Chapter 61: Countdown Convergence
Hope's Refuge buzzed with a different kind of energy that morning. Not the chaotic rush of combat drills or stormfront simulations, but a charged, anticipatory hum that filled the air like static before lightning. The digital clock projected over the central atrium read:
> [Day 317 | Resonance Event in: 13 Days]
Below it, another status line pulsed steadily:
> [Astra Haven Completion: 97.1% | Integration Phase: Final]
Ava stood at the edge of the viewing platform, the others gathering behind her as the full holographic projection came to life. The city-in-the-sky gleamed, almost tangible now — domes sealed, energy grids linked, and defense nodes humming in synchronized rhythm.
"It's beautiful," Lyra whispered, eyes wide with quiet awe. "It's really almost done."
Zephyr leaned on the railing beside her, grinning. "Our big shiny space miracle. Look at it! She's glowing like a level-100 boss."
