Chapter 24: Defeated?
While everyone enjoyed their breakfast, Aziz and Astrid lingered, mother and son sharing a closeness that quietly crossed the line between simple affection and something deeper—something that spoke of warmth, of presence, of bonds that neither of them could name.
Sofia, who could no longer stand watching the two so comfortably entwined, finally broke the silence.
"Aziz, how about I show you what weapon I really fight with?"
Aziz tilted his head, feigning innocence.
"What do you mean? Aren’t you a swordswoman like me?"
"Hehe... actually, no. My real weapon is something else. Don’t ask me what—it’s a surprise. When we get to the training field, you’ll see," she said, with a confident smile blooming across her face.
"I promise—you’ll be surprised."
Aziz noticed the excitement in her voice. She was already halfway up, almost glowing with anticipation.
He raised his hand gently, grounding her.
"Alright. But first, let’s finish eating, okay?"
"Okay... fine," Sofia grumbled, calming herself and stuffing her mouth with sweets to distract from her own eagerness.