Gathering

"Mr. White Sage."

The people seated around the round table all greeted the white-haired old gentleman with respectful tones.

It was clear that Pala held quite a high position within Midnight Rose.

"Good evening, everyone."

Leaning on his white cane, Pala smiled at the group.

"It's quite lively tonight. It feels like it's been a long time since we last gathered like this."

"White Sage."

At that moment, a figure seated at the head of the round table spoke. A mature, pleasant female voice came from beneath a mask.

Her long, wavy black hair draped over her shoulders. She wore a black satin robe embroidered with golden rose patterns, while her face was covered by a plaster mask depicting an elderly man with curly hair.

Her true appearance was completely obscured.

She was the current leader of Midnight Rose, Rose Elder Flamel Jabir.

"I heard you have taken on a student. The members were all curious, so they came to have a look—and to witness his formal induction."

"After so many years, a new member has finally joined us. It is indeed worth gathering for."

"All things delight in all things, all things surpass all things, all things govern all things. Everything in all things has its beginning and end, just as Mr. Blood Owl arrived here today."

At her words, everyone around the round table smiled and nodded, seemingly agreeing with their leader.

"Greetings, Lady Rose Elder."

Gilan placed his right hand lightly against his left shoulder and bowed to the person at the head of the table.

Rose Elder gave him a slight nod.

"Please, take your seats."

Pala then led Gilan to the empty seats at the round table.

At that moment, the fat man seated to Rose Elder's left spoke with a smile.

"So this is