Lainey stayed in the bathroom much longer than usual. She took out something resembling a tongue depressor and filed every part between the sheep's hooves until it was exceptionally smooth and clean.
She also produced a special wool-washing solution and a grooming tool, tending to the wool on the sheep's hooves and tail.
She scrubbed her hair full of bubbles as well, washed it clean, and used magic to dry it.
Once everything was clean, Lainey changed into a cloth dress she had sewn herself based on her memories of the village. It was decorated with a few tender buds and leaves.
After dressing up, she took small, dainty steps out of the room.
Yet she failed to attract William's attention, because he was sitting cross-legged on the edge of the bed, examining himself.
"What a beauty!"
An unfamiliar voice came from the doorway.
Lainey turned to look and found that the one speaking was actually the candle doll standing at the door.
"Thank you."
After Lainey thanked her, the candle doll went on to say, "Do you like Teacher very much?"
"Ah... yes." Although Lainey was a little shy, she did not deny it.
"Teacher is exceptionally excellent, but if you want to physically unite with him, I'm afraid you aren't quite enough yet. At least, that's how I see it."
As soon as Thirteen finished speaking, the candle flame in her eye sockets shrank to its smallest size. It no longer expressed Human Nature and served only as decoration.
At the same time, William emerged from the aquarium. As his consciousness cleared, he vaguely seemed to hear someone talking.
"Lainey, were you just chatting with Thirteen?"
"Mm..."
"That's a beautiful dress. You made it based on your memories of the village, right? That's good, too. Although you've been