The first golden sliver of the morning sun crested the eastern ridge, washing the towering peaks of the Sanatan Flame Sect in a pale, amber sheen. Below the soaring crags, early mists clung to the ancient pine forests, parting slowly as the morning bells tolled from the outer towers, their deep bronze chimes echoing across the valleys.
Then, the sky cracked.
A streak of panicked jade light tore through the lower mountain mists, wobbling violently as it hurtled toward the central marble plaza.
THUD!
A royal messenger tumbled from a wind-striding talisman, his ornate imperial courier robes shredded by high-altitude winds, soaked through with sweat and road dust. He crashed onto his hands and knees against the polished white flags, coughing dryly as he scrambled to crawl forward.
