The sparring matches between Rowen and Kostia lasted for hours, and by the time they finally called it quits, the sun had already begun its slow descent over the horizon, spilling streaks of amber and gold across the sky.
Rowen was still trying to catch his breath, his chest rising and falling with each labored inhale, but there was a wide, unrestrained smile stretched across his face as listened and nodded intently as Kostia spoke to him, most likely giving him tips on how to improve his performance for their next sparring match. Once Kostia was done with him, Rowen didn't wait even a second. He dashed into the manor, eager to wash up for dinner and change into something cleaner and suitable to be worn to the dining hall. Circe watched him go, a small, fond smile tugging at the corners of her lips as she shook her head lightly.
