Prologue: Boundless Ambition

PoV- Queen Xilonem

As I stood on the balcony, the vastness of my dominion unfolded beneath me, a tapestry of light and shadow cast by the ships that danced between the stars. These vessels, like metallic petals on a cosmic wind, carried the essence of distant realms, some so far-flung they whispered secrets of universes parallel to our own.

My father, with his vision as boundless as the skies, had expanded our kingdom from a mere collection of galaxy clusters to a dominion that spanned the ends of our known universe. Under my reign, we dared to dream even further, reaching into the abyss of the unknown, our ambition as infinite as the void itself.

"Enjoying the view, my lady?" a voice called out. The voice that broke my reverie was as familiar as it was welcome, its timbre sturdy yet kind. Like that of a soldier. 

His alabaster hair bounced as he drew closer, a stark contrast to the rich earth tones of his skin. His black suit made his tall, muscular figure even more imposing.

I smiled slightly at my most trusted man. 

"The stars beckon, Retas?" I ventured, my voice as soft as petals in the wind.

He rubbed the side of his long neck and nodded. "Yeah. I received a mission to pacify a rebellious world in one of the other universes."

I nodded. "I understand." I walked over to him. "In that case, allow me to impart you with a blessing."

"Most gladly, my Lady," he said, kneeling before me. His purple eyes looked up at me.

I drew my sword out and tapped his strong shoulders with the blunt end. "May the Twelve Great Titans safeguard you on your travels, oh, valiant warrior. Reach for the stars beyond this realm. Bring glory to the gods of old and add your life to the tapestry of history," I said, reciting the ancient prayer of my world's people.

Retas smiled as he looked up, making him look even more dashing than he already was. "I will, your Highness."

I nodded and backed away from him, sheathing my royal sword. "Safe travels, my old friend."

Rising to his full height, he saluted me before walking off. My heart ached as he did. I couldn't help but get a sense of foreboding. But surely, the Titans would protect him. Plus, Ret was a strong man. But, there were limits to strength.