Philipa walked back toward the hostel with Rowan, her body aching but her heart strangely light. Every step sent pain through her ribs, yet she refused to show it.
“That was insane!” Rowan kept saying, still excited. “Did you see his face? I swear, Marvin looked like he swallowed his own pride!”
She chuckled softly. “You talk too much.”
“But you fought too well!” Rowan grinned. “You sure you’re from Crestmoon? You fight like someone trained for war.”
Her smile faded for a brief second.
“Just… don’t talk about it,” she said quietly.
Rowan noticed the change in her tone and nodded. “Alright. Your secret.”
They reached the hostel building, and Rowan waved before heading to his own.
“Rest well, fighter,” he said. “Tomorrow won’t be easy.”
She nodded and entered her hostel room.
The m
