For two weeks, Cain allowed himself something he had not tasted since the universe first screamed beneath the awakening of the Heart of the Root—rest. In the quiet sky of the Everstrife Empyrean World, he spent each day with Shura and Astrid, letting the pressure that clung to his mind finally loosen. With them, he could forget the looming threat of the Root, the countless responsibilities weighing upon his shoulders, and the endless calculations that governed every step he took. Even the Scarlet King required reprieves, and this one had been desperately needed.
Yet no reprieve could last forever.
When the final morning arrived, the calm settled over him like the lingering warmth of a fading flame. He embraced his wives, whispered his farewells, and then walked alone toward the throne chamber. The moment he sat upon the massive seat of power, the world seemed to shift back into its rightful place, heavy and vast.
"System, scan me."
