"Are you ready?" Ariana asked, watching Adrian stand there in clothes meant for physical work—simple, practical, and unfamiliar on him these days.
It was almost strange.
He had long since settled into the role of a Runesmith, someone who worked with precision and patience rather than sweat and strain. And yet, the reason he chose to return to the path of a warrior stood waiting in another world.
Adrian let out a slow sigh. "Do I look nervous?"
Ariana chuckled. "Are you?"
He shrugged lightly. "Well… a little. Not because of the training, but because of Valor's position." He paused, then added, "He is a prince, you know."
"And Querella is a queen," Ariana replied smoothly. "I didn't see you getting nervous around her."
Adrian gave a wry smile. "Those two aren't the same." He shook his head. "But well… forget about it."
He sat on the bed and wrapped an arm around her waist, gently pulling her closer. After a moment, he asked, "So… how was your meeting with her?"
