Chapter 148 - The President’s Spending Habits (Part 3)
Feeling a mix of satisfaction and a slight sense of loss, I let myself fall into the vibrations of the Bloomstar Galaxy.
I'd love to rev it up and feel the wind in my hair, but the sun's already setting. For today, I'll just head back normally.
The Sixth Avenue at night has a different kind of energy compared to the daytime.
During the day, it's bustling with shoppers looking for top-notch goods made by skilled craftsmen, along with merchants who've traveled from far and wide to stock up. It's a mix of casual shoppers and serious businesspeople. But come evening, the avenue transforms into a lively scene of workers letting off steam after a long day. They drink, laugh, and sing to unwind.
Before the Kikyo Society took control, this place was a battleground for various organizations, and most restaurants had to close down. The fact that the avenue is now filled with carefree, tipsy patrons is a testament to how peaceful things have become.
Thinking about it, I might as well stop by the Princess's Shelter Inn. Then, I spot a familiar figure.
"Hey, if you're interested, I can give you a discount on the leftovers! How about some souvenirs?"
As I leisurely rode my motorcycle, our eyes met, and she called out to me from the side of the road.
"You're the one from the sweets shop, right?"
"The roll cakes are all sold out, but I still have some chiffon cakes. You liked them, didn't you?"
She must be trying to clear out the leftovers. Even though I bought a roll cake earlier today, she's trying to sell me more.
"Well, I do like them. Fine, I'll take some as a souvenir. Just wrap them up for me."
"Sure thing!"
She's as energetic as ever. Maybe she's a natural at sales; I always end up buying from her.
I didn't even get off my bike. I just had her bring the cakes over, and since I didn't feel like paying on the spot, I put it on my tab. It's all about trust, you know.
I rode off with a large cake box in my arms, feeling a bit precarious. But I'm not worried about falling; after all, I can use magic, and my physical abilities are far beyond those of a normal human.
"Hey, you're doing well, huh!"
"Huh? Oh, it's you, Bruno. Long time no see."
I get approached a lot. Between the Bloomstar Galaxy and my own presence, it's hard not to stand out.
Still, this feels like a déjà vu moment.
I stopped to chat for a bit. He seems to be in a particularly good mood, so I figured there's no harm in being friendly.
This is Bruno, the leader of the Bruno Gang. He runs a mid-level group under the Clad Family. We've had a mutual relationship since the early days when my organization was just getting started. We've helped each other out, so we're on equal footing.
"It's all thanks to you guys that I might get a promotion. How about you stop by? It's on me tonight."
"Hmm, thanks, but I have somewhere to be. Maybe another time. What do you mean, a promotion? Thanks to us?"
I don't want to make any more stops with a cake box in my arms. I'll take him up on his offer another time and bring a group with me.
"Sure, I've been telling the head of the Clad Family a lot about your group. That led to more jobs, and now they're considering making me a direct vassal."
A direct vassal means he'll be a top-tier leader within the Clad Family. In a pyramid structure, that's a significant step up. As a direct vassal, he could even call himself a big boss.
I knew the Kikyo Society's information would eventually reach the Clad Family, but it's no problem. We even exchange information within reasonable limits.
His rise to power means better quality intel for us, which is a win-win situation. I might as well congratulate him.
"Wow, that's quite an achievement. Let me know when it's official, and I'll think of a gift."
"Thanks, I appreciate it. I'm really looking forward to what you'll bring."
If he's expecting something, I should deliver. It's a celebration, after all. I'll make sure the Kikyo Society is represented well, and I'll do something personal too.
"Dad, it's time."
"Huh? Already? Alright, come back another time."
A middle-aged mage, one of Bruno's lieutenants, appeared behind him and gave a stern nod before leading him away. I wonder if he has an upset stomach or something.
I continued on, still drawing the usual attention, and soon arrived at the Princess's Shelter Inn.
Despite the years, the place still exudes a charming and clean atmosphere.
White walls, wooden doors, green ivy, and red roses. The large windows are spotless. Perfect maintenance.
Outside the archway, many patrons who couldn't fit inside were enjoying their drinks and meals at tables and barrel chairs. The popularity hasn't waned since the early days.
Wearing the Kikyo Society emblem, I'm clearly recognized as being part of the organization by the regulars.
I parked my bike and made my way inside, nodding to the drunk patrons who called out to me. I pushed through to the back.
As soon as I opened the door, a waitress greeted me.
"Welcome! Oh, you're from the Kikyo Society!"
At a glance, I could see our young men, who were working as security, positioned inconspicuously but keeping a watchful eye. Impressive.
When they noticed me, they immediately stood at attention. I waved them off and gestured for them to sit back down.
"Sophie isn't here today, it seems."
"Yes, she only drops by occasionally to check on things. Would you like me to pass on a message?"
This girl is new, so it's understandable she doesn't know who I am.
"No, that's fine. I brought some cake as a treat, so you all enjoy it."
"Thank you so much!"
"Don't mention it. See you later."
Sophie has certainly trained her staff well. They're friendly and professional. The other servers are energetic too, making the atmosphere very bright and welcoming. It's a great place.
All the employees are wearing custom aprons and have their hair in ponytails. It must be part of the uniform and a selling point.
Sophie, who now focuses on the headquarters, doesn't spend much time here anymore. But she still cares about the place and checks in often. Sarah-chan also helps out from time to time.
This inn isn't just a place for good food and drinks. It's also a hub for business. The basement has several private rooms used for meetings and negotiations.
In fact, the inn is quite popular for these purposes. The high quality of the food and drinks, the well-trained staff who keep secrets, and the top-notch security provided by the Kikyo Society make it a safe and reliable venue. We've handled several high-profile clients and have a track record of handling any trouble that comes our way.
Because of this reputation, many people who can't use the high-end establishments on Central Avenue often use our place. I don't know their reasons, and I don't want to. But I can imagine it might be a good spot for something risky, like a safe and secure location for a shady deal. Just a guess, of course.
Of course, the fees are high, but it's a good source of income.
By the time I left the inn, it was getting late.
I was hungry, but with Sophie not around and the young men on guard, it wouldn't be a good idea to eat here. I'll be considerate to my subordinates, after all.
I wanted to visit the Elegance Balloon and the Branch, as well as some other acquaintances, but I'll save that for another day.
Heading back to the headquarters, I entered Lightning Street and spotted two familiar faces.
"Onee-sama!"
"Welcome back, Yukari-dono."
I ran into Valeria and Siegrune, who were just about to enter the usual cafeteria.
"Are you heading to dinner? I'll be there soon after I put away my bike and the cake."
"Yes, we'll be waiting."
"I'll go ahead and order. Any requests?"
"Sure, grilled fish, and just pick something else."
The usual group at the usual cafeteria. The home-cooked meals here feel like home.
As I parked at the headquarters, Frederica and April appeared with some of the Secretariat Unit members.
"Welcome back, Yukari. We're about to have dinner. Would you like to join us?"
"Sure, I'll be there soon. Siegrune has already placed the order."
I grabbed my bag and headed to my room, passing by the Secretariat Unit.
Frederica, the glasses-wearing beauty, gave me a sharp look.
"By the way, Yukari, how much did you splurge today?"
Her penetrating question made me break out in a cold sweat.
What is she, a psychic?
"Absolutely nothing. I didn't spend anything frivolous at all!"
That's right, I only spend money on meaningful things. I don't waste a penny!
I shook off the suspicious and curious gazes and made my temporary escape.
Today, I indulged a bit, spending a significant amount of money without a second thought. Even for someone who usually spends freely, this was a first.
My heart felt a bit lighter, but I'm not worried. I'll just earn more.
My trusted companions are concerned about my spending, but it's no big deal. I'll make more money soon enough.