Ethan's gaze darkened slightly, but his voice remained composed. "Sometimes, Sir Draco, avoiding unnecessary bloodshed isn't cowardice. It's called avoiding trouble that might get you killed."
Draco chuckled again, though his eyes glinted sharply. "Of course. Strategy. That's what separates the clever from the reckless."
Rina, standing beside them, noticed the tension. She stepped forward and lightly placed a hand on Ethan's arm. "Sir Draco," she said with a polite tone, "perhaps we should save the talk of politics and war for another time. Sir Ethan just finished saving this region from a dungeon break. He deserves peace, not questions."
Draco nodded slightly, though the smirk never left his face. "You're right, Countess…Uh sorry..You aren't one knows.. My apologies."
He bowed his head faintly before glancing at Ethan one last time.
Ethan and Rina's expressions changed briefly but they decided to let go.
