As dusk settled, Lynn arrived at the entrance to Harold's shop.
Harold was already waiting outside. The moment he saw Lynn, he hurried over with a broad smile.
"Lord Lynn! We've been waiting for you! I've arranged a fine place for tonight. I guarantee you'll be satisfied!"
Thomas stood behind him, staring at Lynn with an excited expression.
He wore a neat apprentice robe and carried something resembling a food box in his hand.
Lynn gave him a cursory glance. Peak second-rank apprentice, with an exceptionally stable aura. It seemed he had indeed learned something from following Harold all these years.
"Let's go," Lynn said.
Harold led the way. After the three of them left the bustling district of Ghost Market and passed through several more alleys, they arrived at a quiet private estate.
Two Soul Lamps hung at the estate entrance, their dim blue light spilling across the flagstones with an understated elegance.
"This place was purchased jointly by a few old hands from our market. It's specifically for entertaining distinguished guests."
Harold explained.
"We booked the whole place today. It's just us."
It was Lynn's first time at a place like this. He had previously only eaten in apprentice cafeterias or upscale Wizard restaurants. He had not expected there to be such a thing as private cuisine.
He pushed open the estate gate. Inside was a small courtyard, dotted with several withered-looking black trees. Tea and snacks had been laid out on the stone table beneath them.
Seven or eight people were chatting in the courtyard. Hearing the gate open, they all turned around.
Old Kori was the first to greet him. "Lord Lynn! We've finally been waiting for your return!"
Master Todd followed behind him, a simple, honest smile on his face.
The steward of the Soulbinding