Elian walked forward and bowed in the direction of the Pope and the council, his hands interlaced in his sleeves.
Then, he turned and followed after Julian, and as they reached the massive doors, he could not help but look at Julian with a complicated expression.
"That was... unexpected," Elian murmured once they were out of earshot of the Council. "The Pope is rarely so accommodating regarding the attire of the Sanctum. You have made an impression, Julian."
"I told him the truth," Julian replied, his pace brisk. "And he seems to value that more than a change of silk."
"He does. But do not mistake his patience for indifference," Elian warned. He paused at a junction in the hallway. "The Council is unsettled. They have decided to postpone the morning sermons. You have an hour before I am to escort you to the archives. I suggest you find some rest."
"I don't need rest, Purifier. I need air," Julian said. "Come, Lucius,"
