The laptop screen flickered once, then settled into a clear connection.
An older woman appeared, seated behind a heavy oak desk in what looked like a refined office.
Tall windows behind her framed a misty mountain range under steady rain, the droplets tracing slow paths down the glass.
Don studied the backdrop for a moment, curiosity stirring. The elegance of the space rivaled Miss Claire's own, perhaps even surpassed it in quiet authority.
Miss Claire inclined her head slightly toward the screen. "Good evening, Madam Raven."
The woman's posture remained impeccable, her silver hair drawn back in a severe yet graceful style.
She offered a simple nod, her voice carrying the tone of old and unhurried command. "Ah, Claire, it is a pleasure to see you once more. The hour finds you well, I trust?"
