GATE: Journey in the New World Vol I

Arc 2: Noble City II

Disclaimer: I don't own Gate or Nihon-koku Shoukan as it belongs to its rightful owners.

Arc 2: A City, A Diplomacy A Dragon

Noble City II: Goals, Talks, and Secrets

Refugee Town, Alnus Region

The sun was just rising when the elf man had found himself in the middle of the main road surrounded by the newly sturdy structures which were now converted into small establishments and managed by the displaced villagers.

His stomach continued to growl as he continued to search for the specific structure, to which the old man had told him. It's been a while since had got out of his new home, and he was a bit impressed to see that the place was continuously prospering as weeks passed by.

Alas, the circular dome-like structure located near the main plaza greeted him. Known simply as the "Dining Hall", the establishment which was set up by the otherworlder's quickly became popular among the majority of the villagers.

Aside from the great ambiance of the place, which was also frequented by the Men in Green, it was the unique and somewhat delicious food that piqued his interest, specifically a dish simply known as "Pancakes" accompanied by a brown thick sweet syrup and salted butter on top, and before long he was sharing a table with an old friend.

Cato couldn't help but smile at the situation that he was in. It was near-perfect since he finally found a place offering a certain hot drink which he had been craving for a long time, and also a drink that a certain apostle didn't much like.

The fragrant scent of the kaffa lingered, and he sipped it quickly while enjoying the cool morning breeze.

"It's been a while since I've had this hot drink," Cato remarked. "I had no idea the Men in Green had supplies, though they called it "Coffee" instead of the name I'm familiar with."

The elf man nodded in return." And it's been a while since I had a good breakfast." He explained, taking a bite of the soft delicious cake." I must say that these "Pancakes" are impressive!" He commented.

The old man chuckled in return." I take it as you have finally settled down in your new life here?" He then said.

The smile slowly disappeared as the man sighed back.

"I'm doing my best, and it's been difficult not to think about my own daughter since she left to volunteer for that mission," he explained, staring at the blank space. "In addition, some of the Men in Green would need my expertise to guide some of their soldiers to the western regions."

"I see..."

"What about you then?"

Cato simply nodded." Very much the same as you." He then smiled at his friend." I still worry about my student even though, she's in safe hands with them." He added." But don't assume me wrong...My trust is still full with them."

"Though, it's possible for trouble to follow them."

Silence took charge once more.

Hodor nodded in understanding, still feeling a little regret for not volunteering to protect his daughter, though there was a part of him that wanted to trust the promise that she made towards him.