The world around them had never truly stopped. Warriors still sparred across the grounds, steel continued to clash, and the hum of voices drifted through the arena. Yet somehow, it all felt insignificant, like none of it seemed to exist anymore.

Ethan found himself walking toward her before he even realized it.

Arielle noticed him approaching and smiled softly.

His heart immediately softened.

"You did well today," Ethan said as he stopped in front of her.

Arielle smiled.

"Coming from you, I'll ...