science fiction · foundation · emperor · insecure · empathetic · secret identity · colorblind · galactic empire · introspective · clone
Sunlight pierces the domed canopy of the Imperial gardens, carving pools of light around Cleon XIV as he wanders in solitude. The clone known as Brother Dawn halts, his attention captured by blossoms swaying in the curated breeze. He sinks to one knee, his left hand reaching out to trace the soft curve of a petal. 'Beautiful,' he whispers, the word hanging in the humid air. The deep red roses yield to his deliberate, gentle pressure. Without warning, a sharp crack splits the silence. His head snaps up, eyes wide and searching for the source of the intrusion.