First Light of a New Age

Chapter 178: Operation Fire Ignition

A/n: This chapter contains almost 14,000 words. If you find yourself feeling tired or overwhelmed by the details, it may be best to set it aside until you have the time and energy to read it fully and comment on anything, as it could take several hours to go through carefully. You don’t need to rush, take your time. You can also pause and rest after finishing each scene and allow yourself to absorb it bit by bit rather than all at once.

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Second Civilization Zone, Immorgenaria Empire, the Great Savanna, Aslanthar Keep.

4th Year of the New Age, Monday, 1st Week, 10th Month of The Father.

Now, the Immorgenaria Empire’s capital basked in the fading light of day as the last warmth of the sun stretched long across the marble towers and red-tiled roofs, while the twin moons rose and cast silver beams that gave the streets and palaces a dreamlike quality. 

From the high chamber of his quarters, young Prince Simba sat quietly at the open balcony, resting his chin on folded hands as he stared at the heavens, feeling utterly captivated by the twin moons. 

To his eyes, they seemed like guardians, watching silently over the world. Though nearly of age to be called a man, Simba still had the spark of wonder that so many nobles lost after their first campaigns and courtly burdens.

For him, this quiet moment was a rare almost sacred peace.

Just then, the creak of the balcony’s side door pulled him from his thoughts. Turning, he saw a girl step onto the balcony with graceful movements despite the heavy layers of her dress.

“Nala,” Simba said warmly, smiling as he rose from his seat. “What are you doing walking into my chamber without warning?”

Nala Serenya, daughter of a powerful noble house and his closest childhood companion, gave a small laugh and brushed a strand of chestnut hair from her cheek. 

“I was told the prince was sulking at the window again. I thought it my duty to remind him the world has more to offer than moons and sunsets.”

Simba grinned, standing straighter as his earlier mood was replaced with excitement. “Your presence is better than both. Will you walk with me?”

She tilted her head with a knowing smile. “Of course.”

Together, they left the high palace chamber, descending the winding spiral staircases until they stepped out into the wide torchlit courtyards. 

The guards posted along the way bowed as the young heir passed, but Simba waved them off with the casual ease of youth. With Nala beside him, the prince could set aside the stiffness of royal expectation and simply be himself.

The capital stretched before them, houses rising along terraced hillsides, while lanterns lit up in the gathering dark. 

Walking side by side, the two laughed easily as their conversation went from trivial gossip to fond memories of childhood mischief.

“I’ve heard that during swordsmanship practice with your father, you spent more time boasting than training,” Nala teased.

Simba scoffed in mock offense. “Jealous talk. You still haven’t recovered from your loss in last month’s archery contest.”