The morning air was cool when the group woke up. Dew rested on the grass, and soft rays of sunlight peeked through the trees. Birds chirped quietly as the campfire from last night turned into soft ash.
Celestia stretched her arms and sat up. Her body still ached from the long ride and the surprise fight with the bandits. She looked around. Kieran was already awake, feeding his horse. Esther sat by the fire, stirring a small pot of hot tea. Leon stood at the edge of the camp, watching the road ahead.
“Good morning,” Celestia greeted, rubbing her eyes. Kieran walked over and kissed the top of her head.
“Morning, darling. Did you sleep well?” he asked. Celestia nodded slowly.
“Better than I thought I would,” she replied.
After a quick breakfast of dried fruits and warm tea that Adelai
