Chapter 371: The Widow’s Adjustment (End) The Peace
"The Valkyries are just incredible, aren’t they? So strong, so graceful. I still can’t believe I get to see them train every day," Belle’s voice was filled with awe, her eyes almost sparkling as she spoke of them.
Clarisse couldn’t help but scoff, rolling her eyes. "Graceful? Strong? Please..." she muttered, her tone dripping with sarcasm. She took another sip of her tea, her lips curving into a thin line. "If you ask me, they’re a bunch of arrogant show-offs."
Alina raised an eyebrow, sharing a glance with Belle. "You don’t think much of them, do you?" she said, a teasing smile tugging at her lips.
Clarisse huffed, her fingers tapping against her teacup. "They’re not as great as everyone makes them out to be. I mean, sure, they’re skilled and powerful, but they act like they’re above everyone else." She narrowed her eyes. "And Wilhelmina? She’s the worst of them. So high and mighty, always looking down her nose at people."
Belle giggled softly, her eyes twinkling. "Wilhelmina can be a bit... stern. But she’s just doing her best, I think. She carries a lot on her shoulders, and I admire her for that."
Clarisse rolled her eyes again, this time with a little more emphasis. "Well, I don’t see anything admirable about looking at others like they’re beneath you. They think they’re so special because they fight well. But it takes more than swinging a sword or summoning some flashy magic to be a good person."
Alina leaned forward, a curious glint in her eyes. "It sounds like you have some unresolved issues with them," she said, her voice gentle, as though she were coaxing Clarisse to open up.
Clarisse sighed, setting her teacup down. "I just... I can’t stand their attitude. Ever since I got here, they’ve treated me like I’m some kind of nuisance. They look at me like I don’t belong here. Like I’m intruding on something that’s theirs." Her fingers tightened around the edge of the table, her knuckles turning white. "And I’m tired of it."
Belle reached out, placing her hand on top of Clarisse’s. Her touch was warm, her eyes filled with empathy. "I understand how you feel, Lady Clarisse. But maybe... maybe in time, things will get better between you and them."