Gabriel, now dressed in the elegant clothes Lowell had brought for him, descended the creaky wooden stairs of the inn with quiet grace.
Kaida, barely reaching his chest, walked beside him with a languid stride, his small frame radiating indifference.
As they made their way down, the evening sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow across the common hall.
The lively chatter of the inn's patrons faded as Gabriel appeared. Heads turned, conversations faltered, and eyes fixed upon him, drawn to the calm authority in his presence.
Gabriel's silver hair caught the light, his blue eyes shimmering like moonlight. He carried himself with the ease of one accustomed to another world, another time.
At a nearby table, a young woman nudged her companion, whispering, "Pray look at him… I have never seen the like."
Her companion nodded. "Indeed, he is as though sprung from legend itself."
Another girl, flustered, whispered, "Is he not one of those rare sorts? What are they called?"
Her friend replied, "Albinos, I think. Good heavens… I should dearly like to invite him to a dungeon."
Their chatter was cut short by Kaida's piercing green eyes, filled with disdain. The child's stare alone silenced them.
"Master," Lowell said softly, bowing as Gabriel approached.
The inn's patrons watched in astonishment as the guild master — known for his pride — bowed deeply before Gabriel. The gesture filled the room with unease. Clearly, this young man was no ordinary traveler.
"Gabriel, Lowell, how do you fare? Pray forgive my absence upon your return; I was detained by matters in another dungeon," the guild master said, his voice heavy with sincerity.
Gabriel placed a hand upon his shoulder, his tone calm, almost reassuring.
"Think nothing of it. Though it was strange to be gone so long, I assure you I am well. Yet I have questions, and would value your counsel."
The guild master inclined his head respectfully.
"Please, be seated, Gabriel, Lowell. Allow these servants to attend you whilst I answer as best I can, in gratitude for the spoils and herbs you have brought back — a most generous bundle."
He led Gabriel to a quiet chamber away from prying eyes. As they settled by a window, attendants brought trays of food — fruits, seafood, and delicacies that caught Kaida's and Lowell's attention.
"Eat freely," the guild master said warmly. "Consider this place your home."
Gabriel gave Kaida a small nod of approval, and the boy began to eat.
The guild master sat opposite them. "So, Gabriel, what is it you wish to know?"
Gabriel leaned back slightly, his voice steady, unhurried.
"Firstly, I would know of this Empire, and the kingdoms beyond it. My travels have been long, yet I am not well‑versed in their affairs."
The guild master blinked, surprised. "The Empire and the kingdoms?"
Gabriel's lips curved faintly.
"Aye. I am not of this land, and I would hear its story."
The guild master nodded slowly. "Very well. Let me begin with the Clan of Mikagetsu."