Late night.
Tonight's sky is adorned only with scattered stars.
The usual Star River and glowing celestial bodies have all vanished.
A darker night, rarely seen.
It seems as if tonight, secretive events are happening during this time.
In the Royal Capital of Southern Cross Island, at the center of the Imperial Palace.
Outside a wide, heavy gate, many guards come and go, standing watch.
Around them, knights are patrolling, suggesting this is the most important place in the entire palace.
Inside the gate.
It appears to be a more private lounge. The decor and luxurious furnishings indicate it's a place where someone extremely important resides.
Moving further inside, through a small door, a faint scent of blood wafts from within.
The door leading outside is wide open, offering access to a balcony beyond.
A tall, burly, stern man stands straight on the balcony, looking outward.
His face calm, never smiling.
Holding a wine glass, he savors the taste.
