Oliver sat by the window, watching the sun slowly climb up the city's sky, gradually awakening Lyra in the silence.
The door behind him opened, and Hogney walked in, saluting Oliver.
"Lord Bishop," Hogney respectfully said, "everything is ready, and the representatives of the workers have begun to enter."
Oliver's gaze slowly returned from the sun on the horizon to Lyra below him.
He could see countless people flocking toward the Sky Tower.
Attracted by the general assembly, they surged like blood into a heart or ants returning to their ant queen—so spectacular and orderly.
"How beautiful," Oliver said with a light chuckle, "isn't it, Hogney?"
"Of course, Lord Bishop," Hogney said. "And after today, it will be even more beautiful."
Oliver chuckled again and then slowly stood up.
"Yes, it is about time."
