The silence of dawn still dominated the courtyard when Kyrian opened his eyes and woke up.
The first light of day had barely touched the horizon, the sky still painted in dark gray, with a faint golden line emerging in the east.
He rose, adjusted his clothes with simple movements, and stepped out of his room.
The air was cold and damp, and the calm before sunrise gave the surroundings a strange tranquility.
Outside, Yanyu remained seated, motionless like a statue.
Her body was upright, eyes closed, and a gentle flow of Qi circulated around her.
Kyrian approached with silent steps. He stood before her for a few seconds, observing.
Yanyu's face was serene, but something betrayed the opposite. Small dark circles, slightly irregular breathing, and a tired aura even while cultivating.
Without changing his impassive expression, Kyrian lifted a finger and flicked her forehead.
