The day was young, and the first rays of dawn crept through the tall windows of the Arthinalian palace. Cynder stirred from her slumber, the warmth of the sun just beginning to touch the silken sheets of hers and Judge’s shared chambers. She rose quietly, careful not to disturb him, and slipped into her attire—a flowing ensemble that blended elegance with the commanding presence expected of her station.

Her bare feet padded softly across the polished floors as she made her way through the palace halls. The quiet was serene, the usual bustle of attendants and guards not yet present. A few servants bowed silently as she passed, recognizing her but not disturbing her. The tall columns and crystalline windows glowed faintly with the morning light, casting long shadows and golden hues along the corridors.

Eventually, her path brought her to one of the palace's many balconies, tucked slightly away from the main halls. The cool morning breeze met her gently as she walked out.

She approached the railing and leaned against it with a soft sigh, her eyes lifting toward the horizon. Before her, the sun slowly ascended over the capital planet of Arthinal, Theria's distant mountains, casting light across the capital city of Theria. The city below was still quiet, caught in the delicate stillness between night and day.

Cynder: "How beautiful," she murmured aloud, her voice soft as she propped her head up with her clawed hand. "I should wake up at this time more often."

Her tail swayed idly behind her, mirroring her relaxed thoughts. Her eyes lingered on her claws as she relaxed in the breeze of the morning sun.