The morning sun had barely crested over the horizon when Lyan stirred awake. The air in the guest mansion was cool, the faint scent of dew drifting in through the open windows. He blinked, adjusting to the soft light that filtered in, and turned his head to the side. Alina, Belle, and Xena were still fast asleep, curled comfortably into the cushions of the bed. Their faces looked peaceful, and Lyan couldn't help the small smile that tugged at his lips. Last night had been… intense, but also comforting. A moment of warmth before the storm that awaited them.
Slowly, he slipped out of the bed, careful not to wake them. The morning was far too important for them to rest idly. He took a moment to straighten his clothes, then moved silently towards the door. His companions needed rest, but he had to start preparing. Today was the day they all knew was coming. The day when words and plans would be replaced with steel and magic.
