Old foe

Isaac's return to the guild stirred an undeniable tension, almost a charge in the air that was felt by everyone nearby. Mr. Barlow, the guild master, eyed the unfamiliar figure at Isaac's side with a cool, calculating expression. He crossed his arms as he approached, his gaze flicking back to Isaac.

"Isaac, where's the rest of your team, and who's this lady?" His voice was even, but there was a hardness in his eyes as he scrutinized Roxy, who stood silently beside Isaac.

Isaac's jaw tightened, barely holding back the frustration that had been simmering ever since he'd escaped the Crimson Coffin.

"You really had to ask that?" His voice dripped with resentment. "They're all dead!" The bitterness in his tone was clear, yet Barlow's face showed no hint of surprise—almost as if he'd anticipated the outcome.

"I see," Barlow said, his voice chillingly indifferent. "And what about this lady here?" His eyes settled back on Roxy, his tone neutral, almost detached.