In the dim basement, several ancient brass lamp holders had a few candles lit, providing some dim yellow light.
In the center of the basement, the ground was etched with grooves that formed a complex circular pattern.
Earl Hardy held a bottle of mysterious potion in his hand, popped the wooden cork, and poured the light golden liquid into the grooves.
The Duke stood silently behind, sniffing but not detecting any scent. The golden liquid emitted no special odor.
Earl Hardy carefully cupped the bottle, slowly pouring its contents without spilling a single drop outside the grooves.
When the last drop of the golden liquid fell from the bottle, the grooves were full of the golden liquid which shone under the candlelight.
Subsequently, Earl Hardy stood in front of the grooves, taking out a dagger to cut his palm, letting some blood drip into the grooves below, mixing with the golden liquid.
"With the bloodline of the Acosta Clan, I request an audience with Lady Grace!"
