The heavy oak door to Marcus's study creaked as it swung open, revealing the dimly lit room adorned with shelves of leather-bound books and the faint scent of aged mahogany. The air in the study carried an air of quiet dignity, the hushed conversations of the past echoing in the space between the book-lined walls.

Marcus sat behind an imposing mahogany desk, his brow furrowed in silent contemplation. The evening sun cast a warm glow through the study window, painting the room in hues of amber and gold.