Vahn stepped out of the Void Realm's dimensional residue and back into the sunlit Imperial Garden. The change in atmosphere was immediately palpable. The spiritual energy felt denser, the Palace's defenses hummed with a unified power, and the air carried the scent of ambition and preparation. He was gone for three months, and the world had not stood still.
He walked quickly toward the main administration wing, where a flurry of activity suggested the Empresses were fully engaged in governance.
Vahn entered the private strategy room. Seraphina, Lilith, and Aria were gathered around the central holographic map of the Southern Continent, flanked by Luminaire and Ezekiel.
The moment Vahn appeared, the serious atmosphere instantly broke:
"Vahn!" Seraphina cried out, rushing towards him, her relief overflowing. Lilith followed immediately, her darkness aura softening into pure affection.
