Though William felt a prickle of confusion at the reception, he kept his observations guarded, allowing his thoughts to settle behind a mask of indifference.
He retreated to the periphery, standing in silence like a shadow cast against the wall. From his vantage point, he watched Lang and the others descend upon Berry with exuberant welcomes.
"At last, you made it!" Lang bellowed, his voice booming through the hall followed by a hearty, genuine chuckle. He turned his gaze toward William, dipping his head in a respectful nod. "Welcome, Brother William. I truly hope you find our hospitality to your liking."
"It's wonderful here," Berry replied before William could offer a word.
She spoke with an airy tone, her eyes darting around the architecture as if she were marvelling at some divine miracle.
