[h2][center][color=gold]Ebthor[/color][/center][/h2]

[color=gold]"It’s entirely possible," [/color]Ebthor responded, gesturing toward where Aelyeth had stowed the letter. [color=gold]"I didn't dispatch all those demons solo. Hard to imagine some wealthy individual hiring us for just one demon-slaying machine."[/color] Ebthor then averted his gaze, muttering to himself, [color=gold]"Although, I could absolutely handle it solo."[/color]

With that, the proud Ebthor pressed on toward Noble Haven. His posture exuded confidence, a refined assurance that starkly contrasted with his imposing draconic visage. Yet, coupled with the fact that he essentially served as Aelyeth’s pack mule, his initially cocky demeanor quickly transformed into nothing more than a playful jest.

[@Randomguy][@MacabreMoth]
[hr]

[center][h3] [u]Group A, [@Guardian Angel Haruki], 9 AM[/u] [/h3][/center]


The guard, a sturdy figure in armor, eyed Keruzi with a mix of skepticism and vigilance. As she asserted herself with the phrase "At ease, Soldier," he begrudgingly relaxed his posture but maintained a watchful gaze.

When she displayed the letter, the guard inspected it with a trained eye, though Keruzi held it just out of reach. As she explained her purpose and association with Simon, the guard's stern expression softened slightly, perhaps acknowledging her credentials.

[color=a187be]"Paladin of the Dark Sun Clan, huh?"[/color] he mused, a hint of curiosity breaking through his stoic demeanor. [color=a187be]"Alright, let me verify this with Simon."[/color] He signaled to a fellow guard, who promptly disappeared into the confines of Noble Haven.

While waiting for confirmation, the remaining guard maintained a vigilant stance, though the initial tension seemed to ease. The subtle play of power and respect lingered in the air as Keruzi stood firm, conveying a silent assurance that she would not be swayed by any unnecessary challenges at the gate.


Moments later, the guard returned accompanied by an enigmatic half-dragon/human attendant, their features more human than draconic. The attendant's sun-kissed skin seamlessly blended with delicate dragon scales, and elegant curved horns crowned her head. A slender tail swayed with each graceful step, and she was adorned in an earth-toned robe featuring jungle-inspired patterns, a balance of formality and practicality. A golden sash accentuated her waist, and enchanted trinkets emitted a soft, mystical glow. Supple leather footwear and a stylish dagger hinted at her dual role as a groundskeeper.

The enigmatic half-dragon/human attendant turned to the guard, her amber eyes holding a glint of acknowledgment.

[color=7ea7d8]"Thank you for your assistance,"[/color] she spoke with a voice that carried both warmth and authority. [color=7ea7d8]"I'll take it from here."[/color]

The guard nodded in understanding, giving Keruzi a curt but respectful glance. [color=bc8dbf]"Simon's expecting her. Make sure everything checks out,"[/color] he said before turning back towards his post.

The attendant gracefully stepped forward, her presence commanding attention as she turned to Keruzi, offering a reassuring smile. [color=7ea7d8]"Welcome to Noble Haven. I am Rhythia, Simon's attendant. If you'll follow me, I'll guide you to his presence."[/color] With that, she assumed the role of escort.

Noble Haven, the upscale neighborhood for aristocrats, boasts custom-crafted buildings, including Simon's lavish mansion, uniquely constructed from a colossal Giantwood tree. It stands out amidst the grandiose mansions on the hill, thanks to its controlled tree growth, allowing for an elaborate garden that enhances its splendor.

[color=7ea7d8]“You're remarkably early, Keruzi. I'm not certain if the master is prepared to meet you just yet, but I'll take you to him regardless. Unfortunately, I'm not at liberty to delve into the specifics of the job with you,”[/color] Rhythia said, offering a smile reminiscent of a loving mother, yet her words carried a subtle venom, much like that of a snake. [color=7ea7d8]“Although, I am aware of what it is. Good luck with that one.”[/color]

The air surrounding Simon’s mansion carried the gentle scent of blooming flowers from the meticulously tended garden enveloping the Giantwood structure. Each step through the entrance marked a journey into a realm where beauty and extravagance seamlessly converged, guiding Keruzi through the halls of aristocratic splendor.

As they traversed Simon's garden, Rhythia pointed out the various floral wonders and whispered tales of their enchantment. Keruzi couldn't help but marvel at the vibrant colors and delicate fragrances that filled the air, each blossom seeming to hold a story of its own.

Entering the study, Keruzi was enveloped in an atmosphere of refinement and tribal mystique. Shelves adorned with an extensive collection of books, ranging from ancient tomes of arcane wisdom to volumes chronicling history, imbued the room with an earthy aroma of knowledge. Above the intricately carved fireplace, a captivating artwork depicted an elven woman with flowing blue hair, her gaze seeming to hold secrets untold. Tribal accents, hand-carved wooden masks, and woven tapestries adorned the walls, each telling a unique story of culture and tradition. An antique globe atop a wooden stand emphasized the mansion's connection to the world's history.

The furniture, a fusion of rustic tribal elements and noble design, invited exploration, each piece hinting at tales of grandeur and adventure. As Rhythia departed to fetch Simon, leaving Keruzi to contemplate the room's intriguing ambiance, Keruzi felt a sense of reverence for the space and the mysteries it held.

After a brief moment of quiet contemplation in the study, Alessia, a second attendant, entered with fluid grace, her movements harmonizing with the elegance of the surroundings. [color=f7941d]"Greetings, esteemed guest,"[/color] she began, her voice resonating in a soothing cadence. [color=f7941d]"I am Alessia, delighted to assist you during your stay in Simon's mansion. If you have any inquiries or require assistance, do not hesitate to ask."[/color]

Upon closer observation, Alessia's role extended beyond mere hospitality. Adorned with a six-shooter holstered on each side of her hip, her green attire seamlessly blended with Rhythia's color scheme. However, beneath the outward appearance of a maid, Alessia exuded the unmistakable air of a sharpshooter, skillfully merging elements of both roles into her demeanor.

Alessia's attire effortlessly melded practicality with elegance. A forest-green bodice, embellished with subtle lace accents, complemented an intricately woven belt cinched at her waist. The knee-length skirt, featuring concealed pockets, flowed gracefully, while knee-high leather boots added a touch of sophistication.

Her dual roles as a sharpshooter and maid were evident in the polished six-shooters holstered on each hip. The earthy tones of her ensemble, coupled with a silver pendant depicting a miniature Giantwood tree, subtly paid homage to the mansion's connection with nature.

[@Guardian Angel Haruki]