[Akatsuki Capital – Main Gate of the Royal Manor]
The towering spires of the Akatsuki manor cast long shadows across the polished stone streets as Richard stood at the outer gate, staring up at the place he'd once sworn never to return.
"Never thought I'd step foot here again," he muttered to himself.
The golden phoenix banners fluttered overhead, and the wind carried the scent of cold steel and blooming orchids—just like it always had in this place. Familiar. Too familiar.
As he approached the gate, two royal guards stepped forward, halberds crossing in front of him.
"Halt," one said firmly. "State your name and purpose."
Richard said nothing.
Instead, he reached into the inner fold of his coat and pulled out a small, gleaming object. A card—no larger than his palm—crafted from pure gold. Etched upon it, a phoenix sigil and a single inscription in black ink:
Black Lightning.
The guards' expressions shifted instantly. Their eyes widened.
