It was going to be one of those days, Illyra decided as she woke up to the sound of pouring rain and thundering skies, that would be better spent in the library than in studies.

“Illyra?” the door to her room opened.

Illyra shut her eyes closed tight; a few more hours in the soft coverlet sounded better than the cold floors. The door closed quietly, and then Illyra felt the covers being lifted. A small, warm body curled up behind her. Illyra sighed, turning over.

“I’m scared,” her sister looked up at her.

“Hush, little baby,” Illyra kissed her baby sister’s forehead and held her close. “It’s only the rain and thunder,” they both fell asleep again.