Tap... Tap... Tap...
The rhythmic clanking of metal-soled boots echoed in perfect time. The cadence pierced the silence of the Hall of Iron Justice with an oppressive resonance.
Each footstep carried a suffocating pressure, as if physically crushing the chests of everyone in the room.
There was no rushed stride. Only the steady rhythm of absolute authority.
Ssshhh... hhh...
A soft hiss emerged from beneath the pitch-black mantle sweeping across the metal floorplates.
Thin jets of steam periodically vented from the filter of the ruler's mechanical respirator. The sharp scent of machine oil and burning coal permeated the air.
Emperor Regulus Velthorne had entered the hall.
His colossal figure monopolized the center aisle. Behind him, a phalanx of Praetorian Guards in obsidian uniforms marched rigidly, forming a living barricade that sealed off every exit.
The atmosphere in the Hall of Iron Justice instantly froze.
