Clarissa finally loosened her embrace and glanced toward Zoe, her eyes softening. "Sorry, Zoe—are you alright too?" she asked gently.
Zoe gave a small nod, her voice calm but tired. "I'm fine."
Clarissa smiled, relief washing over her face. She reached out and ruffled Zoe's hair lightly. "Good girl. You did great out there."
Zoe didn't say anything, but a faint hint of pride crossed her expression for just a moment.
Not far away, Noah approached with wide eyes as he took in his master's battered state. "My lord… I'm proud of you," he said, voice trembling slightly. "You fought bravely against your enemy. It was… inspiring."
Rafael, standing beside him, stiffened awkwardly. "A-ah, enough with the praise already," he said with a nervous chuckle, his cheeks slightly flushed.
But Noah continued with heartfelt sincerity, "No, really. I saw how hard you fought. You've earned my respect even more."
Rafael scratched the back of his neck, his tone flustered. "Alright, alright—stop it."
