[ A part of Otome is wondering if it might have been better to have Fumi or Hinako around, or Airi-- all three were capable of stating things without reservation, would have called Zara out on his forced focus on his manners... if they had noticed. Otome is too tactful a person for that, and the last thing she wants to do is to put him on the spot.

She's also kept her troubles behind a gentle smile, after all. ]

I'm afraid we haven't figured out how... our stronger enemies have found methods of summoning demons without contracting with them, but you're clearly not a demon. You're also not hostile to us, so that rules out a Septentrione's influence.

The most I can say is that, even if we can't find the exact reason, returning you home shouldn't be as difficult. You may just have to bear with us for a few days... and I'm sorry for that. You must have people you're worried about.

[ She's also been there. ]