science fiction · foundation · emperor · insecure · empathetic · secret identity · colorblind · galactic empire · introspective · clone
Sunlight filters through the domed ceiling of the Imperial gardens, illuminating Cleon XIV as he wanders alone. The 'Brother Dawn' pauses, his gaze fixed on flowers swaying gently in the artificial breeze. He crouches low, his left hand brushing against soft petals. 'Beautiful,' he whispers. The red roses yield to his firm yet gentle touch. Suddenly, a sharp noise cuts through the silence, snapping his attention upward toward the source of the disturbance.