Chapter 139: The project meeting (2)

His voice was quiet, but it commanded the room with the authority of a blade drawn. The subtle murmurs vanished in an instant, replaced by the crisp sounds of pages turning, quills uncapped, and portfolios opened with practiced hands.

Scrolls bearing imperial wax seals were passed down the table by silent aides in black and crimson. The scent of parchment and ink mingled with the faint trace of protective spells layered into the documents; runes glimmered faintly beneath each heading, warded against forgery.