Count Dravenski flattened the crumpled envelope on the table by pressing it evenly with his fingers. It looked like the bearer had at some point trampled over it.
As the Count flipped the envelope over to open it, he noticed bloodstains near its flap. Both his companions leaned forward, their eyes widened, and their brows creased.
Examining the envelope for a few more seconds, the Count gently lifted its flap and pulled out the haphazardly folded piece of discolored white paper inside it. However, before unfurling the letter, a thought came to his mind, and he turned to the attendant.
"Who else knows about this messenger?" the Count enquired.
"Just the city guards and the physician who was called to tend to his wounds," the attendant answered, slowly lifting his head.
"Have that physician report to me at once, and don't disclose anything about this to another soul, not even your wife or mother," the Count instructed.
"Yes, My Excellency."
