The darkness still clung heavily to the sky, thick as velvet. Dawn was two hours away, the world caught in that fragile pause between night and morning. A quiet chill stirred in the air as I made my way back to the palace. There were farewells I needed to give—first to Eric… then to Rune.
I decided to visit Eric first. I would need more time with Rune, and I didn't want to rush that moment.
With a wave of my hand, I unlocked the window to Eric's chambers using telekinesis, the latch unhooking with a soft click. Slipping inside soundlessly, I moved toward his bed. The moonlight spilling in from behind me cast a long shadow across the floor.
Sensing a presence, Eric shot upright with a gasp, his hands instinctively clenching into fists.
"Good to see you so alert, Your Highness," I said with a quiet smile as I dropped the invisibility spell.
He let out a breath and lowered his fists, his tense shoulders easing. "Master..."
