Before Marcus could answer, Gin stepped forward and extended his hand. "That's correct. I'm Gin."
Vogel's eyes glimmered with interest.
"Are you really a mage?"
In this world, having a surname was a privilege reserved for nobles or recognized mages.
Gin's lack of a surname was unusual.
Most mages introduced themselves formally with both names unless they had reasons to conceal their identity or had not yet earned a surname.
"Do I not look the part?" Gin asked with a light grin.
"Oh no, that's not what I meant!" Vogel waved his hands apologetically.
"It's just rare to meet a mage who doesn't use a surname."
Gin didn't know how to respond. He wasn't even aware of this custom. He silently cursed Jay for failing to mention something so important.
Everyone I've met so far had a surname, Gin thought, sighing internally. He wondered if he should adopt one but decided against it for now. It wasn't worth the hassle until he fully understood the rules surrounding it.
