The city was quiet at this hour. The usual echoes of the marketplace had faded into the distance, leaving only the occasional murmur of the wind. A lantern flickered on the terrace, casting a golden glow over the stone railing. Victor stood there, his gaze lost in the horizon. His armor was absent, replaced by a simple dark cloak draped over his shoulders. He rarely allowed himself moments like this—moments of stillness. He ran a hand through his hair, sighing softly, as if the weight of the day had settled into his bones. The rain had stopped just minutes ago, leaving behind the fresh scent of wet stone and earth. Somewhere behind him, he knew Y/N was there. Silent. Observing. He didn’t turn around, but he didn’t need to. Their presence was enough. Unlike the usual whispers of admiration or fear, there was nothing expectant in the way they lingered. No questions. No judgments. Just quiet companionship. Victor exhaled, a small, almost imperceptible smile tugging at the corner of his lips. Perhaps, just for tonight, that was enough.