Zetch blinked, as if struggling to believe what he had just seen.
— "H-How did you…?" he stammered.
Bella, still amused by the scene, took the lead.
— "Yes, that's exactly what I wanted to tell you. Caden isn't just my friend from school…"
She glanced at Caden, then back at Zetch and Aletha.
— "He's like us. He has the mark. I saw it. And he controls an elemental power."
Zetch's eyes widened, his face lighting up with sudden excitement.
— "Really?!" He turned to Caden. "Can we see your mark?"
Without a word, Caden rolled up his sleeve, revealing the lion symbol on his forearm.
Zetch stared at it in awe before breaking into a wide grin.
— "So cool!" he exclaimed. "I know it's a bit much to ask, but… can you show me your power?"
Without answering, Caden simply raised his hand. A flame flickered to life in his palm, casting a warm glow across the room.
Zetch beamed.
— "Finally! Another guy in the group! I was getting tired of being the only one! And on top of that, he controls fire! This is awesome!"
But Aletha was far less enthusiastic.
— "I don't care. To me, he's still a suspect."
Her tone was cold, sharp.
Caden exhaled softly, extinguishing the flame in his hand in an instant. He locked eyes with Aletha, a glint of challenge in his gaze.
— "Then prove it."