[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/qSXKgkY.png[/img]
[sub][@Nanaya][/sub][/center]
Hm, perhaps he misread her.

[b]“If you wish to remain in the front, then I will take a seat to your side instead,”[/b] the Strigidae spoke, offering his own compromise. He had presumed her to be the type to slack off and sleep, considering how she had spent the entire entrance exam like that, but if the elven girl truly wanted to learn? In the face of her spite, of her defiance, of her resignation, Otis responded with only a neutral flexibility.

It was up to her whether or not she ultimately decided to join the boy who signalled her at the back or remained in the front row. Regardless of her decision, his own was set in stone.

Indeed, it was that particular exchange that prevented Otis from entirely judging Alto as well, despite his own clownish behavior. There was a certain vibe present, one that reminded him heavily of his roommate, but the acrobatics displayed proved a certain amount of martial prowess, at least, while the soup that was brought…well, how interesting. The aroma of meat was strong, but to mix those with bitter herbs, the type that more often accompanied medicinal soups? A curious choice indeed.

Still a question was poised, and unlike some, he made a habit of answer questions as often as he asked them.

[b]“I am Otis Tan Arillo, from the Rekordian Empire. I should be 16 years old, but that’s knowledge gained second-hand. In terms of facts that are fun, I would have to say that one of my long-term projects is the crystallization of emotional essence into consumable powders, which can be utilized to forcibly induce a mental state conducive to casting certain spells, even in situations where achieving that mental state may be bothersome. Unfun facts are harder to uncover, but I suppose it’s somewhat annoying that the nature of Ethe is such that restrictions exist only on a case-by-case basis, making experimentation with them involve far too much guesswork."[/b]

He allowed himself to think a bit more about the last question. His ultimate goal wasn’t going to be accomplished within a year, so what would be a good milestone?

[b]“As for this year, I intend on entering the Ascendis Dormitory through official means and defeating Valen Leuvalt. The former is the priority, but the latter would be more satisfying. Now, Instructor Alto, I’ve a question as well. Is Alto your first or last name?”[/b]