"…Cosmic Elder."
The newcomer bowed with unmistakable sincerity, both of her large eyes closing as she placed her free hand—graceful and precise—over her chest in a formal gesture of respect. The silence that followed was reverent, as if the world itself had paused to acknowledge the weight of her words.
"Althera, you look well," the old man said, a ghost of a crooked smile creeping onto his worn, withered face.
"I haven't seen you since you were just a child. If I remember correctly, it was just before you took command of the Stellar Academy, wasn't it?"
"I am well," Althera replied, her voice calm and level, "and the Academy continues to thrive under your blessings and divine protection, Cosmic Elder."
She stood upright again, posture perfect—still no emotion visible on her pale, elegant features.
"…Your body?"
"Ah~ There's no need for concern," the old man waved her off gently, his tone light but clearly strained. "I'll be fine."
