The next day, Ace readied himself for class at a leisurely pace.
Meanwhile waiting outside his quarters was a person, none other than Professor Lotus, now officially already his assistant.
Her back was straight, her robes neat, and her expression serene, though her eyes flicked with unspoken thoughts the moment he stepped out.
"Teacher," she said with a polite bow. "The Fifth Imperial Princess is paying a visit today."
Ace raised an eyebrow. "Princess Soho?"
Lotus nodded, then paused, eyeing his current attire, a simple black robe with slightly rolled sleeves and a faint scent of whatever he had cooked that morning.
"Teacher…" she hesitated, clearing her throat delicately. "Allow me to help you dress more appropriately."
The words had barely left her lips before she instantly regretted them. Her face flushed faintly, and her hand shot up to her mouth as if trying to physically pull the sentence back in.
Ace simply gave a light chuckle. "It won't be necessary. I'll be fine."
