The parlor fell into a contemplative silence after Lucavion's request, the weight of his words lingering in the air. The Marquis sat back, his expression neutral but thoughtful. Valeria remained still, her hands now clasped tightly around her knees. Despite her outward calm, her thoughts churned, a storm of conflicting emotions breaking through the surface.
She had grown used to Lucavion's presence over their time together in Andelheim—the strange mix of irreverence and sharp insight that defined him. But now, the mention of his departure struck her like an unexpected blow.
'So it's coming to an end...' she thought, her mind grappling with the reality. She hadn't let herself consider it before. They were always so busy—sparring, bickering, navigating the complexities of the tournament, and the undercurrents of Andelheim's political schemes. Lucavion had been there for all of it, a steady, irritating, and strangely comforting presence.
