This time, Dextera consciously recognizes himself as being sort of like a new puppy, and the moderate embarrassment of being forcibly guided to Emet-Selch’s side keeps him there. He’s just not used to his input being desired, let alone actively sought.

“S…,” Dextera says, a tentative apology with the few sounds he can make.

His head is down when he’s at Emet-Selch’s side, though, his shoulders hunched as if he’s anticipating beratement at any moment. It’s a bit different from their first encounter, where Dextera seemed to be comfortable with the impression he was making. Now, there are stakes.