At dawn, just as the sky began to lighten, Dalko's eyes shot open.
The young noble lord turned his head, glanced at the pale sky outside the window, and gave a lazy yawn.
After collecting himself for a moment, he slowly rose from his goose-down mattress.
A servant, who had long been waiting respectfully outside, heard the movement and immediately knocked lightly on the door.
"Young Master Dalko, are you awake?"
"Mmm..."
With the nasal tone unique to early mornings, Dalko rubbed his drowsy eyes.
"Come in."
"As you command."
The door swung open, and several well-trained servants filed in, pushing a cart of carved walnut wood.
With professional and attentive service, Dalko quickly completed his morning routine of washing, dressing, and eating.
Once everything was in order, he leaned on an oak walking stick and headed out, surrounded by his personal attendants.
Crossing a somewhat slick, gravel path, the group arrived near the manor's stables.
