Chapter 591 - 585. A Big Cauldron
"Ash!"
Rina approached the warrior with a brilliant smile and spreading arms. While Ashur still received it as usual and hugged her back, he was rather awkward about it and ended the intimate interaction quickly.
"What’s wrong with you?" the defender frowned. "Are you being cold now that you spend more time in the Deathzone?"
"What are you talking about? We hung out the last time I went up," Ashur rolled his eyes dismissively to cover his awkwardness. He cursed Han Shin inwardly for telling him something unnecessary before. "But read the room a little--we’re in the battlefield, for God’s sake."
"Oh, I guess you’re right," Rina giggled cheerfully and made a little ’oops’ before setting her face straight. "Well...I’m just happy we can work together again. It’s lonely being up there by myself, you know."
This time, Ashur cursed himself because Rina actually looked quite hurt and saddened. Indeed, except for her, the other five-star espers were sent to the Deathzone, and the only guild member close enough with her was Nadine--who also got called earlier than her.
"Oh, well--I better get going to my position then," like a lie, the forlorn expression disappeared from her face. "See you around!"
"Wait--"
Ashur moved to grab Rina’s arm before he could realize it. When she looked at him in confusion, it took him a few seconds to clear his throat and speak something sensible. "Be careful out there."
Rina blinked and chuckled. "I should be the one telling you that--I’m the one who can protect myself."
"Hey, I’m serious here," Ashur frowned. "It’s your first time fighting here, you don’t know how dangerous that Fallen Star’s attack is."