Karyan's head whipped around at the sound of Nedeira's urgent call.
His hand instinctively went to his now unfamiliar hair, but there was no time to worry about that.
With a final glance at Sin, who simply nodded, Karyan moved slowly, blending into the crowd and making his way to where Nedeira had disappeared.
As he slipped through the throng of people, he kept his head low to avoid drawing any unwanted attention.
The entertainment house loomed ahead, its doors wide open, inviting guests into its raucous interior.
No more golden tickets were needed since Nedeira wasn't performing tonight.
Karyan could hear the cacophony of music, laughter, and clinking glasses spilling out into the night.
Nedeira was waiting just inside the entrance, her posture was tense.
She caught his eye and subtly tilted her head, signaling him to follow her deeper into the building.
Karyan trailed behind, scanning the room for any sign of the sorcerer or his demon.
The place was a maze of corridors and private rooms, with the main hall serving as a stage for performers and a playground for the patrons.
Karyan's eyes darted around, taking in the opulent decor and the extravagant costumes of the entertainers.
Nedeira led him to a secluded room, away from prying eyes. She looked different—the nervousness had been replaced by her calmness now.
"The sorcerer is here," she whispered. "He's in his usual spot, watching the performances. We don't have much time."
Karyan nodded. "What's the plan?"
"Stay close," Nedeira replied. "I'll approach him under the pretense of offering you as new entertainment. When I touch my necklace, you come forward."
Karyan took a deep breath, preparing himself for what was about to come.
He had to trust Nedeira and hope that her magic would shield them long enough to carry out their plan.
The stakes were high, but the reward—freedom from the sorcerer's grasp—was worth every risk. He wanted her to fulfill his goal.
Together, they stepped out of the alcove and moved toward where the sorcerer sat, ensconced in luxury and surrounded by his lackeys.
Karyan's heart pounded in his chest, but he kept his expression neutral. It felt challenging to him, he wasn't scared to fight, but more like excited to do so if needed.
Before they could reach the sorcerer's usual haunt, a man with a stern expression and an air of authority intercepted them.
He was the house manager, known for his shrewd eye and weird loyalty to his employer. His gaze fell upon Nedeira, and a thin smile creased his lips.
"Nedeira, always a pleasure," the manager began, his voice smooth like oil. "The boss is quite pleased with the... outcome of your last performance. Quite a crowd you drew in—and out, should I say."
Nedeira offered a tight smile, her nerves hidden behind a fake confidence. "I live to serve the entertainment house and its people."
The manager's eyes then shifted, landing on Karyan. He took in the young man's roughened appearance, his glare lingering a moment too long. "And who is this? A new face, I presume?"
"Yes," Nedeira said quickly. "This is... Kay. He's an entertainer too, of a different sort. He calls snakes."
The manager raised an eyebrow, his interest was caught. "Is that so? And here I thought you might be the famous snake wielder that's been the talk of the town. But you're not him, are you?"
"No, not at all," Nedeira interjected before Karyan could speak. "Kay here hails from a traveling circus. He's... mute. Doesn't know how to talk, but his act with the serpents is quite spectacular."
Karyan remained silent, his eyes locked with the manager's, who scrutinized him with a calculating gaze.
The manager leaned in closer, narrowing his eyes. "A mute snake caller from the circus, you say? I find it peculiar that I've never heard of such an act. And he's quite clean for a traveler, even with the effort to look otherwise."
Nedeira felt a bead of sweat form on her forehead. "The circus life is full of surprises. Kay here is unique, which is why I brought him. I thought he could add value to our performances."
The manager circled Karyan, his suspicion barely contained. "Mute, huh? Then he won't mind if I ask a few questions."
Karyan nodded, maintaining his silence.
"Where is this circus of yours? And why leave it for our humble establishment?" the manager asked, his eyes never leaving Karyan's face.
Nedeira answered smoothly, "The circus disbanded. Financial troubles. Kay found himself without a stage, and I saw an opportunity for us both."
"I see," the manager said, though his tone suggested otherwise. "Tell me, Kay, if you're truly mute, how do you command your snakes? Some form of... magic, perhaps?"
Karyan gestured with his hands, miming a flute to his lips and moving his fingers as if playing an instrument.
His face was impassive, giving nothing away.
"Charades," Nedeira laughed nervously. "He's quite good at getting his point across without words."
The manager hummed thoughtfully, stepping back. "Interesting. No voice, but a talent for the serpents. We could use a novelty act like that. But you'll understand if I'm cautious. New faces bring new troubles. I'll have to see this act for myself before I make any decisions."