บท 1048: First Pawn

"Can we rely on this intel?" A gruff, aged voice rumbled skeptically, its normally measured cadence quickening imperceptibly upon hearing the news.

From the source of that voice, an opulent throne crafted from pure gold, its back adorned with spikes fanning out like the sun's rays, held an old man. He wore a pristine white linen robe, so immaculate it looked as though it had just been pressed. Healthy, lustrous hair cascaded over his shoulders, matched by a brilliantly white beard, meticulously groomed to perfection.

But it was the dazzling smile stretching across his face that was the most blinding of all. Those who addressed him found it nearly impossible to meet his gaze, making his true countenance known only to the other four members of the Radiant Conclave.

Indeed, this unassuming elder was recognized as Master Eldrion, one of the five most powerful Lifemancers of the Lustra Plains, reigning supreme over all but bowing to just one.