The council-room doors closed behind Hajin and the two officers, leaving their footsteps to fade along the corridor.
Mana lamps crackled above the long table while the Divine Core of the Sun Emperor remained at its center.
Bright golden power pulsed beneath the crystal surface, matching the transfer record lying beside it without one change in color.
Nobody spoke during the first half minute, though several councillors stared through measuring lenses toward the captured sunlight.
The silver-ringed councilman leaned back after the final footstep faded from the corridor.
"A new Ranker killing a Beast King remains the most absurd report of my career, even with proof," he said while one hand opened.
Several councillors nodded without taking their eyes from the glowing crystal.
"I have reviewed Gate records inside this room for fifteen years," the standing councilwoman said as both arms folded.
