The Offices of Shrikeweed, Wensbrooke, and Kenge
Ana turned to Mr. Shrikeweed once more, considering what he had told her. He smiled at her, and she thought that he must find her unreasonable. Ana was strong-willed, it was true, but the elder Steerpike knew when to be flexible. This seemed one of those times. Laughable as she found the concern for Brunnhold's institutional dignity-- and what did she care for the dignity of the University, in the face of her quest to bring her baby sister home to her? --she knew that the lawyer was, of course, correct. It was no small thing, to want to go against tradition, legal precedent, and the deep resources of an entire University. Ana did not frown, but she let a small defeated sigh escape her.
"If you think, Mr. Shrikeweed, that such an argument could prove valuable... You are right, and I would be foolish to discount it. All that matters is the result. I shall... I shall bow to your expertise, sir. But please," she added, a sincere entreaty, "let us save it as a measure of last resort." She did not like the way she had to ask it, as if it was a favor--but indeed, it could be regarded so. However it rankled at her pride to have make such a concession, such a request, if something as foolish as this stood between her and her heart's desire, she would do away with it.
"I am the last of our family. It is indeed only my permission you need." Ana's tone was businesslike and matter-of-fact. Very little of the emotion that had crept through into her voice and her demeanor when she spoke of her sister was present now, in speaking of her late parents. "I shall arrange to have the full documents of Aurelie's transfer sent by courier."
At that, she glanced to the clock. While she had arrived early for her appointment, she had lingered long enough. Other obligations pressed on her for that day. Ana gathered her attache case and the contents, leaving the articles--just in case. She also left a card with her information on it, for Mr. Shrikeweed's reference. The card was a crisp and understated cotton linen, her name and address printed in an elegant hand.
"I thank you for your time and attention on this matter, Mr. Shrikeweed. I am afraid I do have other appointments that I must be seeing to--unless you need anything further from me at this point...?" Ana stood, raising her eyebrows as she waited.