During the inspection of the sports complex, a group of students was paralyzed by Buddlea's scream.
— What IS that?!
Could it be that Carvia Imas has returned and already chosen a new victim?!
No, this time, the source of Buddlea's horror turned out to be a two-meter-tall demon. Yes, he wasn't as hideous as most of his brethren, but he was definitely a demon, and what was most frightening was how naturally he fit in with the others.
— My name is Alidum Sirabe, — the demon replied to Buddlea's squeal, — I suppose that should answer your question.
— And it can even talk! Miss Sidge!! What does this mean?
— What does it mean...? — Vallota Sidge nervously laughed. — Hmm, this is our new student from Eolia, Alidum Sirabe...
The terrified scream that shattered the student chatter in the hall involuntarily reminded Nira of the April incident. Hurrying back to the rest of the group, the girl just caught the beginning of an interesting show. At the opening, in the bustling and jostling crowd, a strange man in a masquerade costume briefly caught her attention, but only now was she able to get a better look at the "guest of honor." She had only encountered something like this at circus performances, and even then, she had serious doubts whether there were real demons there.
From all sides, frightened and angry whispers and exclamations were immediately heard. Varya bravely stepped forward towards Vallota, as if she intended to shield the other students from the extraordinary sight with her imposing figure. Behind them, there was a commotion and cursing, after which the distorted face of a new Selenite student emerged from the crowd, muttering something and quickly rushing away. Nira thought that some of the students were going to follow his example, taking a safe distance away from the semi-circle that had formed, with the horned creature at its center.
Of course, the problem here was not at all his appearance. Even if he were a three-headed Refetian dragon, as long as his homeland promised prosperity, peace, and wealth, it would not be difficult to find common ground. However, after casually reading a newspaper, Nira could not get rid of a simple truth: the more "unfortunate" refugees from the Eolian region the academy kindly accepts, the greater the chance that one of them will turn out to be a man-hating terrorist. This is not to mention that, having reached a critical mass, they will simply begin to cluster in communes, disregarding the culture and traditions of the host country in favor of their own wild ways.
But what could she do? Magic or no magic, she still lacked the authority to resolve the issue at a higher level. Just staring in fear at the strange creature would equate her to the rest of the gray mass of students. Running away would show cowardice. She could politely greet him, but the moment was clearly inappropriate, and it was unlikely to improve her reputation.
Deciding that she wouldn't be able to present herself in a favorable light in this situation anyway, Nira shrugged and returned to inspecting the gym equipment.