Don't we love esteria?

Esteria staggered back into the courtyard, her breaths coming in ragged gasps. The oppressive air from the void still clung to her like a second skin, and her legs wobbled beneath her as though they might give out at any moment. She clenched her fists, willing herself to stand tall, to project strength even as her thoughts raced.

Calyx was at her side in an instant, his usual smirk replaced by a rare look of concern. "What the hell happened in there?" he demanded, gripping her arm to steady her. His golden eyes darted over her, taking in her trembling form and the faint glow of the mark etched on her forearm.

"It was a test," Esteria said, her voice steadier than she felt. "Another trial from Gladius. I survived. That's all that matters."

Calyx scowled. "Survived doesn't mean unscathed. You look like you just walked through the Abyss."