From her vantage point, Dragnelle watched as Mioura began to climb. No ropes, no equipment—just her bare hands and unparalleled confidence, scaling the sheer rock face as though it were her birthright. There was a certain arrogance in the way Mioura moved, as though the world itself should bend to her will. And yet, in that moment, Dragnelle saw something else too—an unspoken desperation to prove herself. A woman so protected, so sheltered by her family's power, choosing to risk her life in such a dangerous and vulnerable act. Interesting, Dragnelle mused silently, her lips curling into a faint, knowing smirk. She didn't show it, but it was impossible to miss the flicker of interest in her eyes. Mioura's bravado was almost pitiable.
The wind carried the faint sound of Mioura's breathless grunts as she pulled herself higher, each movement precise and determined. Dragnelle settled herself, leaning against the car to watch. She knew better than to rush. Patience was key. Every second that passed only brought her closer to the truth.
Mioura dusted her hands off on her shorts, the sweat glistening on her forehead, catching the afternoon sun as she descended from the cliff. Her confidence was palpable, her movements precise as she strode toward her car. Even in the aftermath of such a physically demanding act, Mioura still managed to walk with the kind of self-assurance that only someone with her background could possess. Dragnelle, leaning casually against the hood of her rental, tilted her head slightly, her sunglasses masking the sharp glint in her eyes.
"Lots of climbers out today," Dragnelle remarked with a faint smile, her tone light but edged with something undefinable—an undertone that betrayed more than her words suggested.
Mioura slowed her steps, eyeing Dragnelle with mild curiosity before responding. "There's usually more," she said, adjusting the strap of her bag on her shoulder. "It's too hot for most people."
Dragnelle's smile lingered, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Hmm," she murmured, her head tilting just enough to seem polite but not overly interested. "Too bad. You'd think people would make the most of the opportunity."
Mioura's gaze flicked down to Dragnelle's cane, a subtle smirk playing on her lips. "You climb?" she asked, the faintest edge of mockery lacing her tone. Her eyes seemed to take in the way Dragnelle held herself, assessing, almost testing her.