The door opened, and Duke Cyrus Glimor entered.
He was exactly as the rumors described.
Late forties, dark hair, sharp features that suggested intelligence tempered by experience.
He wore formal attire that managed to be both elegant and practical, expensive fabric cut for comfort rather than show.
His presence filled the room immediately. Not through arrogance, but simple authority. The kind that came from years of managing a powerful merchant house and navigating noble politics.
I stood quickly and bowed, keeping the gesture respectful but not servile. "Duke Glimor. Thank you for agreeing to see me. I apologize for the unannounced visit and any inconvenience—"
"No need for apologies." Cyrus waved his hand dismissively as he moved to the chair opposite me. "Though I admit I'm curious what brings a Raith to my door without prior notice."
He settled into his seat with practiced ease, studying me with those sharp grey eyes.
