Mariana walked through the softly lit corridors of Castrum Belli et Ignis, her silver-crimson armor catching the first light of dawn. Each step echoed gently against the polished stone floors, a rhythm that matched the steady beat of her heart. She couldn't quite explain the pull she felt, but something—no, someone—was drawing her forward.
Her hand brushed the hilt of her sword, a familiar comfort. But this morning, it wasn't her weapon that gave her courage; it was the lingering memory of David's effortless dominance during their spar. He was more than he appeared, and deep down, Mariana knew he might hold the answers to unlocking her full potential.
With every step toward his quarters, her resolve wavered. What was she even going to say? Demand he train her? Question him about his techniques? Or perhaps... just understand who he really was? She shook her head, her long crimson hair brushing her armor as she forced herself onward.
