Noah and Ailetta stood side by side within the forest clearing.
The humorous tension between them eased after their brief exchange. It was a banter that the two deeply appreciated, despite the lack of outspoken honesty. Instead, their bodies spoke for them.
In the way Ailetta's steps carried a pep, and each stride was more than usual. Her smile reached her eyes, which reflected someone reminiscing about a fond memory. While Noah's void experience didn't reveal his expression hidden beneath it, his tail swaying behind him without realizing it was enough to tell his mood was lighter than usual.
Behind them, the others weren't so relaxed.
Most of them looked past the clearing, glaring within the forest. The silhouettes were slowly appearing before them. Despite the lack of presence compared to the monsters they previously fought, their vigilance didn't lessen in the slightest.
However, there were two expressions within Noah's group that stood out from the rest.
