As I walked away, leaving Valeria standing there with her fists clenched and frustration boiling beneath her composed exterior, I couldn't help but feel a sense of amusement settle over me. I knew I'd gotten under her skin, and frankly, it had been more fun than I expected.
I could already feel Vitaliara stirring on my shoulder, the familiar warmth of her presence returning after she had remained silent during the duel. [That girl…] she began, her voice cutting into my thoughts, laced with irritation. [She's insufferable. Arrogant, uptight, and way too proud for her own good.]
