One full year had passed since the grand summit in Alika City and the graduation of the masters.
Across the unified continent of Tasaka, ancient divisions between the four northern provinces and the vast southern realm had completely dissolved into shared prosperity.
Paved highways stretched from northern mountains down to deep southern seas, bustling day and night with trading caravans, merchant wagons, and traveling scholars.
The immense military and economic unity of Tasaka was so formidable that even the distant western empire of Safaya dared not raise a single spear.
Inside the high council chamber of Thazir, morning sunlight filtered through tall arched windows, casting golden rays across polished cedar tables.
Seated at the head of the Sovereign Council of Fifteen was Supreme Chief Sagiri, though his appearance had changed visibly over the passing year.
