Chapter 104: Beneath the Gilded Veil
Velren stood near the window of the Aether Tram, watching as the floating city gradually gave way to open sky. The transport glided effortlessly along an unseen path, suspended between islands as if it were skating across air itself. There were no rails, no visible means of support—just a soft hum of energy thrumming beneath their feet, guiding them forward.
The cabin was spacious yet enclosed, its interior designed with both luxury and function in mind. Gilded inlays adorned the walls, and the seats—arranged in small clusters—were upholstered in rich fabric. Unlike the grandeur of the airship, this felt more... personal.
Aside from Velren and Solenne, several other passengers occupied the tram. Diplomats, nobles, and officials sat in quiet conversation. Some cast occasional glances her way, though whether out of curiosity or recognition, Velren wasn’t sure.
Through the wide windows, the main island came into view—a vast expanse where the Skyborne Citadel stood in silent dominance. Bridges extended outward like veins, linking it to the surrounding islands in a complex web of connections. Even from here, Velren could see the flickering glow of the levitation cores embedded throughout its foundation, keeping the entire structure aloft.
The sheer scale of it all was impressive, but something nagged at him. He shifted his gaze to Solenne beside him.
"Say... what’s the real point of this summit?" he asked. "From where I’m standing, it just seems like a bunch of important figures gathering in one place—which, honestly, sounds like the perfect setup for someone with bad intentions."
Solenne let out a quiet breath, her eyes fixed on the approaching citadel.
"It’s not just a political gathering. The summit exists to reaffirm the alliances that keep the continent stable. Diplomats, rulers, and key decision-makers all come together to negotiate trade, security, and territorial matters."
She paused, then added, "But you’re not wrong. This much power in one place... It’s an opportunity. For the right people, or the wrong ones."