บท 227: Familiar Recognition Exam [4]

That stings.

Tammy's words made me frown.

I might be a little devious-looking, but to be compared to a criminal…

…Well.

I couldn't entirely blame her.

— Peep…

Bird peeked nervously at the candy in my hand.

He reminded me of a child torn between a parent's warning about strangers and the allure of sweets.

Bird was clever.

He knew that accepting the treat meant complying with my request to share his vision with Tammy.

He tried to look away, but his gaze kept snapping back to the candy.

Guilt pricked at me for exploiting his innocence, but…

'It has to be done.'

For a swift conclusion to this test, Bird needed a little…encouragement.

I wasn't fond of drawn-out assessments either, especially with Heoksal's final stage looming.

It was better to secure an easy win while I could.

After what felt like an eternity,

— Peep…!

Bird chirped, flapping his wings in resolve.