Chapter 43: Meeting Jusin
Alex saw the rugged features of the man who belonged to that strained voice
The man’s hair was a dull shade of brown, thick and matted to his forehead with sweat, the damp strands clinging to his skin like wet earth after a heavy rain.
A full but slightly thin beard framed his square, handsome jaw, the edges rough and uneven
His jawline was square and strong, carved with the kind of rugged handsomeness that only years of exposure to the elements could create.
His eyes, sharp and assessing, landed on them. "What can I do for you?" he asked, his voice still carrying that edge.
But when his gaze finally settled on Thalorin, the hardened lines of his face softened, as though the sight of him had peeled away some of the roughness that clung to his features.
His lips parted, and a wide, genuine smile spread across his rugged face, crinkling the edges of his eyes.
It was a smile that transformed him, softening the hard angles of his jaw and making him appear almost youthful for a fleeting moment.
"Well, what a rare face to see these days," he said, his voice shifting as laughter laced the words, deep and rich
He withdrew his head with a slight nod, his smile lingering as if savoring the moment.
There was a subtle rustle, and then a soft, metallic hum filled the air.