"Working with the Celestrians?" Gaius rose from his seat, his expression growing serious as he scrutinized the father and son before him. Though he had suspected as much, hearing the words directly from them was still shocking.

Thobias chuckled lightly and reassured Gaius, "Indeed. This is no jest."

Gaius was taken aback. "Then you..."

"Mr. Gaius, are you only realizing this now? It seems I've overestimated you," Thobias deflected abruptly, shifting the focus onto Gaius.

Gaius wore a pensive