The Ex-Machina on a Dimensional Journey

Number One even adopted an exaggerated, goofy tone and let out a "wail" over the comms.

Even Xiu Er, who had been calmly watching Fujimaru Ritsuka's reaction, frowned slightly.

"Xiu Er: ..."

"01: Angry?"

"Xiu Er: Negative."

Xiu Er promptly cut off communications with Number One and added him to her "mute" list. Then she raised a hand to touch the blue-violet hair hanging beside her face.

He really never misses a chance...

That was just how Number One was. Xiu Er felt helpless about it, but his intentions were good. Besides, given the convenience of her current body and the fact that he was also "her," she found it hard to get upset with him over little things.

Or rather, precisely because they were the same person, Number One would never make a "mistake," whatever he said.

So Xiu Er was unusually tolerant of him. At most, she offered a timely reminder or applied a little persuasion.

And right now, Number One was not the one she was focused on. It was Fujimaru Ritsuka, who was walking straight toward her.

His earlier tension had vanished, replaced by an earnest, serious bearing.

Not bad.

That was Xiu Er's immediate assessment.

His abilities might have been lacking—his talent for magecraft was poor—but his composure was remarkable. Even in this situation, he could still think clearly.

Xiu Er was already on her feet. To preserve the atmosphere, she and Number Two had "put away" the extra "furniture" the moment Karna brought Fujimaru Ritsuka in.

They moved so quickly that no one but "them" could see it happen. (The furniture had simply disintegrated.)

Fujimaru Ritsuka headed for Xiu Er. Along the way, the other Doppelgangers each stepped back a few paces, clearing a broad path for him.

*Why does this feel so strangely