Kerum, the highest-ranking official of the temple, was already seated on one of the chairs, his aged yet powerful presence filling the room. He was a tall man with a robust frame, his silver hair neatly combed back, and his robes were a deep, rich purple, embroidered with gold threads.
He had been a mentor to Lucan during his formative years at the academy, and their relationship had always been one of mutual respect, though it was often tinged with humor and familiarity in private settings.
Lucan entered the room and gave a slight nod before taking a seat on the sofa opposite Kerum. He leaned back comfortably, the stiffness he usually displayed in public noticeably absent. Here, in the privacy of Kerum's office, there was no need for formalities.
"It's good to see you again, old man," Lucan began, his tone casual.
