The carriage came to a smooth halt just outside Kael's shop.
Kael stepped out first, stretching his legs after the long ride from Dustrim.
Marrek gave him a firm nod.
"Take care, Kael. Let me know if anything comes up."
"Will do. Thanks for today."
With that, the carriage turned and left, leaving Kael alone in front of his shop.
Kael pushed open the door of Kaelmart.
The familiar bell above jingled softly as he stepped in.
"Ah, Lord Kael!"
He paused.
He saw four familiar faces—Darien, Garrick, Mira, and Liora.
All four turned toward him, casual smiles on their faces.
Mira waved with both hands. "Nyaa~ Look who finally decided to show up!"
Kael blinked, then chuckled. "Well, this is a surprise."
"We stopped by your old stall," Darien said with a calm nod. "A peddler there said you'd opened a 'grand shop.' So, naturally, we came to see it for ourselves."
