Third Person's POV
Whatever that test entailed, it clearly left behind shadows she hadn't yet fully escaped.
Without another word, Virelle turned and began walking down the narrow, winding paths that zigzagged into the bowl-shaped valley.
Ethan followed without comment, his steps light as Velcy and Lucy walked beside him, all of them descending in silence.
As they followed the serpentine trail, Ethan found his thoughts lingering on Virelle's change in demeanor.
Whatever that exam was, it had likely been brutal or perhaps even traumatic and judging by the way she had spoken of it, it was no surprise that many students probably failed to make it to their next year.
Still, he chose not to press her as he knew that if she wished to tell him, she would.
He respected her far too much to force that truth from her lips.
When they finally reached the town below, Ethan's senses were awash in a strange serenity.
