The gentle glow of the morning sun filtered through the tall, arched windows of Eirik's chamber.
Soft golden hues bathed the room, but the warmth of the light did nothing to chase away the cold emptiness that clung to Eirik like a shadow.
He stirred under the weight of the silken blankets, his eyelids fluttering open with a sluggishness that matched the haze clouding his mind.
Groggy and disoriented, Eirik blinked at his surroundings. The carved oak bedposts, the detailed wall hangings, and the faint smell of lavender were all too familiar.
He was home. His room in Valeidio looked just like it did when he left for Zephyros. Nothing had changed. But everything felt different.
A soft voice, tender yet strained, broke through his muddled thoughts.
"You're awake," said Queen Morgana, seated beside him. Her eyes shimmered with relief and unshed tears, though she kept her expression carefully composed.
