Meanwhile, in a different place…
A quiet office at heart of the Headquarters of The Judicators of the Glass.
The only administration of the empire that was far removed from the capital city because of its role.
A fire crackled softly in a wide stone hearth. The orange glow of its flames danced across dark wood shelves and maps pinned along the walls.
Outside the tall windows, thick snow drifted lazily from a pale winter sky, frosting most of the outer world in white.
No doubt winter had claimed more parts of the empire than others.
Commander Jared stood near a heavy oak desk, reading through a stack of documents with a stern, thoughtful expression. His uniform coat hung open, allpwing the warmth of the fire to seep in.
A knock sounded at the door.
"Come in," Jared said without looking up.
The door opened, and a tall man stepped inside.
Boyed.
He straightened immediately and saluted the moment he crossed the door frame.
"Commander."
