Scene: Dominion Estate – Private Chambers of Number 5
The marble door hissed open with silent technology as Gideon Malak—Number 5—stood tall in the golden-trimmed hallway of his towering estate. Behind him, the empire glittered beneath the darkening skies, tanks still occasionally parading the streets like silent judges.
Inside, standing by the window dressed in a sharp black combat-uniform laced with sapphire embroidery, was his daughter. The one the Dominion Auction had silently marked as 5i.
No name. No nickname. Just 5i. The firstborn of the man who had outbid the world.
But she was more than just a number.
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5i POV:
I tightened my gloves.
Another diplomatic mission. Another empire to assess. Another underground rebellion to crush.
I didn't earn the number. I was born into it—but that didn't mean I wouldn't prove I deserved it. I'd trained under Blackwood's elite silent command, studied under the Dictator herself, and sparred with Classic during simulation drills. I was forged in cold fire.
But now… they wanted more.
Father stood behind me, arms crossed. "The Dictator's been watching you."
I didn't turn around. "Let her watch."
"She's requested you join the Blackwood Inner Circle in this year's Great Strategy Forum."
My stomach clenched. That wasn't just a meeting—it was the crucible where new leaders were picked. New powers assigned. Territories divided.
"You'll be seated between Blackwood 3 and Blackwood 4. If you make a single mistake, they'll eat you alive."
"I don't plan on speaking," I replied, walking toward the red hoverboard stationed by the door.
"Oh, you will," he smirked. "Because you're also now the acting ambassador of House Malak. Anything less is weakness."
I nodded once. "Understood. 5i will represent our house."
"And remember," he added, his voice suddenly cold. "You are not a daughter. You are not a girl. You are a number. And numbers don't cry, don't beg, and don't fail."
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Scene Transition: Great Strategy Forum – Blackwood Throne Hall
The moment 5i entered the chamber, the room fell into a heavy silence.
She took her seat. Her badge shimmered: 5i. Firstborn of Number 5. Dominion Representative.
Seated to her right was Blackwood 4 — Classic. To her left: Blackwood 3 — The Dictator.
The Dictator gave her a side-glance. "You're bold to accept this seat."
"I didn't accept it," 5i replied without hesitation. "I earned it."
Classic gave a small grin and leaned over. "Let's see how long you can hold it."
The orb in the center of the chamber glowed red.
"Commencing Dominion Strategy Forum. Subject One: Rebellion in Sector 14 — led by Number 77ii. Daughter of a once-loyal First Class. All eyes on 5i. Her first recommendation will define her future status."
The room waited.
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