One day earlier, a calamity unfolded on a remote planet at the edge of the Magus Alliance.
The world had once been quiet, known only for a small research faction that preferred isolation over influence. That peace was shattered when warships descended from the sky, their shadows covering the floating islands below. Cannon fire rained down relentlessly, beams of destructive energy tearing through cities and settlements, reducing them to flames within moments.
Panic spread across the land.
Tens of thousands of civilians perished under the bombardment, while the faction's magus rose in desperate resistance. Thousands fought back under the command of several grand magus, but the raiders were overwhelming in both number and preparation. One island after another fell, until only the central research facility remained.
A massive barrier protected it, shimmering under constant bombardment.
