News of Erian soon reached Lucas' ears as well.
Two days later, under the excuse of delivering fabrics, he came to Firefly Pavilion in person.
When he arrived, Erian was in the courtyard hanging freshly dyed silk threads to dry. Strands of crimson, emerald, sapphire, and gold swayed beneath the autumn wind upon long bamboo poles, their colors glowing brilliantly beneath the afternoon sun.
The young man stood beneath them, sorting the silk one bundle at a time with swift, practiced movements.
He never once glanced toward Lucas.
The lord remained standing at the entrance for a moment before finally stepping into the shop.
Caelith was seated inside, embroidering, when she saw him enter. She immediately set down the embroidery frame and rose gracefully to greet him.
"Greetings, Lord Ostenton."
"Miss Caelith." Lucas smiled warmly as he placed several bolts of fabric upon the table. "A new shipment just arrived. Take a look."
