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"Master…" Erebus muttered. "Thank you… me strong…"
"Hahah, yes you are! With this we've gained a new permanent member of the squad too," I nodded.
As I congratulated everyone, I noticed Nephilim approaching with a slightly annoyed expression.
"Master… why don't you praise me too?" she asked, furrowing her eyebrows.
"N-Nephi? I just didn't think you wanted…" I muttered.
"I want," she said flatly.
"Well… uh, sure!" I smiled and patted her head. "Well done too, Nephi. Thank you for helping the girls."
"Hm…" Nephi gave a warm smile and nodded. Then she spread her arms. "I want a hug as a reward."
"Well… come here." I opened my arms. She was much taller than me now, so she ended up being the one enveloping me—but it was still adorable. Being mostly mechanical, Nephi felt very cold, yet the moment I hugged her she seemed to soak up my warmth and gradually heated up.
"Do you like my warmth?" I asked, gently stroking her head.
