The new day arrived like a soft breath against the glass — quiet, warm, and golden. Gentle rays of sunlight spilt through the windows of the guest room, casting a honeyed hue across the polished floors and neatly folded travel bags. Birds chirped distantly in the imperial garden, and beyond the stone walls of the palace, the great city of Virencia stirred to life, unaware that two of its most important guests would be departing by day's end.
Luke blinked against the light, arms lazily stretching above his head before letting out a groggy exhale.
"Still here," he murmured to himself, voice scratchy with sleep.
Across from him, Ilyrana sat on the edge of her bed, already combing her long, silvery hair.
"Lately, you've started to sound surprised to wake up," she teased gently.
He gave a lopsided grin.
"Well, you never know when life decides to throw a monster, a mob, or a divine calling your way."
She rolled her eyes.
"Then be thankful this morning gave you none of those."
