The dark-blue robed disciple stepped forward, stopping a few paces in front of John.
He was tall and broad-shouldered, with a square jaw and long, slicked-back black hair.
His presence was calm, but there was something unnervingly sharp about his gaze, like a sword hidden in velvet.
The disciple glanced at the mission token in John's hand and gave a nod of approval.
"You're John Coral?" he asked in a flat, emotionless tone.
John nodded respectfully. "Yes, that's me."
The man extended his hand toward the token.
As John handed it over, the man's robe shifted slightly, revealing the insignia stitched onto his chest, the blue Cauldron Sect insignia with three concentric circles. It was the personal symbol of the Metal Cauldron Peak Lord.
"I'm Orin Stonevein," the man said. "Inner Disciple of Metal Cauldron Peak and personal aide to Peaklord Ironroot himself."
John's eyes narrowed slightly at the name, recognizing its weight.
