Summer arrived in the Shadowfall Valley with uncharacteristic warmth, turning the pine-forested slopes into vibrant shades of deep emerald.
From the central balcony of the High Sovereign Academy, I watched streams of delegates from across the four continental quadrants fill the marble archways below. Banners representing thirty-four allied territories fluttered in the mountain breeze. The atmosphere in the citadel was charged with anticipation—today marked the official opening of the Continental Health Summit’s spatial pavilions.
I adjusted the silver brooch pinning my navy velvet mantle, admiring the immaculate flow of crowds below. Nora’s topographical layout proved flawless; despite hundreds of incoming scholars, healers, and foreign envoys, there was no congestion, no disorder, and n
