Leon had asked Celeste to accompany him because he felt that the timing was right.
To be honest, he had not truly expected her to agree.
Considering everything she had possibly gone through, especially the ambush from the members of the Imperial Guild, it would have been perfectly understandable if she had decided to continue alone.
Yet things had changed slightly. Leon had saved her twice now.
The first time was during the confrontation with Alexander and his group, and the second time was only a few minutes ago when the Wild Plant King had nearly struck her from behind.
Those moments had probably softened her view of him.
"It's the first time I ever accept," Celeste said with a gentle smile while patting the small phoenix resting on her head. "Let's be partners."
Her voice was calm, but Leon could sense that this decision had not been made lightly.
Celeste slowly extended her hand toward him.
Leon looked at it for a brief moment before extending his own hand as well.
