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Chapter 9: Growing Trust

  Weeks passed, and their lessons evolved beyond mere sword training. Between drills, Kael began sharing wisdom about strategy, honor, and the burdens of knighthood. Mia learned he'd lost his family to bandits as a child, expining his solitary nature and fierce dedication to protecting others.

  "Is that why you push everyone away?" she asked one morning after a particurly grueling session. "Because you're afraid of losing them?"

  Kael's expression hardened, but instead of deflecting, he answered honestly. "Loss teaches harsh lessons. It's easier to never form attachments."

  "Easier, but lonelier," Mia replied softly.

  Their eyes met, and for once, Kael didn't look away. "You speak from experience."

  "I do." She found herself sharing fragments of her real life—the loneliness, the betrayals, her inability to trust others. Kael listened intently, occasionally nodding in understanding.

  "Perhaps that's why you're different," he mused. "You understand the weight of solitude."

  Their retionship deepened gradually. Kael began joining her for occasional meals, though always in quiet corners away from others. He showed her secret pces in the castle—a hidden garden, a tower with a view of the entire kingdom, a library filled with ancient texts.

  One evening, as they watched the sunset from the tower, Kael surprised her by removing a locket from beneath his armor. Inside was a miniature portrait of a woman and child.

  "My mother and sister," he expined quietly. "I couldn't save them."

  Mia touched his arm gently. "You honor them through your service to others."

  For the first time, Kael smiled—a real, warm smile that transformed his entire face. "You see me more clearly than anyone ever has."

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