The Freeman family now lived on the second floor of a street-side apartment. Although the space was smaller than their previous house, it was at least clean, tidy, and safe, posing no issue as a temporary home. However, the death of the household's male breadwinner meant that their future would probably be even more challenging.
The two children attended a public middle school in the city, and though the Steam Age also had summer vacations, they stayed at home with Mrs. Freeman. Mrs. Freeman asked the children not to disturb her and then entertained two guests in the living room after Priest Augustus had returned the keys. He introduced Shard to the somewhat haggard woman with a high nose bridge and blonde hair:
"This is Detective Shard Hamilton from Saint Delan Square, my friend. He heard about Mr. Freeman from me, and today he accompanied me to Hangton Garden Street."