"Captain Sali! And... Captain Gus? You're back?"
The mercenary's greeting pulled Sali out of his thoughts. He suddenly glanced nervously at Elsa. He knew exactly why he was anxious—he was afraid that she would make a big deal out of leaving the group, which would be awkward for everyone involved.
To his surprise, Elsa actually gave the greeting mercenary a faint smile and nodded, saying, "Yes, I'm just back to get something."
At that moment, Sali finally realized and admitted the change in the young woman. If it were before, she might have just bluntly stated her purpose.
You've really grown, Elsa.
The two of them walked towards where Elsa used to live, while the mercenary who greeted them stood frozen in place, after a moment remarking:
"Did Captain Gus just smile at me?"
A true departure doesn't need to be flamboyant; it can be as simple as coming quietly and leaving quietly.
