—
He knew what it was like to be concerned about the unknown, so he felt this was the best way to let her feel secure. He'd noticed her habit of hiding behind him whenever someone or something would make her nervous, and it'd be best if he didn't mention it. If it were able to give Mya comfort, maybe it'd help Iris, too, who seemed pretty freaked out from the start of today. The group continued down the smaller walkway and escaped the intense rumblings.
Quiet filled the room as they continued down, following Azuri as they slowly began to conserve their energy. Dante followed behind her, looking at the back of her cloak, which bore three black stars. His eyes shifted forward, seeing that the tunnel wasn't ending any time soon, he thought he'd ask her about the materia she had when they first met.
"Hey, Azuri?"
"Yes, what is it?"
"You seem pretty smart when it comes to the dungeon…do you come here often…?"
She looked down at the ground for a moment before looking back up and responding.
"Yes, I come often."
"Really? I didn't know students could come here."
"I have special permission from my caretaker."
Dante's eyes widened at the remark, thinking that the two had caretakers gave him a sense of understanding that he didn't know he could have with someone. He thought to continue asking questions as they walked.
"So…what's yours like…?"
"My…what?"
"Your caretaker, what are they like…?"
She took another moment to consider her thoughts before answering his question. She'd not often spoken about her personal life, but she felt naturally willing to talk to Dante about such things, since he asked.
"He's rowdy, obnoxious, and lazy. Though he can be seen as strong and reliable."
"My caretaker is much more abrasive and foul-mouthed, but they're a good person. Strong too!" he said happily. Feeling that for the first time in some time, he'd be able to connect with someone when it comes to family. Since he isn't from one of his own, he assumed that Azuri joined hers maybe from when she was young, considering her popularity.