The following morning greeted Saeko with golden light spilling through her window and the gentle whisper of wind playing with the wind chime she'd hung the night before. Its soft, melodic tinkling was the first sound she heard, a peaceful reminder that this day, too, belonged to her.
No looming shadows. No blood to spill. Just one more day to breathe.
She dressed in a simple tunic and travel boots, leaving her armor and cloak behind. Only her katana remained strapped to her back—not as a warning, but as a part of who she was. It gave her a quiet comfort.
Today, she would finish exploring Rivermere. Not to scout or prepare for danger. But to experience.
Saeko began with the Artisan District, following the winding cobblestone path past the outer market. This section of the city was more secluded, hidden behind vine-covered archways and iron gates left open for those who sought it. The air here smelled of paint, wet clay, and freshly shaved wood.
She wandered slowly.
