The knocking began at dawn.
Lucien's eyes opened reluctantly.
For several seconds, he remained motionless beneath the blanket, attempting to understand why his entire head felt heavy.
Then he remembered the previous night.
Lucien closed his eyes again.
He missed being able to ignore sleep.
That might have been one of the least appreciated advantages of his old strength.
Another knock came from the door.
"Lucien?"
It was Mirelle.
"I'm awake."
His voice sounded less convincing than he intended.
He pushed himself upright.
The room tilted slightly before settling.
Lucien rubbed his face.
Apparently, pulling an all-nighter in a mortal sixteen-year-old body was substantially less impressive than he remembered.
He changed quickly, gathered his belongings, and went downstairs.
Mirelle, Tavian, and Auren were already waiting.
None asked where he had gone or what time he returned.
Their eyes did, however, linger on his face.
Auren looked particularly amused.
