The following day, before the first light of dawn could break across the horizon, Sullivan and Dahlia were already prepared to leave the palace. As part of their carefully laid plans, they both dressed in the simple, humble garments of commoners—coarse fabrics and muted colors that blended easily with the early morning shadows.
Just as they were about to slip away quietly, Sullivan was taken aback when he saw King Iramo approaching from the palace gates. His father, the formidable king, rarely rose before the sun, and Sullivan certainly hadn't expected him to do so today. The surprise was evident in his eyes as the king, still dressed in his royal robes, came to bid them farewell.
Sullivan quickly recovered from his shock and bowed deeply, his posture respectful and humble before his father. "Father," he began as he straightened, his tone laced with curiosity, "I did not expect you to wake up this early. Why have you come to see us off at such an hour?"
