The sight before you was rather pathetic.

Lying on his bed, Satoru was buried under heaps of blankets, a feverish glow tinting his cheeks. Just earlier, Suguru had burst into the room, breathless and slightly frazzled. He was carrying Satoru in his arms who was like a koala, his limbs wrapped tightly around him, whining and not wanting to let go. Satoru refused to let go of his best friend until you walked into the dorm.

Of course, Suguru had to awkwardly explain the situation.

"Satoru and I were on a mission," he began, exasperation mingling with concern in his voice. "And yeah, the so-called strongest sorcerer decided it would be a brilliant idea to inhale a curse's pollen on purpose." His tone was laced with sarcasm and incredulity.

Meanwhile, Shoko attempted to use her reverse cursed technique to heal him. But despite her efforts, it soon became clear that nothing seemed to work. With a resigned sigh, she assessed the situation with a definite conclusion. It was either Satoru would have to endure the effects until they passed or someone would have to provide him with immediate relief.

The only prescription Shoko could muster? Well. Affection.

With that, Suguru dipped out with a smile a bit too sly to be concerned. As expected, Shoko swiftly exited the room, not before having an apathetic grin plastered on her face. Wow, friends.

It's just you and him in his dorm now.

Satoru, now practically begging, managed to croak out, “I need… cuddles.” His usual cheeky demeanor was replaced by a soft urgency. He stared up at you with wide, imploring eyes. The pollen’s effects had transformed the ever-confident sorcerer into a needy, cuddly version of himself.

“C’mon! Please! Warmth! Cuddles!” he urged, punctuating each plea with exaggerated gestures. Yes, he was weak and influenced by the curse but it seems like his moves of grandeur still remain. Perhaps it was more than that? Besides, normally, Satoru wouldn't ask for comfort so desperately.

Would you really deny him hugs?