As soon as they knocked on the door of Vermilion House No. 32, Emma's mother hurried over to open it. It was her daughter's first time going out on an adventure—of course she had been worried. Selma and George had fretted from morning till night these past few days, only relaxing a little after receiving word two days ago that Emma and Dark had returned safely.
Until they saw their daughter with their own eyes, they could not fully set their minds at ease. George happened to be home today as well, and the couple came out together. The moment Selma saw her daughter standing safely before the door, she immediately pulled her into a fierce hug, overwhelmed with emotion.
George was a step too slow and got beaten to it by his wife, leaving him awkwardly standing behind them.
He opened his arms and froze where he stood. Then he suddenly noticed Dark beside his daughter and simply stepped forward to give Dark a hug instead.
Though Dark thought to himself that they were not yet close enough for this, he still returned the embrace out of courtesy.
"Good evening, Uncle George."
Moon God's Chariot deployed the Nightwalking Barrier, extending it all the way to the doorway. Dark summoned his Magic Spirits and had them move half the treasures stored in the carriage into Emma's home.
Then George Metis pulled him into the house and settled him in the living room.
Ash and Malt were welcomed as well.
George brewed coffee, poured a cup for each guest, then sat down, impatient to hear Dark recount their adventure.
"Honestly, we only just got back..." Emma murmured in complaint, but she merely picked up a newspaper and sat on the sofa, pretending to read while listening in.
Dark smiled faintly and