That evening, Damien met with his father to discuss the complication.
"Captain Seria Thornwood is investigating you." Cornelius said it as statement, not question. "My intelligence network noted her recent activity – requesting records, interviewing witnesses to your demon fight, building case files."
"She threatened me directly at the charity ceremony."
"Bold. The Thornwood family has military traditions dating back four generations. Seria herself is legitimately skilled – youngest captain in city guard history, multiple commendations for combat excellence, reputation for incorruptible integrity." His father's tone carried grudging respect. "She's also extremely dangerous if she decides you're a threat."
"Can we discredit her investigation?"
"Possibly. But it would be noticed. The Thornwoods have political capital, and Seria specifically has earned respect through competent service." Cornelius poured wine thoughtfully. "Better to redirect her attention than confront directly."
