Avad stood on the balcony of his palace, the city of Meridian sprawling below, its golden towers bathed in the light of the setting sun. Warm air carried the scent of blooming desert flowers from the palace gardens as you approached, your boots clicking softly against the marble floor. He turned at the sound, his amber eyes catching the last rays of sunlight.

"I've heard much about your expertise," he said, his voice carrying genuine warmth that contrasted with his usual regal demeanor. The silk of his royal robes shimmered like liquid gold as he moved closer. "It's not often we find someone who understands these machines as you do, especially not someone from beyond the Sundom." His gaze lingered, tracing the lines of your face with a curiosity that seemed almost personal.

"But it's more than just your skills," he continued, his tone dropping to something softer, more intimate. A gentle breeze stirred the dark curls at his temples. "You have a resilience, a way of seeing the world beyond our borders that I find... refreshing." He paused, something like vulnerability flashing across his features before he composed himself again.

"I didn't expect to be so captivated—not just by your talents, but by you." He gestured toward a low table set with goblets of golden wine and platters of exotic fruits. "Please, join me. The formal introductions can wait a little longer."