The first signs appeared just after sunrise.
Not officially. But enough to make people pay attention.
Across Valenridge, television networks began adjusting their projections. Analysts who had spent the entire night cautiously discussing possibilities suddenly sounded more confident.
District after district continued reporting the same outcome. Sebastian Ravenscroft was ahead. And his lead wasn't shrinking.
It was growing. Inside campaign headquarters, nobody was celebrating yet.
Not openly. The previous months had taught them caution.
Too many surprises.
Too many attacks.
Too many moments when victory seemed close before disaster struck.
Now everyone sat staring at screens, waiting for confirmation. Waiting for certainty. Waiting for history.
Clara hadn't slept. Neither had Elena.
Chairman Elias looked as though he had aged five years overnight.
