Mirai seemed appeased by this. A glimpse into the sparkle in his eye would have shown a willingness to listen and compromise. It looked as though the smile on his face was an omen of something promising.

"Is that so? I think I can accommodate your tastes, Taue-kun." He paused for a moment to tap his chin. "Will you afford me the same, by the way? Would you do me the courtesy of believing in me before you judge me?"