The sun had long dipped below the jagged mountains of Almira, leaving the estate bathed in silver moonlight. The castle, while breathtaking by day, took on a haunting elegance at night. Shadows stretched long across the marble floors, and even the softest footstep seemed to echo with secrets.
Heiko and River stood on the balcony of their private chambers, the night air cool against their skin. Below, the sounds of the estate settling in for the night echoed faintly—hooves being stabled, torches being lit along the inner walls, distant laughter fading into silence.
River stood close to Heiko, arms wrapped around herself as if the cool breeze carried more than just air—as if it whispered truths yet spoken.
“Heiko…” she began slowly, her voice low, cautious.
He turned to her, sensing the
