The next morning arrived with a pale grey light filtering through the castle windows. Darion had slept better than he expected, the weight of the previous day's events settling into something manageable.
The archers were safe, the training was done, the mason was hired, and the castle renovations would begin soon. It was a good place to be.
He descended the stairs to find Garren and Seren already seated at the great hall table, plates of bread and cheese before them.
Maret was moving between the kitchen and the table, her steps quick and efficient. Aldra was nearby, dusting a shelf.
"Morning m'lord," Garren greeted.
"Morning," Darion replied, sliding into his usual seat.
Seren nodded, her mouth full of bread.
Darion reached for a piece of bread and tore off a chunk.
