"Let's go," Razeal said, his voice firm as he came to a stop right at the very edge of the separation line. The faint shimmer of the water wall rippled before him like a living veil. "Also, from now on, you both stay behind me. I'll clear the way forward. If something appears ahead, I'll deal with it. The front is mine."
He turned his gaze toward both women. "From the back, that'll be on you two. Can you handle it?"
Maria didn't say anything. Her eyes were steady, her expression calm but focused. She gave a slight nod, ready to take her position without argument.
But Neptunia's brows furrowed sharply. She looked visibly displeased by his sudden command. "Why should you take the front?" she asked, her tone edged with irritation. "I'm the one who knows the direction."
