Could Leo actually understand what Ray was saying? Probably not. But with his rare attention, the dog wagged its tail frantically, eager to please.

"Woof! Woof! Woof!"

Ray was taken aback. "You're this eager? Fine, fine—love that courage of yours! Alright, once I finish 'treating' Celine and gain a bit more experience, I'll let you start evolving too.

"Heh, taking a mutant dog out for a run… now that's exciting."

He patted the dog's head and laughed. "What game do you want to play? Let's kee