The horizon was painted in glorious shades of orange and yellow, the sun just peeking over the far-off trees. Its rays reflected off the crystals of the palace, dazzling anyone awake enough to witness the spectacle. A new sun for a new day, a new beginning. For a new era.
Despite the destruction outside the city walls, despite the suffering that spread wide across the country, the palace remained. It was a beacon - a reminder to the entire kingdom of what they had been fighting for. A warning to all those who opposed them. Ether was still standing. Etherea had not fallen. Against all odds, they had won.
Atop the tallest tower, a woman stepped out onto a balcony. Her feet were barren, the only shield from the cool morning air coming from her pale blue nightgown. It fluttered with ea
