House Argas Estate.
A grand feast was arranged within the opulent expanse of a grand hall, the occasion being none other than Altair Argas' elevation to the rank of Sage.
Attendees from diverse backgrounds and origins converged to partake in this elaborate celebration, orchestrated by House Argas.
The banquet spread was a cornucopia of delectable cuisines and beverages, while the gathering was treated to mesmerizing musical performances delivered by accomplished artists.
Representatives hailing from the Edinburgh kingdom, an array of smaller and larger organizations, converged here from every corner of the realm to honor Altair Argas' achievement and extend their felicitations.
Even those linked to cultist sects managed to find their way here, cloaking their true affiliations so as to not cause trouble. In effect, the revelry had evolved into an opportunity for various factions within Anfang to formally engage with Altair Argas, the freshest addition to the ranks of Edinburgh's Sages.
Gifts, rare and precious, as well as valuable ranking resources flowed to Altair from the well-wishers who had assembled to mark his ascent. Prior to attaining Sage status, Altair was already a renowned figure in Edinburgh, bestowed with the title of the Crimson Ghost by the reigning king.
However, his newfound Sage status elevated his renown even further, making him the focal point of conversations not only within Edinburgh but even across the borders in the rival kingdom of Layos.
Altair had taken his turn at addressing the gathering. Expressing his gratitude for their presence, he swiftly transitioned into sharing poignant anecdotes from his own arduous journey of Ranking.
Known for his succinct communication style, he concluded his speech promptly, thus initiating the festivities. The grand hall burst to life as the audience dispersed into clusters to engage in various forms of revelry.
The soirée pulsated with an effervescent energy. The hour had grown late, yet the merrymaking showed no signs of waning. A stage, suspended in midair, hosted a band of musicians who skillfully weaved mellifluous tunes.
The lead singer, exuding elegance, was flanked by a harmonizing chorus, captivating the audience. In one corner, pairs swayed on the dance floor, while around them, clusters of Rankers watched the performances unfold.
As one ventured farther from the floating stage, the musical ambiance dwindled, creating pockets for tête-à-têtes. Here, individuals congregated in clusters, exchanging hushed conversations.
Attendants, ranging from Novice to Ace Rankers, attended to their needs, serving beverages and ensuring comfort. What was striking was the shroud of confidentiality each gathering seemed to cloak itself with, ensuring that conversations remained private amidst the revelry.
Altair had tasked his granddaughter, Altashia, with extending an invitation to Eren for the grand celebration. As intended, Eren, accompanied by Altashia, Naya, and a handful of his steadfast companions, graced the event to honor Altair.
After all, the White Raven Guild, led by Eren, had forged a significant alliance with Altair's Firebrand Guild. Over the past nine years of relentless conflict between the two kingdoms, these guilds and their members had collaborated on numerous battlegrounds.
This common history meant that the Firebrand members mingled seamlessly with Eren's guildmates, no introductions necessary. Amidst the camaraderie, stories of triumph, struggles, and future prospects were shared, punctuated by heartfelt toasts to fallen comrades.
Engaged in a tête-à-tête, Altair expressed his gratitude to Eren for looking after his granddaughter. As they conversed face to face, Altashia, alternating her gaze between her grandfather and Eren, exchanged a few words with Naya. The scene was graced by the presence of a striking woman, introduced as Altair's fifth wife – his matrimonial alliances amounting to nine.
Four of Altair's wives attended the gathering, each overseeing different aspects of the feast. They rotated in accompanying Altair during his interactions with significant guests, and Eren was certainly counted among them.
Eren, in response to Altair's appreciation, shook his head modestly and released a sigh before replying.
"The gratitude is mine, truly. Altashia played an instrumental role in safeguarding me during my Master Rank breakthrough. She kept the Layos forces at bay, allowing me to achieve the breakthrough undisturbed." Eren's comment was accompanied by a gentle squeeze of Altashia's hand. She was dressed elegantly for the occasion, and her playful gaze met Eren's as she retorted.
"Ah, but let's not forget, you had a formidable guardian watching over you during that moment. I might not have seen her, but the aura she exuded while ensnaring you within her domain Ability spoke volumes of her capabilities." Altashia was, of course, alluding to Alephee, Eren's last line of defense during his transition to the Master Rank.
Altair and Eren engaged in a relaxed conversation for a while. The trio of Altair, Eren, and Altashia delved into various topics, touching upon ongoing projects and the prospects of future war contracts.
Altair had now attained the revered Sage Rank, the pinnacle of individual power within Anfang. As such, he was on the brink of facing restrictions from the Anfang Alliance, a development that prompted Eren's personal visit despite his own demanding schedule and numerous pending tasks. This timing presented the opportune moment for Eren to glean Altair's unrestricted insights.
It appeared that Altair had been contemplating relinquishing his role as Firebrand's Guild Master. While his preference was for Altashia to inherit the position, he recognized that she wasn't yet prepared for such a mantle. Within the Argas clan, Altair had several more qualified contenders who could take up the leadership of Firebrand, thereby allowing him to dedicate himself to his Sage journey.
Nevertheless, Altair had a unique vision for Altashia's involvement in Firebrand's decisions. Hence, he entrusted her with discussing guild matters with Eren, occasionally interjecting with his own insights.
As the conversation transitioned from official to personal matters, Eren found the moment apt to request a private exchange. Altair, with a nod, briefly parted from his fifth wife, leaving a kiss on her cheek, before guiding Eren away from the throng and onto one of the open balconies adjoining the grand hall.
Ensuring their privacy, Altair reassured Eren, "Speak candidly, boy. We have complete seclusion here." Eren acknowledged the assurance with a nod, his tone now grave and composed.
