As Arun introduced Asha, Julius raised an eyebrow, a silent question dancing in his eyes.
However, Arun ignored him at the sight of his fiancé's smile that didn't reach her eyes. Unwilling to anger her further, he quickly introduced him with a forced cough.
"Ahem. This is my travel companion, Julius. He came all the way from the Belloria kingdom to learn alchemy at the academy!"
"Oh, I see. Nice to... meet you."
Asha's words struck Julius. He felt the contempt and suspicion laced in them as she scrutinised his body like a hawk.
"Honestly, considering your physique and... attire, I thought you were one of Arun's slaves or perhaps a squire."
"..."
His mouth hung open, and his answer died in his throat because... that's what he looked like. He was learning what it meant to be judged by his clothing for the first time, and he didn't enjoy the lesson at all.
