The next day, Steve could be seen inside a rather large office, one that reminded him of the Chairman's office.
Behind him were Legia and Judy, both standing on guard as usual. Judy had the official title of Personal Assistant, and Legia was his bodyguard.
Thinking of the situation, Steve couldn't help but imagine having the other Monarchs by his side.
If it came to it, he would fight the Monarchs, but killing them when he could remake them seemed like a huge waste.
"I'm sorry for keeping you waiting. Japan just overcame its first S-rank gate, and there are a lot of people who want to talk about it," said Mr. Matsumoto, the chairman of the Japanese Hunter Association.
"No worries. I am here for my reward, after all," Steve replied.
"Of course, that much has long since been prepared," the man said as he picked up a small book from the table.
"The agreed amount has long since been transferred to you. You can confirm it with your bank. However, on behalf of the Japanese government and the Japanese people, I would like to offer you this."
"What's this?"
"Some debated that granting you property was the way to go, but that hasn't worked for anyone so far, now has it? Hence, the Japanese government has decided to offer you the title of National Hero."
"I'm assuming this comes with a lot of perks, right?"
"Naturally," Mr. Matsumoto replied with a smile.
Looking at the book, which he now recognized to be a new passport, Steve could see that it was vastly different from the regular one he initially had.
It even had his title written out on it, and at the back, he could see a list of perks that the title granted him.
He wasn't just an honorary citizen; it granted him free travel, diplomatic immunity, security support from the Japanese government, etc.
"You guys really went above and beyond. Thank you," Steve said, not standing on ceremony at all.
It was a reward for his hard work, so there was no need to reject it or act as though he didn't want it.
He considered the reward excessive, considering he was already paid more than a billion dollars just to get rid of the gate.
The reward was excessive, but who was he to reject it?
"No. You have graced our nation with another chance at life," Mr. Matsumoto replied as he bowed.
After a bit more back and forth, Steve was finally allowed to leave the premises, and without hesitation, he headed straight for the airport.
He was done here, and besides, he still needed to take care of the gate in London.
"I don't know why you're leaving so quickly. I didn't even get the chance to enjoy Japan as I wanted," Judy complained as she sat in her seat on the plane.
"You're a Monarch. You can teleport back if you want."
"Nope, you already ruined it for me," she continued as she relaxed and positioned herself to look out of the window.