Sleep In Chaos

The window finally gave way with a loud creak, releasing a rush of dust and stale air. 

Salviana coughed, momentarily losing her footing, but she caught herself before she could fall. 

She straightened, brushing off the moment of weakness as if nothing had happened—no squeal, no hesitation.

Leaning forward, she pressed her face to the opening, inhaling the crisp night air. It wasn't freedom, not yet. 

An iron burglary barred her from slipping through, but at least she had this.

Fresh air.

She breathed in deeply, calming her nerves, gathering her strength. 

The cool breeze felt like a lifeline, a reminder that the world outside still existed. That Alaric was still out there, searching for her.

Her fingers instinctively reached for her hair, twisting the loose red strands into a tight bun once more. A warrior's preparation. She needed to be ready.

I just need to last till morning, she told herself.