The morning sun crested over Nova Prime's eastern spires, bathing the Azure River in a golden haze that fractured into countless shimmering facets across the water's surface. Ethan Voss awoke in the master suite of his Apex Pinnacle Towers penthouse, the vast king bed's silk sheets sliding coolly against his elixir-perfected skin as he stirred. Smart-glass walls had tinted subtly overnight for restful darkness, but now transitioned to crystal clarity on his mental command via the house AI—panoramic views flooding in: the river alive with early traffic, luxury yachts cutting gentle wakes, hover-barges ferrying fresh goods to markets, distant skyline towers already buzzing with the megacity's relentless energy. Air circulation hummed softly, infusing the room with a refreshing blend of ocean brine and citrus notes, programmed to invigorate.
He rose fluidly—no stiffness, no grogginess; the Apex Genome Elixir ensured peak vitality from the first moment. A quick shower in the en-suite palace: rainfall heads cascading heated water scented with rare essences, steam rising in aromatic clouds, marble floors warmed underfoot. Emerging, he selected from the newly integrated Elysian wardrobe: a tailored light gray shirt that hugged his chiseled torso without ostentation, slim charcoal trousers breaking perfectly over handcrafted loafers, the Revenant Tourbillon watch glinting subtly on his wrist—a statement of refined power. Hair styled effortlessly thick and wavy, face sharpened to masculine ideal. Mirror reflection: commanding, approachable—tycoon aura tempered for a casual meet.
Breakfast: god-level culinary calling again. Kitchen island a playground—fresh ingredients drone-delivered overnight: eggs from premium aviaries, artisanal breads, exotic fruits hydroponically perfected, coffees from southern plantations. Preparation intuitive: poached eggs with hollandaise layered flawlessly, avocado toast elevated with infusions, fresh-pressed juice bursting with vitality, coffee brewed to aromatic perfection. Eaten at the river-view bar, flavors exploding in harmonious symphony—satisfaction deeper than mere sustenance.
Nexus Elite Pro alerted: confirmations from Celestial Fiction Hub—additional billions processed overnight from adaptation deals, executive summaries praising his "visionary input." Forums still ablaze with Apex Sovereign speculation—leaks fueling myths of his return. Family group chat quiet; he'd call soon.
But priority: the afternoon meeting with Liora Thorne. Messages reviewed—her excitement palpable, drafts shared overnight with revisions based on his feedback. Talent genuine, passion fierce. Apprentice material—loyalty potential high in this genre's traditions.
Vortex Thunderbolt summoned from garage—valet drones prepping. Drive down: elevator descent, engine roar awakening as doors lifted. Out into the riverfront enclave, merging into morning flow. God-level mastery delighting in the commute: smooth accelerations, precise lanes, wind rushing with river scents.
Destination: River's Edge Pavilion—a renowned riverside cafe in the cultural district, elevated platforms extending over the water, private booths with privacy fields, views unmatched. Elegant yet accessible: glass domes with vine trellises, live acoustic performers on central stages, menu fusion masterpieces blending Aurorian classics with global influences. Perfect neutral ground—impressive without overwhelming a student.
Arrival: valet recognizing the Thunderbolt, priority parking. Ethan entered mid-afternoon—sun high, breeze gentle off the water carrying fresh aquatic notes mingled with brewed teas and baked pastries. Interior open and airy: wooden decks polished, tables spaced for intimacy, holographic menus floating.
He selected a secluded booth overlooking the river—privacy field activated subtly, muffling external sounds. Ordered lightly: premium tea infusion, awaiting her.
Minutes passed. Then—approach: a young woman scanning nervously, raven hair cascading in loose waves, dressed elegantly casual—flowing sundress in soft blues accentuating graceful figure, eyes bright with anticipation scanning tables.
Spotting him: freeze, then hesitant wave. Ethan stood, smiling welcomingly—commanding height and physique drawing subtle glances from nearby patrons.
"Liora Thorne?" he confirmed as she neared, voice warm.
She nodded, cheeks flushing faintly. "Apex Sovereign... sir? I mean—Ethan Voss? It's really you. Honor beyond words."
Close up: stunning—features delicate yet expressive, eyes deep pools of passion and intelligence, smile genuine lighting her face. Aura youthful energy mixed with determination—university student evident, but talent shining.
"Sit," he gestured. "Ethan is fine. Or Master, if formal apprentice path appeals."
She settled, composure steadying—admiration clear but not overwhelming. "Ethan... thank you for this. Your feedback—revised all night. Changes feel right already."
Tea arrived—hers selected matching his. Conversation flowed: her background first—Central Auroria Academy literature major, discovered his novels during tough semester, hooked instantly. "Your worlds... alive. Characters breathe. Saved me—escape, inspiration."
Ethan nodded, probing gently: challenges in writing—pacing, consistency, reader retention. Insights shared masterfully—drawn from two lifetimes, transcription wisdom.
Her latest revisions discussed: holographics projecting text, line-by-line refinements. Praise genuine: "Improved vastly. Tension builds better now. Emotional arcs stronger."
Eyes shining: "Your guidance... priceless."
Subtle impressions: her passion mirroring his old grind, beauty enhancing connection. Chemistry subtle—glances lingering, laughs natural.
Then—proposal: "Serious pursuit? Apprentice under me: dedicated guidance, resources. Platform boosts possible—contracts favorable."
Hesitation brief—then resolute nod. "Yes! Dream. Swear loyalty—work relentlessly."
Formalized lightly: virtual contract sketched—mentorship terms, her growth prioritized.
Nearby tables: subtle eavesdroppers—fellow students perhaps, recognizing her, whispering. One arrogant male—classmate?—approaching booth edge.
"Liora? Here with some old guy? Ditch him—party tonight better."
Provocation mild—jealousy evident.
Liora tensed. Ethan calm—smiled faintly.
"Old?" he echoed amused. "Merely experienced."
Male scoffed: "Flashy car outside—rented? Liora deserves better than posers."
Classic doubt.
Ethan: "Poser? Fair. Check."
Valet alerted mentally—Thunderbolt pulled forward visibly. Plus: casual bank app flash—balance glimpse billions.
Male paled—recognition dawning via forums: Apex Sovereign rumors matching.
Muttered retreat.
Liora giggled softly—admiration deepening. "You... incredible."
Meeting extended: deeper discussions—plot ideas, industry insights as owner veiled subtly.
Parting: her gratitude overflowing, hints of deeper interest—blush at handshake lingering.
"Next session soon—penthouse office perhaps."
Nod eager.
Drive home: satisfaction blooming. First apprentice secured—loyal, talented, beautiful.
Empire's human layer beginning.
Evening loomed—family call?
Nova Prime flowed endlessly—his path ascending.
(Word count: approximately ----)