The gentle hum of life from the streets below filtered through the shutters as Kael slowly stirred awake. Though the eclipse still cast a dusky veil over the sky, the rhythms of Saint-Aure were unmistakably alive. She sat on the edge of the bed and stretched, glancing at Riven still sprawled out, undisturbed in the covers. With a faint smile, she walked to her favorite spot—the window ledge.
Lilith fluttered down and curled up contentedly on her lap.
"You're up early," Kael murmured to the little Aelith, stroking her softly. "Looks like even you know this is our last quiet day."
Outside, children darted through the streets, chasing each other and laughing. Lanterns still hung from rooftops, bits of streamers danced in the breeze, and villagers cleared remnants of last night's festival. The massive iron cauldron remained in the plaza's center, the scent of broth faintly clinging to the air. Nearby, ashes from the central bonfire were being scooped into buckets.
Behind her, Riven stirred.
"How are you already up?" he mumbled, voice still thick with sleep. "Didn't think you were the type to let me sleep in."
Kael didn't turn around. "We've got nowhere to be. You're safe—just this once."
Riven smirked. "That almost sounded kind. Should I be worried?"
Kael rolled her eyes but couldn't help the slight tug at her lips. Lilith glanced between them with curious eyes.
Thanks to their earlier hunt and earnings, money wasn't a problem. Before leaving the inn, they both took another pill to reapply their disguises—Renna Solis and Cassian Vale were back.
The day passed with gentle ease. They returned to the exchange point, where the half-beast trader greeted them with a broad smile.
"Didn't expect to see you two again," he said.
"We're leaving tomorrow," Riven replied. "Just wanted to say goodbye."
"You made quite the impression. Safe travels."
Kael nodded in thanks.
They wandered through the city, visiting familiar places and saying warm farewells. At the forge, Borak the dwarf waved a sooty hand. "Take care, lass. That bow of yours deserves respect."
Kael gave a rare smile. "It'll get it."
They passed the bakery where they'd grabbed breakfast, the quiet bookstore Riven had browsed, and the café where Lilith had tried to steal a croissant. In the plaza, the children saw them.
"Solis!" the centaur boy called out.
Kael crouched as they rushed over.
"You're leaving today?" the feline girl asked.
Kael nodded. "We are."
The dwarf girl handed her a pouch. "Candy—for the road."
Kael blinked. "Thanks."
"You're really cool," said the human boy. "You should come back."
"Maybe I will," Kael murmured.
Later, they crossed paths again with the same group of adventurers. This time, Cerys greeted them with a knowing grin.
"Enjoyed the festival?" she asked.
Riven nodded. "More than I expected."
"You two make quite the pair," Cerys teased.
Kael arched an eyebrow. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Cerys just laughed. "Nothing. Just an observation. Stay safe out there, I'd be happy to see yall around some time again and see the progress."
"What progress?" Kael asked all confused.
Riven just stood there whit a fade but knowing smile while glancing at Cerys.
Kael just scoffed and continued walking.
The sun continued its slow descent, the glow dimmed by the fading eclipse. Kael returned to the inn, settling at the window with Lilith in her lap.
"Didn't think I'd miss this place," she whispered.
Riven entered, toweling his hair. "Everything packed?"
"Almost."
"It's strange," he said, pausing by the window. "Places like this... they sneak into you."
Kael nodded, brushing her fingers across Lilith's ears. "Yeah."
That night, the city was quieter. Lanterns still glowed faintly in the streets, but the raucous energy had mellowed.
At first light, the sky a shade lighter despite the eclipse's final whispers, Kael and Riven rose early. Today was departure day.
They dressed in silence, and gathered their belongings. Lilith, sensing the shift, fluttered in a soft arc before nestling back into Kael's scarf.
The streets of Saint-Aure were hushed, littered with remnants of celebration—faded lanterns, forgotten cups, the scent of ash and spice lingering.
They paid their remaining dues at the stables and gathered their horses.
Kael took one last look around. "I didn't think I'd feel this way," she murmured.
"You mean sentimental?" Riven teased gently.
She nodded. "It was warm here. A bit chaotic, but warm."
They mounted their horses. The gates of Saint-Aure opened slowly, revealing the road ahead.
Kael glanced back once more, her heart catching in her chest. Memories of laughter, quiet talks, children's voices, and glowing lanterns filled her.
"Let's go," she said.
And so, they rode toward the Elven Kingdom of Reilhim, toward answers, and into the next part of their journey.