Chapter 24 — Morning in Graveshade

The inn’s common hall was still half asleep when Kai and Selene settled into a corner table. The air smelled of smoke, bread, and cheap ale. Adventurers dozed against walls, a bard strummed lazily in the corner, and a serving girl made her rounds with steaming plates.

Kai sat quietly, hood down, eating his breakfast of black bread and roasted meat without looking up. Beside him, Selene pressed close, her arm looped around his, crimson eyes glimmering mischievously.

To anyone else, she appeared to be sipping a mug of ale. But Kai knew better—the scent was metallic, sharp. Blood.

“You’re awfully quiet for someone about to visit a city most humans never survive,” Selene teased, tilting her mug to her lips.

“I prefer quiet,” Kai replied evenly, tearing off another piece of bread.

Selene pouted. “You’re no fun. At least let me enjoy my breakfast while clinging to you.”

Kai gave her a sidelong glance. “…You’ve been clinging since yesterday.”

“That’s because you’re warm,” Selene said simply, resting her head against his shoulder. “Besides… you don’t push me away.”

Kai didn’t bother answering. Instead, he scanned the room. A few adventurers eyed them suspiciously, whispering behind their mugs. A boy and a vampire—it wasn’t a pairing most people understood.

Selene noticed his gaze and smiled faintly. “They’re jealous.”

“Or cautious,” Kai muttered. “We should leave soon.”

The serving girl brought fresh bread and fruit to their table, avoiding Selene’s eyes as she set the tray down. “Safe travels,” she murmured quickly before rushing away.

Selene giggled. “Even here, they’re afraid of me. Isn’t that sad, Kai?”

“No,” Kai said flatly.

Selene’s lips curved into a smirk. “Cold as always. That’s why I like you.”

Kai set down his fork, finishing the last of his meal. “We’re leaving within the hour. Pack what you need.”

Selene leaned closer, whispering, “I already packed… I only need you.”

Kai sighed, standing. “You’re impossible.”

Her laughter followed him as they left the inn, the shadow of Noctis Sanctum already looming in their path.