Nursing his bruised arm, Azel plodded through the enclave in deep thought. From what he and Colwyn had theorised Azel was learning quickly not because he was a genius but because his body was slowly remembering skills through experience even if his mind wasn't.
The problem with this was that at some point Azel would hit a wall in his growth. His body would stop "remembering" and he'd have to start "learning". It was a shame, as Azel had grown accustomed to his rapid growth and couldn't quite comprehend accomplishing anything without it.
Looking up from the white bricked road, A tell-tale sign that he was in the richer district of the enclave, Azel frowned upon noticing the passer-by's staring at him in... fear?
Suddenly nervous the zombies hands flew up to his eyes only to find that the lenses were in fact still in. Well the, whatever they were so curious about wasn't an issue, perhaps they were just admiring his good looks?
Smiling at the thought Azel re-assessed himself, apparently his lack of empathy for others led to a rather egocentric mentality. No that would be to shallow of a reason. If Azel was to truly think about how he had changed since reviving from the tomb he would say that...
"Excuse me, Sir!" Called a deep voice behind Azel.
'Probably someone else,' thought the zombie as he continued walking at a maintained leisurely pace.
"You there! With the ashen hair!" Yelled the voice again in a hurried tone.
Sighing in annoyance Azel turned to see a muscular man in a white shirt and dress pants. His leather shoes were well kept and his hair was neatly trimmed.
"Can I help you?" Asked Azel briskly, not trying at all to keep the spite out of his voice. After all the zombie found himself under constant stress trying to keep his identity secret and was definitely annoyed with this sudden interruption.
"If you're not too busy perhaps we coul-" started the man before suddenly stopping and going wide eyed at the sight of Azel's face.
Frowning now, because that was not the reaction Azel wanted whenever someone looked at him, Azel asked in a snappy tone, "What is it?"
Flinching the man responded, "You, err, You have some blood on your face..." he said quietly and then added as if he forgot "...Sir Azel!" The title hung awkwardly in the air, as though it pained him to speak it aloud.
Feeling his face again with his hand, Azel remembered that he did remember Colwyn hitting him in the nose more than a few times... No wonder everyone was staring at him as he walked down the street.
Feeling almost embarrassed Azel asked the man, "Never mind that, what is it that you wanted from me?"
The man kept quite for a moment, and as if trying to remember how to fake a business smile said in a cheery voice, "My name is Noah, as a vassal of lady Rio I am here on her behalf to request an audience with you."
Azel's gaze sharpened at the mention of Rio. His mind raced, trying to decipher her motive. Colwyn said she was their biggest threat as of right now, and despite him only being here for two days she was already attempting contact.
Should Azel turn and run? No, that would probably draw far to much suspicion. But just accepting and going along was probably also a bad idea.
Azel let his sharp gaze linger on Noah for a moment longer, trying to assess whether there was some hidden intent behind the man's polished exterior. For someone who claimed to be a vassal, Noah's forced smile and stilted demeanour weren't particularly convincing. 'Rio's vassals are meant to be fiercely loyal,' Azel thought, recalling Colwyn's earlier descriptions. 'This guy looks like he'd rather be anywhere but here.'
Finally, Azel shrugged, putting on his best attempt at nonchalance. "Sure," he said, brushing some dust off his jacket. "Lead the way."
The white-bricked roads gave way to marble paths as they approached the core of the enclave. This area screamed wealth and influence—gold-trimmed railings, intricately carved statues, and large fountains adorned with flowing water. Azel kept his expression neutral, but inwardly he noted every detail. The richer districts of this enclave weren't just prosperous; they were fortified. He could see the subtle presence of guards stationed at every corner, each one armed to the teeth.
"Right through here," Noah said, his voice strained as he gestured toward an elaborate estate with a towering gate. The crest of the Sunchaser's—a blazing sunburst—was engraved on its iron bars.
Azel's stomach tightened. 'This is her base of operations, isn't it?'
The gates opened with a low groan, and Noah ushered him inside. The interior of the estate was no less grand than its exterior, but Azel had no time to admire the surroundings.
Instead he was ushered through a rather large door to what looked like an office. Hearing Noah quickly retreat backwards and close the door behind him, Azel was left alone in the office with a raven haired women sitting at the end of the desk with a calm smile.
"Azel, I presume? Please take a seat." She said gesturing to the seat opposite her. "Noah has gone to bring some refreshments, and I imagine a cloth for your face?"
Nodding, Azel sat down opposite her, "I'm flattered you asked to see me, lady Rio, but I'm sure very busy so it might be better to skip to the details." For some reason Azel found himself on edge despite the courteous behaviour from the other side.
And from he extensive "training" with Colwyn Azel had quickly figured out that trusting his instinct was often the best move. He had started to think his uncanny sense had more to it than just good old fashioned intuition, but that was a different lane of thought to explore for a different time.
"Straight to the point I see," Said Rio as she closed here eyes and nodded approvingly, "Yes, that will save time for the both of us. In that case, I want you to tell me a bit about how you first met Colwyn, his report left much to be desired you see."