Outside the royal palace of the Ashford Empire, the front plaza was bright with mana-lamps and noisy with engines and voices.
Security was tighter than ever. Lines of armored guards flanked the main gate, and magic barriers shimmered faintly in the air. Every car had to stop at the outer checkpoint—no exceptions.
Luxury limousines, enchanted carriages and custom sports cars rolled forward one by one, lights reflecting off polished metal and crystal crests. Guards checked invitations, scanned artifacts, and swept mirrors under each vehicle before waving it through the opened barrier.
Nobles stepped out onto the carpet in gowns and tailored suits, but their pride was muted by caution. No one dared complain when even foreign dignitaries were made to wait.
Then the palace doors opened.
