A light but firm knock echoed on Kyrian's door even before the first ray of light pierced the eternal clouds of the capital.
Kyrian opened his eyes instantly. His senses, always sharp, had already registered the sound and the presence on the other side of the door seconds earlier.
He sat up in bed, the simple sleeping robe still impeccable, and replied in a low, calm voice.
"Come in."
The door opened slowly. Mei Li entered, already dressed in an elegant robe of dark carmine tones, her hair tied up in a functional bun. Her eyes shone with the energy of someone who had been in motion for some time.
"Good morning, Leader." She made a small, courteous bow, but her smile was practical.
"Sorry to wake you so early."
Kyrian nodded, dismissing formalities.
"It's not a problem. What is it?"
Mei Li closed the door behind her and got straight to the point.
