The executive floor of Diamond Star Holdings was bathed in the warm, ambient glow of late-afternoon sunlight filtering through the floor-to-ceiling panoramic glass. Vellfire City stretched out below, a shimmering horizon of sleek glass towers, winding coastal highways, and buzzing harbors. From this height, the city felt quiet, almost subdued—a stark contrast to the ruthless battles that had just played out on its corporate chessboard.
Clara Delevon-Volkskrant stood by the window, a crystal glass of chilled mineral water resting loosely in her hand. She wore a tailored ivory silk suit that accentuated her lean, commanding silhouette. The dark red lipstick she favored added a sharp, dangerous contrast to her pale skin, giving her the appearance of a warlord taking in the sight of her freshly conquered domain.
