But Ard didn't see the white-haired mage.
Two young women stood near the edge of the courtyard, half-hidden behind a building, staring wide-eyed. One had her hands clasped over her mouth. A second later, more figures emerged—four… six… nearly a dozen.
All of them seemed to be watching them. Ard straightened slowly, crimson eyes narrowing and walking over.
The moment he moved—
"—H-He's coming this way!"
"Did we do something wrong!?"
"Wait—no—he's really handsome up close…"
One girl turned sharply, grabbing her friend's sleeve. "D-Don't stare! You'll be rude!"
"I-I'm not staring! I just—he knocked out the Sword Hero with one hit!"
Another swallowed hard. "He's terrifying… but kind of cool…"
Their faces burned red. Some looked away. Others peeked between their fingers. One nearly tripped over herself trying to stand straight.
