A self-deprecating laugh, hoarse and bitter, rumbled in Rask's throat.
Julian's golden eyes gazed quietly at Evangeline. He pursed his lips, knowing her words were meant for him as well.
"Even if you don't accept me, I'm still going to follow you. You took my prized possessions, so that makes us a team!" Rask took a deep breath, choosing not to stand against Evangeline but to immediately pledge his loyalty.
'He wanted to be with her. But it wasn't just about having a powerful female bear his offspring—more than that, he wanted to become stronger. Having been a wandering Beastman for so long, he knew full well that strength was the most important thing. If he could just get stronger, what couldn't he obtain?'
"A team?" Evangeline raised an eyebrow, sizing up Rask's fervent gaze before letting out a soft chuckle.
'This Rask is more astute than I gave him credit for.'
'An Eight-Marked Beastman, willing to give up his freedom just to follow me.'
'I can see his intentions clearly.'
