The first rays of dawn crept through the sheer curtains, casting a soft, golden glow across the ornate room. Even as the gentle sunlight danced on the pale silk bed sheets, Du remained lost in slumber within the warm cocoon of blankets. With a quiet push, the heavy wooden door swung open, allowing a fully-armored knight to step inside.
"Time to rise, my liege," Altair's deep voice called out. Humor laced his tone, but there was no mistaking the note of firmness. He moved closer to the bed until the tips of his iron-shod boots nearly brushed the embroidered rug tucked underneath it. Arms crossed over his broad chest, he observed the figure curled up beneath the blankets. A small, exasperated smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. "No excuse for lazing about any longer. You have lessons to attend, remember?"
When silence was the only response, Altair let out an amused snort. "I should really fleece a pillow and stuff it in your mouth while you sleep, teach you a thing or two about oversleeping." He leaned forward, dark strands of hair falling into his eyes, and reached out. With a swift movement, he pulled back a corner of the quilt, exposing the young royal to the cool morning air. "Up and at 'em, Your Highness, lest you want me to start your day by dragging you out of bed."
