Lyle returned to the Opulent Chalice, as if he had returned home, as well as to the long-unseen Mr. Gentleman.
Leaning against the archway leading to the balcony, his face hidden by the draping curtains, he wore his trim light grey suit as usual, with a withered rose pinned to his chest. He was holding a clean handkerchief, patiently wiping a slender flute.
All black, its tiny air holes were only the size of rice grains, glossy as jade, with little else to draw attention besides the darkness.
"Peace, Mr. Gentleman."
"Peace, Plague Doctor." The greeting lasted only a moment. Mr. Gentleman bent forward to glance at Lyle through the curtains before resuming his leisurely pose.
"Welcome back, how was your trip to Naranya? Alianna mentioned an hour ago that you went to visit. She has already left; there's a concert tonight."
"It was far more fascinating than I imagined. Mr. Gentleman, it's been a long time since we met."
