After Sera’s initial surprise and hesitation, she seemed to regain her usual demeanor. Her face brightened, and she seemed almost relieved, as if a weight had been lifted.

The spark of determination that Iria had seen before was back in her eyes, and it was clear that Sera’s confidence had returned.

Sera gave Iria a nod and a smile, her spirit renewed.

“Let’s do it. I’ll fight for my place, just like I always have.”

With that, Sera was back to her old self, ready to face whatever challenges came her way, be they saintesses or hero-worthy rivals. The two …