Adrien went downstairs to his room again and managed to dress himself. He sat on the side of his bed for a while, his eyes closed, focusing on nothing but his breathing, preparing the face he would wear. When he reached a point of desperate tranquillity, he stood up, headed downstairs, and opened the door to the main hall.

Like every morning, Val was sitting on his armchair, calmly reading a book.

"Good morning, Adrien. Have you slept well?".