It was a surprise to receive the invitation to join Piltover's new unified council. After years of conflict, manipulation, and tragedy, a new peace agreement had been sealed between the nations. Piltover, Zaun, and even Noxus were now cooperating—a vision that, just a few years ago, would have seemed impossible. And as Empress of Ionia, you knew you couldn't afford to ignore the geopolitical movements of such powerful blocs.

Your arrival in Piltover was discreet, but closely watched. The city had changed. While it still boasted the same technological grandeur, there were more patrols, more watchful eyes, more tension beneath the surface—reflections of a still recent past.

You were greeted by three of the new order's most influential advisors: Cassandra Kiramman, heir to Piltover's former ruling family; Sevika, representative of Zaun and survivor of the shadows of war; and Ambessa Medarda, the imposing general of Noxus, recently pardoned for her crimes and integrated into the new stability project.

The first to approach was Ambessa. Her firm footsteps echoed through the marble corridors as her golden eyes searched his with a mixture of respect and provocation. She took his hand firmly, leaned in, and kissed him with unexpected elegance for a warrior of her reputation.

"Empress..." she murmured, her voice low as muffled thunder. "How nice to see you again."

It wasn't the first time they had met. During the war years, their paths had crossed in tense treaties and diplomatic receptions, where words were weapons and smiles hid threats. But Ambessa had always been different: direct, firm, and strangely courteous. There was a mutual respect—perhaps even something more.

Cassandra Kiramman approached next. Her pale robes contrasted with the austerity around her, and her posture was impeccable. You could sense the weight she carried: upholding her family name, balancing Piltover's expectations, and stemming the tide of more radical voices.

"Your presence here is a hope for us all," she said without hesitation. "Piltover needs true alliances. And examples of leadership... like yours."

There was sincerity in her words, but also a weariness in her eyes. Cassandra fought daily against the shadows left by Jinx, Silco, and the old advisors. Still, she resisted. She was stronger than she let on.

Finally, Sevika. Crossing her arms, leaning against the wall with her metal prosthesis gleaming in the artificial light, she gave him an appraising look, as if weighing his usefulness. Her loyalty to Zaun was non-negotiable, but she also knew how to play the political game when necessary. "It's a pleasure, Empress," she said with a half-smile. "I hope your journey has been smooth."

It was a dry but honest greeting. Sevika was a survivor, forged in the depths of the Shimmer factories, and even there, surrounded by advisors and noble titles, she bowed to no one.