Holden and Sable made their way back to Holden’s office where Holden sat back with his feet up on the desk, groaning from wariness.


    Sable sat on the desk, wagging his tail. The cait-sith felt a wave of exhaustion wash over him. “This whole thing has been exhausting. Not to mention we just hit a dead end.”


    “Unfortunately,” Holden mumbled. “So, what now, Oh Great Detective Sable?”


    “Oh, so you actually know my name,” Sable jeered with a big yawn. “You’re the detective. So, you tell me what we should do next.”


    “There is another person I can talk to. But I’m not fond of the idea.”


    “Oh, and who else could know about-.”


    “Cat, Don''t say it.”


    Sable recalled how troublesome Elliandra said simply knowing about the Residential Files could be, and immediately shut his mouth.


    Holden then contours his explanation. “I do have a contact that can help us. I just don’t like the idea of owing him a favor.”


    ***


    Holden and Sable went to the nearest police precinct. This was the same precinct in charge of investigating the murder of the tavern owner; the very case that brought Holden and Sable together. This precinct was also the base of operations for the 7th division of the Chrimoria Police Department; thus, it was referred to as the 7th precinct.


    Holden went right up to the front desk and leaned against it to talk to the officer. “I need to speak to Inspector Alwin. Tell him Holden needs his help.”


    “Sorry, sir, but who are-.” The officer was immediately interrupted by none other than Alwin himself.


    “Officer, don’t worry,” Alwin said. “I’ll meet with them right away.” Alwin led Holden and Sable to his office where he sat behind his desk. “So, what’s so urgent that you need to talk to me at work.”


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    Holden brought out the same crystal he used in Elliandra’s apartment, causing Alwin’s eyes to widen. “Ah, yes.” Alwin poured his magic into the crystal, then folded his hands, waiting for Holden to make his request.”


    “I need to get into the Residential Files,” Holden explained. “It’s regarding a deceased girl who''s been haunting my apartment.”


    Alwin smacked his lips, unsure exactly how to react to such a request. “You said a dead girl is haunting your apartment?”


    “Yeah. And it’s keeping my cat awake at night.”


    “Mm-hmm. And have you thought about hiring an exorcist to remove the evil sport? Maybe burn some sage, or toss salt at it,” Alwin said with a snarky grin.


    “Oh, very funny. Can you help me, or not?”


    Alwin had a pensive expression while thinking about how to respond. “I can’t help you get in, but I could tell you where it is. I’m confident you’ll be able to make your way in yourself.”


    “That’ll do. What exactly do I owe you in exchange?”


    Alwin snickered at the question. “I just might need your help with my own work later on down the line.”


    Holden grit his teeth in frustration. “I knew you’d ask me that. Very well. Call upon me, and I’ll come running.”


    “It was a pleasure doing business with you.”


    Holden and Alwin shook hands, and Alwin divulged everything he knew about the vault where the Residential Files were stored. However, there was one last thing Alwin had to say. “Oh, one last thing, Holden. Before you bring down the anti-divination barrier, you should know that Concordia wanted me to warn you. Regarding the case involving the fairy trafficking, you got yourself involved in just might be above your head.”


    “Tell Concordia not to worry,” Holden grunted. “Her concern won’t change what business I decide to get myself involved in.”


    “You always were a stubborn one. I just hope for your sake that that stubbornness of yours won’t be your undoing. You’re not a spy anymore, so there’s no organization or government to protect you when things go awry.”


    “Yeah. I’ll admit trading favors for protection has been a pain. But I’m done working for shady government agencies and politicians. I will choose my own jobs, and take my own path forward. I’m finally doing something that I feel makes a positive difference.”


    “Huh. You sound so idealistic when you say that. Surprising coming from such a pessimistic individual.”


    “Blame the spy business for my pessimism. You don’t see the things I’ve seen and still keep a positive outlook on the world, including people in general.”


    Alwin laughed at the comment. “I suppose not. Well, then, good luck, Holden. Don’t forget that you owe me one.”


    “I doubt you’d even let me, Alwin.”