Wataru parted ways with Tadano, climbing into his car to lead the way to the mountain.
The ride was lively, as the car was filled not just with Wataru and Marielle but also Air, Croché, and Stella—each a striking beauty in her own right. Tadano had been visibly stunned when introduced to them all, though he managed to keep his surprise mostly to himself.
Just a few days ago, the existence of Wataru's potions had been partially leaked to the press. Though unaware of Azutaka's current whereabouts, Wataru knew they couldn't let their guard down, either in terms of security or intelligence.
Air and Croché were indispensable as bodyguards. Stella, meanwhile, couldn't be separated from her duties as a mage overseeing the mountain's management. Their presence was non-negotiable.
"It'd be nice if we could move around separately," Wataru mused.
