In the upper levels of Preston Hive City lived the residents who possessed power and wealth. They enjoyed relative comfort and safety, though that sense of security was fragile.
Ever since the planet's Space Elevator had been blown up a few days ago, countless fragments had rained down on the hive city. The shadow of war had fallen over this world, and then countless orbital defense guns had opened fire. The entire world was gripped by unease, with no one knowing how far the war had progressed.
A well-to-do resident named Ronnie suddenly saw countless planetary fighters fly out of the hive city, never to return. At that moment, he knew the hive city had fallen.
Ronnie left the production line early and returned home. He stayed there with his wife, Irina, and their daughter, Emily. They locked the doors and prayed the war would soon be over, hoping the enemy would leave as soon as they had plundered what they needed.
His wife, Irina, clutched the Aquila in her hands and prayed to the Emperor, hoping he would grant them strength.
But suddenly, a violent crash shattered the peace of their home. Their expensive wooden front door was smashed open.
A group of soldiers wearing Flak Armour and carrying Laser Guns filed in, their weapons trained on the family of three, their faces cold and hard.
"Don't move! Or don't blame me if my gun goes off!"
The soldier in charge shouted. His High Gothic was far from fluent, but his voice was especially ominous.
Ronnie, Irina, and Emily were stunned by the sudden attack. Instinctively, they raised their hands, not daring to resist.
The soldiers quickly took control, shackled the family, and began searching the house for any possible enemies.
The soldiers in charge took out a Dataslate