Golden dawn light broke across the mist-shrouded Central Plains, illuminating the vast allied encampment outside the foundries of Molakwa.
Tens of thousands of warriors from all five provinces gathered in the great open courtyard, forming massive, disciplined ranks beneath the morning sky.
Northern shield-bearers stood shoulder to shoulder with southern desert spearmen, western huntresses, eastern archers, and elite shadow operatives, their armor gleaming in the early light.
On the elevated stone platform at the center of the field, Sagiri stood calmly beside Kiuga, Banga, and Lady Kiana.
Behind them stood the veterans of Squad 25. Maita, Bukata, Zolinka, and Ulekai, their hearts full as they looked out upon the army they had helped unite.
Nokai rested securely against Sagiri's back, its silver-veined runes pulsing with a quiet, steady rhythm that matched the deep heartbeat of the land.
