Lucavion's hand moved in slow, practiced motions, his fingers gliding over Aether's sleek black coat. The horse hummed softly, a deep, contented vibration, her piercing blue eyes half-lidded as she leaned into his touch.
Aeliana stared.
This horse—this wild, proud, untamed creature—was squirming under his touch like some affectionate pet?
And most importantly—
Lucavion's gaze.
It wasn't playful. It wasn't sharp with mischief. It wasn't filled with his usual arrogance or teasing amusement.
It was… gentle.
Soft in a way she rarely saw.
Aeliana exhaled lightly.
She knew how horses were usually treated. Especially ones raised for war.
They were valued, yes—but they were also tools. Weapons meant to carry their riders into battle, trained for endurance and command rather than affection.
And yet—
Looking at these two…
There was no command. No force. No sense of ownership.
Just… a bond.
Lucavion exhaled lightly before turning toward her, his smirk curling at the edges.
