The massive double doors of the throne room creaked open, and Commander Dion strode in. Behind him followed Miles and Rayne, both moving with heavy steps, exhaustion hanging on their shoulders like a cloak. The morning sun filtered through the tall glass windows, bathing the room in a pale golden light that did little to ease the tension lingering in the air.
At the foot of the throne, Princess Emeney stood straight, poised yet visibly tense. To her right stood Xander, arms folded, jaw clenched tight. To her left, Anya waited, her hands fidgeting slightly at her side. Advisor Gray and General Iron stood before the throne's steps, silent but watchful.
The moment two of the trio from Division One stepped into view, both Emeney's and Anya's eyes widened. Relief washed over their faces, followed quickly by joy. It had been a long, restless night of silence, no communication, no reports, no hope. The barrier had gone dark, and for hours, they'd feared the worst.
