Luna suddenly realized she'd worried a civilian, smiled awkwardly and said "sorry" before hastily leaving with her coffee.
Eli tilted his head, watching his customer's hurried footsteps.
What a shame.
She must've been exhausted from working too much.
Maybe the caffeine kick will help her stay awake.
Clang.
Another customer entered.
It was Julian, Eli's close friend.
He was extremely tall, making Eli unwilling to stand beside him outside, like a tiny dog next to a giant.
However, their decade-long friendship wasn't ruined by their vastly different appearances.
"Eli, good morning."
Julian, refined and courteous, sat by the window and greeted him.
As his friend and regular customer, a black coffee was immediately served.
"Thanks."
Eli nodded.
Julian always seemed to have plenty of free time.
He visited the café daily, ordering black coffee and observing passersby through the window, as calm as a library.
Sometimes Eli wondered what Julian did after graduation to have so much free time, but soon forgot due to work.
"Did you sleep well last night?" Julian asked.
Eli was taken aback.
"What do you mean?"
"Never mind, you slept soundly until morning."
Julian's face showed satisfaction.
"Looks like the local administrative building handled the gate well, not disturbing nearby residents."
Eli was confused.
"Gate? What's going on, Juli?"
Julian's unusual words made Eli's hair stand.
He took another glance.
Luna seemed normal, but Julian looked different!
Today, he seemed taller and wore combat-like attire – black boots and a large black cloak, unusual for Julian.
"Julian, what's your job?" Eli's lips trembled.
Julian put down his coffee, seriously staring at Eli.
"Haven't I told you?"
"I'm a renowned hunter, Eli?"