And lo, the city lay still in the morning haze, and the streets thereof were bathed in a light that was soft and tender. And Daniel walked with Emma, his hand clasped in hers, and their steps were as one. Yea, Corky, their faithful companion, did trot beside them, his tail wagging as a measure of their journey.

And the air was chilled with gentleness, mingled with the savor of bread newly baked, which arose from the ovens of a baker nigh at hand. They passed by the shops whose windows were yet closed, the glass thereof reflecting the heavens that were painted with hues of pale pink and orange. And behold, a solitary rider upon his steed of iron did glide by them, and he nodded unto them in greeting.