Sevastian entered the dining hall, his dark hair still damp from his quick wash, and sat across from Rohan, who was mid-bite into a croissant, his cheerful demeanor a contrast to Sevastian's groggy state.
"Finally!" Rohan exclaimed, food muffling his words. "I thought you'd sleep through the whole meal."
Sevastian rolled his eyes, grabbing a steaming cup of coffee. "Unfortunately, I didn't. The King decided my room needed his overly enthusiastic wake-up call."
The King, seated at the head of the table, gave a soft chuckle. "You are welcome, of course. It is necessary that someone keeps you from becoming nocturnal."
The three men continued their breakfast in silence, and after a moment, Rohan put down his glass of juice and leaned forward, his tone turning serious.
"Your Majesty," Rohan began, "what have we missed during our absence?"