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By the time Xia Chen returned to the Ocean Branch again, it was already 7 PM, and the entire branch was hosting a business banquet.
This was quite typical for the Ocean Branch.
As one of Schicksal's most active departments outside the Schicksal Financial Group, the Ocean Branch facilitated extensive external interactions. Essentially, influential figures from across Australia, and even other countries, would attend such events to foster friendly relations with Schicksal.
Schicksal's wealth and resources did not materialize out of thin air, nor was oppression the most efficient way to acquire them. Therefore, Schicksal needed to engage in trade with various countries to maintain its position.
Such networking events were crucial for these connections.
However, Xia Chen felt quite uncomfortable in such environments.
He began to understand Amber's approach to training him; mastering social interactions in these business settings could significantly benefit personal growth.
Nevertheless, he simply didn't enjoy it.
Instead of participating, he returned to his room, freshened up, and lay down on the bed.
In just a few hours, his simulation attempts would reset, leaving him eagerly anticipating. Xia Chen decided to get some rest first.
Suddenly, something crossed his mind.
He stepped out of his room and headed towards Wendy's location, as Gretel had mentioned earlier.
Unlike the Valkyries who had individual dormitories, Wendy resided in a guarded area, akin to a modified prison cell.
Although unattended, the cell required a password for entry, and her food and water were delivered by personnel.
Since Gretel left, no one accompanied Wendy outside for walks or exercise anymore.
Xia Chen entered the password, feeling the door unlock.
"Wendy, may I come in?"
"Sure."
As he pushed open the door, he saw Wendy leaning against the window, surrounded by books she used to pass the time.
Titles included:
Firearms Maintenance
A Comprehensive Guide to Valkyrie Armor
Military Logistics Management
Despite her physical limitations, Wendy never missed an opportunity to improve herself. Even if she couldn't fight on the battlefield, she yearned to contribute against the forces of destruction in other ways.
In some respects, her unwavering determination matched that of Astraea's.
Feeling somewhat at a loss, Xia Chen suddenly remembered something.
Despite her disability, Wendy never missed an opportunity to improve herself. Even if she couldn't fight on the battlefield, she yearned to contribute and combat Honkai in other ways.
In some respects, her unwavering spirit was no less formidable than Durandal's.
Xia Chen suddenly felt at a loss.
He admitted that upon arriving here, he had harbored feelings of pity and sympathy. However, witnessing this scene, he realized such emotions were merely a mockery and insult to himself.
The girl did not need sympathy.
"Apologies, the room is quite small. Please find a place to sit," Wendy said with a gentle smile. "I can't pour water for you, so please help yourself."
Her voice was warm and soothing, hardly resembling someone confined by illness.
Yet, another thought surged within Xia Chen's mind - the urge to consume her.
Gently biting his tongue, he tried to regain clarity.
"My apologies, I've been busy in Nagazora City these past few days and couldn't visit sooner." He paused, then explained, "However, the Honkai situation there has been resolved now. From now on, I will take over from Gretel to look after you."
Wendy didn't respond much, simply watching him.
"Could you tell me about your experiences in Nagazora City?"
She yearned for combat, longing for the world outside.
Xia Chen nodded and began recounting his time in Nagazora City. His words were plain, devoid of eloquence, and the battle details lacked intricacy, often repeating phrases like 'killed a Zombie' or 'defeated a Honkai Beast'.
Despite this, the girl in the wheelchair listened with keen interest. Even after Xia Chen finished, she seemed somewhat wistful.
"So Nagazora City has changed that much," she sighed softly. "It's unfortunate I can no longer fight against Honkai."
Xia Chen didn't know what to say. In the face of her situation, even comforting words felt inadequate.
Fortunately, Wendy wasn't someone who needed consolation. Seeing Xia Chen's slight discomfort, she spontaneously asked, "Would it be possible to take me out for a stroll?"
"Sure."
Suppressing his inner desires, Xia Chen pushed Wendy's wheelchair as they ventured outside together.
The evening breeze blew gently, while the nearby branch office was bustling with activity and festivities. The two of them strolled under the dim night sky.
If not for the experimental accident, Wendy might have freely attended such events, perhaps even enjoying the flattery from merchants or being pursued by numerous aristocratic youths.
Facing such a stark contrast, how could she not harbor resentment?
Reading books and receiving care couldn't simply erase these feelings. After all, Wendy was only 15 years old.
Despite enduring two agonizing years due to the gemstone's torment, she managed to regain control of her body...
Wendy truly lived up to her reputation as a prodigy.
Xia Chen felt somewhat disheartened.
As they walked quietly together, Wendy suddenly spoke up.
"Xia Chen... may I call you that?"
"Yes," Xia Chen nodded. "It's perfectly fine."
"I had a dream where you killed me." She didn't shy away from stating it directly. "I'm not sure if you've ever experienced such dreams before."
"But, if possible, I implore you to take me to Nagazora City and then kill me there."
A hint of determination flashed in her eyes. "By doing this, we can prevent the Major Honkai Eruption and spare countless innocent lives."
Ever since dreaming about becoming a Herrscher, Wendy had carried a Colt pistol with her at all times.
If not for the fear that her suicide might cause the Gem of Desire to lose control, she would have ended her life long ago. The knowledge taught by Valkyries was deeply ingrained in her mind.
Despite this, she remained constantly prepared to take her own life. This Colt pistol was obtained after much pleading from Gretel.
Wendy's nerves were perpetually tense, never finding respite—until Xia Chen arrived.
For some inexplicable reason, she felt as if Xia Chen's presence was fatefully ordained, as though he was destined to bring her liberation. There was something about him, a captivating aura bordering on mesmerizing.
Perhaps Gretel was right; it must be love.
Because of this feeling, Wendy began to relax, maintaining a sense of joy even during Gretel's absence these past few days.
Maybe, this is what Shenzhou refers to as destiny. Her fate seemed sealed—to die at his hands.
Xia Chen couldn't help but momentarily freeze.
Xia Chen struggled to explain the simulation scenario's significance.
Clearly, Wendy had already accepted her dream as her future.
For a Valkyrie, if unfortunately infected by Honkai and transformed into a Zombie or even a Herrscher, death would be the best outcome.
With difficulty, he spoke, "I... I'm sorry, but it's not my decision to make."
"However, I can assure you that if such misfortune occurs, I will end your life without hesitation at the first opportunity."
"Thank you." Wendy couldn't help but smile faintly.
The two continued strolling leisurely under the dim night sky.