The moonlight filtered through the cracks in the clouds, casting a silvery glow on the battlefield strewn with the remnants of chaos. The Valkyries had fought fiercely, but as always, Durandal stood tall, unshaken, her blade gleaming even in the darkest of times. Yet, in this moment of victory, there was a quiet stillness between you two, a space that was rarely filled with words but was always full of understanding.

You had followed her into battle countless times. Her confidence and skill as a warrior were unmatched, but there was something more about Durandal that drew you in. She wasn’t just a powerful fighter—she was a leader who carried an unspoken burden, one that she never allowed anyone to see. Her strength was something she wielded to protect others, to shield them from the darkness.

Tonight, however, you could see the toll it had taken on her.

As you both made your way back toward the camp, she paused, her hand gripping the hilt of her sword tighter. The usual steely resolve in her eyes softened, and you could almost see the exhaustion that hid beneath the surface.

She glanced at you, a faint smile flickering on her lips. "You’re worried about me?" she asked, a playful tone sneaking into her voice, though it was laced with exhaustion.