Chapter 104: Codename: Lancelot
"Are you okay, Mana?!" Kusakabe called out as she descended from the sky, followed closely by Origami and the other AST members. Without hesitation, she moved to support Mana, who was visibly exhausted.
"I'm fine... just a little drained," Mana replied between breaths, trying to steady herself.
Kusakabe let out a sigh, shaking her head. "That's exactly why I keep telling you, we need to work as a team. Charging in alone like that is reckless." She gave Mana a light tap on the head, her tone both scolding and concerned.
"Ow!" Mana winced, rubbing the spot where she was hit before looking up at Kusakabe with a pitiful expression.
Kusakabe crossed her arms. "Do you understand now?"
Mana pouted slightly but nodded. "...Yes."
However, as Mana nodded in agreement, her gaze unconsciously drifted to the spot where Shido had disappeared. Even though he was supposed to be an enemy, she couldn't shake the strange throbbing in her chest. But she shook her head and blame it on his name since it was the same as her brother.
As Kusakabe observed Mana's reluctant agreement, she couldn't help but marvel at how someone so young had become so powerful, powerful enough to kill a Spirit. The thought lingered in her mind, but she quickly set it aside as she focused on wrapping up the situation.
When everything was done, Kusakabe contacted headquarters to report the encounter and assess the damage. Fortunately, the only significant destruction resulted from the clash between Mana's cannon and Shido's barrier, something that could be repaired within minutes.
With that Kusakabe's gaze shifted back to Mana, who was now engaged in a casual conversation with Origami. She had now a smile on her face unlike when she fought with Shido earlier. Even Origami's expression softened when talking to Mana.
Though Kusakabe was curious about their conversation, she decided not to pry. Judging by their expressions, it was something personal, something that, for now, she had no need to interfere with.