The morning of the coronation began before sunrise. Atheline simply couldn't fall asleep anymore.
His eyes opened slowly in the darkness of the royal chambers. For several moments he remained motionless beneath the blankets, listening.
The room was quiet. Only the steady breathing beside him disrupted the quiet occasionally.
The distant sounds of palace servants already beginning their duties somewhere beyond the walls could barely be heard.
He glanced at the faint glow of moonlight filtering through the curtains, a peaceful sight. Yet his mind refused to remain still.
'It's today'
The word lingered in his thoughts. After everything that had happened; he had regained a part of his memories, married Lilith, and all the mess that surrounded them. Today had finally arrived.
Atheline stared at the ceiling for a while then slowly sat up. Beside him, Lilith remained asleep... or appeared asleep. With her, one could never be entirely sure.
