Klaus stepped onto the cobblestone street as The Silver Crown's warmth settled into memory, though physical comfort paled beside emotional restoration the evening had provided. The capital's streets had quieted considerably since his arrival—late-night revelers had found their way home, while early risers hadn't yet begun daily routines. This transitional hour belonged to delivery workers, night watchmen ending shifts, and solitary figures like himself moving between one phase of existence and another.
Samantha followed him outside, pulling light shawl around shoulders against morning chill that carried hints of approaching autumn. Her presence wasn't intrusive—simply someone ensuring guest reached his destination safely, though Klaus suspected deeper motives than mere hospitality.
"The sun will be up soon," she observed, noting pale light beginning to touch eastern horizon. "Your family's probably wondering if you fell into river or got eaten by something unpleasant."
