"Wait, what? Why? I thought you weren't interested," Minerva asked, her voice tinged with confusion as she stared at Ludwig. Her eyes narrowed slightly, trying to gauge his reaction.
Ludwig barely held back a groan, his skeletal jaw tightening as he forced a neutral expression. "Let's just say things have changed," he said, his tone clipped. He didn't want to explain the sudden quest update or the fact that Necros' Blessing had essentially forced his hand. It was better to keep things vague.
Minerva frowned, clearly not satisfied with his answer, but she didn't press further. "I see," she said slowly. "You'll need to go and prepare, then. The tournament starts early in the morning, and you'll need your rest."
Ludwig gave her a strained smile, nodding. "You're right. Let's head out of this creepy forest," he said, turning on his heel and beginning to walk away. Minerva followed close behind, her steps quick and light as she tried to keep up with his long strides.
