Julian stood in the Aetherium training chamber, a vast, circular space deep beneath the Ravenscroft corporate tower. The air hung cold and still, carrying the faint scent of ozone and polished stone. Unlike the plush opulence of his penthouse, this room was a stark testament to purpose: matte black walls absorbed light, a single pulsing orb of raw Aetherium energy floated at its centre, illuminating the space with an unsettling blue glow. His heart still hammered from the adrenaline of the map's activation and the swift decision to move on Myanmar. He had snatched a few hours of sleep, but the energy of the Aetherium pulsed within him, demanding attention.
Elara observed him from a console set into the wall, her expression neutral. "The jet is ready for dawn, Julian. But before you face t
