The line moved again.
Ryn stepped forward and handed over his papers.
The paladin took them, eyes scanning the surface with the detached efficiency of someone who had already seen too many names today.
His armor bore the white-and-gold of Rhea, but the men flanking him carried Rokhan's red and Mystia's blue.
Three Churches' authority at one gate.
"Name," the paladin said.
"Ryn Eden Arctis."
That earned him a pause.
The man's eyes lifted, sharper now, flicking briefly toward the seal on the parchment before returning to Ryn's face.
"House Arctis already has a registered delegate within the capital."
"I'm aware."
Jay shifted slightly at his side.
The paladin's gaze lingered. "Then you're not here in an official capacity."
"No," Ryn said evenly. "I'm not."
A moment passed.
"State your business."
"Observation," Ryn replied. "Coordination."
The paladin frowned. "With whom?"
Ryn didn't raise his voice nor lean in.
"House Arctis," he said. "And Grandal."
