Twilight draped itself across Valemir like a weary traveler's cloak, the last amber rays of sunset painting the cobblestone streets in hues of molten gold and deepening shadow. The weathered sign of the Moongate Inn creaked gently in the evening breeze, its faded lunar emblem illuminated by flickering lantern light that spilled from windows clouded with age and wood smoke.
David paused in the narrow alleyway across from the inn, momentarily allowing himself to savor the relative stillness. The capital's perpetual hum of activity had diminished to a distant murmur as merchants closed their stalls and taverns prepared for the night's business. This temporary lull, the quiet breath between day's responsibilities and evening's indulgences, provided a rare moment of contemplation.
Twelve hours. Elara's ultimatum echoed in his mind, each passing second bearing the weight of consequence.
