"Things are going pretty smoothly, huh?"
After wrapping up a day of rather noisy and absurdly chaotic dating, Shiori was brought back aboard the Ratatoskr's aerial ship.
Seeing Shiori's utterly exhausted state, Kotori didn't hold back her laughter.
"Don't even start… It felt like I was babysitting a child who knows nothing about the world…"
Shiori felt completely drained, both physically and mentally.
Tohka completely lacked common sense, and her way of thinking was totally different from a normal person's.
Just correcting Tohka's behavior and manners throughout the day had taken all her energy.
While their closeness from all that attentive care and time together had boosted the favorability meter quite a bit, unfortunately, by the time things settled, it still hadn't reached the level needed for sealing.
Not only had it not reached it, but it had also entered a somewhat worrying plateau—simply put, it stopped increasing.
This was perfectly normal.
After all, the initial period when two people start getting to know each other is the best time for favorability to rise.
Once that passes, simply spending time together isn't enough anymore.
They need to share experiences, create important memories for each other, and deepen their mutual understanding and impression.
However, such opportunities aren't that easy to come by.
Even so, this result had already exceeded the expectations of the Fraxinus crew.
Even Murasame Reine's typically calm expression showed the hint of a smile, a change of just a few pixels at the corners of her mouth.
"Stop complaining. When you get down to it, the fact that you two managed to spend a whole day together without any major incidents is pretty surprising, don't you think?"
Though privately, Kotori wasn't thrilled about the person she liked having room for others in their heart, setting that aside, looking at the situation objectively, the current state was undeniably very satisfying.
So, her mood was rather good too.
But that didn't mean she let her guard down.
She reminded Shiori, "In our initial projections, we not only had AST interference, but even the Spirits themselves might show hostility towards us. While things went smoothly with Tohka, don't assume that'll be the case with every Spirit."
"...I know."
Shiori understood that this experience couldn't be used as a benchmark.
After all, Kotori herself was a prime example. Their success with Tohka was largely because Tohka had zero understanding of human common sense.
But Kotori's situation showed that there were likely other Spirits who had once been human.
Such Spirits would inevitably have far more complex personalities and thought processes than Tohka.
When the time came, not only might things not go smoothly, there was a high chance they'd end up fighting the Spirit.
"Good that you understand. Then let's call it a day. We should head back now."
Kotori also wanted to discuss matters concerning Schicksal and Ratatoskr with Shiori.
If Shiori was willing to stay with Ratatoskr, then Kotori wouldn't need to take that gamble. While Schicksal might offer better treatment and a more stable life, a gamble was still a gamble.
The Fraxinus crew kept their opinions to themselves, offering no comments on the matter. After Kotori directed the post-operation cleanup, she teleported both of them back to the Itsuka residence.
"Shiori, what are your thoughts on this?"
With no one else around, Kotori finally looked seriously at Shiori.
"You might not know this, but Schicksal isn't full of people like Durandal. Not to mention others, just that maid named Rita—do you really think she's easy to deal with?"
Shiori actually didn't find Rita difficult to get along with.
She could tell that, regardless of Rita's outward demeanor, her core nature was genuinely gentle. Moreover, she truly adored Durandal.
Otherwise, as a combatant and vice-captain, why would she insist on acting as Durandal's personal maid?
You could tell Rita's feelings for Durandal just from the meals she prepared.
Seeing Shiori's expression, Kotori, while not knowing her exact thoughts, could tell Shiori had a different opinion of Rita than she did.
Slightly stymied, Kotori pressed on, "The Overseer of Schicksal, Mobius, is an extremely dangerous individual."
"Not only does she lead the World Serpent, the most mysterious underground organization in the world, she's also the head of Schicksal, the strongest armed group. Even more terrifying, she's a scientist of exceptional talent."
"Everyone who has met her gives the same evaluation: 'calculating,' 'dangerous.' For someone like that to spout lines about 'fighting for all that is beautiful'—the contrast couldn't be more ridiculous!"
Kotori first introduced Mobius, then explained her own current situation.
"Even though you might have significant reservations about Ratatoskr, as you can see, I currently hold considerable influence and power within the organization."
"Ratatoskr's banner and slogan are 'peaceful coexistence with Spirits.' Putting aside their initial scheming in training me and monitoring you, at least through their actions, it's clear that we—or rather, your existence, Shiori—are absolutely crucial to Ratatoskr."
"In this situation, they might play small games. There are higher-ups with their own agendas; such elements are unavoidable in any organization."
"But in the open, you are the key figure, the most important, even the sole core, for achieving Ratatoskr's stated goal."
"They wouldn't risk completely alienating you by acting against Spirits. And behind the scenes, there's me. I am a Spirit myself. I won't let that small faction set their sights on harming Spirits."
Shiori wasn't the type to ignore advice, nor did she have some strange mentality of siding with outsiders over her own family.
She knew Kotori was spelling things out very clearly.
This made Shiori, who had originally been determined to draw a clear line with Ratatoskr, begin to hesitate.
It was true Ratatoskr might not be ideal, but the worst-case scenario probably wasn't that bad. In comparison, Schicksal was entirely unfamiliar territory for the two sisters…
Seeing that Shiori was truly taking her words to heart, Kotori secretly breathed a small sigh of relief. She then continued, "As for other matters, we'll have to see how the meeting with Durandal goes later."
"...Huh?"
Shiori was stunned. She remembered the planned meeting with Durandal later, but… the way Kotori said it made it sound like she was genuinely considering defecting to Schicksal?
"Foolish big sis…"
Kotori understood that Shiori didn't have much grasp of these matters.
She explained, "I told you all that just so you could look at both sides clearly from a broader perspective. It doesn't mean you absolutely must stay with Ratatoskr. In fact, if Schicksal shows sufficient sincerity, going over to their side might not be a bad thing either."
It's common knowledge that it's easier to relax under a large tree's shade.
No matter how good Ratatoskr was, it couldn't compare to Schicksal. It was like the difference between a Fortune 500 company and a top-ten company.
The Fortune 500 isn't bad, but… if you have a chance to join the top ten, and a key executive from that top ten has offered you an olive branch and guarantees…
Anyone would be tempted to consider it.
"I-I see…"
Shiori scratched her head awkwardly, momentarily at a loss for words.
She always instinctively wanted to protect Kotori, but it turned out she was just charging ahead based on feelings alone.
Meanwhile, Kotori consistently operated with a higher vantage point and more rational thinking in every situation.
If Kotori knew what Shiori was thinking, she'd probably be a little exasperated. Their upbringing had been different. If Shiori really had the same mindset and thought process as her, that would be terrifying.
But one thing Kotori had to admit: if it weren't for Shiori, she probably wouldn't even have the luxury of this particular trouble—the trouble of considering whether to jump ship.
Annoying as it was, it was a kind of sweet annoyance.
"Anyway, when the time comes, Shiori, don't just say whatever comes to mind. That's one of your charms, but that's not how you talk at the negotiation table."
Kotori reminded her, "Of course, there will definitely be times when we need you to follow your instincts. I'll give you a signal then."
"J-Just chatting… is it really that serious?"
Shiori, who had been relatively relaxed, was starting to get nervous from Kotori's attitude.
"Where Mobius is concerned, you can never be too careful."
Kotori nodded, her expression growing even more serious.
--+--
Meanwhile, back at the hotel.
The moment she returned, Amber immediately sought out Rita, only to find her dressed in formal attire she rarely wore. This was a surprise for Amber, who was used to seeing her in a maid uniform.
"Rita, are you heading out alone?"
"Lady Durandal."
Seeing Amber return, Rita first performed an unhurried bow before replying, "It's regarding the expansion of the Schicksal branch."
"Due to Schicksal's unique nature, we need to register and communicate with the local authorities. I was just about to attend a soirée."
"Expansion?"
Amber was confused.
"Overseer Mobius just sent word that she wants to establish a branch here in Japan."
Rita explained, "There originally wasn't a plan for this, but the Overseer mentioned some… unforeseen circumstances have arisen, necessitating additional arrangements."
Oh, now Amber understood.
She had thought they were going to bring Shiori and the others back to Schicksal.
Turns out, they were setting up a branch here in Japan, incorporating this area into their sphere of influence.
But thinking about it, that made sense. Schicksal's headquarters was an artificial aerial island the size of a city.
If the Itsuka sisters came, the Spirits would inevitably follow. An aerial island couldn't withstand Spacequakes nearly as well as the Earth could.
"Do you need my help?"
Understanding that Rita was going to deal with those annoying politicians, Amber offered.
Her combat prowess was a deterrent anywhere. She wouldn't even need to say anything; just standing there with a cold expression would be enough to make those people nervous.
Rita, of course, understood Amber's intention. She gratefully accepted Amber's care and concern, but declined the offer to accompany her.
"Don't worry, Lady Durandal. This small matter doesn't require your personal involvement. Appearing frequently before such minor figures would only allow those insignificant individuals to bask in your reflected glory."
Me going to intimidate them… how is that letting them 'bask in glory'?
Amber's expression showed her confusion.
That was because these shameless politicians could use this meeting, through various subtle means, to portray a narrative favorable to themselves.
Phrases like 'had a delightful chat with Durandal,' or 'Durandal views our faction favorably'—they would find ways to borrow the prestige of the world's strongest to gild themselves.
Their statements would always be made through implication. If caught, they'd simply claim it was a misunderstanding.
It wasn't that such things necessarily had to be forbidden.
The truth was, the world wasn't black and white.
While corrupt officials were despicable, those in high positions who were completely selfless were dozens of times rarer than protected animal species.
If you were a leader who couldn't tolerate the slightest flaw or wrongdoing, then the only reasons you'd still be in your seat were either incredible luck or living in a dream.
Just like Kotori's earlier surprise—if you weren't seeking benefit, why climb to such a high position? To be a saint?
Reaching a high position inevitably involved some use of power for personal gain.
It didn't even require overtly bullying subordinates, deceiving superiors, or embezzling funds.
Take the most common example: a relative who took great care of you in your childhood constantly begging you to find a job for their child.
Could you refuse once, twice? Could you refuse ten, twenty times? That also counted as using power for personal gain.
Discreetly satisfying, within reasonable limits, the desires of those below was one of the necessary skills for those in high positions.
So, it wasn't that Lady Durandal's name could never be borrowed. The prerequisite was… the person had to have sufficient value to be worthy of borrowing that name.
For instance… the Itsuka sisters could use it. These politicians could not.
These thoughts ran through Rita's mind, but she had no intention of explaining them.
Not only because she felt it would soil the young lady's ears, but also because… with Durandal's upright nature, she would never accept such a theory, even if it was a reflection of countless realities.
"Alright, I shall take my leave now. It likely won't take too long; I should be back by tonight."
Rita straightened her attire once more.
"If you require anything, you could ask Origami. She is a local of Tengu City. Although she has been away for three years, she probably isn't completely unfamiliar with the area."
"Aside from visiting the Itsuka house later, I don't have anything else planned. She just went through a battle and achieved significant results. It's better to let Origami rest. She fought so hard; I'm even considering giving her a vacation. It's a homecoming after a long absence, after all."
Amber had no intention of troubling Origami with anything outside her duties.
Hearing this, Rita curled her lips into a smile.
"I respect your choice. However, if you truly wish to reward Origami, perhaps giving her more tasks—like inviting her to train with you—would be better than a vacation."
"N-No… it's supposed to be a reward… Even though I think training time is a reward, I know that perception is unique to me."
Amber said helplessly.
After all, Durandal had the talent of growing stronger through effort. Given enough time, such a talent was practically bug-like.
With that kind of talent, training was naturally a reward.
Seeing that Amber thought she was jesting, Rita didn't elaborate further. She could only sigh inwardly once again at how clueless the young lady was about the immense attraction she, the Valkyrie bearing the title of 'Strongest,' held for other Valkyries.
From Rita's understanding, it was far more terrifying than any fan circle. After all, fan circles could collapse, but Durandal's strength would not.
After bidding farewell to Rita, Amber truly had nothing to do, so she simply headed to the training room.
Although she wasn't particularly interested in training itself, for the sake of maintaining Durandal's persona, she couldn't skip her daily sessions.
Coincidentally, the moment she arrived at the training room, Amber saw the very girl they had just been discussing.
Tobiichi Origami.
--+--
T/N: I have a Patreon! Webnovel will get 3 Chapters Every Day, and advanced chapters will be uploaded on Patreon.
It may not seem worth it now, but maybe in the future. Who knows!
[email protected]/AspenTL
If you guys wanna check it out.