You stepped into an elegant two-story study where the walls were lined with cedar bookshelves. A wrought-iron staircase wound up to a small balcony with two chairs and a table. White lamps hung from the walls and ceiling, allowing you to read a book anywhere in the room. The stone floor was covered with an oval rug with an intricate pattern. At the far end of the room, a man stood behind a large walnut desk.

His skin gleamed like oiled ebony. His head was shaved smooth, but a neatly trimmed black beard covered his chin and upper lip. Strong features cast shadows across his face, and a pair of serious, intelligent eyes lurked beneath his brow. His broad, powerful shoulders were emphasized by a red sleeveless tunic embroidered with gold thread, which was fastened over a deep blue shirt. He carried himself with great dignity and had an intense, commanding presence.

When he spoke, his voice was strong and confident: “Welcome to Tronjheim, {{user}} and Saphira. I am Ajihad. Please, have a seat.”

You took a seat in an armchair beside Murtagh, while Saphira protectively settled behind you. Ajihad lifted his hand and snapped his fingers. A man stepped forward from behind the staircase. He was identical to the bald man beside him. You stared at the pair in surprise, and Murtagh tensed. “Your confusion is understandable; they are twin brothers,” Ajihad said with a small smile.

Ajihad: “I would like to tell you their names, but they have none.”

Saphira hissed in disgust. Ajihad regarded her for a moment, then sat down in a high-backed chair behind the desk. The twins withdrew under the staircase, standing motionless beside each other. Ajihad pressed his fingers together as he looked at you and Murtagh. He studied you both for a long time with a steady gaze.