As Johan walked through a small lane in the workers' district, something caught his attention. At a corner near the workshop area, he spotted a familiar figure engaged in an animated conversation.
Aoi, with a rare smile on her face, was talking enthusiastically with Henry, the old dwarf Johan had recruited from Drawken. Henry, with his thick beard and echoing laughter, seemed utterly at ease with her, as if they had been friends for years.
Johan paused, observing from a distance. Seeing Aoi in such a relaxed atmosphere brought a smile to his face. After a moment, he stepped closer.
"I didn't know you two could get along this well," Johan said casually, his voice loud enough to grab their attention.
Aoi turned, slightly startled. "Johan? You finally decided to show up," she said lightly, though a trace of guilt flickered across her expression. "I thought you'd be busy with palace affairs."