The highest point in the city was not a naturally formed peak, but a meticulously constructed platform that stood level with the spires of the magnificent cathedral.
This was where Senatis had prepared Lorgar's residence. Rather than a home, it was a sanctuary that combined defense, panoramic views, and symbolic significance.
A transparent energy barrier lined the platform's edge, shielding it from fierce high-altitude winds and stray attacks without obstructing the view.
Standing here, one could take in the entire City of Holy Edict below, built of metal, crystal, and faith, and even the orderly outlines of other continent-sized cities farther away.
Countless aerial routes intertwined like ribbons of light. Colossal buildings stood like silent giants, and at designated times, millions of windows reflected a uniformly calibrated holy radiance. The entire city resembled a precision machine in motion.
Lorgar paused at the edge of the platform, looking down over his "kingdom."
The wind stirred the hem of his robe. His face still bore the pallor of his injuries, but his eyes were calm, reflecting the countless lights of the city below and the cathedral's eternally burning sacred flames.
He offered no comment on Senatis's arrangements, which so conspicuously emphasized his authority and elevated standing.
He neither showed appreciation nor criticized them with a pretense of humility. He knew full well that here, he was not merely the lord of the Legion, but the focal point of its faith, the symbol of the "Holy Son" in the hearts of a quadrillion subjects.
Deliberate austerity might instead undermine the meticulously constructed, top-down system of faith and order.
"My lord, these are the dossiers that require your final review and decision."
Senatis's voice came from behind him, steady and efficient, just as it had been throughout his decades of handling countless affairs of