Kuro did not once look at Alan as the boy spoke out against speaking in private, the Rider's eyes slightly turned off to the side as he listened to the Serpentine stand and demand an apology. He didn't have to think too hard to come to a decision - the boy was ultimately inconsequential.

"Very well." Kuro immediately acquiesced in a clipped tone. He pulled up a seat and settled at the table, laying his right arm across its surface, hand idle. His left arm remained below the table-line.

Kuro's segue was spoken in a quiet tone, inaudible beyond the confines of the table. The manner of his speech was matter-of-fact, unrushed, and unconcerned. "There are two issues we must discuss. Firstly, while I do not know if you were aware, there are several Kusagi members present in the guild, predominantly amongst the Serpentines and the Errant Knights. Quite a few of them are practitioners of Seishin. Any one of them might be willing to pay for your journey home as a courtesy, and if not, could at least continue your training in the absence of a master while you work to earn the funds for a return trip. The Red Hawks were not an apt choice, miss. They have no prominent swordsmen or summoners familiar with Kusagi spirits and lore. Your particular talents and training are wasted on them."

Either this boy..." Kuro gestured vaguely at Alan, whom he had not once looked at. "...or myself may sponsor your entry into either band, which would help to ease the transition considerably...though we would need a demonstration of your skills in order to sponsor you. The Serpentines have several trials to obtain membership, but the Errant Knights are more accepting. Either way, the paperwork involved would be minimal."