Chapter 210: Collaboration and Request
Not long after Gabriel and Raphiel reported Hachiman's identity, news arrived from the Heavenly Realm.
The gist was that every hero was a sought-after individual for the Heavenly Realm. Therefore, they instructed Gabriel and Raphiel to approach him with a gentle attitude and provide proper guidance.
Lately, the two had been discussing how to interact with Hachiman, so several days passed without any major incidents.
Sunday, the Nakiri residence.
It was time for the monthly cooking duel, and the outcome of the competition was, as expected, evident.
"The winner is Hikigaya Hachiman," announced Senzaemon as Hachiman secured another victory in the cooking duel.
Though she had mentally prepared herself, Erina couldn't hide her unhappiness at losing the competition again.
On the other hand, Alice cheered and rushed to congratulate Hachiman, displaying her joy at his triumph.
"Yay, that's awesome! Congratulations, Hachiman-kun, you won again."
Looking at the joyful expression on the girl's face, anyone unaware might think she was the victor.
At this moment, Alice's appearance had undergone a significant change. Since learning that Hachiman preferred long-haired individuals, she had grown her hair. After a year, the girl now possessed waist-length silver hair.
Silver-white hair, coupled with crimson eyes, you probably understand what I mean.
However, hearing her own cousin cheering for the opponent, Erina couldn't help but express her dissatisfaction with a few "#" signs above her head.
"Alice, why are you so happy? It's not like you won."
"Hehe, well, I'm just happy that you lost, Erina." Alice hid behind Hachiman and made a teasing face.
Every time she saw Hachiman win against Erina, the girl felt like the long-suppressed emotions in her heart were released. If the person I like wins against Erina, it's like I've won against Erina.
This just goes to show that sometimes a girl's thought process can be quite peculiar.
"Alright, Erina, Alice, stop bickering. Let me teach you a few key points of this dish."
After each cooking duel victory, Hachiman chose to share his recipes and cooking techniques with everyone, and today was no exception.
Upon hearing his words, the two girls did indeed cease their bickering.
For them, being passionate about culinary arts, Hachiman's current level of cooking skills proved beneficial each time he explained. Even the typically proud Erina occasionally sought advice humbly.
As Hachiman elucidated his cooking, Alice surreptitiously observed his profile, her eyes seemingly sparkling.
Through each interaction with Hachiman, the girl felt her affection for him deepen. If her grandfather wasn't watching, she probably couldn't resist hugging him.
Before long, Hachiman's cooking explanation concluded.
Just as he was about to bid farewell, Senzaemon, who had been silent all this time, spoke up.
"Young Hachiman, come with me for a moment."
"Ah... sure."
Hearing Senzaemon's words, Hachiman paused for a moment, then quickly nodded and followed him into the study.
Watching the two enter the study, Erina and Alice exchanged a glance. The sisters couldn't fathom what their grandfather might want with Hachiman.
In the study.
Senzaemon sat in the chair behind his desk and smiled, "Young Hachiman, have a seat. No need to be so formal."
"Well, thank you, General Nakiri."
Upon hearing this, Hachiman nodded, pulled out a chair, and sat down. He then looked at Senzaemon with curiosity.
"I like your straightforward personality, young Hachiman. I won't beat around the bush. I called you here today to ask about your thoughts on the restaurant industry."
"The restaurant industry?"
Hearing this, Hachiman's face showed a hint of confusion.
Senzaemon, however, didn't rush to answer. Instead, he posed another question.
"I assume, young Hachiman, that you have quite a few ancient recipes in your repertoire."
"Indeed, I've researched quite a few ancient recipes now."
Hachiman openly admitted to this question.
The dishes he used in his duel against Erina were mostly improved versions based on recipes from "Chūka Ichiban," an anime set in the Qing Dynasty. For modern times, these could indeed be considered ancient recipes.
Seeing him readily admit this, Senzaemon felt somewhat surprised, but he maintained a faint smile on his face.
"Let me be straightforward. The reason I called you here is to discuss a potential collaboration."
"A collaboration?"
"Yes." Senzaemon nodded.
"As you're aware, a significant portion of Japan's culinary industry is under our Totsuki Corporation. So, I was wondering if you have any interest in collaboration."
"We'll provide the capital and handle the management of the establishment. All you need to do is provide the recipes."
"As for the profit, it's a 60-40 split. Totsuki takes 60%, and you, Hachiman, take 40%."
"I wonder what your thoughts are on this."
This time, it was Hachiman's turn to be surprised. He hadn't anticipated that the formidable Totsuki Corporation would propose a collaboration, and the terms were exceptionally generous.
If he declined such a lucrative offer, it might be considered a failure to recognize an opportunity.
"Since General Nakiri, have brought it up, I naturally won't refuse."
With a nonchalant demeanor, Hachiman readily accepted the offer. Extending this courtesy was akin to giving face to Senzaemon. Without much consideration, he agreed on the spot.
In the world of capital, the strength of one's fist often determines outcomes. In comparison to the colossal entity that Totsuki represented, Hachiman recognized the vast difference in influence.
Securing a deal where he didn't have to invest a single penny yet received a 40% share of the profit was an incredibly rare and favorable opportunity.
"Haha, excellent! Here is the contract, Hachiman. Take a look."
Ecstatic at Hachiman's acceptance, Senzaemon laughed heartily and promptly retrieved a prepared contract from his drawer, extending it towards him.
Observing this scene, Hachiman raised an eyebrow. It seemed Senzaemon had anticipated his affirmative response, having the contract ready beforehand.
Nevertheless, Hachiman took the contract and began swiftly perusing its contents. With the assistance of the "Learning" module, he effortlessly absorbed the details, each clause deciphered in his mind.
After confirming the accuracy of the entire document, Hachiman promptly affixed his signature.
Seeing him so readily agree, Senzaemon also efficiently signed his own name.
"Haha, Young Hachiman, we'll be relying on you in the future." Senzaemon handed a copy of the contract to Hachiman, laughing heartily.
"Oh, no, it should be me requesting your guidance, General Nakiri!" Hachiman also chuckled.
After the laughter subsided, Senzaemon spoke again, but this time, his tone turned serious.
"There's actually one more thing on my end."
Hachiman raised an eyebrow upon hearing this.
Here it comes. I knew there wouldn't be a free lunch, especially not one this generous.
However, the fact that the head of the Totsuki Corporation was speaking in such a manner intrigued him.
"In fact, I have a favor to ask of you, Young Hachiman!"
--------
A/N:
Do you think Alice looks good with long hair, or should we consider changing it to short hair based on everyone's preference?