The morning sun casts a golden hue over the city as I step out of the sleek black car, the Blackthorn Empire headquarters towering before me. The building's dark-glass facade reflects the world around it, a mirror to the empire I built and now return to claim.
Celeste walks beside me, her heels clicking against the polished marble floor as we enter the lobby. The staff pause, their conversations halting mid-sentence, eyes widening as they recognize me. Some nod respectfully; others avert their gaze. Fear, respect, awe—emotions I've come to expect.
We ride the elevator in silence, the soft hum of machinery the only sound. As the doors open to the executive floor, I take a deep breath, the familiar scent of leather and ambition filling my lungs.
The boardroom is already occupied. Twelve members sit around the long table, their faces a mix of surprise and apprehension. I stride in, Celeste at my side, and take my place at the head of the table.
