Ian sat down in the guest's seat. Gaga perched on his shoulder, its small eyes scanning the room.
"This is Aditya, a descendant of the Celestial God and one of the Indian Guardians."
Bascara introduced, gesturing toward the bald, muscular man. Aditya lifted his eyelids and glanced at Ian.
His gaze was level, but a hint of disdain was hidden in the depths of his eyes.
"And this is Shomia, Daughter of the Moon God, and also a Guardian." The withered old woman nodded slightly, white powder flaking from her face.
Ian's expression was wooden. He gave a slight nod, a minimal acknowledgment.
With the introductions over, the banquet officially began.
Maids brought out various dishes: meat charred black, curry that was a mushy mess, and a soup that gave off a strange odor.
Ian didn't touch his chopsticks. Gaga was even more direct, burying its small head in its wings in a clear gesture of refusal.
