The morning sky was draped in a quilt of gray, weeping a persistent drizzle that softly kissed the earth below. The air was imbued with autumn's crisp breath, cool and damp, mingling with the rich scent of damp leaves and earthy soil. The trees stood sentinel, gradually shedding their vibrant cloaks of gold and crimson, their brilliant colors melting away to form a patchwork of soaked foliage on the ground. Rain droplets, like tiny crystal beads, traced delicate patterns down the windowpanes, blurring the world outside and creating a serene, almost dreamlike atmosphere. The relentless patter of rain lent an eerie stillness to the day, inviting a sense of calm and drowsiness.
In the middle of this cozy haven, Liora lay sprawled across the sumptuous bed, the luxurious silk sheets fanning out around her like a gentle sea of midnight fabric. The enormous dark wooden bed, a masterpiece of craftsmanship, boasted intricate carvings of swirling vines and delicate blossoms, each detail polished to a beautiful shine. The corners were adorned with shimmering gold accents that caught the faint light filtering through the rain-soaked glass.
Liora's amber hair, wild and tousled from sleep, spilled over the plush pillow in an unruly cascade. Suddenly, a gentle tap at the door pulled her from the depths of her dream. "It's time to wake up," the voice called, filled with a mix of warmth and urgency. She instinctively pulled the covers tighter around her, cocooning herself in the comfort of her bed, curling her legs beneath the silky duvet. "We're going to be late, and besides, we have dinner plans with some guests tonight," the voice persisted, cutting through the cozy haze. Reluctantly, Liora peeled the duvet away, feelings of warmth escaping her. She stretched luxuriously, every muscle awakening as she rubbed her eyes, fighting to clear the remnants of sleep and embrace the day ahead.
"Can we push this off to another day?" Malzahar chuckled softly, glancing at his sleek silver watch as it caught the light. "Not a chance. We've already postponed so many appointments in the last couple of weeks." With a playful grin, he turned towards her, pressing a gentle kiss on her lips. "And while you reign as queen, it's my duty as your king to escort you. So, get ready." He settled down onto the plush couch, his eyes never leaving her as she began her preparations.
As she meandered into the walk-in closet, he watched in silence, a small smile playing on his lips. She sifted through her colorful wardrobe, selecting an outfit with the precision of a seasoned artist choosing colors for a masterpiece. After a few moments, she emerged, standing before the mirror to fix her hair, her hands working deftly through strands of shimmering locks.
"I don't like that look on your face, babe," he called out, a hint of concern lacing his words. She mustered a smile that was more of a façade than anything else and turned to meet his gaze. "I might have been more rested if you hadn't kept me awake all night with your irresistible charm," she replied with a feigned pout. "Now I'm feeling a bit cranky." He laughed lightly, getting up from the couch to close the distance between them. Leaning in, he pressed a lingering kiss against her neck, their eyes locking in the reflection of the mirror. "I was thinking that maybe we could..."
She abruptly pulled away, stepping toward the door with determination. "Not happening. I refuse to faint during the examination." His laughter followed her as they made their way downstairs, where teasing banter filled the air.
"Now, why's my baby looking so cranky this morning?" Maeve cooed, her hands gently removing the bright red cooking gloves that had been protecting her while preparing breakfast. Liora, still half-asleep, raised her little arms in a silent plea, waddling towards her mother with the exaggerated drama only a child could muster. Maeve couldn't help but chuckle at her daughter's over-the-top antics. "I don't want to go. I want to crawl back into bed!"
At that moment, Elowen strolled into the kitchen, her presence commanding yet warm. She gasped dramatically upon seeing the scene. "Sorry, sweetheart, but you have to face the world. They need to check on the baby's health." Malzahar walked over, gently taking Liora from Maeve's arms, his touch affectionate as he pulled his partner closer to him. "Let's get something in your stomach; we need to be on our way," he urged, his voice a soothing balm. She sank into her seat at the table, suddenly feeling the weight of the day ahead.