Chapter 28: A Disappointing Reception

I awoke with a start, the remnants of Helios' presence lingering in my mind like a fading dream. For a moment, I lay there in the dim light of dawn, trying to grasp the vivid images that had danced through my subconscious with the reality of the world around me. But as the haze of sleep lifted, a sense of anticipation stirred within me, spurred on by the promise of a surprise.

Throwing back the covers, I swung my legs over the edge of the bed and rose to my feet, the weariness of the previous day's journey still clinging to my limbs. But despite the lingering fatigue, I felt a renewed sense of purpose coursing through my veins, fueled by the knowledge that I was not alone in this fight.

Dressing quickly, I made my way downstairs to the inn's common room, where Sir Michael awaited me with a steaming mug of tea. He looked up as I approached, a knowing smile playing at the corners of his lips.