139 Uncertain expectations

"Yes," Ayla swiftly responded, affirming Zara's inquiry with a firm nod. She began, "Chieft--"

Interrupting her, Zara interjected with a mix of exasperation and conviction, "If you're going to question whether I lied to him, then spare yourself the trouble because I didn't. And even if I did, I gain nothing from deceiving a young man with a six-star potential for inner strength." Zara took a forceful bite of the juicy kalna fruit, expressing her frustration through vigorous chewing. The notion of a futureless boy seemed absurd, akin to a lifeless body or mere grains of sand beneath their feet. How could he be alive and yet devoid of a future? "It defies all logic!" Zara muttered under her breath, her frustration seeping through, as she gnawed on the kalna fruit. "It makes absolutely no sense!".