The iron-wrought gates of the trading post echoed with sudden, joyous screams that pierced the evening air, drawing the immediate attention of the vigilant guards stationed around the perimeter. Their weathered faces, previously stern with duty, transformed instantly as they recognized the figure approaching - Mia, the merchant lord's daughter, had finally returned home.
The guards' disciplined composure crumbled in the face of their relief, and two of them immediately began shouting toward the imposing main building, their voices carrying across the busy trading yard: "Master, she's home!"
The response was instantaneous. At a second-floor window, a figure appeared—a man clothed in an immaculate black tuxedo, his appearance a stark contrast to the usual merchant's attire.
