The Ashford guards positioned around the tribunal drew their weapons. Crimson fire moved through the dark metal of their rifles, while Inferno Dragon wielders stepped into the aisles.The frightened conversations stopped. Representatives from the other Houses moved away from the armed soldiers as the confrontation became more dangerous.General Kael Varen stepped forward. He moved between Seraphina and the Sterling forces before removing the safety lock from the gun at his waist.“Astral Guard, defensive formation,” Kael ordered. “Protect Her Majesty and David Myles.”Silver-and-violet armour appeared beneath the formal coats of the Varethian soldiers. Several guards raised advanced rifles as controlled Astral Essence moved through their weapons.More Varethian troops entered from the side passages and occupied the upper galleries. Others positioned themselves beside the main doors, surrounding the Sterling and Ashford forces without firing.The Sterling commander aimed his sword towa

“The Black Templars…” Seraphina whispered.Horror replaced the confidence in her violet eyes. “They are here.” She continued.General Kael reacted immediately.“All Varethian soldiers, form an imperial shield around the Empress!”The Astral Guards abandoned their positions near the central aisle and rushed towards Seraphina. Violet energy spread from their hands, joining above her to form a protective barrier.Before the shield could close completely, another explosion shook the building.Part of the eastern wall collapsed.Concrete, metal and broken glass crashed into the tribunal. Spectators screamed as thick smoke rolled across the floor.More Black Templars entered through the opening.They did not rush forward without direction. Every unit had a clear purpose.One squad fired at the Sterling security positions. Another placed suppression devices along the walls. A third moved towards the Judgment Platform while armed drones flew above them.The Black Templars communicated through

General Kael followed Seraphina’s gaze and realised why she had not answered the soldier directly. However, David was still restrained, and the two strongest families in Asterion were already losing the battle.The suppression technology of the Black Templars could weaken Astral Essence as easily as it had weakened the Sterling and Ashford powers.One young Astral Guard stepped towards the battle. “We should assist them!”“No,” Kael ordered.The soldier stared at him. “General why, I mean we have better fighters than them?”“Our mission is not to defend the Sterling tribunal. Our mission is to protect the Astral Empress.”The Varethian soldiers tightened their formation around Seraphina.Some people inside the tribunal saw their withdrawal and accused them of cowardice. Kael ignored them.He was not prepared to sacrifice the Empress in a battle that had already been lost.Kael touched the communication device in his ear. “Imperial convoy, respond.”Static answered him.He changed the