turned to ash.
Draco watched with a certain boredom as the porters and sailors loaded the goods onto the ship. They were working very efficiently; it was clear they weren’t doing this for the first time. Horvater had disappeared below deck some time earlier and only appeared on the quay now and then to supervise the loading of the more delicate goods. Captain Andersen, too, was keeping a close eye on everything happening below deck. On the quay, Kei grumbled under his breath about the sailors’ lack of manners, Ari watched the work going on around him, and Forth looked around as if in passing.
James, on the other hand, decided to entertain everyone and began telling anecdotes about his trips to the port in the company of Master Vittoro. As it turned out, they used to visit quite often, and the blacksmith got into trouble far too easily. Both minor and major troubles. It was a pleasure to listen to, and there were even a few moments to laugh at.
Meanwhile, the carts that had been waiting to be unloaded were emptied and drove off for more goods, and others took their place. Only bess lay unchanging on the cobblestones, showing little interest, his gaze wandering over the people approaching him.
Time passed, and as Draco listened to his friend, he scanned the colourful crowd spilling through the port. One could see representatives of all walks of life and professions here. On several occasions, his attention was drawn to Hunters scurrying off somewhere, though they were not heading in their direction.
Finally, five Hunters emerged from the crowd: four in armour, with naginatas in their hands, and one in an official’s attire. Two of the armoured men stopped a short distance from the start of the pier, whilst the others headed towards Draco.
‘Finally,’ muttered Kei, rolling his eyes.
‘Good day, young master Ignis.’ The official bowed, and the other soldiers saluted. ‘I am Itwen Armanas, and I shall represent you on behalf of the Hunter Julius Erth.’
‘Good day, Hunter Armanas,’ Draco returned the bow as etiquette dictated.
