The morning sky of Ichrite was saturated with a faint azure blue. In the just-dawned summer, the air of the entire city was exceptionally fresh.
The scent of oats and cheese lingered on the first floor of the Boss Cat Restaurant.
It seemed to be a relaxed moment of casual conversation following breakfast for the three new employees.
However, the arrival of a visitor shattered the steadfast tranquility.
"You all...!"
Talia's pupils contracted and her mouth slightly opened. She couldn't utter a complete sentence, but her expression said it all—
It was a mix of astonishment and confusion, as if her brain had ceased to function.
Her body leaned back slightly, instinctively wanting to retreat from the source of her shock.
Then her fingers curled into fists and started tugging at the hem of her clothing unconsciously. This was self-comforting behavior in response to extreme emotional distress.
Her shoulders tensed up, instinctively going into a defensive reaction.
