The eastern sky had barely begun to lighten when Lucifer arrived at the secluded courtyard. Dawn mist clung to the ground in wispy tendrils, giving the training area an ethereal quality as it emerged from darkness. He had deliberately arrived early, using the quiet moments to center himself through a series of breathing exercises.
When Deia appeared, she moved with the silent grace of someone accustomed to navigating their world unnoticed. Her crimson hair was tied back simply, her training clothes practical rather than ornamental. She paused briefly upon seeing him already there, a flicker of surprise crossing her features.
"You're punctual," she said by way of greeting.
Lucifer smiled, the expression warming his face in the cool morning air. "A habit my instructors spent years drilling into me. The first prince can never be late, even to his own execution."
