The streets of Krayon Sol were alive with golden lights and laughter, the scent of grilled spices and fresh bread floating through the evening air. A soft breeze tugged at silk banners above, and warm lanterns lit the cobblestone path in a dance of flickering color.
Joshua walked hand in hand with Alice, her fingers gently laced with his. She smiled, wearing a dark-red dress that fluttered with her steps. He was in a black button-down and casual cloak, trimmed with gold, nothing flashy—just enough for a date night in the city.
"Can't believe you actually made a reservation," Alice teased, leaning a little into him.
"I have my moments," Joshua grinned. "Only took threatening three nobles and a small bribe."
She laughed, the sound light and easy, and for a moment, the world felt small and safe.
Until—
Wham.
A shoulder slammed into Joshua hard. He barely stepped back, but Alice stumbled a little. He caught her quickly.
"Watch where the hell you're walking!" a voice barked.
