"I'm truly sorry, but my tea is reserved for those with good intentions toward me. I know nothing about you, so offering you tea would be premature," Adrian explained, shrugging.

At this moment, his vigilance heightened. This man had just called him by his name, implying some level of prior investigation.

"If that's the case, let's not beat around the bush.” Nathaniel produced a token from his pocket. "Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Nathaniel Albarea, deputy head of Mapleston City’s garrison."

Adrian's eyes sparked at the realization of Nathaniel's high status in Mapleston, though he maintained a puzzled expression. "I'm just a commoner running a small art studio. Why would the garrison send someone of your stature here, sir?"

Nathaniel chuckled at Adrian's words. "You're quite amusing, Adrian."

Adrian gave him a disgruntled look. "What's so funny?"

Nathaniel's laughter subsided as he continued, "Your disguise is clever indeed. But there's no need for pretense. I'm aware of wh