Dinner with the Whole Family

I debated where to teleport to in Marcel-san's workshop, but chose the workshop itself rather than the living quarters on the second floor. I figured he'd probably be upstairs at this hour.

But my guess was wrong. Marcel-san was still working intently in the workshop. He was looking down, so he didn't seem to notice me appear.

I kept still and called to Marcel-san in a quiet voice, trying not to startle him any more than necessary.

"...Marcel-san."

Marcel-san jerked his head up and spotted me. He froze for about five seconds, then sprang to his feet and threw the magic iron in his hand at me.

"Ah! Watch out!"

I was safe because I reflexively activated a Barrier, but if I'd been a moment slower, that would've been bad. Close call.

"C-could you be the real thing?!"

"I am! What did you think I was?"

"Well, I thought you might be some kind of illusion..."...