Before turning the corner to fully vanish down the mountain path, Ethan halted his steps and glanced over his shoulder at the three sisters.
"If you ever find yourselves truly struggling with your martial foundations or require direct guidance with your sword training, you may seek out my standalone courtyard," said Ethan, his voice smooth and entirely reassuring. "If I am present on the peak, I will assist you if I am able."
The three women gasped, their faces instantly illuminating with pure, ecstatic excitement. They nodded their heads with frantic, vehement gratitude, watching his back with glowing reverence until he finally disappeared into the morning mist.
The moment he was completely out of their sight, the warm, approachable demeanor Ethan had maintained entirely evaporated. His handsome features hardened into an expression of freezing, calculated apathy, his piercing amethyst eyes radiating a predatory, dark light.
