[ It's so different when it's not their responsibility to defuse an oncoming argument, they're finding. There's less pressure, no overwhelming drive to be perfect above all else. It makes it so much easier to just watch the new girl-bot - fascinating, simulacrum get to be so interesting - with their typical mild-mannered poise.

...They should've brought tea. But at the same time, that likely would've made the first impression worse. Boo. ]

It's nice to meet you, Niina-san. Though I wish it was under better circumstances.

[ Since Wakaba already introduced them by name, they don't bother. But the surprised delight at being called friend is for them and them alone.

Of course, it means they're perfectly justified in what they're about to do, so really she only has herself to blame. ]

I apologize for any trouble my intrusion may have caused. Unfortunately, I wasn't aware of the 'no visitors' rule until after I had arrived. If there's anything I can do to rectify this error, please let me know.

[ And while they don't get up to bow, because that just seems awkward, okay, they have standards, they do bring out the most reassuring smile they can muster. ]