July 5th, 1701 – Elysee, Capital of the Kingdom of Elysea.
Day of the Grand Procession
The morning sun climbed over the skyline of Elysee, turning the domes and spires of the capital a brilliant gold. Church bells rang across the districts, their echoes overlapping in a rhythm that made the entire city feel alive. From the royal avenue to the outer boulevards, the streets were lined with red and gold banners bearing the royal crest and Masséna's insignia—an eagle with outstretched wings above crossed sabers.
It was a day of celebration. A national day of honor.
But for General André Masséna, seated in his formal carriage near the palace gates, it didn't feel like a victory parade. Not to him.
