The cheers for Griffin never died down, but as the direction of the crowd's shouts of adoration turned, Caster could tell Griffin was on the move. Based on their slowly turning screams, Caster followed Griffin's movements. The Lord of Ambition made a casual stroll across the walkway between his carriage and the doorway into the capital building, sparing no observer from his extravagant strides. Entering the City Hall, Griffin disappeared from the crowd’s sight.

In his wake, the same mounted knight who announced Griffin and the Old God’s presence spoke again.

“Citizens and peasantry, you may step forward to receive the gifts that His Holiness has brought.” The knight slammed his staff on the cobblestone road once more.

The crowd cautiously moved closer to the line of black, blue and white carriages. Instead of doors on the sides, they had shutters that rose, each one revealing a worker dressed in Cairngowan’s colors.

Lines formed around the windows of each cart, all made up from same huge group that welcomed Griffin and the Old God. The workers quickly handed out beautifully wrapped boxes to each person.

As each person received their gift, they would leave the caravan and head back into the city. The gathering never got any smaller. As others saw what was happening, they too would pick a line.

I wonder what’s inside those boxes. Must be good with how happy they seem to taking them.

“Witness, the first of countless benefits that wait for those who pledge their loyalty and worship to the Old God.”

I’ve got to find a way inside that building. Doubt the guards are going to let that happen though.

Caster thought as the crowd remained gathered around the carriages, taking the gifts from Cairngowan.

He looked at the rest of the structure, trying to see if there would be any way for him to get inside that didn’t involve using the disintegration ray.

There we’re no other buildings nearby the high tower that stood in the center of the town. The wide walkways surrounding the City Hall made it impossible for Caster to just sneak inside.

There has to be another way inside.

Caster moved away from the safety of the group, heading out on his lonesome to circle around the building.

He carefully scouted every window of the four story rise. Yet none had guards that were prying outward to actively search for would-be intruders.

I guess with all the gifts they bring, this place must not be much of a threat. I bet they’re just guarding the main entrances into the room where the officials are gathering.

Caster stopped. He’d made his way to the opposite side of the building. Although the area was still wide open, this half the City Hall was meant to be the backside. It was closer to the mountains to the north, and nearly all the structures behind it were similarly structured rectangular storage units that were painted an uninteresting beige.

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There was a door on this side. It was located much closer to the corner instead of the center of the wall. It was a single door, unlike the twin set that stood at the front. This entrance was far simpler and smaller, and had a lighter colored wooden frame instead of the far more extravagant, engraved dark wood set at the front.

Is there really no one guarding this entrance?

Caster eyed the area carefully, but sure enough, he was the only soul standing around. He took in a deep breath, and walked forward.

He grabbed the handle, and pulled. The door swung right open. Caster peeked down the hall to see nothing but an empty hallway.

Is this the maintenance area?

He stepped inside, slowly shutting the door behind himself. Connected to the hall was a messy room that houses brooms, buckets and other servant’s supplies.

Guess so. I haven’t seen anyone wearing uniforms. If that’s the case then I should be on the lookout for them, since they’d spot me out better than the guards. They’re probably all near the meeting too.

Caster took a broom off the wall.

Item Acquired! Wooden Broom! It's literally just a broom. Useful for blending in as a servant - and cleaning.

Not my weapon of choice, but as long as the Old God or Griffin don’t spot me I should be able to find a place where I can listen in on their talks.

Caster left the room behind, and continued down the hall. Though these corridors weren’t as extravagant as The Agency’s secret tunnels, it was clear this building was reserved for Hale’s Pass best in order to impress individuals like the Cairngowan duo.

Is this carpet? I haven’t felt this in ages. I’ve gotta get Andre to make some for us when I get back.

Caster shook his head, trying to focus as he neared the corner.

Just act normal. They don’t know-

Caster stopped as a man dressed in Cairngowan’s armor turned the corner at the same time he did. The two nearly collided.

Caster stepped back, looking up in shock at the knight who stared down at him with unseen eyes hidden behind his full helmet.

”You there,” the Knight spoke. His voice full of confidence.

Caster opened his mouth, but didn’t know what to say.

I was caught that fast huh.

“Do you… know where the restroom is? I overheard this City Hall had an in-house. Is that true?”

The knight seemed to stutter on his words.

“It’s… down the other hallway and to the right,” Caster finally answered.

“I see. Thank you, child.” The knight nodded, then turned away.

Level Up! Luck Increased +1!

Child?!!

Caster shook his head before following the knight’s path down the hallway. Turning one more corner, Caster froze as he entered a room housing a dozen other knights, all of which diligently stood at attention.

Two figures were walking up a staircase, only their lower halves were visible as they’d nearly reached the second floor.

Caster mimicked the reverent stance of the knights. He kept his back straight and held his broom close to his side as if it were a spear.

The Old God, Griffin and a few other voices grew quieter as they traveled into another room upstairs, shutting a heavy door behind them.

I bet that’s the meeting room. I’ve got to follow them!

Caster’s eyes roamed around, looking carefully at the knights. Though he couldn’t see their eyes, he knew some of them were looking back.

Just. Act. Natural.