The knock on the door came early, as always. There was still no full light piercing the eternal clouds, only a soft bluish-gray that barely illuminated the room.
Kyrian opened his eyes at the same instant. He had already been awake for minutes. He sat up in bed and replied in a low voice.
"Come in."
Mei Li opened the door carefully. She wore a lighter crimson robe than usual, her hair tied in a functional bun.
In her right hand, she held an envelope sealed with sky-blue wax and the symbol of a mountain wrapped in a whirlwind. The seal of House Rong.
"Good morning, Leader." She made a small bow and extended the envelope.
"It arrived a short while ago. A messenger from the Rong Manor delivered it personally. He said it was an exclusive message for you."
Kyrian took the letter without hurry. The seal was heavy and authentic. He broke the wax with his fingernail and opened the parchment.
The handwriting was firm, elegant, and without unnecessary flourishes.
