Chapter 16: intimacy

Leon escorted Esteria back to her room, the silence between them heavy with the echoes of their earlier sparring session. The walk through the quiet corridors gave her time to process everything—the fight, Adrian's condition, and the weight of her responsibilities. By the time they reached her door, the exhaustion was beginning to settle in.

"Thank you, Leon," she said softly, offering him a tired smile.

"Anytime, Esteria," he replied, his tone gentle. He gave her a nod of respect before turning to leave, his footsteps echoing down the hallway as he disappeared from sight.

Once alone, Esteria closed the door and leaned against it for a moment, letting out a slow breath. The room was dimly lit, the soft glow of candlelight casting shadows across the walls. She moved to the center of the room, her fingers absentmindedly reaching for the hem of her clothing.