"This is a joke, right, sir? I—it isn't proper to promote him to an elder when he just joined the group!"

"He's right, Dr. Watkins. This is the first time there's been an exception like this. That's not normal!"

"Sir, we know you favor talented individuals, but I'm afraid others might be unhappy with your decision."

The elders and many disciples of the Stoneray Order were upset when they heard that Linden would promote Dustin to elder, which was only one rank below the assistant leader.

Disc