The figure was a man with short, dark hair and piercing blue eyes. He was dressed in a tailored black tailcoat with a white shirt and a black waistcoat. His trousers were formal and black, and a pair of black patent leather shoes completed his outfit. A white cravat was tied elegantly around his neck, and a pair of white gloves covered his hands. As he approached, Alexander's eyes widened in surprise, and a broad smile soon spread across his face. He was an old friend who he hadn't seen in a long while but their bond of friendship remained strong. "Marcus!" Alexander exclaimed, his voice filled with surprise and joy. He opened his arms and enveloped Marcus in a warm hug. "It's been far too long, my friend!" Marcus laughed and returned the hug, his eyes shining with warmth. "Alexander, i

