Gerald blinked slowly, processing Leonel's firm refusal. Then, the vice commander gave a short, condescending laugh—the kind that made the air around him turn cold.
"Good luck with that," he said before turning away.
Leonel stood awkwardly for a moment, still clutching the Black Carapace Shield, before returning to the group. From a distance, Gerald's smile returned, smooth and friendly, as if nothing had happened. But his eyes were sharp and fixed on Leonel.
The moment he rejoined the others, Gerald leaned toward another core member and whispered something. The man's gaze followed his, settling on the dwarf's broad back and shiny shield. Then, both nodded quietly.
When Leonel reached the group again, one of the core members stepped forward to block his way.
"Sorry," the man said, smiling politely but without warmth. "The main attacking unit is full. You'll be joining the supporting unit instead."
Leonel blinked. "Oh. Okay."
