[: 3rd POV :]
In the morning sky above the Human Empire burned gold, lit by the twin suns that heralded both dawn and omen.
From the highest balcony, one could see the horizon dressed in banners of light.
The imperial fleet hovered in silent formation across the skies twelve skyships forged from sacred steel and laced with arcane runes, each a floating fortress fit for kings.
But within the palace, the air was far from triumphant.
It was quiet, tensed and Focused.
Daniel stood before a full-length mirror in a ceremonial cloak of deep obsidian and silver filigree.
It was mantle traditionally reserved for the Commander of the Imperial Vanguard.
Yet the weight it bore now was not just armor, but responsibility.
Behind him, Bella stepped through the doors.
Her hair, woven with starlight silk and braided with subtle runes, shimmered as she moved.
