At dawn…
Soft rays of sunlight filtered through the thin curtains of the inn room.
The air was crisp. The city slowly stirred.
Liana and Gloria woke up in silence.
No words.
No more tears.
Just a quiet, steady calm.
They moved as if on routine—packing their small bags with practiced hands.
Once ready, they stepped out of the room and made their way downstairs.
The stablekeeper gave a polite nod as they entered the rear courtyard.
There, waiting patiently—
Pikko and Peanut.
"Pikko, Peanut…"
Liana stepped forward and gently stroked her Pekko's head.
"We continue our journey."
Cuquawked!
Both Pekkos gave a chirp, fully rested and alert.
Gloria gave a small smile.
"Let's move early. We'll eat at the next town."
Liana nodded, checking the saddle.
"We need to reach the Beastkin–Elven border by tonight."
"Mm." Gloria mounted Peanut smoothly.
Liana followed, her voice steady.
"The marriage takes place in five days… we need to be fast."
"Yeah."
