The carriage slowed as dusk bled across the forest canopy, the wheels crunching against gravel before finally stopping in a small clearing by the roadside. The horses snorted, restless after the long day, steam curling from their muzzles in the cool evening air.
"We'll rest here for the night," Veyron announced as he stepped down from the carriage. He stretched his arms overhead, silver hair catching the faint orange glow of sunset. "The horses can't keep going without proper sleep."
Elena followed him out, her amber eyes soft as she gazed at the fireflies already starting to blink through the trees. Livia moved with grace behind her, adjusting her gown before setting a basket of provisions on the ground.
Soon, a modest campfire crackled at the center of the clearing. Its light pushed against the edges of the woods, casting long, shifting shadows. They shared a simple meal—bread, dried meat, and fruit—while the conversation turned casual.
