Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid and her Halfbreed Bother

Chapter 21: New Hire

Today was another calm day at the office, with no floor boss yelling in our ears, no crushing deadlines, and no worries in the world besides the usual office bustle; work couldn't be any better. Sitting quietly at my station as I finished another page, Takiya leaned back in his chair and stretched.

Takiya: So, anything interesting happen to you all lately?

He said while glancing over, to which he instantly frowned as my sister and I shuttered a little.

Takiya: Hey, you two, ok? Did something terrible happen?

F/N: No, nothing we couldn't handle, just another dragon made an... explosive entrance. Though hopefully, we won't be seeing her for a while. What about you? Is everything going well with Fafnir?

I asked as he nodded, picking up his coffee as he spoke.

Takiya: Yeah, actually planning on raiding in FF14 when I get back. You should join.

F/N: Maybe, we'll see if anything comes up.

He nodded, taking a sip of his coffee before we all looked towards the door to the office space, the new floor boss stepping in alongside a young woman that looked like...

F/N: Oh, you got to be kidding me. What's she doing here?

I muttered as none other than Elma, in a more human form than when we met last, bowed before everyone.

Elma: Hello, my name is Elma Jowi. It's a pleasure to meet you all.

There were mutterings of replies from the office as the boss nodded and looked at us again.

Boss: Alright now, if it's not too much to ask, may one of you help Elma settle in; if you aren't too busy, you'll be compensated for helping.

F/N: I can, sir!

I called out, the older gentleman nodding as he directed Elma to me. The dragon in disguise went rigid as our eyes met. Though, after saving my work, I gestured for her to follow me as I exited through the door into the hallway, Elma right on my heels till we stopped near the fire exit.

F/N: Well, before I address the elephant in the room, this is the fire escape in case a fire breaks out in the building, fire extinguisher right next to it, and now why the hell are you here?

I said, turning to her as Elma gulped while standing rigid, but nonetheless was able to compose herself long enough to speak.

Elma: W-well, I could ask you the same thing?

F/N: Really now? Last I checked, this was my work, so I get to ask the questions. Like why precisely, out of all the jobs available in the city, did you end up with this one?

Elma: I-I'm...doing cultural research, seeing if those with dragon blood can integrate into this society, that's all.

She said, averting her gaze as she started to fidget with her hands. Rolling my eyes at this, I crossed my arms and gave a loud mhm as she turned her attention to me again.

F/N: Alright, Ms. harmony faction, the real question is, can you even do this job? You know you can't use magic.

Elma: A-are you doubting me!? I can do human labor better than any human could! You watch me!"

F/N: Alright, if you say so, let's get you set up, and I'll let you be. Though, just being honest, you are going to need help.

I said, the girl's cheeks growing red at the assumption. However, as soon as she sat down at her new workstation, the dragon looked at everything in a flustered manner. Watching her struggle for a little bit, I couldn't help but let a smug smile cross my lips as she turned her gaze to me with slightly teary eyes.