The Core World did not celebrate the victory at the borders. Not openly at least.
The banners were raised across the spires of the capital, and the occupation reports were sealed behind layers of imperial encryption. Official statements spoke in measured, sterile tones of decisive defense and the restoration of systemic stability. Yet, beneath the polished surface of Astralis society, something far heavier settled into place. The Empire had learned a dangerous, shivering truth: the greatest threat to its existence had not crossed the border in a warship.
It had been born within the palace walls.
