As the first golden light of dawn crept over the city of Heyh, Serah stirred from her few precious hours of rest. Her eyes blinked open slowly, adjusting to the soft glow filtering through the window. Pushing herself upright, she let the lingering haze of sleep fall away before making her way to the small adjoining bathroom.
The cool water splashing against her skin chased away the last traces of fatigue, and she took a moment to run her fingers through her damp, fiery-red waves, letting them fall freely down her back. Dressing simply, she chose a plain pair of pants and a fitted shirt—functional, unadorned, and easy to move in.
Once ready, she stepped out of her quarters, her boots whispering against the floor as she made her way toward the main room. The faint smell of wood and lingering smoke from last night's lanterns hung in the air.
