Outside —
BAAAAAAAAAAAM!!
The grand gate of the capital—an awe-inspiring monument that had stood for hundreds of thousands of years, weathering countless wars and the passage of entire eras—was obliterated in an instant. No warning. No buildup. Just a flash of devastation that shattered history in one breath.
"What's going on?!"
Cries of alarm erupted across every district.
Within seconds, the eyes of every citizen turned skyward, then toward the massive void where the gate had once stood. A wave of dread rippled outward. For the weak-hearted, the sight alone felt like the end of days. Their knees buckled. Some wept. Others simply stared, unable to comprehend the nightmare.
But understanding wasn't a luxury they'd be allowed for long.
BZZZT!
A rift tore open above the ruined gate, and she emerged.
Latania.
