Theo's tiny provocation

'Here comes another push,' Theo thought when he heard Juvia's assurance. 'A push to force me to join their ranks if I want to get what I want.'

On one hand, Theo could hardly fault the Crusaders. They somewhat assumed he was an asset worthy of turning over to their side. As such, they were willing to dedicate a set amount of resources, knowledge, and effort to pull him over to their side. 

That's why, Juvia's suggestion only made sense in her eyes. After all, why would she help someone who had no desire to join her faction?

But with no plans to bind his future to the people who would burn him at the stake the second they learned the truth about him, Theo couldn't help but shrug at the mere idea of joining the ranks of the Crusaders. 

'I'm not capable enough to keep my situation a secret,' Theo thought, full of somber awareness. 'I don't even know how long I will be able to fool them while being just an outsider. As one of them?'