~Let's go back a few minutes earlier.
Khione left the special training ground with slow, measured steps, her breath still uneven. The duel against Elreth had ended in a draw—an unsatisfying conclusion for both sides. Her body was aching, her legs trembling slightly from exhaustion, and yet her mind refused to quiet down. Every clash, every exchange of blows replayed in her head like fire burning along her nerves.
By the time she reached her room, sweat clung stubbornly to her skin and her muscles felt like heavy chains weighing her down. Without hesitation, she headed straight for the bathroom.
