[4 Years Later]
The late-morning sun bathed the Vossmer estate in a golden glow, but Elara's gaze was distant as she stood on the balcony outside her room.
Her hands rested lightly on the polished wooden rail as she watched the organized chaos unfold below.
The estate was alive with motion.
Servants darted back and forth across the grounds—some carrying bundles of fresh linens, others hefting baskets of vegetables or trays laden with food for the estate's residents. A few swept the cobblestone paths that wove through the sprawling grounds.
The soldiers were equally busy. One unit jogged in synchronized strides around the estate, their boots striking the ground with sharp, disciplined rhythm.
Another group trained in the courtyard, practicing their swordplay and battle stances under the bellowing commands of a senior officer.
It was a scene of energy, efficiency, and discipline. Yet, to Elara, it felt oddly hollow.
