STARLIGHT UNBOUND by Deus Ex Machina - HTML preview

STARLIGHT UNBOUND

passage between sectors will be allowed without restriction. Shared utilities will remain in place, and your guidance centers may proceed without interference.”

Caidan’s expression darkened slightly.

“But know this: the Council will not tolerate disorder. If your sector becomes a threat to the balance of this city, we will act.”

Lyra stood. Her voice was steady, unwavering. “And if you go back on your word, so will we. ”

The room hung on a knife’s edge.

Eventually Caidan extended his hand.

“Then we are agreed.”

Lyra took it.

***

The Council departed first, their footsteps echoing as they disappeared into the shadows.

Harun let out a low whistle, shaking his head. “Well... shit.”

Corin’s fingers drummed against the table, jaw still clenched.

Lucien sat back, exhaling slowly. His mind reeled, but the path forward had never been clearer.

Lyra, still standing, turned to face them. “We have a city to build.”

Corin snorted, shaking his head. “Don’t get comfortable. This isn’t over.”

“No, it’s not. But it’s a start.”

Lucien remained quiet. For all the conflict, a strange sense of calm settled over him. His body electric. His vision sharp.

As they rose to leave, Lyra caught his arm, her grip firm but not forceful. Her voice was low, steady. “We’ll make this work. We have to.”

Lucien offered a small, genuine smile. “We will.”

***

The others had dispersed into the cool night air, but Lucien remained in the hall, staring at the table where the Council had sat. The room was still, yet his mind churned.

The words had come from his own mouth, yet... they hadn't felt entirely his.

Why did I say it?

A quiet shuffle of footsteps.

He knew who it was before she spoke.

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