章 144: Annoying (2)

I had just stepped out of my room, the pre-dawn chill seeping into my skin as I stretched my arms overhead. The sky was still a deep indigo, the quiet of the early morning undisturbed, save for the soft creak of doors and the occasional whisper of wind through the empty streets. It was the perfect time for my usual morning run—no distractions, no crowds, just the stillness of the world and the steady rhythm of my feet hitting the ground.

At least, that's what I thought until I saw her stepping out of her room across the hall.

Valeria.

Of course, it had to be her.

The moment our eyes met, I couldn't help the small grin that tugged at my lips. She looked as composed as ever, dressed in simple training gear, her expression stern and focused, but there was a sharpness to her that I recognized all too well. Yesterday's duel was still fresh in her mind, and judging by the tightness in her posture, it wasn't a pleasant memory for her.