The predawn light washed over the towering granite spires of the Shadowfall Domain, painting the high limestone walls in pale shades of amber and slate. Inside the grand concourse of the Envoy Citadel, the administrative machinery was already operating at a deafening pitch. Representatives from forty-two sovereign territories were scheduled to arrive within the hour for the opening plenary of the Grandos continental summit.
I stood before the tall, lead-paned window of my private study, adjusting the high collar of my midnight-blue ceremonial tunic. My dark hair was pinned back with absolute precision, secured by my signature obsidian hairpin.
The security breach from two nights prior had been contained, but its ripples had left the diplomatic corps vibrating with anxious tension. The Ea
