While I was preparing for the duel, Shuna approached me, her expression tinged with guilt.
"I'm sorry, Zeros. It's because of me that you're having to duel," she said softly.
I shook my head, dismissing her concern. "No, I accepted the duel of my own volition. Besides, this all started because of Dion. You have nothing to apologize for."
Hearing that, Shuna's tense expression softened into a relieved smile. But then, as if something puzzled her, she tilted her head slightly.
"Thank you, Zeros. But… how strong is your brother exactly? Considering he's taking the same exam as you, he must have only had his crest for less than six months, right?"
I nodded. "According to what I heard a few days ago, he's already surpassed level 40."
"…That's higher than I expected," she murmured, a hint of surprise in her voice.