Chapter 238 - New Partner and Profitable Ventures
Though we ventured close to the Royal Capital, I U-turned and headed back to Exembra. On the way back, I sped through just as smoothly. Perfect. The Bloomstar Galaxy is flawless. This thing is a machine that can dominate not just the continent but the world!
"...Yeah, you've really outdone yourself with this beast."
With this, a trip to the Royal Capital is no more than a short excursion. I estimate the round trip from the city took no more than two hours, which means... It's insane. I really think it's the fastest in the world.
For those who put speed limits on magic items, this would be an unforgivable act. We must keep it a secret for sure, otherwise it will certainly invite trouble. For now, it's a secret between me and Doc.
Not to mention, no one without my level of skill could handle it, and the body and parts I’ve super-enhanced are impossible to replicate without Doc’s expertise.
After a short drive back and forth between Exembra and the Royal Capital, I returned to Dominic Cruel Workshop. I roared into the garage with a loud noise, greeted by the envious eyes of the young craftsmen.
Ha, they must be dreaming of riding this monster machine, but it’s mine and mine alone. They should give up.
"How was it!?"
Doc, who built it, seemed confident of its success from the look on my face, but he still had to ask.
I answered with a beaming smile and a thumbs-up.
"Wow! Tell me how fast it went, and I want to inspect the body right away."
Getting too excited is bad for his health. Really.
It’s best not to tell the young craftsmen about the insane performance. Who knows where it might leak from, so I’ll only tell Doc about it in private.
When I mentioned my test drive to the Royal Capital, even Doc seemed surprised, though he was more stunned than impressed.
"A round trip to the Royal Capital... It’s only been a little over two hours since you left. It’s hard to believe at first. But, you wouldn't lie about something trivial. In that case, we should tweak the speedometer's upper limit."
I’m sure it hit speeds of 700 to 800 kilometers per hour. Not quite supersonic, but for a mobility magic item, it's extraordinary.
"Yeah, I was surprised too. I was so engrossed that before I knew it, I was near the Royal Capital."
"Impressive that you can handle it so well... Really, you always surprise me. But did you notice any issues with the body or the magic power even at those speeds?"
"I had plenty of power to spare, I think. Go ahead and check the body. If there are no problems, I’ll take it home."
"Hold on. After pushing it to those limits, a quick check isn’t enough. I need to disassemble and inspect every part. I’ll give it back to you once that’s done."
Considering safety, that’s probably for the best. I definitely exceeded the speed Doc anticipated.
"Alright, got it. By the way, how’s the mid-size model coming along? If it’s ready, I’d like to take it home."
"It’s long been finished. Use it as you like."
"Well, you could have told me sooner. How about the development costs? Are they covered?"
"We still have plenty left from what you gave us before. We’re fine for now. Sales are also picking up."
The workshop, once so quiet, is no longer.
Many members of the Kikyo Society order these cool bikes, and some enthusiasts, impressed by their impressive looks, also visit. Things are quite lively now.
Since the development of the Bloomstar Galaxy, Doc has been actively researching new technologies, which is a great help.
The monster machine has been modified to its best form, but this isn’t the end. Doc’s determination to aim even higher is reassuring, and that’s why I can invest in him without hesitation.
"Let me know if you need more funds. Shall we go see the new ride?"
The excitement of a new encounter fills my heart. What a great day.
I drove the second model smoothly. The thrilling vibrations running through my body and the new seat provided a perfect ride.
The mid-size bike on Sixth Avenue was a more compact cruiser version of the Bloomstar Galaxy, but it showcased Doc’s latest research.
Its reduced size improved magic efficiency and reduced air resistance. While it lacked the hidden power of the monster machine, the ride was excellent, and its compact size made it easy to maneuver.
Unlike the Bloomstar Galaxy, which was made of black and silver parts, this one featured bright blue and gold parts. It was stylish and eye-catching.
I need to give it an appropriate name. I’ll think about it later.
I returned to the Headquarters in high spirits, and by then it was already evening. I answered the questions from the members who saw the new bike and wrapped up my day. That night, Valeria, Gradena, and the others returned from training.
"Welcome back, everyone."
"Onee-sama!"
I gracefully received the tackle from my younger sister and praised them for the fatigue of their intense forest training, which lasted about fifteen days.
I told them to take a bath and then checked on Valeria and Gradena.
"Yeah, I can tell by the vibe. You’re doing great."
"Yeah, it’s been a while since we could fully immerse ourselves, so it was productive. But, we still haven’t mastered the Body Enhancement Magic or the Combat Body Transformation Magic."
Of course, it’s difficult. Even Siegrune found it challenging. Gradena is still struggling, and Valeria seems apologetic.
"Siegrune said it’s tough and not something you can learn quickly. It might be a good idea to allocate more time to magic perception training during regular sessions."
"That’s fine, but it feels just out of reach. Valeria?"
"Yes, I believe we need another level of growth."
That’s the way it is. I reached this point after pushing myself to the limit. No matter how well I explain the techniques, it’s not something you can easily replicate.
"Maybe we should set the goal for the winter special training. Until then, everyone should level up, and in the winter, we’ll put you through hell."
Having a clear goal is good. It makes it easier to get motivated as an instructor. I’ll also think about what more I can do as a teacher.
"Oh, Yukari. That’s a bit much... But I want to be able to use it too, so I’ll train hard."
"I’ll do my best too."
"Yeah, you all look tired. Take a bath and get some rest."
They left the office without a fuss, but they must be quite exhausted. They have the day off tomorrow, so I want them to rest well.
Other members will head out for training, and I hope they work hard too.
The next day, while I handled my regular duties, I took short rides around the city on the new machine and had a fulfilling day.
Then came the day of my meeting with Baron Icetoy.
Since he said any time was fine, I decided to go in the afternoon after finishing my morning tasks.
This time, Valeria was the only one joining me. Siegrune and Josephine, who came with me last time, were busy with other work, so they didn’t come. It’s not a big deal anyway.
With Valeria on the back of the unnamed new machine, we made a loud visit. Only someone with my unconventional tastes could dare to roar through the Noble District like this. But I think this has a good effect.
The distinctive roar is like a grand announcement that the Kikyo Society’s Shinogami is here and on her way. It gives the hosts a chance to prepare. How thoughtful of me. I'm overflowing with considerate kindness.
Upon arriving at the baron's residence, I was welcomed by the butler and led inside, just as before.
I sat in a chair, and Valeria stood behind me in a guard position, though I don’t think it’s necessary. I let her do as she pleases.
After a few minutes,
"I’m sorry to have kept you waiting. Oh, you’ve brought a lovely young lady today."
"She’s my guard. She’s so strong she could wipe out Exembra’s defense force alone."
It’s a joke, but it’s the truth. I don’t care what the baron thinks.
"...I see. I thought she was around the same age as my daughter, but she’s not someone to be underestimated."
Perhaps considering my matter-of-fact explanation and Valeria’s demeanor, along with the rumored strength of the Kikyo Society, the baron seemed to believe me. He adopted a serious and slightly tense attitude.
"We’re not here to raid, so no need to worry. Now, you mentioned some additional matters, right? I’d like to hear about the adjustments you talked about."
The baron wanted me to discipline his unruly daughter in exchange for ten million zysts. After some consideration, the head of the Instruction Bureau, Fulaveneta, was also on board with the increased budget. The Kikyo Society officially accepted the task, and today I intended to deliver that response.
However, the baron also mentioned additional matters. Given that they were additional, I assume they relate to the education issue. What will he propose?
"Yes, I’ve spent the past few days adjusting, and we’ve reached an agreement. It turns out that the problem of unruly children isn’t limited to my house alone, and I’m sure you understand that."
"...I understand, but that’s problematic."
In other words, the issue isn’t limited to Baron Icetoy’s unruly daughter. Other families are also struggling with their children and think they might benefit from our intervention.
"First, let me clarify. We’re a women’s organization and can’t accept boys. Also, I don’t think it’s worth taking on multiple children for just ten million zysts."
"I understand that we’re limited to girls. But, what if we paid ten million zysts per child? There are at least ten candidates among the girls."
Ten? That would mean a sudden windfall of one hundred million zysts. It’s a significant amount as a lump sum.
"Have you also discussed the terms and payment with these people?"
"There are still some details to iron out, but we’ve largely reached an agreement on the outline and the amount. If you accept, we can handle the recruitment and coordination. However, the negotiations so far have come with some costs. We’ll need to recoup some of those costs. Essentially, it’s a commission fee."
He’s using his unruly daughter as a pretext to turn this into a full-fledged business.
His business acumen is impressive. Instead of just funneling money to us, he’s also looking to profit, which gives him a certain level of credibility. Clever.
"Of course, there’s etiquette involved when we take a cut. I have another proposal for you to consider."
I was a bit taken aback by the barrage of proposals.
"There’s more? As long as it’s not too troublesome. What is it?"
"Could we observe the training process, even if only in part? Of course, this would be a paid service. There’s a lot of interest in the Kikyo Society’s training, as I’ve heard."
I’m not sure I like the idea of being a spectacle, but if we can find a way to do it without drawing attention, it might be acceptable.
Moreover, if we can create a system to generate revenue from what is otherwise a cost-intensive training process, it would be highly beneficial for us, as we aim to expand our regular membership.
Hmm, profit-making proposals are always interesting. You can’t help but be intrigued.
"It’s worth considering, but it’s not a decision I can make alone. I’ll discuss it with the members in charge of education and get back to you. However, regular classes and training might be a bit dull and lack excitement. The final exam, on the other hand, should be quite impressive."
"I understand. I’m not asking to observe everything in detail. If you show us parts that you allow, that would be fine. For reference, what does the final exam entail?"
Catering to the requests of the potential observers, allowing them to see specific scenes could be quite cumbersome. Limiting the observation to the final exam might be less burdensome for us. That’s my current thinking, but I should consult with Fulaveneta.
"Well, the final exam is the ultimate practical test that apprentices must pass to graduate. Passing it means they’ve reached the final stage of becoming official Kikyo Society members. It’s a rigorous test held outdoors, so I think it will have some spectacle value."
"I see. If it’s the final stage that everyone must pass, I don’t need to see the entire process. I’d like to observe it before my daughter takes the exam. Indeed, the Kikyo Society is highly regarded, and many nobles with a penchant for gossip are interested. If word of mouth spreads, I’m confident there will be sufficient demand."
Indeed, the Kikyo Society is one of the most prominent organizations, whether for good or bad reasons. If we officially open observation sessions, I think many would be interested.
Moreover, from an objective standpoint, the training process has a certain level of entertainment value. A far-out and rigorous test would be quite impressive even from a distance.
"Whether the unruly girls we accept can reach that stage is another matter. But, I think it’s an interesting proposal. I’ll have to discuss it with the others. However, I think it has merit, so I’ll consider it carefully."
"I’ve summarized the proposal in writing. Here, please take this."
He’s well-prepared. A quick glance at the document reveals specific figures for potential demand and expected revenue. It’s an interesting read. I’m impressed.
"Even if I reject the proposal, I’ll remember your skills. Let’s go, Valeria."
I think accepting a few unruly girls isn’t a problem, but there might be objections to the observation idea.
However, if it’s a profit-making opportunity, interest will be high. Additionally, showing the training process to important people could be a good way to impress our strength. It could also lead to new connections and revenue. Overall, I think the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
We roared back on the new machine and promptly briefed the relevant departments.
The upgraded Bloomstar Galaxy is now a machine befitting a human beyond the norm. Normal speeds are no longer enough.
And, Valeria and Gradena, who were casually training, have returned.
A new business opportunity has emerged, and for the time being, we plan to run various parallel projects centered on the apprenticeship program. The focus will likely shift to the Arena after that.
The next chapter will feature a discussion with the Kikyo Society members.
The development will be slow and steady for a while, but I hope you’ll enjoy the journey.