Mateus arrives home around lunchtime. Since he hasn't prepared anything to eat, he decides to have lunch out. He just needs to coordinate with Ophis, and everything will be ready.
Dealing with Ophis is not difficult, and when it comes to food, it becomes an even easier task.
"Hey Ophis, today we're going to eat out, okay?" says Mateus.
To Mateus' surprise, the usually expressionless person responds with enthusiasm, "Okay!"
Surprised would be an understatement for Mateus' reaction. But this is a more than welcome surprise, so he has no complaints. As far as he's concerned, Ophis could always be like this, and he hopes she continues to act this way.
"What do you want to eat, Ophis?" Mateus likes to satisfy those who are dear to him, so he asks Ophis what she wants to eat first.
"Something sweet," Ophis replies, with an expression showing eagerness. Mateus notices that Ophis is being more expressive today.
"We can have sweets, but after lunch, okay?" says Mateus.
Ophis nods, indicating that it's fine with her.
Leaving the house in search of a good place to eat, Mateus finds a cozy restaurant and decides to eat there.
--- --- ---
After finishing lunch, Mateus and Ophis stroll around, without many worries and, of course, buying some sweets to Ophis' delight.
Walking a bit further, Mateus spots a clothing store and decides to stop by to see if he can find something he likes. At least, that's what he tells Ophis, but in reality, he wants to see her in some cute outfits.
The clothing store is cozy and well-lit, with large windows letting in natural light. The walls are decorated with floral wallpaper in soft tones, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The racks are full of neatly organized clothes, sorted by colors and styles, ranging from elegant dresses to casual wear.
To the little dragoness's boredom, she had to try on several outfits. First, she tried on a light blue dress with small bows at the waist and a flared skirt that made her look like a little princess. Then, Mateus picked out a pink skirt and blouse set with floral prints and ruffles on the sleeves, highlighting Ophis's delicacy. Finally, she wore a yellow jumpsuit with sunflower prints, which brought a smile to Mateus's face.
Leaving the clothing store, we see a child with a pale expression and a young man with joy written all over his face.
To revitalize Ophis, Mateus uses one of his most lethal tricks: "Ophis, how about another sweet?"
Like a magic trick, Ophis regains her good mood as if nothing had happened.
Mateus has to admit, spending a peaceful afternoon like this is rewarding. This tranquility is all he wants. Nothing can disturb it, right?
--- --- ---
After such a wonderful day with Ophis, Mateus could hardly wait for his meeting with Mahiru the next day to be equally delightful, or perhaps even surpass the current day's expectations.
With that vibrant anticipation, Mateus prepared himself for sleep, mindful that before his meeting, he would need to go through the devil training routine in Kuoh.
As the first rays of sunlight infiltrated through the window, carrying with them the promise of a new day, Mateus emerged from bed and began his morning routine. While preparing breakfast, he couldn't help but think of Ophis, still peacefully asleep. Nevertheless, he took the time to prepare a special portion for her.
After satisfying his own hunger and ensuring that Ophis would have an equally pleasant awakening, Mateus focused his energy and teleported to Kuoh, finding himself once again in the familiar location.
There, he was warmly welcomed by Rias and her peerage, who were already preparing for the day's training. Their proactive attitude brought a smile to Mateus' face. "If they're so determined," he thought, "I can only respond with training equally dedicated."
With his spirit as a teacher ignited by the students' determination, Mateus longed for a productive training session. If anyone were to observe Mateus at that moment, they would see an aura of determination radiating from him, like fire in a dark night. Meanwhile, the students, perhaps a little anxious, awaited the start of training, not fully knowing what awaited them.
To their misfortune, the training was about to become a test of endurance beyond their expectations...
--- --- ---
In an isolated field behind the school, the landscape unfolds under the golden morning light. The ground is speckled with youths, their panting breaths echoing in the air as they recover from the training. Among them, only one remains standing, sweat glistening on his skin as he maintains a firm and determined posture. A scene that, at first glance, might seem chaotic and unsettling to an unsuspecting onlooker.
Watching his exhausted students, Mateus couldn't help but feel a twinge of concern. "Perhaps I've been a bit too harsh," he thinks to himself, as his eyes sweep across the field, assessing the impact of the training.
With a quick gesture, Mateus invokes his healing magic, sending waves of revitalizing energy to the fallen youths. One by one, they rise to their feet, their weary expressions giving way to renewed determination.
"You guys are done," Mateus jests with a mischievous smile, trying to lighten the mood with a touch of humor.
As the students regroup, the reactions of Rias and her party range from indignation to embarrassment, reflecting the intensity of the training. Mateus can't help but admire their resilience, even in the face of such challenging obstacles.
As a final gesture of kindness, Mateus casts the cleansing spell, removing any trace of sweat and dirt from the students' bodies, leaving them fresh and invigorated.
Checking the clock, Mateus decides to call an end to the training for today, promising to resume next week. Rias' suggestion to continue training is gently declined, as Mateus kindly reminds her that he has an important commitment scheduled for the day.
After clearing up any misunderstandings and explaining his reasons, Mateus bids farewell to his students with a wave, turning his steps back toward his home to prepare for the eagerly anticipated meeting with Mahiru.