Story Reader / Festival Event Story / Sea of Stars / Story
Another batch of materials scrapped?
Yes, sir. Even with the support from Akdilek, we're still unable to avoid this plight.
...This is just the way it is. They were devices deployed long ago, after all. See if you can recycle anything from the stash.
Roger.
Inside the Forsaken hideout, the well-organized Watanabe is giving out directives.
Next.
The area around here has been getting more dangerous recently. Should we...
Have the scouts assess our surroundings again. We'll move our hideout if their report comes to the same conclusion.
Understood. I'll join the scouting party as well, then.
Don't linger. Retreat if you have to, understood?
Of course, sir.
The Forsaken might be an organization of a certain scale, but the lack of resources has kept them in a passive position for a very long time.
Every move they make, Watanabe and the Forsakens are always walking on thin ice in order to keep all of their members safe.
Alright, next.
...
Hmm, next?
Here, Mr. Watanabe!
The multitasking Watanabe is so occupied that he has not noticed the significantly shorter company seeking consultation.
Ugh, kids...
We ain't no kids! We're valuable members who just helped giving out food!
Sigh... Alright, alright.
So how can I help you? If you're asking for candies, I'm sorry, but those are needed elsewhere.
That's not why we're here!
The group of kids protests by giving Watanabe the stink eye. That is when he realizes that the children have yet to attack him with their typical "fists of justice."
Why are you all hiding your hands behind your backs? Don't tell me you've found more things to prank the others.
Ah—that is...
The children try to hide the thing behind them, but Watanabe easily notices what it is, given how much taller he is.
Covered in a thin layer of sand and misshapen from all the mishandling is a bouquet of flowers.
Flowers...?
That's right. We were going to surprise you.
But now that we've been discovered—everyone!
Yep!
Merry Christmas, Mr. Watanabe!
Uh... But I don't think it's Christmas yet?
That's what you say? Not "thank you"?
Say "thank you"!
...Alright, I got it, stop kicking me—thank you! I said it! Thank you!
Yielding to their violent acts, Watanabe thanks them and takes the flowers.
By the way...
I guess you're wondering why we're giving you your Christmas present now.
Because flowers wilt quickly in a place like this, we want to give it to you before it dies.
It'll be too late if we wait 'til Christmas.
I see...
Thank you.
Hmph, I'm glad we've come to an understanding. Just so you know, the flowers are edible, so remember to bring them to the guys in Logistics to make us some snacks!
The children quickly disperse and go on their merry ways after Watanabe receives his gift.
Those kids...
Their "smarts" have gotten Watanabe chuckling. Putting down the flowers on his desk, he is about to see the next person when—
...
Mr. Watanabe, a message from Babylonia.
Babylonia?
Show me what it says.
...
...
I see. I suppose that's worth responding. Do we have any devices that can connect to the satellite?
We do. But, sir, are you going to show up on their screen like this?
Sure, what's wrong with it?
Everything! We can't have the Babylonians seeing the face and leader of the Forsaken covered in dirt. Where's our pride?
I know what you're saying... but I usually look like this as well.
But this isn't a usual call, is it? Just grab a seat, and I'll find someone to put some makeup on you.
But I'm a dude?
So what? Makeup applies to people on the whole spectrum. Not that I'm going to put lipstick on you, so just listen to me.
Sigh... Fine, just get it done quickly.
Yes, sir! I got this!
After sending his very insistent companion away, Watanabe sneakily turns on the satellite connection.
I'm too old for makeup... Cough.
After connecting, Watanabe clears his throat before speaking to the screen.
So, this is Watanabe...
