A week later...

The grandeur of the Mayor’s residence was on full display that evening. The affluent estate seemed to stretch on forever; its gardens, once crawling with guards, were now adorned with vivid flowers and sparkling fountains.

But that wasn’t all. As nightfall turned the skies into a tapestry of stars, the mansion was bathed in the soft glow of countless lanterns, casting a warm and inviting light across the manicured lawns.

The guests, elegantly dressed in resplendent attire, gathered in the courtyard, each one vying for a chance to be a part of the celebration and gain recognition from none other than the Mayor himself.

Within the lavish interiors of the residence, the grand ballroom was a vision of timeless beauty. Crystal chandeliers dangled like radiant constellations from the towering ceiling.

At the same time, the walls were adorned with intricate designs and decorations that whispered of the era before their world got swarmed by the undead.

An orchestra of skilled musicians, beautiful music for the guests. The notes of their instruments seemed to paint emotions in the air, setting the perfect backdrop for the evening’s festivities.

Caleb stood on a small, ornate balcony that overlooked the grand courtyard. The evening’s festivities were in full swing, and the guests below had gathered to celebrate in the resplendent atmosphere of his residence.

By his side, his elegant wife, Jessica, radiated charm and grace. She wore a gown that shimmered like moonlight, and her radiant smile complemented the joyous atmosphere of the party.

In her arms was their young son, Christopher, who clung to her side, mesmerised by the splendid spectacle below.

Everyone was having a great time except Caleb. But he couldn’t show his true expression before the crowd. Not because it would ruin the party but because he didn’t want to raise any suspicion regarding his plan.

"Darling, it’s time..." Jessica whispered to Caleb, who smiled and nodded.

"Thank you for joining us tonight, dear friends," Caleb’s voice resonated. "It’s a delight to have you here, sharing in this splendid evening of celebration."

Everyone raised their glasses to acknowledge his words. It was a celebration, alright, but a celebration of his freedom, which he’ll attain soon enough. 𝒇𝙧𝙚𝓮𝙬𝙚𝓫𝒏𝓸𝓿𝓮𝒍.𝓬𝙤𝓶

Having officially started the celebrations, Caleb walked downstairs to greet the guests with his family in toe. Caleb and Eleanor’s smiles never waned as they warmly greeted each person.

But even amongst the crowd, Caleb’s eyes scanned the public for two familiar faces. Thankfully, after looking for a while, he eventually found two familiar faces: Masterbuilder and Miro, who had also served alongside Caleb in the factory.

"Jonah, Miro! It’s been far too long. I hope you’ve been well!" he exclaimed.

"Indeed, Mayor Caleb," Miro responded with a smile. "It’s always a pleasure to see you."

"What are you on about?" Masterbuilder sighed before hugging Caleb. "We met last week for more funds..."

"A week is a long time for me, Jonah!" Caleb replied, referring to the masterbuilder by his actual name. "As for the funds... I’m sorry, but we’re running on a tight budget, but who knows? Maybe we’d be able to work something out tonight!"

After Miro and Masterbuilder exchanged warm pleasantries with the Mayor and Jessica, their talk shifted to idle chit-chat. As the small talk subsided, Caleb turned his attention to the primary purpose of their meeting.

"Can you attend to the guest for a while?" Caleb asked Jessica. "I have some important business to conduct with these gentlemen."

"Of course, you guys go do your business, and I’ll do what I do best," Jessica replied with a vixen smile and left them.

"Now then, let’s head inside, shall we?" Caleb gestured towards the gates, and the men went in.

Still beaming with warmth, Caleb ushered them into a well-guarded room just off the grand ballroom, signalling the transition from the friendliness of the celebration to a more private and secretive atmosphere.

"Make sure no one gets in-", Caleb instructed the guards but was interrupted by Miro.

"Actually, someone is running late for the meeting," he said. "So, it would be great if you could allow him inside later."

"We can delay the meeting if that’s what you like?" Caleb suggested, but masterbuilder waved his hand, rejecting Caleb’s words.

"It’s fine. He already told us he’ll be late, so there’s that," Jonah said. "Besides, we’re the ones conducting the business, so it shouldn’t be delayed any further."

"Alright, let’s head inside then," Caleb said, opening the doors to the dimly lit room.

Inside, a masked figure with a black mask stood in the shadows, exuding an aura of enigma and intrigue. The atmosphere was charged with tension and a sense of mystery that hung in the air.

"Gentlemen, allow me to present our special guest for this evening," Caleb introduced the masked guest without revealing any more about his identity.

The masked individual remained silent, his presence adding an extra layer of curiosity to the already intriguing atmosphere.

"Then, shall we get down to business?" Caleb then turned to Miro, his curiosity piqued. "Show us what you got for me this time..."

"Of course!"

Taking a moment to retrieve the carefully wrapped gears crafted by Shinon, Miro presented the creations to the Mayor. The intricate designs and flawless workmanship immediately drew Caleb’s attention.

As a former Masterbuilder, Caleb recognised the immense value of the presented goods and was utterly captivated. Caleb’s eyes sparkled with fascination, and he leaned closer to examine the gears.

"Miro, these creations are nothing short of remarkable. You have truly outdone yourself," Caleb said, handing the sonic disruptor to the masked man. "I can’t wait to meet the brilliant mind behind these intricate pieces?"

"He should be here any moment-"

Miro’s gaze shifted slightly, and in that moment, the door to the room opened quietly, and Shinon stepped inside.

His voice rang out confidently as he spoke, "It’s a shame you couldn’t recognise the Flintlock mark anymore."

Caleb’s jaw dropped, and he stood there in stunned disbelief, a whirlwind of emotions washing over him. His eyes remained locked on his son, Shinon, whom he thought he had lost forever, unable to believe his eyes.

"It’s been a while, Mr Mayor." Shinon greeted his father with a cold, indifferent smile.