As they stepped out of the mayor's office, Mayor Sherman led the way with Luke walking closely beside him. Behind them, Father Alric and Sister Eleanor followed at a respectful distance. The midday sun cast a warm glow over Esbakan, illuminating the streets with soft, golden light. Mayor Sherman, always mindful of appearances, leaned over to Luke and whispered.
"You should walk with them, Luke. They came all this way to see you. It would be best to strike up some conversation. Who knows, you might learn something from them too."
Luke glanced back at the two Noirist devotees, his face tightening slightly. He wasn't the type to initiate conversations, especially with people who held him in such high regard. But Sherman's suggestion made sense, and with a subtle nod, Luke slowed his pace to fall in line with Father Alric and Sister Eleanor. The cast on his leg made walking at a slower pace easier anyway, as his injury still lingered despite his attempts to push through it.
