Lysara and Azure return to the Rion Clan castle as the afternoon sun dips lower, casting long shadows over the once-proud stone fortress. The castle is far from empty, its halls bustling with the remnants of the clan—servants, and warriors moving about with purpose. While the structure still bears signs of past damage—scorched walls, cracked stones—it's alive, full of people determined to rebuild.
Inside the main hall, Lysara strides across the room with her usual determination, but Azure lingers behind, his steps slow and deliberate. The room is lit with soft golden light from the high windows, and faint echoes of work outside filter through the walls.
"Azure," Lysara says, turning when she notices him stop.
Azure folds his arms, his sharp gaze fixed on the ground for a moment before meeting hers. "Lysara, I have something to say."
Lysara's brow furrows, a faint trace of concern crossing her features. "What is it?"
