Although triumph flickered briefly in Zane's eyes, the moment he turned to face Serein, that self-satisfied smile disappeared as if it had never been there. His tone shifted, calm and polite, laced with feigned surprise.
"Is there something you need?"
Serein stopped in front of Zane and Elias. A shadow of hesitation crossed her eyes before she finally spoke.
"I… would like to come with you."
Before Zane could respond, Elias's voice burst out, bright and delighted.
"Really? You'll join us?"
His eyes lit up, pure and unguarded. The thought that the woman he had long suspected—long searched for—was willing to accompany him on a mission made his heart surge.
Zane clicked his tongue quietly, a flicker of irritation passing over his face at Elias's excitement. But he let it go and turned his full attention to Serein.
"You don't have to push yourself. Even without a Guide, two S-rank Hunters are more than enough for an A-rank gate."
