[Silthara Palace —Emperor's Chamber—Dawn]
Morning unfolded over Silthara Palace like a quiet blessing.
Golden light poured through the tall lattice windows of the Emperor's chamber, stretching long ribbons of warmth across the marble floor. Outside, the palace gardens had awakened fully—the fountains murmured softly, and birds perched along the carved pillars sang bright morning songs that echoed gently through the open arches.
Within the chamber, the air felt lighter than usual.
Levin sat upon the wide imperial bed, the silken sheets gathered loosely around him. His posture remained calm, but there was something different about him today.
Something subtle.
Something new.
Near his side, Asha circled the bed restlessly, her nose twitching as she sniffed the air around him again and again. Beside her, Lyresaph tilted his small head, blinking curiously while studying Levin with unusual attention.
The two creatures could sense it: something had changed.
