Dan took a deep breath, gathering his composure before responding. "City Lord Everhart, I am Dan," he began, his voice steady despite the nerves gnawing at him. "I've recently arrived in the city, but unfortunately, I've encountered some misfortune. I was robbed, and as a result, I've lost all my money and my map."
Gabriel's expression softened with sympathy as he listened to Dan's plight. "I'm sorry to hear that, Dan," he said sincerely. "Your strength and agility impressed me today. I can offer you work with me. You won't have to worry about being robbed or broken here. What do you say, boy?"
Dan's eyes widened in astonishment at the unexpected offer. "Sorry, can you repeat what you just said?" he asked, needing confirmation that he had heard correctly.
Gabriel nodded, his expression serious yet inviting. "You heard me correctly, Dan. I, Gabriel Everhart, am offering you a position to work under me. I'll also forgive you for injuring my man. What do you say, Dan? Are you willing to accept?"
Dan replied, his voice tinged with a hint of caution, "I'd be foolish to refuse such a generous offer. But if I were to decline, what would be the consequences?"
Gabriel's expression shifted slightly, his demeanor becoming more serious. "Well," he said, his tone firm, "you would be charged with assault on my soldier and causing chaos during my military march."
Dan's heart sank at the thought of facing such serious repercussions. It seemed he had little choice but to accept Gabriel's offer.
Dan then said, "Well, boss, what time do I begin working?"
Gabriel's face broke into a smile, and he chuckled. "Why not now? Just follow me back to my manor, and we'll have everything sorted out there."
Dan followed City Lord Everhart and his army as they marched, marveling at the disciplined soldiers and the organized formation. As they reached the end of the military march, the army split into different directions, each contingent presumably heading to their respective destinations.
Dan stayed close to City Lord Everhart until they finally arrived at a large manor surrounded by lush gardens. As Gabriel and Dan approached the manor, Dan noticed somebody waiting by the door. Gabriel called out, "Why are you waiting here, Sebastian?"
The young man walked over to Gabriel and said, "Father, how was the battle? Are you fine? Oh, and who is this guy next to you, Father?"