As the air calmed and Aqua lay sprawled across the grass like a satisfied kitten, Roselia stepped into the clearing. Her crimson hair shimmered under the afternoon light, and her sharp gaze was focused entirely on Leon.
"You done babysitting?" she teased, arms crossed as her sleek combat coat fluttered in the breeze.
Leon raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "You jealous I didn't let you call out cheesy attack names?"
Roselia smirked. "No, I'm just wondering when you'll stop wasting time holding back." She stepped closer, the ground subtly cracking beneath her boot with each step. "Aqua's strong for her age. But I'm not a child. I want a real match."
Aqua, from the grass, waved weakly. "Don't die, Roselia…"
Leon exhaled slowly. "You sure?"
Roselia didn't hesitate. "I've been holding back against weaker enemies too long. I need to sharpen my edge again. You're the only one here that can push me past my limits."
