The moment of truth.
Alissa's gaze swept from Kip to Noah. The practice sword trembled in her grip as seconds stretched into eternity.
Her next words hit the courtyard like a thunderclap.
"Sorry. I don't think I can."
Wait... what did she just say?
Silence stretched thin as a blade's edge. Even Finn's quill froze mid-stroke, ink pooling forgotten on the parchment.
Before Valeria could respond, Noah's voice cut through the stunned quiet.
"Why? This is an incredible opportunity, Alissa. You should take it!"
Passion colored his words.
Working in his small shop, cleaning, and cooking couldn't compare to training under an Adept swordmaster.
The disparity was laughable.
She's throwing away the chance of a lifetime.
"I know it's a good opportunity."
"But I chose to work for you, Sir Noah. I won't change my mind now."
This girl...
Speechlessness claimed Noah entirely. In a world where survival trumped sentiment, where pragmatism ruled over loyalty, she was choosing him.
