"Little brother," Cedric called casually.
Javier turned slightly, raising an eyebrow.
"Before you get too excited..." Cedric adjusted his armor strap, smirking. "Father said you should stop by the Armand border town first."
He tilted his head, eyes gleaming.
"Another mission is waiting for you."
"Huh?" Javier blinked in surprise.
Cedric shrugged lazily.
"Don't ask. Just do it. Father's orders."
Javier grimaced.
"Ugh... fine." He turned toward Buddy.
"Buddy!!"
Cuquawk!! Buddy flapped his wings excitedly, stomping the ground.
Javier swung onto Buddy's back smoothly, settling into his saddle with ease. He cast a glance back at Mimi and Delya, who were still nibbling on their breakfast.
"Mimi, Delya. Follow Cedric. Help clear away the miasma with them."
Mimi's ears twitched.
Delya pouted, crossing her arms stubbornly.
"No way!! We're following you!!" they said in unison.
