Dawn crept over Lumiaren, bathing the pale stone in soft golden light. I woke to find Seraphina already up, seated by the window with a small tea service, watching the city come alive below. She'd pulled her silver hair into a loose braid that hung over one shoulder, and wore a simple robe of pale blue—comfort rather than formality for once.
"How long have you been up?" I asked, stretching as I joined her.
"Not long." She handed me a cup of steaming tea. "The city is beautiful in the morning light."
Below, Lumiaren was stirring to life. Market vendors set up stalls on the fourth terrace, their colorful awnings bright against the pale stone. Disciples from our delegation were visible on the training platforms of the fifth terrace, their morning exercises creating a synchronized dance of movement against the backdrop of the rising sun.
"What's the plan for today?" I asked.
Seraphina set down her cup. "Nothing."
I raised an eyebrow. "Nothing?"
