718 Betrayal (1)

The desolate landscape of Celestria's Verge lay still, and the metallic insects seemed pacified by Ashton's presence. 

Astaroth and Rood exchanged glances of astonishment. They watched as the once-aggressive guardians moved in a synchronised pattern around Ashton, their metallic bodies reflecting the dim light.

"By the stars," Rood muttered, his eyes narrowing in disbelief. "He's controlling them."

Astaroth nodded, unsurprised by the gods of plot armour protecting Ashton. "He's a Precursor. Only god knows what else he is capable of."

While the two chatted, Ashton stood amidst the robotic creatures and maintained a focused connection. His thoughts seemed to guide the creatures, and the once-chaotic assembly moved in a harmonious and orderly way under his command.