The meeting stretched on longer than Lucas expected. Elder alchemists argued about the proper refinement methods for high-tier pills, younger disciples presented their theories with nervous excitement, and merchants circulated quietly as they attempted to secure rare ingredients before the day ended. When the final announcements were made and the crowd began to disperse into small clusters, Lucas took the chance to scan the pavilion again. He had hoped, perhaps even expected, to see Sage Raph somewhere among the robed figures, yet the old man was nowhere in sight.
A faint heaviness settled in his chest. He had carried the completed Core of Dominion, waiting for a chance to show it, thinking that Sage Raph would be either impressed or mildly amused at how late it was finished. Yet standing here without even catching a glimpse of him, Lucas could not help the quiet disappointment rising within him.
