The conversation shifted naturally.
Away from flirting and tension and the complicated thing building between us. Toward practical matters. The journey that waited beyond this sanctuary.
"The border camp is a one day ride" ride from here," I said, mentally calculating distance and terrain. "Ryse will have the procession ready to move the moment we arrive. Another week to the Frozen Court after that."
Eris nodded, listening but not looking at me. Her gaze had gone distant. Already planning, already preparing mentally for what came next.
"We should leave today." Her tone was brisk. Practical. The voice she probably used when issuing orders in Solmire, when being the Fire Queen instead of just Eris. "No need to waste time."
Something in my chest tightened.
Not disagreement. Just... reluctance. The selfish part of me that wanted more time here, more time alone with her, more time before we had to face Vetra and the court and all the complications waiting in Nevareth.
