บท 440: The Chosen Path

"Ah, Xiviyah, thank you for joining us."

Bethiv's voice welcomed me into the spacious command tent, instantly dispelling the lingering embarrassment from moments before. Even so, I stiffened, and my tail curled protectively around my leg as I scanned the room, met by the piercing gazes of nearly a dozen high-ranking officers from the Last Light Company.

I finally relaxed, taking my first full breath since entering, as my eyes found Jackal. He was lounging with one leg casually draped over the armrest of his chair, his scarred face creased in a warm, familiar smile. It was a breath of fresh air to see him completely at ease among the stiff and disciplined officers, and I couldn't help but recall the first time we met when he'd appeared in nothing but his small clothes to protect me from the infernal monster's attack.

"Thank you," I said, smiling faintly at Bethiv. "What is it you wished to discuss?"