[Some time back]
The atmosphere inside the Drayden Manor remained peaceful, yet beneath that outward tranquility lingered a subtle tension that neither Aurelia nor Kyle could ignore.
Warm early afternoon sunlight poured through the tall windows of the private reception room, illuminating the polished wooden furniture and the untouched refreshments still resting upon the tea table. The servants who had earlier attended to them had long since withdrawn, leaving the spacious room unusually quiet. Outside, the sounds of the estate continued as always, with knights conducting drills upon distant training grounds and attendants moving through the corridors with disciplined efficiency.
Yet within the room itself...
Neither sibling seemed capable of relaxing.
Kyle leaned back against the sofa, one elbow resting upon the armrest while absentmindedly turning an empty teacup between his fingers.
