City Lord Mansion, the guest hall
A gaunt old man with a tuft of goat-tail beard was quietly sitting in a chair, sipping tea. A brown magic staff rested beside his left hand, unsupported, yet it did not fall, standing upright next to the elder.
The brown gem at the top of the staff twinkled, casting light as if it were on alert for something.
Upon seeing Song Jian enter from the doorway, surprise flashed in the elder's eyes; he probably had not expected the master of this castle to be so young.
"Honorable lord, Mage Tuya pays his respects to you," the elder said respectfully with a bow to Song Jian.
"Hello, Master Tuya," Song Jian responded politely with a bow and then asked, "May I know why you have come here? Are you seeking any help?"
"Lord, I wish to join your ranks and become one of your city-affiliated heroes," Tuya stated directly.