Snake's knuckles rapped three times against the wooden door before leaning back with a grin on his face.
The sounds of shuffling came from inside, then the door creaked open, revealing a gaunt man with sunken cheeks and tired eyes.
His hair was messy, and his left arm was stiff from an old injury.
"Marlon," Snake said warmly, spreading his arms. "It's been too long."
The man blinked, then recognition sparked in his weary gaze. "Snake? By the abyss, you actually came."
"Of course I came," Snake chuckled. "Would I miss seeing an old friend?"
Marlon's lips twitched into a weak smile. "Come in, come in."
He stepped aside, and Snake sauntered through, his red hair bouncing softly as he walked.
The house was cramped, and the walls patched in places where damp had eaten through.
A faint chill lingered in the air, but Marlon busied himself pouring tea into chipped cups, sliding one across the table.
