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[It really is Sayu. Seeing her in person is another shock in itself, but one that he recovers from quickly. He's gripped by the idea of hugging her to confirm that she's really there, and not some kind of elaborate mirage staged by the Author, but hugs aren't something he and Sayu did anymore. He settles instead for a casual flick of her ponytail accompanied by a raised eyebrow, and a mock offended tone.]

What, did you expect any less?

[He's only half kidding of course, but he's trying to piece together how to explain this place, and all the people he needed Sayu to watch out for without overwhelming her with information]