked through the rear view mirror at his direction.
"Where to, sir?" The driver asked in an accent that Jack assumed to be local. His hair was blond and he was wearing a brown driver's cap.
"I'm new here, and I'm looking for a place to stay, may I get a suggestion?" Jack spoke, folding his umbrella.
"Hmm, let's see, there's certainly a couple of places here, are you looking for a specific area or price range, sir?" The driver gave a thought.
"Just something average for a traveler like me," Jack chuckled, fishing out a piece of paper from his pocket, he read its written content. "Anywhere in the Northern District that's reasonable?"
"Hmm, I know a place there called Rockbell's, it's a small inn, but nice people, and they don't overcharge travelers." The driver answered.
"That sounds good, take me there," Jack sighed, leaning back to the seat. The car rumbled as the driver took it back to the street. Jack sat still closing his eyes as he listened to the rain pounding on the roof.
"So where are you from, sir?" The driver asked as he drove.
"I'm from Burgington, and call me Jack," Jack answered. "You?"
"I was born here, from the Southern District actually, came up here looking for work, and I'm Kristoff," The driver named Kristoff addressed himself. "So what brings you to Arensten?"
"Well...I'm running a short errand for someone here, just stopping by before going to Berkham," Jack said.
"Ah, have you ever been to Coronan? I heard it's really beautiful there," Kristoff asked.
"Hmm, once, though it was during the summer, it was ridiculously hot," Jack whistled. "But the beach was nice."
"Were you swimming or staring?" Kristoff snickered, turning at a corner.
"Both, but more so on the latter, couldn't help myself," Jack laughed a little.
"Well, we are men, can't blame you for that," Kristoff chuckled, agreeing with him. The car turned around several corners, Jack saw different types of signs hanged throughout the street. Most were off due to late night, with the exceptions of 24h stores and inns or hotels. The cab pulled up in front of a building that said 'Rockbell's' at the front. "Well, here we are."
"Thanks for the ride," Jack thanked Kristoff, unlocking the door and stepped out, reopening the umbrella. "So how much is it?"
"That'll be 350 Frenz," Kristoff said.
"Alright," Jack reached inside his vest for a little pouch and pulled out a few silver coins engraved with intricate designs. He gave them to Kristoff who accepted happily. "Well, have a good night."
"Same to you as well, hope you have a good time here in Arensten." Kristoff waved a goodbye before driving off.
Jack gave a long yawn, looking at the inn's entrance and walked in to lend himself a room for the night. Entering the building, he noticed that the floor was coated with matte burgundy wood, different types of artworks hanged along the walls. A few light bulbs shone within the room and a small lit fireplace sat in the middle along with a couple of empty four-seat tables; it gave off a very friendly and cozy feel. Walking up to the counter situated to the side, he saw an asleep young girl with a cup of coffee in her hand, Jack tapped the desk bell.
Ding!
The desk girl woke up by the sound of the bell. Jack saw that she had dark blonde hair pulled into a ponytail and looked to be still in her teenage years, wearing formal buttoned up grey clothes. She blinked away the drowsiness and looked at him almost questioningly.
"Uh, I'd like a room please," Jack spoke first, planting his arm on the counter.
"Um sure, excuse me sir, please hold on for a second," the girl fumbled around to grab a black skinny pen with a sharp tip, she dipped it in ink and opened a large book filled with rows and columns. "May I get your name, sir?"
Jack pulled down his hat to scratch his hair, he looked back up at the receptionist. "Jackson Overland."
"Okay then Mister Jackson Overla-" when the girl looked at him, she gasped at the sight of him. She dropped her pen midway through writing his name. "You-you're the famous de-detective Jack Frost!"
Jack chuckled as he ran a hand through his hair, putting his cap back on he put a finger to his mouth giving the universal signal for quiet. "Maybe out there in the city, but here, it's Jackson Overland, alright?"
"Ah, ah okay, sir," the young receptionist flushed, hastily picking up the pen and finished writing his name.
"Thank you," Jack gave her a grin and paid her the necessary amount for staying the night.
"Ahem," the girl said shyly, reaching down behind a counter, she pulled out a newspaper. Turning on its pages, she showed him a black and white picture of someone next to an article that said 'The Case of the Decade: Dissolved'. Jack noticed that it was him, he groaned inwardly, from the angle that it was taken, it must have been a sneak photograph. Jack didn't enjoy the fame much and would try to avoid publicity, but about 2 times, someone had managed to capture a picture of him after a large case. He didn't think that he had fans.
"Cou-could you sign this for me? I-I mean, my little bro-brother admires you a lot, so it's uh, for him," the young receptionist stammered, cheeks flushed, fingers shakily holding the pen.
Jack sighed, he calmly took the dip pen and chuckled. "Alright then, for your 'brother'. Happiness is the greatest gift of all," Jack spoke as he swiftly wrote on the empty space of the newspaper, he glanced at the receptionist's nametag and grinned. "Aurelia."
The said girl named Aurelia flushed as she fiddled with her nametag, once Jack was done, she gingerly accepted his autograph. Jack smiled at how happy the girl was, he supposed doing something like this once in awhile wasn't so bad.
"So, could you show me my room now?" Jack asked.
"Oh right, I'm sorry, right this way sir," Aurelia hurriedly closed the check-in book, leaving the counter she led him to the wooden stairs. "Here, let me carry your stuff, sir."
"It's okay, just show me my room," Jack denied her offer, shaking his head. "Just lead the way."
"Ah okay, sir," Aurelia retreated her hands.
"No need for formalities, you can call me Jack," Jack said, dangling his cane back and forth.
"Um, sure, Mister Jackson," Aurelia replied respectfully.
"No, just Jack."
"Mister Jackson."
"Just...Jack."
"But Mister-"
"Jack, say it, just Jack."
"Ja-"
"That's it."
"Mister Jackson."
"Oh just forget it," Jack palmed his forehead, which elicited a giggle from the young receptionist.
"Well, here is your room, sir," Aurelia opened a wooden with the number 8 engraved on it.
"Thank you," Jack walked into his room. It was a simple room including a single bed, an end table, a small working desk and a few simple appliances. The window next to the bed with its curtains parted showing the street outside.
"If you require any assistance or have any questions, please come down to the front desk and either me or someone else will help. Also, breakfast is served downstairs everyday." Aurelia spoke, hands in front of her in a formal manner. "I hope you have a nice stay."
"Thank you for the hospitality," Jack nodded and smiled. "Have a good night."
The receptionist's cheeks pinked a little before excusing herself and went back down.
Jack gave a yawn as he closed the door behind him. Dropping the luggage onto the ground and stripping the excessive clothes off, wearing only a long pants and long-sleeved shirt, Jack went into the small bathroom. Pulling the curtains out of their ties causing them to cover the window, he flopped onto the bed and switched off the night lamp, engulfing the room in darkness, save for a soft light casted by the moon.
"Sir and mister...why do I feel so old?"
…
Fixing the hat on his head with one hand, the other holding the umbrella. The rain had lessened greatly compared to the day before. Jack glanced at his pocket watch, it was already noon, now he had to find his destination. As he walked, Jack twirled the cane in circle while whistling a jaunty tune. The street was in the busy hour, people and cars swarmed his vision everywhere he looked.
Jack went to a convenience store to purchase a map of Arensten to keep himself from getting lost. Checking the address from a slip of paper, he headed north, through the busied market.
As a certain rather large building came into view, in fact, the entire road was surrounded by large households. Checking for the correct number, Jack went up to a door step. Hesitantly, he pressed on the doorbell.
Buzzzz!
The sound stopped when Jack released his finger from the button. Tapping his foot patiently as he waited, listening to the sound of rain falls and pedestrians from behind. At hearing the door lock turned, Jack took a small step back, waiting for the person to open the door fully. A lock of strawberry-blonde hair was the first thing that Jack saw once the door started opening. A young girl's head peaked out staring at him. She had blue eyes, freckles adorned her curious expression as she stared at him, 2 braids hanged over either side of her shoulders.
"Hello?" The girl asked him, hands on the doorframe.
"Uh hello, my name is Jackson Overland, and is this is Ostberg family?" Jack asked after introducing himself.
"Um, yes, who are you looking for?"
"I'm here to see Sir Lachlan Ostberg, is he happened to be home?"
"That's my father, in less than an hour, he should be. You can come in and wait if you'd like," the girl offered.
"Well, I don't want to intrud-"
"Honey! Who's at the door?" A mature and feminine voice rang out from within the house.
"I don't know Mama, but he's someone named Jackson and he's looking for Papa," the girl answered back.
"Invite him in, your father should be home in a few," the woman spoke.
"That's what I'm doing, but I think he's shy."
Jack rose a brow questioningly, he's anything but shy. "Um excuse me miss..."
"Oh I'm sorry, haven't introduced myself. I'm Annabelle," the girl grinned pointing at herself.
"Well ok Miss Annabelle, perhaps I'll come back in an hour or so," Jack began to take a step back.
"No no no, it's okay, you should come in. You're not...demure are you? And please, call me Anna," she spoke.
"Miss, I don't think Demure was born with me the day I came into this world," Jack joked.
"Oh haha, anyway, please come in, I insist," Annabelle opened the door further in an inviting manner.
"Thank you for the hospitality Miss Anna," Jack gave a little curt bow before entering. Anna offered to hang his umbrella in a nearby stand, in which he politely refused and did it himself.
Upon entering the house, Jack glanced around taking in the house interior. The marble floor shined and d reflections of various household items and their surroundings. Making his way into what seemed to be the grand living room, a crystal-designed chandelier hanged dazzlingly under its silver chain.
A woman wearing a floral gown stepped out from what seemed to be the kitchen. Brown hair tied into an elegant bun, a pair of earrings adorned her features and a blue sapphire necklace draped on her slightly exposed neck. Behind her, Jack could see a maid cleaning while dressed in black and white.
"Greetings young man, I am Lydia Ostberg," the woman introduced herself, Anna stood next to her. "And you've met my daughter Annabelle."
"Pleasure to meet you Lady Ostberg," Jack bowed a little. "My name is Jackson Overland."
"Please, just Lydia is fine, you're our guest here," Anna's mother gave him a kind smile, she went over to a rather fancy couch. Both of them sat on one side. "Please come and sit."
"Thank you," Jack politely sat down onto the soft cushion beneath him, removing his hat.
"So Jackson, I hear that you are here for my husband," Lydia began. "Is there a reason why, may I ask?"
"Well, I think I'm just here to receive something," Jack answered, not sure if she knew about the package.
"Oh? Is that so? I hope my husband isn't involved in any sort of gambling debt, is he?" Lydia raised an eyebrow, seemingly slightly agitated. Jack noticed her smile strained a little as she spoke, he shoulders straightened.
"No no no, of course not, I'm not even sure what it is exactly either, all I know is that I am doing an errand for someone else," Jack denied Lydia's suspicion.
"Ah I see, well then," Lydia looked to her daughter. "Anna dear, why don't you fetch your sister and tell her to greet our guest."
"Okay Mama!" Anna sat up cheerfully and skipped her way up the wooden staircase.
"She seems spritely," Jack commented when Anna disappeared on the second floor.
"She got it from my side of the family," Lydia chuckled amusingly, she waved at the maid from behind. "Tea for our guest please, Rose."
"Coming right up," the maid replied respectfully.
"You don't have to-"
"Nonsense, it is only good manners," Lydia waved Jack off.
The maid named Rose brought a tray with white tea cups and a teapot settling them on the table between the 2 couches. She looked like she was in her early 20's. Wearing a black outfit with a white apron and headband. Dark crimson hair in slight curls that reached down to her upper back, 2 bangs framing her face.
"Thank you," Jack said nodding his head.
Rose gave a small smile and bowed before retreating back into the kitchen to continue her maid duty.
"That girl, such a little sweetheart," Lydia chuckled, picking up her tea. "Please, help yourself."
Jack stayed silence as he took a cup and drank in the tea. The warm aroma traveled into his nostril, the familiar taste lounged past the throat; the famous tea only known to be found in the Northern Mountain Range. It was not something affordable for the lower class.
"She was taken in from the street, am I right?" Jack spoke.
"Oh? How did you know?" Lydia said aloud in surprise.
"The small marks on her right cheek and fingers, long faded, most likely from being abused at a young age. Timid smile, indicating a suppressive person, often known to suffer at one point. Outfit complete covered and buttoned up without any frills, a sense of protection. Wearing a headband, but hair is left curling showing freedom, however, duty-bound. From the soft tone when you ordered her, she is like a daughter to you, but insist on being a maid in order to repay your kindness," Jack theorized, sipping on the tea. "And you named her Rose because of her hair."
Lydia stared at him in shock and impressed, Jack assumed that he had hit all the points correctly.
"That was...impressive," Lydia commented.
"Thank you," Jack replied. "I was correct then?"
"Spot on," Lydia smiled fondly, leaning back with her tea giving a glance at Rose. "Well my daughters found her. Our family was on a little stroll through town on the night of Christmas Eve, watching the parade. We walked pass a little alley and little Anna heard something so she pulled her sister in as well, we followed. There was a little girl inside, no more than 10, bruised and battered, holding onto the ragged piece of cloth trying to keep warm."
She sniffled from the memory.
"It was heartbreaking, seeing someone abandoned in the cold, she was just a little child! Both of our daughters began trying to give the girl some clothes of their own, even my eldest, who treasured her gloves, a gift from her father, even lent them as well. At first, she was frightened, but through soothing words, she accepted them. Deciding back and forth, we took her in. She couldn't talk very well and didn't even know her own name thus Anna gave her one because of the 'pretty red hair' as she put it. Rose's been living with us ever since, such a kind girl too."
Jack slapped his forehead.
"What is it?" Lydia asked, confused at the sudden action.
"I got the naming part wrong, it wasn't you that named her."
"Oh," she paused, then laughed amusingly. "It bothers you that much?"
"Sort of," Jack chuckled. "That was sweet of your daughters."
"They're my little angels," Lydia agreed, smiling.
"Mother! I am not meeting another suitor, I told you I do not wish to be married yet!" a voice came from upstairs that did not belong to Anna, but suggested as someone older.
Jack looked up to see a figure being pulled down by an excited Anna, she was slightly taller and was trying to keep herself from fumbling from the descent. Pale blonde hair in a messy bun that seemed to have been made in a hurry. Her eyes were blue, a few bangs framing the top of her forehead. Wearing a dark blue ankle-length skirt with a white long-sleeved blouse, a few buttons unhooked at the neck area. Jack estimated for her to be around the age of 23 and very unlikely to be married.
"Annabelle! What did you say to your sister?" Lydia asked sternly.
"Oh hehe, nothing, Mama," Anna whistled innocently.
"She told me that I would be meeting someone, Mother, I thought we had agreed that you wouldn't be doing this anymore."
"Anna," Lydia sighed a rubbed her temple. "Anyhow, that is not why I want you down here. This is our guest."
Jack stood up and bowed slightly while keeping his gaze on the blonde woman. "Hello, my name is Jackson Overland, a pleasure to meet you Miss-"
"Elizabeth," she answered.
"A pleasure to meet you Miss Elizabeth." Jack repeated.
"Likewise," Elizabeth nodded at him then glared at Anna.
"I regret nothing," Anna put her hands up in defense while trying to keep a grin from splitting her face in half. "She slept a lot."
"Excuse me, for I look like a mess right now," Elizabeth spoke, commenting on her appearance.
"It's completely fine miss, I won't be here for long." Jack replied sitting back down.
"Very well, anyway, do make yourself comfortable," Elizabeth said.
"I shall," Jack flashed a smile.
"Come sit Elizabeth, I think you just might find him interesting," Lydia suggested with a smile.
"Mother," Elizabeth groaned.
"For he is a detective, isn't that right, Jackson?" Lydia asked.
"Detective?" Anna wondered out loud, surprised and looked at him.
Elizabeth only looked perplex as she sat down gently next to her mother and sister.
"Well...part time." Jack said sheepishly.
"Wait, how'd you know that he's a detective?" Anna asked.
"He had just gave me a summary of Rose's life," Lydia answered.
"Woah..."
"Yes, woah indeed," Elizabeth whispered, eyes observing him. Both hands resting on her lap.
"Any questions on your mind Miss Elizabeth?" Jack raised an eyebrow.
"You really are a detective?"
"It's part of my profession."
"And what would that be?"
"Doing deliveries, and solving cases."
"Part of a group?"
"...I work alone."
"Not even an assistant?"
"Are you doubting my skill?"
Elizabeth smiled. "A small test then? Detective Overland?"
Jack blinked a fee times, sipped his tea and placed the cup with the saucer back down to the table.
"I don't see why not."
"It is rather simple. My sister here, has hidden something rather precious of mine out of a childish prank, I would like to see it returned."
Anna and her mother looked at each other, bewildered.
"That's kind of vague, isn't it?" Anna asked her sister. "And it was not childish! Wait, prank?"
"Would you like to know what it is detective?" Elizabeth continued to smile.
In normal situations, Jack would have preferred a few clues to give him a lead, but he didn't want them this time, he could solve this without too much trouble.
"I think I'll figure it out."
Leaning forward, Jack put his hands together fingers pushing against one another. Eyes fixated on Elizabeth, analyzing her every movement: the soft cool breathing, the lax shoulders, eyes staring back at him silently challenging.
What would that item be? Something precious, something precious. Most likely often worn with care, very unlikely to get lost. A prank? No, it wasn't a prank. A calm and collected person, carrying an item on person at all times, both outside and inside. Perhaps not indoor.
Elizabeth was still smiling, Anna looked confused, and Lydia enjoying herself with the tea. She shuffled her hands, one draping over the forearm. A finger tapping, wait a second.
"A pair of gloves, most likely inside your pillow's case," Jack said.
"What?" Anna asked, head tilted. Lydia's eyes were glistened with curiosity.
Elizabeth narrowed her eyes, looking indifferent.
"Care to share us your theory?"
Jack grinned and sat forward, staring straight into Elizabeth's eyes. "It was not your sister, it was you. It couldn't have been a prank since she obviously did not know, meaning you hid it. But it was precious, so not hidden away, but kept safely. It was not an item, but items, plural in the sense of single meaning it is a pair. You are a self-composed person, long-sleeve blouse and skirt, calm, collective, poise, and wearing a bun. However, your hands were held together the whole time, a common habit of wearing gloves, and gloves come in pair, not single. They aren't usually worn inside. People keep their precious things close to themselves, in your case the pillow due to the case of being a heavy sleeper indicated by your sister earlier."
"A simple case of reverse questioning," Jack sat back and smile.
Elizabeth looked shock, her eyes were wide and mouth slightly opened. The other 2 sat still, unmoving.
"And judging from your expression, I'd say that I had hit the right spot," Jack commented.
"Ah-impressive," Elizabeth gathered herself together. "But why inside the case and not just simply under the pillow?"
"One of the first things a person would do when searching is to flip the pillows. To ensure that others will not find it, you placed them inside for insurance. For instance, your sister perhaps because of her pranks."
The room was silenced as Jack continued to stare at Elizabeth for affirmation. A short clap came out, it was from Lydia.
"Outstanding work," Lydia laughed as she applauded. "I've never seen my daughter so speechless before. Simply outstanding."
"Mother," Elizabeth groaned.
"That was amazing!" Anna exclaimed. "It's my first time actually getting to see a detective in action."
"I'm not anyone spectacular," Jack spoke.
He heard a giggle from the back and looked up to see Rose leaning against the counter.
"Not spectacular are you?" Rose asked.
"What do you mean Rose?" Anna turned around.
Rose walked up carrying a tray of biscuits and chocolates, setting down on the table, she spoke while smiling. "I remember now, I've seen you on the papers before. Detective Jack Frost."
"I think I've heard of him before," Anna the realized, pointing at Jack. "It's you! The one that solved the Stollston Family and the impossible Case of the Decade!"
Elizabeth raised a brow.
"I might've been that person," Jack said slowly, busying himself with the tea, which was now empty.
"You definitely are!"
"I tried to avoid the press," Jack chuckled, admitting himself.
"That's a shame, I think you're a lot better than most I've read about," Rose commented.
"You truly think so?"
"At least you don't boast about it like others I've met."
"Wait, Rose, you've seen other detectives?" Anna asked in surprise.
"Ah, well, they're common in the market," Rose flushed a little.
"Oh, have you been seeing someone in secret that we don't know about?" Anna grinned mischievously.
"O-of course not, excuse me, I'll be in the kitchen," Rose strode quickly away from the living room into the back.
Elizabeth stayed quiet, staring at the food tray.
Jack sat still, confused as to what just had just transpired.
"Like you when you first met that Westergard boy?" Lydia remarked.
"Ugh, please don't mention him ever again." Anna made a disgusted face.
"Ok, I won't. Since you learned your lesson," Lydia chuckled, she glanced at Elizabeth. "So was Jackson right with his deduction?"
Elizabeth mutely nodded.
"You can't say he's like the other ones you've met right?"
"Mother," Elizabeth exasperated.
"Uh oh," Anna gasped, covering her mouth. "No way!"
"What?"
"Oh ho ho ho ho," Anna smirked devilishly, grabbing a chocolate truffle. "I know that look."
"What look?" Elizabeth asked.
"You know what I mean."
"No I do not, care to elaborate?"
"Right here? Because I will."
"Of course right her-, oh no, don't you dare!" Elizabeth became alarmed.
"You lik-mmmffff."
Elizabeth blocked Anna's mouth in a hurry as a panicked look dawned upon her face.
Lydia only smirked in understanding.
Jack could do nothing but be dumbfounded at what was occurring in front of him. This was all something new, something he had never experienced before.
"Save your sister the embarrassment Anna dear," Lydia chortled.
Anna playfully nudged Elizabeth with a wide grin on her face, the latter simply buried her face in her hands.
Jack couldn't understand why, but he felt completely lost.
"Don't think too much about it dear," Lydia saw his confusion and chuckled. "Say, how old are you Jackson?"
"Um, I'm 26 this year ma'am," Jack answered.
"A wife?"
"No."
"A girlfriend perhaps?"
"Not at the moment."
"Any plans in the future?"
"Haven't crossed my mind yet," Jack didn't understand why Lydia was asking him all of this.
"Ah I see," Lydia tapped her chin while smiling, it made Jack slightly unnerved. He shifted in his seat with little comfort from her gaze.
"Ooh Jackson, how many cases have you been in?" Anna interrupted, eyes gleaming.
"Um let's see," Jack racked his memory trying to remember. "Maybe around 70 or so, not that many I'm afraid."
"Woah, and how many years have you been doing it?"
"I think it may have been 6 years since I've started."
"That's quite some time," Anna whistled, she nudged Elizabeth and grinned. "Come on, I know you have some questions for him."
Elizabeth reluctantly glanced up and made eye contact with him, her cheeks dusted a light shade of pink. Jack thought that she looked cute.
Elizabeth cleared her throat.
"How often do you travel?"
"I never stay in one place for long, so all the time," Jack answered.
"Don't you have a family?"
"A mother and younger sister."
"Aren't they worried with you being a detective? I can't imagine it being a safe profession."
"It's certainly not the safest, but it's fun solving cases and traveling," Jack said.
"And you only work alone?"
"I have colleagues here and there."
"Oh, um, why exactly are you here, may I ask?"
"Doing a delivery for your father I believe," Jack replied, shrugging.
"I see-"
Buzzzz!
The door bell cut off Elizabeth's sentence, she looked to the door.
"I'll get it!" Anna chirped and ran to open it.
Jack saw a figure towering over Anna embracing her, who hugged back with great passion. Jack made out the person to be a man late in his years.
"Welcome home Papa," Anna greeted her father.
"Hey there my little angel," Anna's father ruffled her hair affectionately, she pouted and tried to fix it.
The man was tall, brown hair with a tinge of blond combed neatly. Wearing a navy with gold-patterned military suit. He strode in as the metallic medals clinked against each other, placing the uniform cap on Anna's head who took it with glee.
"Good afternoon Rose," he spoke.
"Afternoon," Rose replied from within the kitchen.
Lydia stood up from the couch and went over to her husband, they kissed each other on the cheek.
"Welcome home love," Lydia said lovingly.
"Can't go anywhere without missing you dear," the man chuckled, he leaned and put a hand on Elizabeth's shoulder. "You too of course."
"Father, I'm not little anymore," Elizabeth sighed, removing herself from the grasp.
"I know you aren't, but you'll always be my little girl," Elizabeth's father grinned.
"Father," Elizabeth flushed and put a hand in Jack's direction. "You have a guest."
"Oh?" The man turned to Jack.
Jack stood up and introduced himself. "Jackson Overland, please to meet you Sir Ostberg."
"Lachlan is fine, and likewise Jackson," the man put out a hand and Jack shook it. "And you are here to see me? Jackson?"
"Yes sir," Jack nodded, he showed Lachlan the small slip of paper. Elizabeth and Lydia tried to peek at it, but Jack pulled away before they could make out the words written. Anna skipped her way into the kitchen, chatting away with Rose.
"I see," Lachlan turned serious, he looked back to his family. "Excuse us. Jackson, follow me to my study."
Jack nodded and followed the man up the stairs, at the end of the hallway, Lachlan opened a wooden door and Jack stepped in. It shut behind him and Jack heard a clacking sound.
The first thing Jack saw when turning around was a silver short six-shooter's barrel pointing straight at him. Lachlan's face was grim; shoulders squared, eyes narrowed with scrunched brows, and a frown plastered. Jack immediately put both his hands up in surrender.
"The bird that sings at dawn," Lachlan spoke quietly.
"Is one that still breathes," Jack answered hastily.
"Once it does no more."
"Forever it will haunt."
The man said nothing as he continued to glare at Jack.
"I have credential," Jack took out his silver pocket watch, flipping it opened.
Lachlan stared at Jack for a good moment before his gaze softened, lowering the gun, he tucked it back inside his uniform.
"Forgive me, but I had to be sure you're not a fake," Lachlan explained.
"Understandable, I would have done the same," Jack admitted.
"So do you know why you're here?"
"I'm assuming that you have a parcel for me to deliver back to head quarter?"
"Correct," Lachlan nodded and went over to a brown desk by a curtained window. On top of it are neatly placed writing utensils and paper forms. A large bookcase stood on one side, the top shelf filled with different types of medals and plaques, below were books. A large decorative ship-in-a-bottle sat at the top of the case. The other side of the room was a large cabinet with many different drawers labeling from A to Z.
"Here it is," Lachlan snapped Jack out of his interior observation and handed him a small paper wrapped rectangular item. It felt light and it was the size of his palm.
"This is it?" Jack commented, tossing the parcel up and down several times.
"That, may just be the only thing to give us an edge over him. Acquiring it was no simple task, I know there are others that would kill me and my family for it," Lachlan spoke gravely. "So keep it safe until you see North."
"You have my word," Jack affirmed, placing the item into his vest pocket.
"So, business aside," Lachlan exhaled, allaying all the stuffy feeling that had built up. He leaned back against the desk crossing his arms. "I see that you've met my family."
"Yes I have, and they are absolutely lovely," Jack planted the walking stick against his foot.
"Glad to hear that, don't say this to them...but living in a house full of women can be quite frustrating," Lachlan lowered his voice.
"Is it that bad?" Jack's mouth twitched into a smile.
"Oh you have no idea," Lachlan chuckled. "So you have a girl?"
"No sir, I'm flying solo right now," Jack answered.
"Ah I see, well, you better treasure those joyful moments of freedom right now, because I tell you, being married will give you early gray hair." Lachlan laughed, he noticed several silver strands from Jack's brown locks. "Although I see that you've sprouted some already."
"I'll keep that in mind sir," Jack ran a hand through his hair.
"But it has its merits, and by the time you have kids, it makes you feel complete. I know what it feels like and trust me, it'll be all worth it in the end."
"Ah, I see, but why are you telling me all this?" Jack asked.
"No reason," Lachlan shrugged. "I just wanted to say something smart. So where are you from?"
"Burgington," Jack replied.
"Down in the Southern Mountain Range huh, that's a long way from here," Lachlan put a finger to his chin. "I've been there once, nice place, very peaceful."
"It can get a bit boring," Jack commented.
"Ah, lack of exciting things can make a man itchy for them."
"I can't argue with that."
"Is that why you pursued being a detective? Or is it for the thrill?"
"It's partially the reasons."
"Judging from that look, someone close to you died?"
"...my father, he was murdered," Jack answered darkly.
"I see, my apology," Lachlan closed his eyes shortly.
"It's fine, I've learned to not get frustrated over his death," Jack exhaled.
"That's good, having a grudge doesn't do any good for the mind," Lachlan nodded. "So when are you leaving Arensten?"
"I'm catching the next train 2 days from now, leaving me a bit of time to tour the city."
"Do so, it's quite a huge place. Where are you heading once leaving?"
"Berkham, I have to see a friend of mine there, then I'll go straight to Polem," Jack answered.
"I sure miss the old days before settling down, always travelling here and there," Lachlan chuckled, hand brushing his chin. "Now I hear nothing but politicians arguing over tax and their plans."
"Sounds rough, I'd gone crazy around those kind of people everyday."
"You learn to deal with them eventually," Lachlan shrugged. "So you're a detective?"
"Yes sir."
"Any good?"
"I'm decent," Jack blew his bang upward.
"Heh, doubt it, you're a lot smarter than you let on, you quiet lots are always like that," Lachlan scoffed.
"I don't judge myself, sir."
"And sensible too, wish there're more people like you nowadays," Lachlan chuckled, rubbing his chin. "So what do you think of my daughters?"
"Sir?" Jack raised his brow.
"Just give me your opinions on each of them." Lachlan specified with mirth.
"Uh," Jack scratched the back of his head. "Well, Rose seems very hardworking. Annabelle is quite cheerful and full of life. As for Elizabeth, she's a bit closed off and dislikes getting married?"
"That's about summing it up," Lachlan chuckled. "I'm starting to wonder if my eldest daughter will ever find a husband at all. She wasn't too thrilled with her previous suitors."
"Are you forcing your daughter to get married?" Jack asked.
"Oh no, I was actually hoping to get her at least talk to somebody other than burying her face into books all the time."
"She's a heavy reader?"
"Ever since she first learned how to speak," Lachlan nodded. "A remarkable one she is."
"I can't help my curiosity but, does Elizabeth have something against having a family of her own?"
"I don't think it's that," Lachlan shook his head. "One time when there was a ball held by the Westergard family and we attended it."
"I've heard your wife mentioned something about your daughter Anna smitten with some Westergard person," Jack remarked.
"Oh yes she was, except for the fact that the family had 13 sons," Lachlan replied.
Jack did nothing but whistled.
"I think they might have had a bit too much fun," Lachlan laughed. "Anyway, apparently Elizabeth was played by one of them or something, causing her to get upset and stormed out of the party. Needlessly to say, I wasn't too happy either and since then, our families weren't exactly on the best of term."
"Ah I see, well it solved some of the mysteries about her," Jack said.
"Oh," Lachlan looked amused, he leaned forward. "Trying to figure my little Elizabeth now?"
"Of course, I'm curious about her-" Jack started, then quickly realized his answer. "I-I mean, it's a habit, I've...always had it. Wanting to know about certain people."
Silence followed until Lachlan barked out a laughter, Jack jumped a little.
"You know Jackson," he made eye contact with Jack, gleaming. "I can tell that you're a good man. I certainly wouldn't mind having you for a son-in-law."
Jack's lost his stance for a moment and snapped his head to Lachlan. "Wait, what are you talking about?"
"You're a detective, figure it out yourself," Lachlan smirked, he stood up straight and walked to the door. Opening it, he placed a hand on Jack's shoulder. "We only got one lifetime Jackson, best find out what it is that you want before it's too late."
Jack didn't reply as he mutely followed the elder man out of the study. His mind whirling from Lachlan's respond. He looked out at the window, it was still raining.
"Leaving so soon?" Jack snapped out of his thoughts when Lydia's voice rang out. He looked around to already find himself back in the living room. Anna and Rose sitting on the couch chatting with Elizabeth rubbing her forehead.
"Yes ma'am, Sir Lachlan and I have finished our business," Jack answered.
"Why don't you stay for lunch?" Lydia offered.
"Uh, I'd rather not bother your family time," Jack replied. "And besides, I have something else to attend to. I appreciate your offer."
"Oh, that's too bad, I was hoping for some detective stories," Anna pouted and Rose giggled.
"Perhaps another time if I ever see you again," Jack smiled, looking back to Lachlan. "I'll take my leave now."
"Have a nice day Jackson, and enjoy Arensten while you're at it," they shook each other's hand.
"Will do sir," Jack turned to the rest of the family members and bid them goodbye. When he saw Elizabeth staring at him, he raised a brow. "Yes Miss Elizabeth? Something bothering you?"
Elizabeth blinked from her staring at him, a giggling Anna slapped her arm playfully causing a glare to be redirected towards her from the older sister. Elizabeth shook her head. "Nothing that matters, have a nice day."
"To you as well," Jack grinned at her warmly before leaving with Rose to the door, reclaiming his umbrella on the way out. Snapping it open, Jack stepped onto the cobblestone street under the rain making his way to a nearby shop hoping to buy his sister a birthday gift.
…
Knock knock knock!
Thumbing sounds against the wooden door pulling Jack from his sleep. He groaned, burying his face with the pillow hoping for the person to leave.
Knock knock knock!
Sitting up and got out of the bed, Jack treaded towards the door still in his sleep clothes, wondering who would wake him up in the middle of the night. Grabbing the handle and twisting it opened rather abruptly.
"What?" Jack asked, annoyed.
"Oh I-I'm sorry!" It was Aurelia standing at the door. "I know it's not the best time, but there's been a murder."
"Huh, what?" Jack rubbed his eyes, forcing himself awake.
"I figure since you're a detective, you should know," Aurelia said.
"All right, give me a moment," Jack closed the door, went into the bathroom to wash his face. Putting on the black shoes, he grabbed the coat along with an umbrella before heading out with Aurelia.
"Did the news just arrived?" Jack asked as he walked down the stairs.
"Just now," Aurelia nodded to his side.
"Is it anyone important?"
"Yes, it's our military general, Sir Lachlan Ostberg."
Jack froze as his right foot touched the last step of the stairs. He turned to Aurelia abruptly.
"What?"
Author's Note: Holy crap, I am so sorry for the ultra late update! Anyway, this is the first part of this short story, I will finish the second one uh, soon. Hopefully it won't be too far from now since I have to do school stuff. Thank you so much for anyone that reviewed or simply read this story, I am very grateful.
-May the Fortress be with You.
