Elian woke up on the chaise lounge feeling invincible.
He had 45 LP in the bank (poor, but manageable). He had 14 Hearts (still last place, but climbing). And most importantly, he had slept within the Royal Safe Zone, meaning his death timer was a comfortable:
[Time Until Death: 64 Hours, 00 Minutes.]
"Today," Elian whispered to the ceiling, "I am going to get that Fertility Blocker. I just need one big event. Maybe I'll 'accidentally' walk in on him changing again. Or maybe I'll suggest a royal thigh massage for... circulation."
He sat up, stretching. The bed was empty. Cassian was already gone.
'Early riser,' Elian noted. 'No matter. I'll catch him at breakfast.'
Elian dressed quickly, tying his black silk cravat with a flourish. He felt like a main character. He felt like he had cracked the code.
He opened the heavy oak doors of the bedroom, ready to stride into the day.
Two halberds crossed instantly in front of his nose.
"Halt," Guard #1 said.
