The morning settled into a soft, balanced quiet that filled the apartment the moment Violet opened her eyes. She lay still for a moment, listening to the gentle movement of the city beyond the windows. The energy around her felt grounded, steady, and clear. When she finally rose, her body responded without protest. Her mind didn’t rush ahead of her. She moved with intention instead of impulse.

The floor beneath her feet carried a mild coolness that helped her wake fully. She rubbed her arms lightly, adjusted her posture, and breathed through the comfortable weight in her chest. Every inhale carried purpose. Every exhale emptied out the remnants of anything...