Carlos gestured toward the open doorway, inviting Casaio inside the residence, a sprawling estate that was more akin to a villa than an ordinary home.
As they strolled down the wide hallway, Casaio's gaze lingered on the portraits lining the walls. They all were regal faces of witches and mages from different eras and were framed in ornate silver filigree.
"You act like a nobody among the wolves," Casaio observed, "but your family clearly carries a long and proud history in witchcraft."
Carlos's lips curved into a faint smile, though he offered no reply.
When they stepped into the living room, an elderly man in a neatly pressed black suit greeted them with a dignified bow. He was none other than Osric, the Ashfall family's long-serving butler. His lined face lit with recognition as he also greeted Casaio.
"Please, make yourself comfortable," Osric said. "I'll fetch Madam at once."
