Tall ivory pillars reached up into the far reaches of the plafond each dressed in a rich, dark Byzantium. To their left shone elevated windows illuminated by the flickering moon on the ocean beyond. The shadows danced about the floor, pirouetting a tranquil melody across the stone. The silence of his home seemed to echo compared to the city outside and the habour beyond. Rhoynar could feel his own weariness creeping along behind, ready to pounce the instant he let himself relax. Their journey had been difficult and less than pleasurable. The Knight turned to Illinfer as her voice cracked the silence.
"I'll show you your room. You'll find beds across the city but you won't sleep tonight. Not out there." He spoke in hushed tones, speaking as if breaking the silence would shatter the sanctuary he had established. Without further word, the man stepped forwards, soft footfall echoing through the room. He guided her through a hallway, illuminated with the lights of the city. Rhoynar guided his companion along dark hallways and up narrow staircases. The Knight stopped before a door, embellished with labyrinthine stalks and petite flowers, no larger than a finger nail. He pushed on the metal handle and allowed Illinfer inside. Before them lay a room detailed with the same richness and elegance as the hall.
"It's Ka'sai silk." Rhoynar commented, one finger lifting to point towards the bed. "It may be warmer here than the North, but you won't feel it. Not with that." The bed adorned a vivid red silk much unlike the silks that drifted towards the capital. He dipped his head and turned back towards the door. "We will take our boat after midday." He quickly departed, leaving Illinfer in a room bathed in moonlight. Beyond the flickering curtain, stood a terrace overlooking a shaded and silent garden, covered in plants not native to Illium, with the ocean stretching further than would be visible. The rest of the room, lit only by the small torches upon the walls, seemed warm compared to the ocean beyond which for now was still and serene.
Rhoynar continued his way along the halls, feeling his own weariness inching its way across his body, ready to claim his mind and body. He advanced through passages and corridors until he stopped before the first of his families. There was nothing to say any of them were hurt... His hand paused before the door of his youngest sibling, allowing himself a moment to ensure his silence. He eased the door quietly and stopped as soon as the silhouette was visible. Seeing at least one member of his family sleeping safe gave way for a wave of reassurance and solace to crash against him. Illinfer had been correct all this time. He eased the door back once again, his shoulders unwinding. He remained in his spot for a moment and stifled a yawn. He quietly made his way to his own room, ignorant to the hum of the world outside. His foot ached and his mind throbbed for bed, calling for the rest he desperately needed.
DestinyStar