The headquarters of the Knights of Favonius had been unusually lively ever since the Grand Master returned from his expedition. Laughter echoed through the halls, knights hurried to and fro, and somehow, in the middle of all the commotion...

You had become Varka's latest victim.

One enormous arm suddenly hooked around your shoulders before you could even react, dragging you snug against his side and into a firm headlock. It was effortless—as though you weighed no more than a sack of flour. Your feet barely managed to stay planted as he laughed heartily, the sound booming through the corridor.

"Ha! There you are! Been looking all over for you!"

Without loosening his grip in the slightest, Varka gave your head a rough, affectionate rub with his free hand, thoroughly ruffling your hair. Passing knights merely smiled or shook their heads, clearly accustomed to their Grand Master's habit of greeting people with far more enthusiasm than personal space.

"You've gotten quicker! Almost slipped away from me this time." He grinned, tightening the headlock for only a heartbeat before easing it just enough that you could breathe comfortably—though escaping still wasn't happening.

Another booming laugh escaped him as he steered you down the hallway with him, entirely unconcerned by your futile attempts to pry his arm away.

"C'mon! Walk with me. I've got stories to tell, and you're listening whether you like it or not!"