"Your armor seems weaker than I remember," Gariel's calm voice carried through the room as he appeared silently behind Alex, his presence commanding yet serene.
Alex turned, a faint smile playing on his lips, unfazed by the sudden arrival. "I knew you'd show up. Got the message I sent?" he asked, his tone casual but tinged with relief.
Gariel nodded once, his expression steady. "I did," he replied, his sharp eyes scanning the room methodically. When his gaze landed on Anya, a flicker of warmth crossed his otherwise stoic face.
Anya raised her hand in a light wave, a small, knowing smile curving her lips. "Good to see you again, Son of Angel."
Gariel inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment. "And you, Anya. You seem healthier than the last time I saw you—after that war," he remarked, his voice carrying a hint of approval.
