Chapter 3: Water
Morning came gently.
The village stirred slowly — roosters crowed, a breeze rustled the trees, and someone in the distance yawned loud enough for the birds to pause.
Riku stood in front of the old mirror in his room at the inn, tying the sash of his clean robe. The tea and futon from yesterday still lingered in his mind. For once, he hadn't woken up in a panic, stressed about meetings or late-night deadlines.
It felt... strange. In a good way.
He stepped outside and walked down the dirt path, nodding to a few villagers along the way. Most of them gave him curious glances — not unfriendly, just hesitant. A stranger showing up in a place this forgotten was bound to draw attention.
As he neared the village square, he saw Lila sweeping the area near the dry fountain, her sleeves rolled up and hair tied back.
She gave him a small nod.
"You up early."
"Habit," Riku replied. "Corporate life."
"Is that a kingdom? Never heard of it."
"Worse. It's where dreams go to die. The only thing to do there is race against others and come out at the to.p"