Edward stepped out of his room, fastening the last clasp of his cloak, only to halt at the sight before him.
Aeris and Seraphine were already waiting in the hallway. The quiet, flickering light from the sconces danced across their figures, drawing a sharp contrast between steel and shadow.
Aeris stood tall, her frame encased in silver-plated armour that hugged her body with purposeful design. Etched across the breastplate were delicate, curling patterns—almost too elegant for battle, yet tempered by the hard reality of its form. Black leather filled the gaps between plates, granting freedom of movement without exposing vulnerability.
A long skirt of black fabric hung from her waist, split high at the thigh, revealing greaves of polished steel beneath. Each step of her sharp-heeled boots struck the floor with a commanding click. At her side rested her rapier, a delicate yet deadly weapon.
Beside her stood Seraphine, striking in an entirely different way.
