Uncomfortable Meeting

It wasn't exactly the kind of thing one likes to point out, but it was true. He hadn't taken a bath in nearly a week, and this school uniform he was wearing was the only outfit he had. He hadn't mentioned it before, but he felt increasingly self-conscious, even while interacting with Sebas. Meeting someone of Theo's rank in this state seemed like a fast track to getting his head cut off.

Sebas, who usually responded promptly and emotionlessly to every request, fell silent. That was... concerning. Had Sebas not noticed until now?

"I understand this may be uncomfortable, but after you've spoken with Master Theo, we can provide everything you need. Until then, I kindly ask for your patience," Sebas said, bowing his head deeply.

It almost felt like Sebas was apologizing and asking Damien to endure this a little longer for his sake.

"Oh, please, raise your head! I don't mind being in this state, but I'm more concerned about Theo..."

"There's no need to worry about Master Theo's opinion in this matter. The fault lies entirely with us. Once again, I deeply apologize for the oversight," Sebas responded.

...

Knock, knock, knock.

A little while after finishing organizing his belongings, there was a knock on the door.

"Yes, please come in."

"Excuse me. Master Theo has arrived. May I show him in?"

Damien felt a flicker of curiosity about what would happen if he were to say "no" at this moment.

Since he had no real authority to refuse, they might as well just enter without asking for his confirmation.

"Of course. I've been looking forward to his arrival."

Of course, he couldn't say that, so he recited the lines he had prepared while waiting and headed toward the door to greet him.

Sebas respectfully opened the door, and Theo walked in.

Having met Theo just yesterday, he noticed she was wearing the same pure white priestess outfit, although the embroidery pattern was different.

Is this his everyday outfit?

"..."

"..."

He had expected Theo to say something, but instead, they ended up in a silent standoff.

Well, it was perhaps different from a standoff.

For some reason, Theo wasn't looking directly at him.

It was as if he couldn't face him, his gaze darting around awkwardly.

Puzzled, Damien suddenly recalled something.

Oh, is it customary for me to speak first in this situation?

"Th-thank you very much for taking the time to meet with me today. Please, come in."

"Thank you…"

He hurriedly forced a smile and invited Theo inside.

Theo entered the room in response to his invitation, but he still wouldn't make eye contact.

Just yesterday, he had been smiling brightly, but now he wore a troubled expression, as if deep in thought.

Could it be that he's already tired of this otherworldly situation just one day later?

A terrifying thought sent a chill down his spine.

He briefly shivered and followed Theo into the room to mask his unease.

Theo sat down in a chair at the corner of the table immediately upon entering the room.