Early the next morning, before the first rays of sunlight could fully disperse the thin mist hanging over the square, Karis Percy had already arrived at Vance's restaurant. He wore a dark brown robe beneath a thick woolen cloak, a worn leather briefcase clutched in his hand. His demeanor appeared even more solemn than during their previous encounter.
The meeting took place right inside Vance's private parlor, a discreet space furnished with an ironwood table and chairs, where a pot of steaming hot tea had already been prepared. Vance did not attend, only instructing his staff not to disturb them.
"Good morning, Ewan, Asher Ryder." Karis spoke first, his voice deep, warm, and natural, as if they were old acquaintances: "I thought a great deal about our proposed partnership last night. I wonder if the two of you have brought any good news today?"
