[That smug element in Hibiki's smile doesn't sit well with Maria, and her eyes narrow very faintly when she notices it, almost as if in challenge. While she respects Hibiki's ability well enough, it's also clear she's the kind of person who's used to having things go her way. Maria knows the type, and it's not the kind of person she wants to allow to keep going in that sort of complacency.
However, she can't question Natsuru's choice to join, if that's what makes her happy. Her gaze slips away from Hibiki as Natsuru makes that awkward glance over, offering her shinki a slight, but reassuring smile.]
I think something like this will be good for you, Natsuru. I hope you enjoy it. [The softness to her tone says no hard feelings, though the thought of potentially competing with her isn't the most reassuring one either. It would feel a little rude to come down on her like that.
It takes a moment for Maria to decide whether it would be ruder to linger after having rejected the invitation, or to also reject the invitation for refreshments. It can't hurt to see how Hibiki treats Natsuru, though, if she's planning to leave her to this talent agency, so she bows her head politely.]
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However, she can't question Natsuru's choice to join, if that's what makes her happy. Her gaze slips away from Hibiki as Natsuru makes that awkward glance over, offering her shinki a slight, but reassuring smile.]
I think something like this will be good for you, Natsuru. I hope you enjoy it. [The softness to her tone says no hard feelings, though the thought of potentially competing with her isn't the most reassuring one either. It would feel a little rude to come down on her like that.
It takes a moment for Maria to decide whether it would be ruder to linger after having rejected the invitation, or to also reject the invitation for refreshments. It can't hurt to see how Hibiki treats Natsuru, though, if she's planning to leave her to this talent agency, so she bows her head politely.]
If you don't mind.