Jolthar caught the faintest smirk on Maena's lips as she passed him, and he wasn't entirely sure if it was one of approval or quiet amusement.
Lady Cleora shifted slightly, her attention returning to Jolthar. She offered him a faint smile, her nod conveying both acknowledgement and appreciation. Yet something in her eyes betrayed her guardedness. Cleora was a woman of power and tact, and Jolthar knew well enough that she didn't give away trust so easily.
"Thank you, Sir Jolthar," she said, her voice soft yet steady. "Your valour will not be forgotten."
Before Jolthar could respond, Nora let out an audible scoff, her arms tightening against her chest as she threw him a withering glare. The sharp exhale of frustration was not lost on anyone present, though only Roblan seemed too ashamed to notice.
Jolthar met Nora's fiery gaze with one of his own, his lips curving into the faintest hint of a smile as if her anger amused him more than it offended him.
