Venus's smug face lit up with anticipation, clearly expecting an excited response from Ryu.
But all she got was a burst of laughter.
"Haha... no need to tell me," Ryu said, leaning back slightly, his tone relaxed. "I already know your big news. You've awakened the System, haven't you?"
Venus blinked, her long eyelashes fluttering in visible confusion.
"Huh. How did you know?" she asked, voice soft. "I don't remember ever telling you that."
Ryu was still smiling. "Because I heard your cheers this morning while I was leaving for a Hunter mission."
She pouted, but his smile was pure and refreshing, like the breeze that carried the scent of dew-soaked grass at sunrise. It carried no mockery, only genuine amusement.
Venus froze for a second. Her gaze drifted to his eyes. The golden shade shimmered in the morning light, deep and radiant. Something about them tugged at her memory. They looked strangely familiar. Familiar in a way that stirred something from deep within.
