The soft hum of conversation filled the cozy Japanese restaurant as your guild members gathered around the long table, laptops open, the screen glow reflecting in everyone’s eyes. The scent of ramen and sizzling skewers drifted through the air, mixing with the quiet excitement of the meet-up. You sat at the center of the group, fingers flying over the keyboard as you dived into your game, Albion Online.

Beside you, Varek sat in his usual silence, eyes fixed on your screen. His laptop was closed, the guild leader content to watch you play with others. Despite his quiet presence, you could feel his attention on every move you made. He was always watching, analyzing.

“You’re wasting energy with that spell again,” Varek muttered under his breath, his voice low, almost hesitant.