Five years later…
Igor sat crowded with stacks of documents on the mahogany desk, waiting for review. The only sound in the room was the faint clinking of porcelain as Donovan carefully poured tea for Igor.
Igor didn't mind the sound. His eye remained on the papers as he signed one document, then the other with practiced strokes. But it seemed Donovan had something on his mind.
Suddenly, Donovan cleared his throat.
"Is there something you wish to say, Donovan?" Igor asked without looking up.
"Young Master Aurelia has once again topped the class, sir. He got perfect scores in both theory and practicals."
Hearing the news, Igor put down his pen. He looked at Donovan before allowing himself the rare luxury of a smile. It was a smile he reserved only for Aaran's accomplishments.
"Of course he did," Igor said, leaning back in his chair.