The gray morning mist clung to the massive bastions of the western capital gate, shrouding the watchtowers in a quiet, damp blanket.
Oil lanterns flickered in the wall brackets along the battlements, casting wavering reflections across the damp cobblestones of the military highway.
Hajin arrived at the western muster plaza precisely as the fifth morning bell began its deep, resonant chime from the cathedral spires.
Flanked by Juna, Loccy, and Vella, he found Cassie's trio waiting in disciplined formation near the gatekeeper lodge.
Jonas carried two reinforced supply rucksacks strapped firmly across his broad shoulders, while Toby adjusted the buckles of their expedition harness.
"You arrived ahead of schedule, Cassie," Hajin said with a quiet, approving smile as he stepped through the swirling fog.
"A reliable vanguard does not keep their contractor waiting in the damp mist, my lord," Cassie answered crisply, resting her right fist over her heart in formal salute.
