After long, the Sun Cafe would've taken all of the money that she'd ever saved up for her going out expenses. Valencia found herself sitting at the same table where sunlight seemed to kiss her face and the seat knew her well. She enjoyed the energy in the Sun Cafe and after a long week of working and studying along with trying new things, it would serve well to brighten her spirits. Now if only she'd known that her favorite brand of tea would be on short supply, the evening would've been perfect. But she hadn't and she found herself drinking earl grey tea rather than chai.

It was different.

Not too bad but not too good either.

She found herself glancing at the tea now and again, hoping that it'd magically change itself. The irony of that statement not being lost on her at all. But the morning couldn't be ruined as she opened and a tome and began another session of light reading. Arion seemed pleased with the amount of sunlight and would've basked in it only if he wasn't disturbing the peace.

Valencia flipped through her book one or two times before hearing a loud thudding noise somewhere close. She lifted her head and glanced around, looking to where the entrance of the cafe was and someone who may have caused a scene.

Well, that doesn't look good, does it?

No, no it did not.

She wondered whether it would've been better to remain seated or get up. Her attention taken and thoughts diverted, her morning may have changed for the better.

líng lù-xī