Chapter 73 — Threads of the Realm
The sun rose gentle and warm over the Obsidian Throne, painting the volcanic peaks in shades of molten copper and deep crimson. For the first time in months, there were no urgent war councils, no emergency reports, and no immediate threats demanding their attention. The kingdom was breathing.
Cairis woke with Liora curled against his chest, her breathing slow and peaceful. The soul bond hummed softly between them, steady and warm. He pressed a lingering kiss to her forehead, then her temple, then the corner of her mouth until she stirred with a sleepy smile.
"Good morning, my king," she murmured, stretching against him like a contented cat.
Cairis's hand slid down her bare back, tracing the faint glowing runes that marked her skin. "Good morning, my queen. No battles today. No councils. Just us."
Liora's eyes lit up. "Then let's not waste it."
