29

As Zion and Asahi entered the small shop, the atmosphere was hushed, and the shopkeeper eyed them warily. They had been asking around town for hours about Cavaller, the exiled witch rumored to hold the key to their mission, but everyone seemed to clam up at the mention of his name. It was as if the mere mention of Cavaller's name sent a shiver down their spines.

Asahi sighed softly, her frustration evident. "It's like no one wants to be associated with Cavaller. They either avoid the topic or act like they've never heard of him."

Zion nodded in agreement, his brow furrowed with concern. "It's as if he's a ghost in this town. But we can't afford to waste any more time. We need to find him if we want to save our comrades."

The shopkeeper, an elderly man with a weathered face and kind eyes, overheard their conversation and cleared his throat. "You're looking for Cavaller, you say?"

Zion and Asahi turned to face him, surprised by his sudden interest. "Yes, we are," Zion replied cautiously.