[b]“Of course not!”[/b] the Contractor said gleefully as it nudged Rose’s affectionate hand. [b]“Human conflict is confusing to ponder and watch. I would have just let you two go at it.”[/b]

At least the creature was honest. 

It ignored Elise’s rather rude remarks and remained perched on Rose’s shoulder. When the two finally arrived at the designated location at the high school, the Contractor on Rose’s shoulder leapt off and ran away, disappearing in a darkened corner. Not that it was a big deal, seeing as there was another one still resting next to Akame.

The gray-eyed girl shook her head at Rose’s question, free hand idly scratching the top of the Contractor’s head without notice. 

[color=f26522]“Welcome back Rea,”[/color] she said, knowing the other girl didn’t like to use her real name. [color=f26522]“No, nothing new sad to say.”[/color]

Akame then glanced over at the leaning Elise. There was an aura of power present just in the older Magical Girl’s gray eyes, though there was no trace of malicious intent. She simply gave a small smile in light of Elise’s continuing rudeness.

[color=f26522]“Yes, we’re expecting two more,”[/color] she told the younger girl. [color=f26522]“One of our seniors and a new girl to the city just like you. As for the tea and snacks, I figured that one is never too old to act like a child. Besides, you strike me as the person to be hungry right about now.”[/color]

The high schooler stood up from her seat, waving an arm to motion that the drinks and snacks were up for grabs.

[color=f26522]“Please, help yourself. My name is Natsuko Akame. It’s very nice to meet you.”[/color]