The morning sun had barely kissed the black stone battlements of Draco's imperial capital.
Alexander rode through the parade ground, his long dark cloak trailing behind him, dust rising in his wake.
Soldiers stood in perfect formation, their armor gleaming with polished obsidian and bronze, helmets lined with crimson plumes that mirrored the banners fluttering in the wind.
Across the courtyard, massive statues of dragons coiled around towers, their eyes seemingly alive with an eternal fire.
The conquered flags of Valdoria and other western territories hung from the outer ramparts, a testament to Alexander's inexorable march across the lands.
Alexander's steely gray eyes swept across the assembled generals and war captains.
Every man in uniform, from the youngest recruit to the seasoned commanders, bowed their heads slightly in fear and respect, for they knew the weight of his presence.
