Athena arrived at the hidden chamber with a small bundle in her hands. Noctis sat on the bed, his thin legs dangling off the side, his golden hair messy from sleep.
He was no longer wary of her presence, but he still barely spoke. Every day, she brought him meals, told him stories, and sat beside him in silence, allowing him to get used to her.
Today, she had something different in mind.
"Noctis," she said gently, kneeling in front of him. His bright eyes lifted toward her, the flickering candlelight reflecting off his irises like shards of gold. "I have a surprise for you."
He didn't react immediately, but his fingers curled slightly on the bed, a small sign of curiosity.
"I want to take you somewhere beautiful," she continued. "Somewhere outside this dark place."
At the mention of "outside," Noctis stiffened. He glanced toward the door instinctively, his small shoulders tensing.
"It's safe," Athena assured him, reaching out a hand. "I promise."
