Noel took his seat without a word, settling into the wooden chair with a slight creak. The table between them was simple, rectangular, and sturdy—designed more for strategy than comfort. Balthor dropped into the chair beside him, exhaling as he adjusted his back.
Across from them, Nicolas von Aldros took the seat directly in front of Noel. His movements were precise, almost ritualistic. One chair remained empty at the end of the table—quiet and waiting.
The silence lingered for a few seconds.
Then Nicolas spoke first.
"Let me begin," he said, his tone calm but direct. "It's important that our new… investigator, Balthor, is brought fully up to speed."
Balthor gave a short nod. "Thanks for thinking of me."
Nicolas continued, lacing his fingers together on the table. "The recent attacks on the Holy Capital and the Imperial Academy of Valor are more connected than we originally thought. Much more."
He paused, scanning both faces.
