Alister's expression didn't change, but he understood what that meant.
B-Rank.
That meant she was already significantly stronger than before. The transformation had stabilized, and the dragon blood had fully integrated into her system.
Lila, however, remained unaware of that. She simply held onto him, seeking comfort in the warmth of his presence.
The others watched in silence before Axel finally muttered, "…So, uh, do we talk about the horns now or later?"
Blitz snorted. "I say we let her process the crying first."
Alister sighed. It was going to be a long night.
He gently patted Lila's back as she sobbed into his chest, her body trembling against him.
He could feel the raw emotion in her grip—the lingering fear of death and the overwhelming relief of being alive.
"It's okay now," he murmured. "You're safe."
Lila's sobs gradually quieted, but she didn't let go. She clung to him like he was her last tether to reality.
