Hours had passed since they had last seen Lady Sylia depart with the Supreme God Maker. The evening had grown late, and Kensington felt the stirrings of hunger for something more substantial than the assortment of snacks before him, though he would not be so discourteous as to mention it. They would simply have to wait as long as necessary for Saint Sylia's return. His son Diams and their relatives had already ensured that the table remained supplied with refreshments. At least their Guardian appeared content, for Sukuna had brought the Bird Guardians special treats, which they were clearly enjoying.

Kensington's thoughts drifted toward food and to the family he had left behind in his homeland when a sudden swirl of dark fog appeared within the room, startling many of those present. He and his children rose at once, eyes fixed upon a pair of large midnight-blue double doors that had materialized before them.

(Xinion)

The doors were tall and imposing, crafted from dark wood and carved with an intricate pattern of dark silver vines and inlaid with diamond dust. Slowly they began to open, revealing a small figure with pointed ears, advancing toward them at an unhurried pace. The figure came to a halt. It was unmistakably a male Gnome.

He bore a youthful, almost childlike face with smooth skin, a small nose, and large eyes that glowed vividly blue, betraying a strong magical power. His long, pointed ears angled outward, and his expression was calm yet alert. He wore a deep blue hooded robe that fell to his boots, with a pentagram emblem stitched upon his left sleeve. Around his neck hung a string of wooden prayer beads, and at his belt rested a large, ornate spiral medallion, both hinting at ceremonial or mystical significance. His boots were practical, suited more for temple corridors or long travel than for the refinement of a tea room. For a time, he said nothing, his bright eyes measuring them in silence.

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Behind him, the double doors remained slightly ajar, allowing a shaft of golden light to spill through the narrow gap, casting a radiant halo around the Gnome's small form. The glow cut through a conjured, dimly shadowed corridor, giving the impression that whatever lay beyond was sacred, powerful, or forbidden. The doorway's frame was flanked by detailed paneling, its strong vertical lines emphasizing the door's grandeur and height, rendering the Gnome even smaller by contrast.

At last, the Gnome stepped forward, his gaze fixed on Sukuna's beaming smile. He bowed slightly in greeting. "Lady Sukuna," he said with respectful formality. The courtesy was notable, for his presence radiated great power. His tightly controlled Aura leaked faint traces of Dark and Darkling Mana, sending a ripple of fear through Kensington's sons and their companions. Only Kensington's daughter, Aurora Neilom, appeared relatively unshaken. She had never been adept at sensing Auras, particularly those aligned with the Dark and Darkling Elements, to which she had no affinity.

Encouraged by Sukuna's cheerful expression, the Gnome turned to address the rest of the group.

In a deep yet youthful voice, he said, "I am Xinion, a Gnome Minor God of the Nights Flock. My Mistress has commanded me to escort you into our new pocket Dimension. Izranaga and his Master are preparing a place where you may meet with Mistress Sylia later, but it may require some time to complete. Please, follow me. I have arranged a meal for you, and I shall also provide Rejuvenating Potions and Pentagrams, for you may have to wait a little longer. My Mistress tells me she might need more time with Izranaga's Master, after all."

Kensington could not conceal the shock on his face, and the others appeared no less surprised.

Still, the Bird Guardians flapped their wings, urging him to follow their Gnome companion. Thus, once again, he had no choice but to comply.

Who could say where they were being led? The Nights Flock was hardly known for their warmth and hospitality. Judging from his children's expressions, they seemed to share the same thought. However, just like himself, they followed the Bird Guardians onward without delay.

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