Meanwhile, on the other side.
The Council Hall on the third floor of the Redmond Building, north of Protos Royal Magic Academy.
The walls of the meeting room were covered in dark Walnut Wood paneling, inlaid with exquisite carvings. Every detail revealed the craftsman's ingenuity. In the center of the room stood a set of dignified leather sofas in a classic dark brown, their clean, flowing lines displaying the beauty of modern design without losing the stateliness of classical furniture.
On the sofa, Lanchi and Warden Bakas were engaged in a pleasant conversation.
"I'm here today not only as the administrator of a prison, but also as an advocate devoted to creating a fairer, more efficient, and more humane prison system. Our Helrom Prison shouldn't be merely a place of confinement. It is also a complex microcosm of society, one that concerns the safety, rights, and future of every Protos citizen. That's why I completely agree with your views, Mr. Luo Qi McCarthy. We're practically kindred spirits. It's a shame we didn't meet sooner."
"Yes, exactly."
Several exquisite little tea tables were arranged around the sofas, their deep-grained surfaces carrying a timeless, layered beauty. The porcelain tea sets atop them were occasionally lifted and put down, and the two men's movements exuded an unspoken elegance.
Lanchi sat with his shoulders slightly tilted, a smile on his face and a glint of wisdom in his eyes as he listened to Warden Bakas speak.
Power and desire intertwined, and a harmonious yet subtle atmosphere filled the air. It was as if, in this VIP Meeting Room, the course of an important decision concerning Imperial Helrom was about to be determined without a hitch.
Warden Bakas's eyes also revealed his anticipation for the outcome of their negotiations.
"As administrators, we are likewise committed