After passing through Sindra's central gate, Nolan, Celia, and Linda stepped into the heart of the adventurers' district. The square was alive with movement—parties of adventurers arming themselves, checking supplies, preparing for expeditions into the forest. But the moment Nolan and the two girls entered, every gaze shifted toward them. Conversations died mid-sentence.
Ella, stationed at the registry desk, blinked in surprise and hurried over.
"Wait—you're already back?" she asked, eyes wide. "It hasn't even been that long since you left!"
"Yes," Nolan said calmly.
"So fast…" Ella murmured, struggling to process it. Around them, whispers spread like wildfire.
"Did you bring the cores?" Ella pressed. "I'll need them before I can confirm and issue your payment."
"Yes, we did," Celia said as she stepped forward. She was about to reach into her pouch when Ella suddenly stopped her with a sharp, "Wait!"
