Sunlight streamed through the large windows of the Head Professor’s office, but the air around Deculein was as cold as ever. There was nothing to be afraid of—this was simply how he always was.0

“... Um.”0

Epherene approached him cautiously, one step at a time. She hesitated for a moment before stumbling over her words as she tried to speak.0

“So, uh…”0

Just as Epherene cautiously began to speak...0

“You know…”0

“Leave.”2

“Oh?”0

Thud—!0

Suddenly, she was flung backward, the door slamming shut with a thud—it was Telekinesis.0

“… What?” Epherene muttered, staring blankly at the firmly shut door. She tried the handle, but it wouldn’t move. “Professor… open the door! I need to say something—"0

“Oh, Miss Epherene. You’ve arrived?”0

Just then, Allen approached from behind, offering her a warm smile.0

“Ah, well... yes, I came, but...” Epherene muttered, awkwardly rubbing the back of her neck, feeling warmth spread across her back. Embarrassment crept over her, and she felt a bit ashamed. “It’s just that…”0

“It’s okay~” Allen interrupted, shaking his head knowingly, still cheerful. “It happens. Professor Deculein would see it as only natural. Honestly, if I were in your shoes, I might have done the same.”0

Epherene remained silent, offering no response.0

"Sharing your personal matters took courage. Now, you just need to focus on your research to repay that~ None of us are bothered by it, so don’t worry," Allen continued, encouraging her warmly before walking off to his lab.2

Assistant Professor’s Laboratory: Allen0

Allen’s steps had a noticeable spring to them, likely because Deculein had recently expanded his lab.1

As she watched him leave, Epherene’s thoughts...0