The sun was already dipping toward the rooftops when they stepped out of the tavern, the golden light painting the cobblestone street in long, warm streaks.
Ariana adjusted her staff on her shoulder, glancing at Oliver as they walked side by side.
"You know, you're not what I expected."
Oliver raised a brow. "And what exactly were you expecting?"
"Someone cocky," she said. "You did take down a hobgoblin chief by yourself, after all. Usually men like that don't shut up about it."
Oliver snorted. "So I'm the boring middle ground?"
"Hmm… more like tolerable," she said with a teasing smile.
"High praise," Oliver replied dryly.
They reached a crossroad where the streets split — one leading toward the city square, the other back to the Adventurer's Guild. Ariana slowed her steps, hesitating for a moment before turning to him.
