*Saoirse*
The weight of the impending battle pressed down on us, heavier than the mightiest of swords. I glanced at Rhys, his face etched with the same concern that knotted my insides. But our bodies ached for rest, our muscles weary from days of relentless training and strategizing.
"Come," I said softly, reaching for his hand. "We need to sleep if we're to face what comes."
Rhys hesitated, the shadows from the flickering candles dancing across his furrowed brow. His worry, dark and unrelenting, often robbed him of peace. Yet he yielded, allowing me to pull him toward the sanctuary of our bedroom. Our footsteps were hushed against the stone floor. The whole palace felt silent despite the chaos I knew was brewing.
Once inside, the door shut behind us with a gentle click, sealing away the world and its demands. I could feel Rhys' gaze upon me, filled with worry not just for ourselves or our people but also for the children we had vowed to protect.
