Date A Live Fragment: Date A Bullet - Volume 5 - Chapter 1

Casino Battle Royale 

“??So that it’s just like that. With a payment of 100 million YP (Yui Points) to open the gate to the Sixth Region Tiphereth!!” 

After arriving at the Seventh Region Netzach, Tokisaki Kurumi and Higoromo Hibiki found one of the several Sagakure Yui patrolling the gate (or perhaps that name was only given to the best machines) and asked to be taken to the Dominion Yuri. 

“?????????Yes, understood.” 

Her expression stiffened a little at the proposal, but ultimately she faintly nodded at the two and flew into the sky without the slightest warning. 

“……That was surprisingly nice.” 

“No, it’s too soon to be certain yet. Let’s be careful. Even so??” 

Hibiki glanced around each direction in amazement. Although all of the previous regions so far had their own unique characteristics, the Seventh Region Netzach had a sight that could only be described as bizarre. 

For instance, all of the clocks had the numerals I to V removed. When asking for an explanation from Sagakure Yui, who was walking forward, she replied with a faint voice. 

“In this region, the day is always 6 hours from 6pm to 12 am. The day begins at 6pm and ends at 12am.” 

“That means……it’s always night here?” 

Yui lightly nodded. 

“But that is appropriately suitable for a gambling region.” 

Speaking of casinos, most of them officially opened at nighttime. If it was nighttime for the entire day, then the casino would always continue to operate. 

Moreover, no matter which buildings with those clocks, they were decorated with neon signs that were shining brightly. 

“A nightless city……” 

Even though the scenery of the sky was indeed that of nighttime, the buildings here were all rejecting the notion of the evening. Even the Quasi-Spirits walking on the road, contrary to what they had seen previously, had the illusion of a more mature style. 

The Quasi-Spirits walking on the road held sake bottles in their hands. They jugged the bottle down as they sang vigorously. 

“There’s not much liquor in the other regions, but that’s different here. As long as they have YP, residents can do whatever they please.” 

“YP?” 

“It’s an abbreviation for Yui Points.” 

“Ara, seems you’re quite loved.” 

“……” 

Yui didn’t particularly responded, only slightly slanting her head. The transparent gaze seemed to be lacking emotions unlike the Yui whom they had met in the Eighth Region Hod. 

“??I am just a batch product. Performance is completely different from the Sagakure Yui that personally attends to the master.” 

“You have no emotions?” 

“Yes.” 

As Hibiki asked, the mass produced Yui only nodded. After some time had passed, the other mass produced Yui also stared at Kurumi and Hibiki with a stern look. 

“This is the center of the Seventh Region Netzach. Master is in the Casino IS.” 

Hibiki raised her head to see a conspicuously tall building standing in front of her. 

“IS……what does that stand for?” 

Hibiki grinned upon hearing Kurumi’s question. 

“I understand! It means Infinite · Sisters!” 

“……No, it’s abbreviated for Imouto · Sisters.” 

Both of them sincerely felt that abbreviation was in terrible taste. 

The cheap metallic chair creaked. Leaning against it as if completely exhausted, Sagakure Yuri looked at the two visitors with an indifferent look. 

While lab coat piled up with a white dress. It was a strange style for sure. Each time she opened her mouth, her sharp and jagged fangs were seen flickering. 

“Want to go to the Sixth Region Tiphereth???” 

“Yes, yes. I really want to go there. So can I obtain your permission?” 

“We have no plans of causing a ruckus here??!” 

Swish, as if finding this boring, Yuri turned her chair around. 

As the sounds coming from friction gradually increased, Kurumi frowned. 

“So how about it?” 

Behind Kurumi and Hibiki, the mass production Yui were lined up awaiting Yuri’s orders. 

In the event that negotiations break down, a battle would inevitably erupt. 

“Of course it’s possible. ??But shouldn’t there be a condition attached?” 

Yuri gave a contemptuous smile. 

“I’m just asking you to listen. Whether you follow or not is another matter.” 

Kurumi already had her hands gripping on <Zafkiel>. As expected, known for being belligerent, Kurumi-san’s reputation of having a low boiling point was well deserved. Hibiki wiped away her sweat as she had no choice to watch on from the sidelines. 

“It’s not anything difficult. Anyway, this condition cannot be changed. Good? If you want to open the gate for the Sixth Region Tiphereth??” 

Please go make some money (YP). 

Yuri instructed them to do so. 

“Money……” 

“Well, you’ll understand looking at that gate before shooting me with that gun. Is it too troublesome? Well, then I really can’t help you.” 

Snapping her fingers, the video screen on display behind Yuri changed its image. 

The familiar sight of a huge gate, that which connected the various regions of the Neighboring World with each other. 

“This the door to the Sixth Region Tiphereth??, as you can see on the right side of the gate, there’s a coin slot.” 

Indeed, it was just as Yuri had said. The gate was tightly sealed by chains that were connected to a device similar to a coin slot. 

Yuri tapped on the big screen with her finger. 

“When you insert YP here, the chains unlock and the gate will open.” 

……Fu, after a brief silence, Kurumi asked. 

“Is it possible to destroy it through force?” 

“Don’t waste your time, Third Spirit! There’s no guarantee what will happen if you destroy it. 

For example, the <Shamayim Kaveesh> may be destroyed. In the current situation where the White Queen is causing trouble everywhere, the consequences would be fatal if we can no longer connect to the Sixth Region Tiphereth. If you still intend to destroy it??” 

“An all-out war can’t be avoided, that would be the conclusion led to.” 

Behind the scenes, the Sagakure Yui already had their weapons ready. With a sigh, Kurumi let go of <Zafkiel> and let it dissipate away. 

It seemed that no matter what sort of person Sagakure Yuri was, she would never relinquish her position as the Dominion protecting the Seventh Region Netzach. 

So there was no other choice. 

This was exactly just as they did in the Ninth Region Yesod. 

“……So how much do we need to earn?” 

Yuri showed off her jagged teeth as she smiled while informing them. 

“Just pay 100,000,000 YP and the gate to the door to the Sixth Region Tiphereth!!” 

Both of them were stunned to hear the words 100 million. 

“We don’t have so much as 1 YP in our hands.” 

“Ah, that’s fine. For people who arrive at the Seventh Region Netzach, a non-interest loan of 1 

million YP can be obtained at the very beginning. It’s your choice whether to treat it as capital or make more money through it by gambling.” 

Yuri flicked a coin that came out of nowhere with her thumb. After receiving it, Kurumi frowned upon inspecting the coin. 

And expressionless and deformed image of Sagakure Yui had been engraved onto the coin. 

“Yes, yes, one more question. How much longer will it take to earn work our way up through this?” 

“It should take about a year to earn 10 million.” 

Hearing what Yuri had said, both Kurumi and Hibiki let out a shared sigh. 

“So gambling is the only way.” “For sure.” 

Kurumi threw the coin into the shadows. 

“I’ll leave this to you.” 

Cistus’s hand came out of the shadows to catch the coin. 

“……Incidentally, if you don’t buy or sell the coins in a formal transaction, an error message will occur. So, it’s useless to think of robbery.” 

Tch, Kurumi clicked her tongue in open dissatisfaction. 

“Now do your best. Oh, if you earn a certain amount, there’s a way to make a huge reversal to earn even more.” 

Yuri waved good-bye to send them off. 

“Aah??really, this is completely unreasonable.” 

“100 million, 100 million……” 

“The route to earn money through working is completely out of the option. It’ll be too foolish to spend 10 years.” 

“And that also factors the cost for living expenses……” 

In the blink of an eye, Hibiki confirmed the prices of drinks in a vending machine. It costed around 12,000 YP. In other words, if using the yen of the real world as a benchmark, 1 million YP was the equivalent to 100,000 yen. 

“And I also asked Yui-san, but it seems even the cheap hotels cost 300,000 YP here. So anyway, if we don’t do anything, we’ll be forced to sleep on the streets after four days. Considering the money that we’ll also inevitably lose gambling, that time will become even shorter.” 

The 1 million YP in their hands was completely unreliable. 

“Let’s work hard today to change that 1 million YP into 3 million YP.” 

“Is Kurumi-san good at gambling?” 

“How could that be? I don’t have any memories of that sort of thing. But, we can always try to swindle them like you said before.” 

“That’s……” 

“Hibiki-san?” 

“Listen well! I’ve been trying to hide that part of me!” 

“Yes, yes. Judging from past practice, Hibiki-san seems to have an unexpectedly powerful ability.” 

“Please listen to me properly! I may be strong at gambling, but that doesn’t mean I’m not well acquainted with the taste of defeat. Long ago in the Sixth Region Malkuth, there’s the legend of Hibiki shaving away her life with each match of mahjong!” 

“So then Hibiki-san, which game should be played first?” 

“Fumu.” 

Hibiki looked into the map of the casino of the Seventh Region Netzach, which was distributed free of charge. 

“First of all, mahjong is bad. Even if the enemy’s abilities are lower than yourself, there’s still the possibility of bad luck. Since it’s still too early to compete with the dealer, it’ll be safer to head for playing cards or roulette. Let’s head to a game with a machine first.” 

“A machine……” 

There are slots! Let’s start from there!” 

Hibiki grabbed Kurumi’s hand and pulled her towards a nearby casino. 

Sagakure Yuri sighed as the Yuis wiped away her sweat. 

“No, that level of pressure is bad.” 

The mass produced Yui didn’t reply back. While knowing this, Yuri muttered to herself. 

“If I had seriously refused, I would have seriously been killed. Even if I tried my best, it probably would have been no good. As I expected, a Spirit is in a different league.” 

Yuri’s words rang true. Although Tokisaki Kurumi had lost some of her power, she still had enough strength to kill her and the mass produced types surrounding them. 

However, Kurumi chose to cooperate??and follow the rules of the Seventh Region Netzach. 

Was the reason to suppress the potential damage as well, or did she merely want to avoid turning other Quasi-Spirits into her enemies? 

Or, or, or alternatively. 

Was she also considering the life of that girl? 

“……Gather information about Higoromo Hibiki.” 

“Understood.” 

The dolls stepped back one by one. Seeing them off, Yuri softly sighed. 

……After all, I still have a mission. 

A simple desire, an important mission to protect and love her little sister?????? 

Night will never end for the Seventh Region Netzach. The neon lights will continue to shine the glory of both prosperity and decadence. 

Sagakure Yuri called for her little sister while watching this scenery from the window. 

“Yui-chan, are you there?” 

“??Yes.” 

Very smoothly, Sagakure Yui appeared from the shadows. She was different from the Sagakure Yuis that were in the room just now. 

Different structure, different materials, and an overall different impression felt from her. 

Of course, she was also a mechanical doll??however, looking closely, there were sporadic differences in detail that could be seen. 

“About Tokisaki Kurumi.” 

“Do you want me on alert?” 

“Leave that to the mass production models. You will follow after them. Do you understand? 

Shouldn’t they already be acquainted with your face?” 

As Yui nodded, Yuri whispered to her ear while smiling. 

“……Come.” 

Yui gently walked forward and kneeled in front of Yuri. 

Yuri gently touched Yui’s cheeks, raising her brow at the coldness. 

“Can you generate heat?” 

“Yes.” 

Her cheeks felt a little warmer. Yuri gave a satisfied smile while gently stroking her cheeks. 

“My lovely, lovely, lovely Yui. No matter what, keep on living.” 

“……Thank you very much for your care.” 

Yuri reluctantly let down her hand. 

“Now, go.” 

Yui nodded, hiding in the shadows before disappearing in the blink of an eye. 

There was no doubt that Tokisaki Kurumi was a foreign element. So for a foreign element, it was necessary to prepare an appropriate interception system. 

“Yuri-sama, those two have arrived.” 

Hearing that, Yuri jumped out of her chair. 

“Guide them here??” 

Those words suddenly came to a halt. There were two girls standing behind Yui. The mass production types turned around in a panic. It seems they didn’t notice being followed. 

Yuri had no intention of blaming Yui. In the first place, both of them were anomalies comparable to herself and Tokisaki Kurumi. 

“There was no need.” “……I tried to stop her.” 

One of them raised her chest as the other let out a sigh. 

One of them was wearing an elegant dress, with a thin rapier at her waist and a graceful folding fan to cover her mouth. 

The other one was wearing a large winter coat and holding a book to the side. 

Accompanied by that overwhelming Reiryoku, it was measurable to a bottomless extent. 

Yuri welcomed them by stretching out her hands forward. 

“Welcome to the Seventh Region Netzach. Miyafuji Oka, Yukishiro Maya.” 

“……Yes, can you let us enjoy ourselves here for a while?” 

“Is it only the two of you?” 

Yukishiro Maya shook her head at that question. 

“Eh?” 

“No. Today is special for the Seventh Region Netzach. ??There still one more person coming.” 

Hearing that, Yuri’s eyes widened. 

Waking up from a calm nap, she found that it was nighttime. 

“Are ~? What happened ~?” 

The Dominion of the Fourth Region Chesed, Ariadne Foxlot leisurely muttered while looking around. Below was her Astral Dress??Pleasant Sleep Spirit Dress No. 30 <Nightfall>, her attire had changed to sleep mode with pajamas and a futon even added. Thanks to this Astral Dress, not only could she fall asleep anywhere, but it also eliminated all insignificant hazards??rain, wind, insects, noise, and so on. 

Looking up to the sky, it was Ariadne’s favorite night sky. However, the neon lights flashing on the ground emitted a sinister light. 

“Ah, that’s right.” 

Ariadne nodded to herself while recalling. Her request, the whims of her own temperament, and the rumors heard about the Seventh Region Netzach, half cautious and half wanting to have fun had brought her here today. 

So when she arrived, she fell asleep early. The friend who was supposed to accompany her seemed to have abandoned her. 

Truly horrible person, Ariadne pouted while thinking about this. 

“Are you awake?” 

“Rererenore.” 

Hearing Ariadne’s reply, the mass production Yui bowed. 

“Hmm…….it’s nothing, nothing.” 

“I will now guide you to the Dominion Sagakure Yuri.” 

Ariadne stood up and transformed her Astral Dress into outing mode. 

A light blue blouse and miniskirt to feign that she was a lively girl. 

“Forget that, I don’t want to go. I want to play according to my own preferences.” 

Ariadne spoke out as she stepped forward with footsteps as light as a feather. 

“That also does not matter.” 

The mass production type Yui trailed behind her. Ariadne wasn’t concerned as she stepped into a nearby casino. 

Slots were reverberating at high volume, cheers raised by Quasi-Spirits, and the mechanical dolls on patrol monitored everything from the sidelines. 

And also?? 

In a complete coincidence, Ariadne encountered her. 

“Ah, White Queen……no this is Tokisaki Kurumi.” 

When the White Queen appeared on the scene, she was wearing a completely white Astral Dress……this was the complete opposite. This girl had a black and red Astral Dress covering her body??Tokisaki Kurumi was standing there. 

The name of the casino was called Octopus Pot. 

“The meaning of that name can be interpreted as??” 

“Once you’re pulled in you can never get out. Putting it like that really shows their full enthusiasm for doing something.” 

Kurumi and Hibiki spoke while looking around. 

Ignoring the playing cards and roulette, they had their eyes first on the slot machines. From the lowest of 1,000 YP to the highest of 1 million YP, all sort of slot machines were made available. 

“777 having an x50 multiplier seems to be the foundation.” 

“Now, where should we attack……?” 

Hibiki whispered while staring at the slot machines. Since these were machines, there should be a way to capture them. This was the so-called meoshi . (meoshi ?? is the act of trying to land the reels in a slot machine just by watching and pressing the buttons at the right time) Normally, many slot machines were in fact controlled by a program. The probability is set so that a winning combination is not so easily established and some slot machine had already determined the combination given the moment the coin is inserted. 

Over 90% of slot machines in this casino can only be played in such a way that only pre-determined points are given. 

90%. 

Looking at it from another perspective, the remaining 10%......no, perhaps even fewer than that. 

Those were the slots that could be purely played through meoshi. 

“Fumu, fumu. I see, I see. I’m learning a lot.” 

“Well, that is only the basic stage. The bigger problem is determining which slots can be played on sight. Which starting amount is better?” 

“Ah, that doesn’t matter. Just stake all of the 1 million YP in a single throw.” 

Kurumi cleared her throat and stood up. 

“OH, are you crazy! ……No, are you serious, Kurumi-san, wouldn’t a single out spell complete defeat!? Life debt! Destitution! Living life by the fire! Two people snuggling by the Kanda River! 

Four and a half tatami-sized apartments! Ah, actually I think the last one would be nice too!” 

“Please stop talking.” 

After having her forehead pressed, Higoromo Hibiki regained her sanity. 

“……No, anyway it definitely won’t work. It would be leaving it entirely to luck.” 

“That’s no such thing. It’s rather easy.” 

“Ehh ? ……” 

In spite of Hibiki’s dumbstruck expression, Kurumi once again looked at the 1 million YP slot machines. 

“Aren’t you forgetting that I am a gunslinger?” 

“Eh? Ah, yes……but what about that?” 

Kurumi pointed her finger at her eyes as she softly spoke. 

“Isn’t it necessary to have sharp eyesight in order to shoot a gun?” 

Hibiki seemed to hear a distinct ticking sound from Tokisaki Kurumi’s left eye. 

Muu, Hibiki grudgingly nodded while grimacing. 

“I understand. Well, even if Kurumi-san fails, it’ll still be okay somehow! There’s always the Kanda River!” 

“There is no Kanda River here.” 

“It’s fine, it’s fine. Here we go, let’s fail!” 

“Isn’t that somehow deviating from the topic? Anyway, Cistus!” 

A girl emerged out from the shadows. 

“Me will choose the slot machine.” 

“Well, that’s fine, but I would have started from the 100,000 YP.” 

Hearing what Cistus had said, the corners of Kurumi’s mouth were provoked into a smile. 

“I’d like to run with the shortest distance.” 

There were five slot machines in total with 1 million YP. It was a grand occasion. Those that had earned YP through their previous gambling headed back to the slot machines like an infinite stream. 

Of course, most of them were defeated and had to go home. There were even some customers that had thrown away all of their assets. There were also some rare customers that made some money, but as a whole they constituted for less than 10%. 

Kurumi and Cistus were watching this situation unfold from behind. 

Out of the five, four were already out of the question. After all, it was a machine that displayed a pre-set role at a fixed interval regardless of when the stop reel was pressed. Of course, if they challenged it at the right moment, landing a 777 wouldn’t be just a dream. However, that would require tens of thousands of trial opportunities. 

But with only once chance, the meoshi strategy could be implemented to perfection. 

The spin of the slots were much greater than the other slot machines, with each of the three individual slots also going at different speeds. Therefore, in order to perfectly grasp this slot machine, it was necessary to have the dynamic vision to simultaneously and accurately capture three high-speed rotating objects. 

However, Quasi-Spirits would not be able to make that distinction. Even though there were Quasi-Spirits that were skilled at gambling, it wasn’t to the extent where they could accurately see something spinning at such velocity. It was almost the same as confirming a specific raindrop falling down. 

However. 

On rare occasions, there were a few who could see the raindrops falling. 

This girl obtained her eyesight from a baptism of bullets pouring down like rain. 

For this casino, in order to convey the false pretenses of equal opportunities, they made the mistake of not putting one of these slot machines under their direction control. 

And also, they had the great misfortune of being selected by Tokisaki Kurumi. 

Towards a reel moving at 300 meters per second, Kurumi and Cistus pointed their thumb and index finger forward like a gun and pressed down on the button after determining their target. 

7 (direct hit) 7 (hitting the mark) 7 (landing the mark) Tokisaki Kurumi using a Tokisaki Kurumi style, even Hibiki looking on from close proximity could only stare while completely stunned. 

The spectators watching on the side couldn’t move as if they were frozen. 

Those that came to the casino didn’t care for anything other than watching the most expensive slots. They had been spectating ever since they saw the coin being inserted. 

And after that, a 777 suddenly came into play. 

While the fanfare resonated, a ka-ching sound of 50 1 million YP coins were released from the slot machine. 

At the same time, a burst of cheers came from the surroundings. A one-shot game at the most expensive slot with a magical 777 wasn’t something capable of coming from an ordinary person. 

Furthermore, the more observant Quasi-Spirits were aware that this wasn’t due to simple good fortune??the result was dependent on extraordinary eyesight. 

“With this we have 50 million, so we’re already halfway to the goal.” 

“Now I’ll hold on to this for you. It seems that it will be a while till the next round.” 

As Cistus informed them, she jumped into the shadows with all of the coins. 

“What’s wrong?” 

As Kurumi was about to slant her head, Hibiki started to pull on her sleeves. 

“Kurumi-san, Kurumi-san. Over there.” 

Hibiki gave a bitter expression while whispering to Kurumi’s side. 

“??My apologizes, honorable guest. Can I take up some of your time?” 

The Quasi-Spirit and her subordinate’s expression seemed somewhat cramped as they called out to challenge Kurumi. 

On the outskirts, another girl was staring at this scene unfolding. 

“That looks interesting.” 

Ariadne Foxlot opened her usually sleepy eyelids while watching those two being taken to the manager’s room. 

“……Um.” 

“Please be quiet.” 

Ariadne hushed the mass production type by pressed her index finger against her lips and then leisurely strolled forward. 

“Can you please show us some mercy?” 

The Quasi-Spirit that served as the manager deeply bowed. While prepared for high-pressure coercion, seeing this caused Kurumi’s defenses to falter. 

“Can you specify what you mean by mercy?” 

The manager replied. 

“It’s the slot machine. I won’t call it a foul??but we can win against you. Please refrain from using that machine later.” 

Once again, the manager deeply bowed. 

After hesitating for a moment, Kurumi sighed and nodded. 

“It can’t be avoided. I understand.” 

Hibiki gave a look of asking Kurumi to pull back, but the manager quickly grabbed Kurumi’s hand first while prostrating. 

“Thank you! There is no issue with YP coins you’ve already earned before! Please continue to enjoy the casino!” 

Soon afterwards, they were expelled from the manager’s room in no time at all. 

“You’ve really done it now, Kurumi-san.” 

“Huh, what do you mean?” 

“……Hmm. Let’s go to the other casinos. This way, you’ll understand even if you don’t want to.” 

Following Hibiki’s suggestion, Kurumi left the Octopus Pot for other casinos. 

However?? 

“I’m sorry. This slot machine is out of order.” 

“I’m sorry. This slot machine needs to be removed.” 

“I’m sorry. This slot machine is completely suspended.” 

“……I’ve done it now……” 

“Right?” 

Kurumi looked on bitterly at the casino that was greeting her enthusiastically. Being the third one, Kurumi also quickly picked up on the situation. 

It seemed that she was on the blacklist for the Seventh Region Netzach. It seemed that the casinos have decided through their internal network that Kurumi cannot be allowed to proceed. 

Likely they had contacted each other when she was taken to the manager’s room. More or less, they had placed a clever disguise on their deception. 

“Naturally, this is for me……but it looks like Cistus is no good either.” 

“I would guess that our fingerprints and irises are scanned the moment of entering into the casino.” 

Because of the large amount of mass production Yui types, the progress of mechanical engineering of the Seventh Region Netzach is among the best to the extent where analysis techniques for fingerprints and irises have developed. 

“Now this is troublesome.” 

“Even when trying to play against the dealer, I couldn’t make much money……” 

They sat in the chair to play blackjack and roulette, but the dealer would always withdraw early. 

If there was ever the chance of making big money, their opponent wouldn’t let them take that opportunity. 

They wouldn’t lose, but even if they won they wouldn’t earn that much. 

“Right now, we have a little more than 50 million YP. At this rate, even if we live in the casino for 24 hours, it’ll take two months to make 100 million YP……no, it’ll be around three months.” 

“We’ve been wasting time running around in circles. Absolutely not. It can’t be helped, there’s only one way to do this……” 

“Yes.” 

Cistus nodded as she took out her old fashioned rifle. Naturally, Kurumi also took out her small pistol. 

“Robbery……” 

“Impossible, didn’t they say that would be made invalid!?” 

“Look here, I’m sure there should be at least one or two Quasi-Spirits doing money laundering.” 

“Uh, that’s.” 

After all, there wasn’t anything wrong with Tokisaki Kurumi’s sense of ethics. For her, the Seventh Region Netzach was secretly trying to prevent her from going to the Sixth Region Tiphereth. 

From Kurumi’s perspective, this made no sense unless they gave her a chance for a comeback. 

“??Hi, please wait a moment.” 

A voice suddenly sounded. Kurumi, Cistus, and Hibiki all turned to that direction in turn. The two of them raised <Zafkiel> towards there. In that instant, Hibiki also prepared her own Unsigned Angel <King Killing>. 

“Who are you?” 

While inquiring, Kurumi forcibly took control of her own survival instinct to shoot. 

Ordinarily, Kurumi wouldn’t have attempted this. However, her actions so far did indicate being at an impasse. 

Trying to kill this opponent wouldn’t be easy??Kurumi felt a faint sense of crisis in her heart. 

If the opponent was holding a weapon or hiding something, Kurumi wouldn’t hesitate on pulling the trigger. 

However, the person being pointed at by <Zafkiel> didn’t take out a weapon and simply raised her hands up in surrender. 

This girl exuded a strangely relaxed atmosphere. Her cute eyes did look sleepy. No, perhaps in this situation she truly was sleepy and yawning. 

“Fuaah……my name is Ariadne Foxlot.” 

“The Dominion of the Fourth Region Chesed, Ariadne Foxlot……!?” 

It was Higoromo Hibiki who cried out in response to that name. Hearing that she was a Dominion, Kurumi once again strengthened her vigilance. 

As if troubled by this act, Ariadne once again raised her hands up. 

“That’s right. I don’t feel like fighting you. Only, I’m suggesting that you don’t attempt robbery.” 

“……Why?” 

“Simply, it’s because the sacrifice would be too big. Of course, that means on your side as well.” 

Ariadne pointed towards Kurumi. Kurumi revealed a sly smile as murderous intent reappeared on her finger holding the trigger. 

“Ara, ara. What you’re saying really is interesting. May I ask you for the reason?” 

“Well. Likely, the reason will be made clear soon. So, can I talk to you before then?” 

The other side had a gentle smile without any hint of murderous intent. But on the contrary, this just made Hibiki feel even more uneasy. 

Both Kurumi and Cistus, while seemingly taking in the atmosphere of a gambling room, were fully armed with <Zafkiel>. If Ariadne showed any signs of hostility, this scene would become a battlefield in an instant. 

Hibiki understood. Of course, Ariadne also recognized this. 

The problem was that Ariadne didn’t care about this in the slightest. 

She dazedly was dozing off with a cat-like expression??while continuing to speak calmly. 

“??What are you after?” 

“That is not something you will understand.” 

“??Why do you look exactly the same as the White Queen?” 

“Because she is my counterfeit. If you wish to knock her down, please by all means do so.” 

“??You have continued to advance from the Tenth Region Malkuth. How far do you intend to go?” 

“Until my goal is achieved, I don’t know how far I will go.” 

“??So it turns out to be like this. Then your goal is the same as the White Queen?” 

Hearing those words that would trigger Kurumi, Hibiki could feel every hair on her skin being raised. 

This was unmistakably provocation, with words that should never be spoken in front of Kurumi. 

Sure enough, Kurumi narrowed her eyes. This was more than enough evidence to completely regard this person as an enemy. But Ariadne stared back at Kurumi without any fear. 

Her transparent eyes were neither turbulent nor hollow. Simply, it was as stable as the calm sea. 

“The common point shared between you and the White Queen is your indifference towards this Neighboring World. Because you don’t care, correct?” 

“That’s??” 

Although Kurumi tried to refute that point, her killing intent was slightly shaken. 

Ariadne continued to pursue her attack. 

“I also know about the rumors. Does that happen during the Compile? Children in my region occasionally come across it??and then fall.” 

Fall, Ariadne stressed that word. 

Surely, it was just as she said. 

“……But, I think it’s better than not being able to live.” 

As Hibiki said that, Ariadne shifted her eyes towards her. 

“……Although I have never experienced it, that love can definitely be used as food for living.” 

“But, is that ???? person present in the Neighboring World?” 

There was noise mixed in with Ariadne’s words. 

……Kurumi reflexively opened her mouth but then immediately closed it. For some reason, she felt the need to refrain questioning this. But more importantly, Kurumi didn’t want anyone else to discover this. 

“Kurumi-san?” 

“……No. It’s nothing. Even if there is no such thing, I will go to see for myself. If that person isn’t present here, I will escape from this Neighboring World. Please do not hinder me.” 

“I understand. But as long as there is the White Queen??we will need to monitor you. It would cause complications if you act as you wish within our territories.” 

There was a brief silence. 

Kurumi quietly whispered in a freezing tone. 

“??You just said our, correct?” 

Rather it was a perceptual attack. Therefore, only Tokisaki Kurumi, who had encountered countless battlefields, could react to this. Needless to say, Hibiki and even Cistus couldn’t respond in time. 

Kurumi intercepted by raising the <Zafkiel> in her hands. 

The attacks of two Unsigned Angels came from both behind and front. 

In front of her eyebrows was an Estoc sword and from behind her head was a huge Shinigami scythe that emerged from a book. Kurumi pulled the trigger on <Zafkiel>. 

In a flash, the situation had reversed. Both Hibiki and Cistus didn’t even move. 

“??Nice to meet you, Tokisaki Kurumi-sama. My name is Miyafuji Oka. I am the Dominion of the Sixth Region Tiphereth.” 

“Dominion of the Second Region Chokmah……Yukishiro Maya.” 

An elegant girl and a too serious looking girl. 

And also, Hibiki, as an average existence, could understand the terrifyingly enormous Reiryoku they had. 

Including Ariadne Foxlot??no doubt all three of them were combat-type Dominions! 

However, to describe Kurumi, who intercepted that attack, as extraordinary would be a gross understatement. 

The reason those two stopped their attacks at the last minute was due the premonition of death that fell on both of them. The two likely sensed that they would be killed if they took another step forward. 

“……What are you going to do, me?” 

Hearing Cistus’s question, Kurumi smiled fearlessly. 

“Me (Cistus) does not need to get her hands dirty. Please, I will handle everything here.” 

Listening to that command, Cistus took Hibiki and jumped into the shadows without any further comment. 

“Wait! Cistus-san, what are you doing!?” 

“It’s better to leave it to her. If we are there……likely the battlefield would grow even more complex.” 

“……Complex……?” 

“??To say it bluntly, there’s the high possibility of Hibiki-san only dragging behind.” 

“……” 

Silence. Hibiki understood that those words rang true. Neither her ability nor Reiryoku could compete against them. If she had stayed there, she would have only hampered Kurumi, No matter what I do, I can’t help her. 

In such cases, you can only rely on Cistus. 

That was very??very, 

Hard to swallow. 

Cistus sighed as she gently stroked Hibiki’s head. 

“You don’t have to be so sad. That is definitely not the intention of me.” 

Cistus using the same tone and voice as Tokisaki Kurumi just added another layer of sadness for Hibiki. 

On the other side, Kurumi, who was in a stalemate situation, pierced her gaze across her surroundings. 

“Three Dominions. That is to say, everyone here has decided to become hostile towards me……is that the case?” 

Ariadne replied??“Considering how this development flows, then perhaps?” 

“You say that after trying to thrust a needle in-between my eyebrows?” 

Oka replied??“……Honestly, I don’t want it to be like this. But if it because of the White Queen, then it can’t be avoided.” 

“So you all are trying to carefully observe the situation from behind?” 

Maya replied??“In any case, we must know more about the White Queen.” 

……With that silence, even the sounds of breathing stopped. 

All four of them were growing impatient. None of the four wanted to go to war in the truest sense. However, if any party gives in, that was the equivalent of defeat. 

In that case, who would be the one to give in first? 

Or rather who would be the one to pull the trigger? In this tense atmosphere, a fifth girl opened her mouth. 

“……Can you not do this now? Here is still my region after all.” 

“Ah, Yuri-chan. So you’re finally here.” 

Sagakure Yuri patted Ariadne on the shoulder. 

“Ara, ara. Even though I just saw you earlier, what is the matter now, Sagakure Yuri-san?” 

As Kurumi threw a provoking glare, Yuri smoothly warded it off. 

“Hmm. My little sister told me a lot. So I thought it would better if I came here.” 

“……That is to say, we are chess piece currently stuck in an antagonistic state.” 

Ariadne sighed. In that instant, all of the murderous intent of everyone on the scene faded. 

The thick odor of death didn’t leave behind any remnants. Now, it was a relaxed atmosphere spreading around. 

Slowly, Oka placed her Estoc sword back in its sheath. Without any malice, she informed Kurumi. 

“??My apologizes, but I don’t feel sorry at all. After all, you have power comparable to be called another White Queen. It’s natural to do our utmost to avoid a rampage.” 

Then, Yukishiro Maya pointed her finger at the book floating in the air. 

The book closed as the Shinigami’s scythe floating in the air disappeared. She pulled the book towards her, hugging the hardcover book tightly. 

“I’ve heard about you from Kirari Rinemu. But I can’t trust you without looking at you with my own eyes first.” 

“Ara, how is Rinemu-san?” 

“She’s fine. She still speaks her mind without any consideration. I was hoping that wound to her heart would make that stop. But now I think it’s impossible for her to mature in the slightest.” 

“There’s……nothing that can be done……” 

Not only Maya, but Oka and the other Dominions nodded in agreement. 

Even though she wasn’t a battle type, Kurumi somehow understood why Kirari Rinemu was chosen to be Dominion. 

Of course her talents as an idol need not be said. However, against tough and rigid Dominions, perhaps the type of Quasi-Spirit that spoke whatever was on her mind was ideal against that. 

“……So may I ask what you want from me?” 

“It’s because here is the Seventh Region Netzach.” 

Giggling, Yuri held out her hand. The Yui, who was a mock genuine little sister and not a mass production type, nodded as she distributed out playing cards. 

“A gambling match held for the remaining 50 million. If you win, you can go to the Sixth Region Tiphereth. If you I win, please stay here for a while as an experiment. Of course, living expenses will be provided and you can go to the Sixth Region Tiphereth after the experiment is over.” 

“……By the way, although I don’t really want to ask, what is this experiment specifically?” 

“Clone, replicate, and becoming a cyborg, are you interested?” 

“No. I’ve had enough of that already.” 

Kurumi let out a heavy sigh. 

“It will be decided by a game after all.” 

“I don’t want to do this either. But after all these preparations and Oka’s request, I had to listen.” 

“……Oka?” 

“Oka-chan, ah she’s sort of like the leader among the Dominions.” 

“……So it turned out to be like this.” 

Kurumi turned to gaze steadily at Miyafuji Oka. Startled, Oka took a strong step back. Judging from her response, Kurumi took a step forward which further pressed Oka to take another subsequent step back. 

“……Why take a step back?” 

“Please don’t mind. This is my habit. I like to keep a larger personal space.” 

“In spite of that, I feel you’re drawing closer to those on the side.” 

Kurumi shoot a glance at Oka’s side. Standing beside Oka was Yukishiro Maya. There were no notable changes in Oka’s expression. 

“Ah, Yukishiro-san is fine. My body knows she’s safe, so there’s no negative response produced.” 

“And me?” 

“Ariadne-san is a little scary, so please stay away.” 

“Ehh, how shocking. Don’t say something that horrible……fuaaah.” 

Despite saying she was feeling shocked, Ariadne stretched out an elongated yawn. 

“??Anyway, a poker match with the five people present here. Is that okay?” 

After hearing Maya’s calm voice, Kurumi considered quickly, shaking her head in disagreement before deciding to nod in agreement. 

“The contents of the game have changed over time. Well then, I won’t be able to win without defeating all four of you.” 

“……I’ve heard that Tokisaki Kurumi is the type to be quick to anger, but it seem her head is also quite good.” 

Maya muttered while having an unexpected face. 

“Are you looking for a fight, do you want a fight? Then I promise that I will come after you mercilessly.” 

Naturally, the relaxed atmosphere on the scene instantly reverted back to a battlefield. 

……However. Maya quickly said, “eh, why has the atmosphere suddenly change?” while twisting her neck. 

Oka coughed a little to interrupt. 

“Ah, Tokisaki Kurumi. My apologizes. Yukishiro-san is the type to not be able to read the mood. 

It’s a rather fatal shortcoming.” 

“……Aah, so that’s it……” 

Kurumi was convinced as she nodded back. 

“How rude, I was just praising her. Ferociously strong and a good head and face on her shoulders. 

It’s worthy of being called a Spirit.” 

“Please remove the word ferocious. I am willing to accept the rest.” 

“Just like a gorilla driven by violent impulses (praise).” 

“So you really are asking to be killed!! Hand over your head immediately!” 

“Yukishiro-sa???n! Please be quiet for a while!” 

“Those words shouldn’t be said??” 

Finding time passing too slowly, Cistus and Hibiki peeked out their heads to find everyone present to be completely exhausted. 

“Roughly, the agreement is not too different from before. I also have no reason to fight against you all.” 

“B-Because before I was the only Dominion…….” 

“I see. So now that there’s three more, we’ve reached this antagonistic state?” 

Yuri embarrassingly nodded to what Kurumi had said. However, it seemed that there was more to this than just that. 

“You said a poker match. In other words, there’s someone here stronger at gambling than Sagakure Yuri-san??is it right to assume that?” 

Those words caused Yuri to awkwardly fall silent. However, Kurumi didn’t miss the moment where Yuri’s gaze turned to the other Dominions. 

…….She roughly grasped the situation. Even though Yuri was not absolutely confident in winning a game of poker, one of the other three must have absolute confidence. 

So they chose to fight this way. 

“How about it?” 

“With all due respect, do think you can bluff your way out of this.” 

“……” 

However, Kurumi had to accept this game. Although the risk was high, the potential return was also considerable. Second, fourth, and fifth, she could make three Dominions recognize her 

power and clarify her position. Doing so would make the second half of her journey go all the more smoothly. 

“I am willing to accept this game, but I have a condition I need you all to accept.” 

“Condition……?” 

“Everyone here is a Dominion, correct? If I win unconditionally in the poker game, allow me to pass through each of your regions.” 

“Mu……come over.” 

“Naturally, otherwise I have no specific reason to fight against a Dominion.” 

“……I don’t mind. What about you Ariadne?” 

Ariadne waved her hand in agreement to Oka’s words. 

“I don’t care. Is Maya-chan good as well?” 

“……I’m going to be the dealer, so I’m not going to compete. However, I will only answer that Tokisaki Kurumi’s request will be carefully considered.” 

Kurumi frowned at the ambiguous reply. However, if she could easily pass through the Sixth Region Tiphereth and Fourth Region Chesed, it should be fine. 

“I hope the detailed rules will be written and not verbal. Please sign this document along with all of the Dominions. Naturally, I will also sign this.” 

“Understood. Ha, it’s finally over……so tired.” 

Yuri rubbed her exhausted face. If there was just a single mistake, the Seventh Region Netzach would have turned into a battlefield. It was an extraordinary high level of pressure. 

“It’s over. Then let’s all take a nap, good night, Zzz……” 

Ariadne, who had used up all of her strength, turned her Astral Dress into sleep mode and entered into her sleeping bag. 

“Ariadne-dono. Please don’t sleep here…..aah, she’s already deploying the sleeping bag.” 

“Miyafuji Oka, Tokisaki Kurumi. I am asking for a correction. I am not a Quasi-Spirit that cannot understand the mood. I will always look into the atmosphere of a conversation.” 

“No, you can’t tell it at all. I swear on the name of the Dominion of the Sixth Region Tiphereth.” 

“Yes, yes. You completely can’t read it at all. To imagine you would describe a person as a gorilla.” 

“Please don’t underestimate a gorilla. A gorilla is a gentle, polished, and burly intellectual known as the sage of the forest.” 

“I’m not looking down on gorillas!” 

“To be honest, gorillas are quite graceful. So comparing you to a gorilla is actually a compliment.” 

“Your! Standard! Of praise! Is the problem!” 

“……What’s going on here?” 

Cistus asked a nearby Sagakure Yui. The difference between the special models and the mass produced type was obvious. It could be understood at a glance if there was any polish to their eyes. 

“Um, actually……” 

Cistus could help but clutch her head after hearing Yui’s explanation. 

“……So you’re saying a Dominion in control of the Neighboring World and the sole Spirit there are arguing about something completely pointless……” 

Cistus sighed at this unreasonableness. 

“Our reputation is at stake, me! And Hibiki-san, don’t you think so as well!” 

Kurumi turned back at Hibiki. 

Hibiki approached Maya with a steep expression while pointing and shouting. 

“I need you to correct that statement. Yukishiro Maya-san!” 

“Yes, that’s right. As expected of Hibiki-san. Yes, yes, you go tell her.” 

“A girl named Tokisaki Kurumi can’t be expressed in such words like a gorilla! Listen here, for a comparison??” 

“Eh? This doesn’t feel right. Do you really need to continue?” 

“Yes, for example, she is as beautiful as a butterfly.” 

“……Uh. Well, that’s not wrong…..yes.” 

“And possessing brutal poison just like a giant hornet.” 

“Hibiki-san.” 

“And with the same fierceness as a brown bear.” 

“Hibiki-san, there’s something important you need to say.” 

“And also, um, as beautiful as a flower blooming in a field.” 

“Why did you go for such a weak analogy!? Focus on what’s important! What’s important!!” 

Because of her connection to Hibiki, the situation grew even more and more chaotic. 

After the contract was delivered by Sagakure Yui, the meeting spot here was temporarily dissolved. 

“……So it ends up being a game after all.” 

Cistus muttered while having the same impression as Kurumi. 

“Ugh, my forehead hurts like it was beaten by a plus screwdriver.” 

Hibiki muttered to herself, clutching her head while having a grotesque expression. Needless to say, that was the price for her previous behavior. 

“But well, anyway……ouch……sure enough, it’s because that self-assured Dominion paid a visit.” 

“That’s right. To choose to make a legitimate gambling match, that can only be done with a strong power backing her.” 

“She’s confident in challenging a match because the three other Dominions came?” 

“……Well, certainly Sagakure Yuri must have been considering the possibility of being defeated by Kurumi-san in gambling if she was alone. With three of them, she must consider there to be an opportunity now.” 

“On the contrary, those girls cannot also show their shameful side of being a Dominion. We are also as of this moment cannot turn back.” 

Hibiki had a difficult look upon hearing Kurumi’s words. 

“What’s wrong?” 

“Ah, yes. Perhaps they’ll consider the results of the game fair……but is this game fair in the first place?” 

“??Cheating, is that right?” 

Kurumi quickly caught on to what Hibiki was thinking. 

“Yes. It’s not difficult to imagine those three have something like that in mind if they’re confident Kurumi-san will lose.” 

“The lack of understanding in the abilities of their Unsigned Angels is a fatal shortcoming.” 

“That’s true. Only……there’s one thing I’m sure of.” 

“Oh.” “What’s that?” 

Hibiki spoke while raising one finger. 

“They aren’t concerned because they have an ability to cheat in poker, or perhaps there is an application with their Unsigned Angel that would allow them to cheat.” 

After a moment of silence, Kurumi nodded as if convinced. 

“The former should be considered a given. Incidentally, my own Unsigned Angel would be considered ideal for cheating. As for the latter??” 

“I’ve only heard rumors, gossip, and hearsay from information brokers. Among the Dominions gathered here now, at least Ariadne Foxlot and Oka Miyafuji are battle-type Dominions. The Unsigned Angel of Yukishiro Maya, the Dominion of the Second Region Chokmah, is unknown. 

But judging from Kurumi-san’s story, it may be a summon battle type.” 

“Summon battle type?” 

“Rather than fighting directly with an Unsigned Angel, it’s the type that fights through something created with the Unsigned Angel. In her case, perhaps??” 

“That book, right? She sent out a Shinigami from the book to deal with me.” 

“……There should be more to that. Anyway, besides Sagakure Yuri, all of the Dominions here were chosen for their combat prowess. In other words, they may not be suitable for cheating.” 

“That can’t be it. In that case, there would be no point in choosing a poker match.” 

Cistus, being ever the pragmatic realist, refuted. The other side had proposed the game, so it should be taken as a given cheating would be involved. Her accusation was cold but full of veracity. 

“……In any case, it’s useless unless I know their abilities.” 

“But, if you gather information??” 

“No. I think it would be more dangerous to gather information.” 

“……Ugh.” 

Hibiki groaned as Cistus slanted her head. 

“What do you mean that it’s too dangerous to collect information?” 

“Here is the Seventh Region Netzach, the mass produced Sagakure Yui types that serve as an extension of Sagakure Yuri’s limbs are everywhere.” 

“In fact, haven’t you already noticed the one behind us?” 

A Sagakure Yui smoothly appeared hiding in the background. Not a mass production type but a special model??it was the exact same Sagakure Yui that Kurumi had already once seen in the Eighth Region Hod. 

“Ah, I see. I understand. We are being guided.” 

“I’m sorry. I’m not too familiar with the Seventh Region Netzach, so I can’t find a reliable information store. ……And when the opponent is the Dominion.” 

“Excessive information can also slow down thinking. Hibiki-san shouldn’t be too concerned about this.” 

“But. What will you do for countermeasures? That person??” 

Hibiki shoot a quick glance behind at Yui. Yui hid in the shadows as if ashamed but still didn’t leave this spot. 

“As long as she’s here, the battle plan is sealed.” 

“……Fufu, well that’s about true. Anyway, let’s head to the hotel first. Yui-san, can you please guide us there? I won’t cause any ruckus in the hotel suite.” 

“Y-Yes!” 

Yui jumped out from the shadows and rushed to guide the three of them. 

Sagakure Yui thought to herself. 

What they had said had largely landed on the bull’s eye. 

The poker match??although she didn’t personally know too much about it??without a doubt attempts at cheating from the inside would ensue. 

Tokisaki Kurumi will be captured and used to fight against the White Queen. Or perhaps, she will be dissected to find the White Queen’s weakness. 

But. 

Was that really possible? 

In the first place, what did her older sister even desire? 

Each time she was born, Sagakure Yui recognized her identity as Sagakure Yui and looked up to Sagakure Yuri as her older sister and master. 

If Sagakure Yuri commanded it, she would become a shinobi following Kirari Rinemu and Banouin Mizuha. 

“But, isn’t that like twisted?” 

She recalled Kirari Rinemu once muttering that. When she used to be Dominion, she was dispatched to monitor her and gather information. 

……Well, it was like that. 

Sagakure Yui also thought it was twisted. And sometimes, those thoughts would terrify her. 

A tangled doll, a robot built only to be faithful to Sagakure Yuri. 

……It should be just like that. For some reason, there was something deep in her heart that couldn’t deny those words. 

A terrifying thought, she was a thing to be made. But was it inevitable or by chance in this world? 

Why think like this??to be able to have thoughts just like a normal girl. 

Sagakure Yui was terrified by this. 

And so, she envied the mass production Yui types they passed by. 

They could devote everything to their mission without any worries. 

 (Su?to), usually it is spelled S ? W ? E ? E ? T to refer to sweetness. However, when that word was put in context of a hotel, the spelling becomes S ? U ? I ? T ? E. That is to say the word holds implications of a “single set complete in everything”. 

In other words, it means a place where people can enjoy luxury without any inconvenience. 

That was the meaning behind a hotel suite. 

“……Well, this should be fine.” 

Kurumi looked around the hotel room and gave her rating. Yui’s choice was undoubtedly selected a top-notch hotel in the Seventh Region Netzach. Valuing privacy, as long as they stayed in this room, they couldn’t hear any noise from the outside world. 

And at the same time??it also meant being closely monitored. 

“I consider it a perfect score. Thank you, Yui-san.” 

Hibiki bowed with a smile. With just that single movement, Yui’s entire body stiffened a little. 

“No, I am honored to be able to respond to your expectations.” 

In fact, Kurumi and her little sister Cistus (?) were also terrifying, but Hibiki thought that this was scary in a difference sense. 

Neither fanaticism nor obedience, it was a hollow girl staring at the world with transparent eyes. 

Fighting against her, she wouldn’t lose. If including her <King Killing>, she wouldn’t lose even once out of 100 times. 

But. 

What if fighting and losing to her was part of the calculations? 

Higoromo Hibiki simply regarded herself as infantry (pawn). 

In order for Tokisaki Kurumi (Queen) to survive, she would be delighted to lose if it would assist in her triumphing. 

“So then, Yui-san. Since this is a rare opportunity, why don’t we chat?” 

“……No. I’m fine.” 

“No, no. Haven’t we once fought against each other in the Tenth Region Malkuth?” 

“That wasn’t me, but rather the same model. At that time, she was destroyed by Tsuan-san.” 

“Ah, I see. You can synchronize memories after all.” 

“Ah, yes......yes.” 

Hibiki twisted her neck to the side. 

“In other words, Yui-san has been dispatched to various regions. Sure enough.” 

“Yes, by regularly collecting information and synchronizing memories.” 

“……Is it okay to say that?” 

“Yes, of course.” 

……Yui knew of course that this conversation was a means of probing the other side. 

Nevertheless, there should be no hesitation in elucidating conclusions that could be naturally drawn by assembling logic and information. 

In fact, all the Dominions??employ Sagakure Yui on this premise. Nevertheless, the reason she is used at all is because her information gathering skills were that top notch. 

They sneaked into hostile organizations and brought back information even if it meant dying. 

Since there was no hesitation of them dying, torture wouldn’t work. Because of being a mechanical doll, brainwashing abilities were ineffective. However, everyone was still wary about information leaking into the Seventh Region Netzach. 

However, there were no such traces. 

The Seventh Region Netzach didn’t threaten any other Dominions, nor did it sell such information. 

Sagakure Yuri was only intently obsessed with improving Sagakure Yui’s performance. 

Despite having said that, Yui also couldn’t disclose any information about the other Dominions. 

However, she judged that otherwise there wouldn’t be any demerit caused to the upcoming gambling match. After all, Yui also had no idea what they were planning to do. 

“……If there’s anything else, please speak up.” 

“Ah, may I also ask something about Yui-san?” 

“Ha……eh……me……?” 

Yui was left puzzled by those words. 

“Ah, do you think I was going to ask about Yuri-san and the other Dominions? I wouldn’t do something so inefficient.” 

“No, but…...t-there’s nothing special about me.” 

I am just a mechanical doll, nothing more nothing less. Why would the opposing side ask about such an existence? 

“Your interests?” 

“……I have none.” 

“What do you like? Food or anything like that?” 

“I don’t have anything of the sort.” 

“Do you have a favorite movie or game?” 

“There are no movies or games made in the Neighboring World. ……No, I know that we rarely find something like that as a residue. There are still a few people working on this, but I’m not interested.” 

“Is that so?” 

“Then??what do you dislike?” 

“……That’s.” 

For a moment, Yui wanted to answer earnestly. 

Only after desperately keeping herself under control??a sudden agony emerged. Moreover, Higoromo Hibiki was watching all of this carefully. 

“Do you like your older sister?” 

Continuing on, a deep part of her heart where she wanted to avoid contact was touched. 

Just as Yui was about to stand up, Kurumi muttered. 

“Your heart looks shaken and disturbed, Sagakure Yui-san.” 

Hearing those words slightly calmed down Yui’s thoughts. 

Sitting back on the chair, she corrected her posture. 

“Yuri-sama is my older sister and creator. I definitely like her. I was a little upset. I offer you my apologizes.” 

“No, that was poor of Hibiki-san to ask, right?” 

Kurumi smiled as Hibiki’s cheeks swelled up from pouting. 

“I’ve also been thinking as much as possible in order to win??” 

Feeling of danger, Yui tightened up. After all, the next question seemed to be what was needed to win at the casino. 

Although she didn’t know what this would be used for. 

……Her master must know these next words. 

“Ah, sorry. But may I also ask some questions?” 

Suddenly, Kurumi asked for that. 

“??Please ask away, as long as I can answer.” 

“Do you feel scared?” 

“……No, not at all.” 

“Ara, ara. That was a lie. You are a respectable Quasi-Spirit. And by respectable, I mean that you have a very upright personality. So then fighting and being hurt……are you scared?” 

Kurumi’s words, more powerful than any bullet and sharper than any sword, deeply engraved a scar on her heart. 

“No, I??I am scared.” 

“It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be. Right now, you’ve been on alert against us. If you weren’t afraid, you wouldn’t be on alert. Without that alertness, you would be incompetent as an espionage agent.” 

“……Certainly that should be the case. But we have no fear of death.” 

“Ah, but that sort of thing??shouldn’t it be considered natural?” 

Yui tilted her head at those words. 

“Fear of death is human……isn’t it normal for a Quasi-Spirit?” 

“I don’t know what the ratio is. Some are afraid of dying. Others are afraid of something else.” 

“Something else……?” 

“Something like being useless.” 

Suddenly, a cold chill struck Yui’s entire body. 

Kurumi looked directly at her as if killing Yui with only her gaze. 

“Rather than not wanting to die, it’s the regret of having to die here. And that has become the source of your fear.” 

“Uh……” 

“Wasn’t that the case for the Sagakure Yui-san that was killed by Tsuan-san?” 

Hearing those words, Yui remembered the moment she told them that their memories were synchronized. 

……It wasn’t unusual. For espionage missions, Sagakure Yui would be willing to die without hesitation. 

She had gone to the Tenth Region Malkuth to investigate about Doll Master for the sake of the princess Banouin. And then she was killed without any effort by Tsuan. 

Even though she wanted to emphasize there was no regrets…... 

But right now Sagakure Yui could understand that regret even if she didn’t want to. 

“……Do you think that I am mistaken?” 

“No……perhaps. I am afraid of dying without doing anything.” 

“Right?” 

“But??that’s irrelevant for you.” 

“That’s right. Yes, yes. That’s exactly correct. Well, we’ll take a rest after we get our room service dinner. Ah, please also accompany us Yui-san. It would be troublesome if it’s poisoned.” 

“My master wouldn’t use poison.” 

“If it were me, I would use it without hesitation.” 

“That’s terrible Kurumi-san. That’s not something to be proud of.” 

Yui also greatly agreed with this. 

Dinner brought by the mass production Yui types was first class. The dish was Amirstan lamb’s thigh meat with bite sized avocado, cucumbers, and tomatoes all wrapped in lettuce and garnished with Greek yogurt sauce. But the word Amirstan didn’t seem to have any meaning or so Kurumi thought as it looked like ordinary sheep. This preference appeared to be a joke in poor taste. 

Hibiki shouted out delicious while eating. 

“Just being French cuisine means showing a luxurious atmosphere.” 

“Your impression is too rude to the person who cooked this. Who is the chef that made this?” 

“I’m sorry. At the chef’s request, the name and face will not be disclosed. Another chef will be responsible for cooking tomorrow.” 

The mass-produced Yui coldly replied. 

“Ara, ara. That’s not surprising. But if we ever stay in this hotel again, I would like the opportunity to taste this again. Can you make a reservation?” 

“……I will convey that to them.” 

“??I’m so full! Kya, it was so delicious!” 

Hibiki laughed as she spoke to the three of them. Although there wasn’t any need to do so after dining together, Kurumi also nodded. 

“So there’s no poison?” 

“Um, you see, it could be a time-delayed poison.” 

“Speaking of which, even if poison is used, I don’t believe the specifics of the game have been exactly decided??” 

The mass production type Yui gently took out a letter from the dinner cart. 

“Everyone. After the meal has concluded, my master has commanded me to deliver this.” 

Those words caused the soothing atmosphere to suddenly turn tense. 

“……Synchronize to me. I’ll give the explanation.” 

As Yui stood up, the mass production Yui shook her head. 

“This is my job.” 

“……R-Right.” 

The mass production type took only a step forward, then spreading out her hands to read the letter in a flat tone. 

“1. The game will begin at 20:00 in seven more days. The game is Texas Hold’em. The players are Sagakure Yuri, Tokisaki Kurumi, Miyafuji Oka, and Ariadne Foxlot.” 

“Is Yukishiro Maya the dealer?” 

Yui quietly nodded. 

“2. Yukishiro Maya will be the dealer since her abilities are necessary for keeping the game fair.” 

“Well, that is fine. Please continue.” 

“3. Cheating qualifies for disqualification once discovered.” 

“Yes, yes. It is exactly as you say. Cheating is not allowed.” 

“4. The ranking of two of the players, Miyafuji Oka and Ariadne Foxlot, will not determine the result of the game. The game will be decided on whether Sagakure Yuri or Tokisaki Kurumi ranks higher.” 

“May I ask a question? Who will win if Sagakure Yuri and I are equal in YP?” 

“……5. In the scenario where no victory of defeat occurs, each player will be provided a loan for a rematch. In this case, it will be a game only between Sagakure Yuri and Tokisaki Kurumi.” 

“I see, I see. This is not the end, correct? There should be still many important details left.” 

“6. For rules of Texas Hold’em, please refer to this rulebook.” 

Kurumi received a green colored rulebook from the mass production type Yui. 

“……That is all.” 

“Ara, ara. That isn’t good at all, Yuri-san.” 

Kurumi smiled, estimating that Sagakure Yuri must be listening through this mass production model. 

“I would like to add these additional conditions. First, Higoromo Hibiki and Cistus are allowed to compete as members.” 

Kurumi’s first additional condition surprised everyone present. 

“Eh……!? M-Me, Kurumi-san!?” 

Ignoring the crowd, Kurumi raised two fingers. 

“Second. Everyone must vow in front of the cards that the cards won’t be altered in any way. In particular, Yukishiro-san will be in trouble if this responsibility isn’t taken care of. I will not accept a victory obtained through cheating in cards.” 

“……” 

“Third. Regarding funds. We currently can offer 500,000 YP. This should be regarded as the limit that everyone should equalize their funds to. We will accept a little extra, but if you use 100 

million YP to start an endurance war, there are no chances for our victory.” 

Kurumi raised another finger. 

“Fourth. No matter where the match is held, there should be no audience. Even if only watching through a video, it is difficult not to speculate cheating when several people are looking around.” 

Kurumi raised her final finger. 

“Finally. Let us investigate the playing field three hours before the start of the match. We won’t compete unless we can confirm that there isn’t stage equipment that could assist in cheating.” 

Although the mass produced Yui was silent as if frozen, she nodded in response. 

“I will convey this to the master. Please wait a moment.” 

“No, I won’t wait. Anyway, shouldn’t this conversation be transmitted in real time? Please answer immediately now.” 

Kurumi stood up and stared at the mass production Yui’s expressionless eyes. 

“Come on, come on, come on!” 

The mass production Yui opened her mouth??as Sagakure Yuri’s voice could be heard. 

“How scary. If I resist, you’ll start pointing your gun. Okay, I understand. There are no problems with requests 2 and 4. Originally, there was no audience planned. As for 5, naturally we will also be present. You could also set something up then on the contrary.” 

“Of course, that is fine.” 

“As for 3……let’s see, how about a 75 million YP ceiling?” 

“70 million.” “60 million.” 

“65 million, is that okay? Tokisaki Kurumi.” 

“……Well, I’ll compromise on this.” 

“And now for 1??that won’t be allowed. This game is meaningless unless it is competed by Dominions. Even if it is your companion, it won’t work. Of course, the other Tokisaki Kurumi is also rejected.” 

“Hmm. So if it is a Dominion class Spirit, there should be a problem?” 

“Eh, that’s……” 

Kurumi grinned. 

“Carte À Jouer. I will compete against you with her as my partner. Despite losing to the White Queen, she is a former Dominion of the Third Region Binah, so there should be no issues with that?” 

“……Understood, that’s okay.” 

Yuri spoke in a terribly blunt voice. 

“But here’s my condition. She will share the same YP as Tokisaki Kurumi. In other words, it’ll be a total of 65 million YP. I won’t yield on this point.” 

Hibiki was about to complain that this was too much, but Kurumi pulled her back with a stare. 

No problem, it was certainly a huge disadvantage, but the chance of victory in cards were much higher than when playing alone. 

Moreover, the amount wasn’t too much of an issue. Regardless if the amount was a billion YP or half a billion YP, it will be gone in a split second. It was poker game after all. Rather than focusing on the amount of money, just having one more member playing will increase chances of victory, or so Kurumi thought. 

While having a greater amount may be beneficial in the beginning, it could also lead to carelessness and complacency. Kurumi judged that it would be wiser to have as little funds as possible before the game. 

“……Alright. This should be fine.” 

“Then, goodbye. I’m looking forward to the match in a week.” 

“I am the same. Then, goodbye.” 

The mass produced Yui suddenly trembled. She opened her eyes and looked around. Then, probably realizing the situation, she lowered her head. 

“Then, please excuse me.” 

After seeing her leave with the cart, Kurumi sighed. 

“I managed to add that in.” 

“Um, sorry, I don’t understand what happened at all. Ah but, I think the rules are important……but the subsequent exchange……” 

Hibiki raised her hand to ask a question. 

Yui also slightly took notice of this concern. Meanwhile, Cistus was drinking her black tea with a calm expression. 

“Me (Cistus). I find it troublesome, but as me shouldn’t you also understand?” 

“Yes, yes, of course I understand……but troublesome. The point is that we can’t say anything in front of Yui-san, right?” 

Cistus pointed to the shadows. 

“If there’s something secret to discuss, please do so. I’ll stay here.” 

“……Yes. Then Sagakure Yui-san, please stay here for a moment. I have something I need to explain to Hibiki-san.” 

After saying that, Kurumi jumped into the shadows with Hibiki. 

“Eh……!” 

Yui rushed over in a hurry, but Cistus stopped her in her tracks with an antique pistol. 

“In the Seventh Region Netzach, there is nowhere you cannot see……did you imagine it like that? 

Unfortunately, no one can peek into the realm of shadows and darkness that we control. 

Leaving behind Yui and Cistus glaring at each other, Kurumi and Hibiki began secretly talking within the shadows. 

“So then. What does this mean in the end……?” 

Hibiki looked around at her surroundings. Despite having experience in these shadows, she still couldn’t get accustomed to this complete darkness. 

“??First of all, there are eight or nine chances out of ten that our opponents will be cheating.” 

“……Really?” 

“Please remember the request made by the other side. When cheating is discovered, you will be punished. If cheating isn’t discovered, you can cheat as much as you want.” 

“Ah……that’s right.” 

Of course even in the real world, unless it was physically established, it wouldn’t be considered as cheating. 

But here in the Neighboring World, a world where physical existence carries little meaning. 

There were also many ways to lie. However, since their opponents did do, which was tantamount to already confessing to cheating. 

“Additionally, our opponent is aiming for me to cheat. It would be easier to accuse me of cheating rather than risking it in the results of the game.” 

“Are you going to cheat?” 

“I wasn’t intending on it. But I’ll make them regret looking down at me.” 

“……Fufufu.” 

“Hibiki-san, what are you doing?” 

“No, no, nothing at all.” 

Within the bottomless shadows, the two of them were plotting out a sinister scheme……or rather Hibiki was enjoying this as if whispering something secret during a school. 

“Kurumi’s desire is to have control over how the other side cheats……is that right?” 

“Yes, yes. But nevertheless, there will definitely be cheating present. On that basis, we’ll have to prevail against whatever cheating takes place.” 

“Ah, then what should we do about money?” 

“……That is where I am worried. Gambling is game involving funds. At most, we have 50 

million, while the opposing side has 195 million.” 

In terms of gambling, funding is the equivalent to physical strength. No matter how strong a hand could be, it made no sense if the other side had no incentive or risk to make a huge wager. 

“I want to obtain at least another 15 million……but it seems that gambling is no longer possible.” 

“In terms of earning money, we should look for other ways besides gambling. It’s impossible for the entire economy of the Seventh Region Netzach to run entirely on gambling. Like this hotel, there must be another way.” 

“Will the Sagakure-sans get in the way?” 

“No. It’s probably the other way around. They’ll overlook us until we get 65 million YP……after all, pretensions of fair play should extend at least until there.” 

“I see……. By the way, do you really want Carte-san to participate?” 

“Yes, that’s right.” 

“If it was Carte-san, well……I think she’ll be happy to accept.” 

Hibiki looked a little annoyed, but she then turned away to avoid showing this. Thinking over this awkward performance, Kurumi grinned. 

“Unfortunately, I can’t rely on her just because she’s fought alongside us briefly in the Third Region Binah. Although I don’t think she would betray us, regardless there isn’t enough time spent communicating for us to fight together.” 

“Eh? Then what are we going to do?” 

“……” 

Kurumi grinned while looking at Kurumi. 

Hibiki. 

……Had an awful feeling. 

“Ah, um, so I guess you want to use <King Killing>?” 

“That is an excellent answer, Hibiki-san.” 

“What nonsense are you saying now!? Well, seeing you like this, I already expected that it would end up like this!” 

“So, will it be possible to enact then?” 

“……How long would Texas Hold’em take?” 

“It would depend on the amount of bets wagered……but at most it shouldn’t take up an entire day.” 

“If it is just exchanging faces, I should be able to hold that up for half a day. But then I won’t be able to make a copy of the Unsigned Angel. In other words, I would have nothing left to use for a fight……” 

“That is enough.” 

“……?” 

“Likely, just as the game begins, Hibiki-san’s identity will be revealed.” 

“Eh!?” 

“They should already know about <King Killing>. If Carte-san appears, that would likely be their first assumption.” 

“T-Then what should we do!?” 

“It’s fine to leave that point alone. Once the game begins, it won’t be stopped.” 

“……Huh?” 

Kurumi responded by slanting her head. 

“Do you remember my fourth request?” 

“Ah, yes. Uhh……there’s no audience to hinder us, so they’ll just be watching through video……right? I took that to be expected.” 

“Listen, when I put forth my request about an audience, Yuri-san said ‘there is no audience’, In other words, there will be wagers held via video over who will win.” 

“……Aah!” 

Hibiki clapped her hands together. 

“??So, even if the other side has Higoromo Hibiki use <King Killing> in order to participate; we won’t be able to refuse??” 

As Sagakure Yuri sighed while informing this, Ariadne Foxlot simply shrugged in response. 

“……Isn’t it fine? Because the name and abilities of the Unsigned Angel of that former Empty has been seen through. Isn’t it a power that can be used to cheat in poker?” 

Yukishiro Maya nodded in agreement to this opinion. 

“Indeed, rather it would be more troublesome if it was actually Carte À Jouer participating. 

There are too many unknowns in her ability. I don’t know if I’ll be able to handle it.” 

“Don’t joke about that. At most, it will be the Empty that joins the game.” 

Miyafuji Oka pursed her lips as she complained. 

“……If Tokisaki Kurumi wins, can that be used as a means to deny her victory?” 

“No, no, no, Mayamaya. That’s not a good move. Forget about it, that’s not okay to do in the Seventh Region Netzach.” 

Yuri nodded to what Ariadne had said. 

“Absolutely not, Sagakure Yuri’s (my) credence would be affected by that. If cheating is discovered after the fact, it can’t be disavowed.” 

In the Seventh Region Netzach, all of the gambling was done on a massive scale. Although viewers would accept the invalidation judgement if they found the improper behavior during the real time video, invalidity proposed after the fact would not be accepted by the YP operating tables gambling over the match results. 

If this was done, someone may even attempt to impeach the Dominion. 

If this were to occur, the situation wouldn’t be just limited to the Seventh Region Netzach. Maya, Ariadne, and Oka, all three of them would be dragged into this as well for participating. 

Therefore, it was to the extent where Higoromo Hibiki transforming into Carte À Jouer couldn’t be called out as cheating. 

“Fumu. Then it’s simple. We will win fairly. There are three people here. And isn’t Yukishiro-san still the dealer? If so, then we must win with absolute justice.” 

Clearing her throat, Oka proudly raised her chest. Maya clapped her hands in applause. 

Ariadne secretly whispered to Yuri. 

“Didn’t you tell her that we’ll be cheating?” 

“Miyafuji-san’s sense of justice is too strong, so it’ll be scary to tell her……” 

“……Do you plan to keep that from her?” 

“I intend to if possible……” 

“I find it difficult. But if you think so……I’ll think of a way.” 

“Thank you. Please do so.” 

“What about Maya?” 

“Ah, I already told Yukishiro-san. But she said it was impossible for her to act so recklessly as the dealer.” 

“Understood.” 

Without knowing that such an exchange was going on, Miyafuji Oka shouted as her determination came to a boil. 

“Absoooooolutely. We will triumph. Tokisaki Kurumi!” 

One person swore to win. 

One person intended to understand Tokisaki Kurumi. 

One person was committed only to her own desires. 

One person quietly waited for her chance. 

After deciding on various matters, Kurumi and Hibiki came out from the shadows. Yui glanced at them with a worried look, but Hibiki flashed a smile and began idly chatting with her. 

……There are two reasons for talking to Sagakure Yui. 

First, of course was to gather information about Sagakure Yuri. 

Knowing more about her might reveal her weakness. Even if it wasn’t a weak point, it was meaningful to know more about Sagakure Yuri. 

That being said, nothing had been gained so far from their previous chats together. 

“Cistus.” 

“Yes, yes. It means staying up all night……but I understand.” 

Cistus blended into the shadows. She was now going to be involved in information gathering. 

Honestly, Kurumi thought about creating another clone using the Eighth Bullet <Het>. 

However, Kurumi wanted to do that only at the most critical moment. ……Without him in the Neighboring World, even if born, it would only give birth to something embracing an endless emptiness. 

……With that being said. 

Cistus left the hotel without Yui even realizing it, all in order to gather as much information about Sagakure Yuri as possible. 

Kurumi and Hibiki were now speaking to Yui for another reason. Since this Sagakure Yui was regarded as an individual, they wanted to see if they could pull her away from Sagakure Yuri. 

Not only in this hotel, but everywhere in the Seventh Region Netzach was being monitored by the mass production Yui models. 

……In turn, this created a plethora of information. And here was the crux of the matter, from chatting with her Hibiki was able to conclude that this special Sagakure Yui had an individual personality. 

While serving her older sister Yuri, this Sagakure Yui was thinking, worrying, and acting like an ordinary girl. 

Then treating her as an individual would help separate her from Sagakure Yuri. 

Incidentally, this idea belonged not to Kurumi, but rather to Hibiki. Despite having no experience being in the Seventh Region Netzach before, she had already once gathered information about Sagakure Yui. 

Of course, she didn’t know if this would work. 

In any case, it was impossible for Sagakure Yui to betray Yuri. 

But??if she focused solely on shaking her trust in Yuri just a little, the information Yui could bring about Kurumi would deteriorate in quality. 

While keeping that in mind, Hibiki kept talking. 

As a result, Hibiki kept talking to Yui until she was weary and fell asleep. There was almost no real content, but the voice of a single person could still be heard. 

Incidentally, the contents were 10% about herself and 90% about Kurumi. 

Feeling embarrassed by the contents of the discussion since the very beginning, Kurumi decided to go to bed early. 

Kurumi made earplugs to apply to her ears. While various forces were still targeting her, Kurumi thought she should be relatively safe right now. 

If she was on guard at all times, it would be long before her mind completely breaks down. 

Despite several nights having already passed in the Neighboring World, she rarely dreamed. 

Even if she dreamed, it wouldn’t be a dream about that person. 

Longing for you. 

The person she fell in love with. 

The person that she cherished. 

However, she couldn’t recall. She couldn’t remember. Everything, everything. 

As if sinking into a deep sea, Kurumi fell asleep. 

The next day. Despite having said that, it was always night at the Seventh Region Netzach. 

So even after opening her eyes, it remained nighttime outside. 

For the remaining seven days, Kurumi’s basic policy was to collect information and earn money outside of gambling. 

“……This is the job magazine you requested.” 

Kurumi and Hibiki read through the magazine that Yui presented. 

“Uhh, there’s a bartending job.” 

“Making a cocktail. ……No, let’s put a stop to that. I’m still a minor.” 

“Eh, um.” 

“……What does that response just now mean, Hibiki-san?” 

“Kurumi-san is a pretty girl!” 

“Alright.” 

Having phrased it like that, Yui wondered if it was really alright. 

“Anyway, this is no good. Unless it’s a job that earns 2 million YP per day, focusing on simplicity is tantamount to hard labor.” 

“Is there such a convenient part time job?” 

“Yes, if the Seventh Region Netzach truly is a night city.” 

Hibiki had learned that Kurumi only gave this smile when having to make a choice between 

“something interesting” and “something boring”. 

In this case, this was the former. 

“Night city, doesn’t that mean it’s a naughty job?” 

“That’s right.” 

“Eh?” 

Although it isn’t well-known, there are smartphones in the Neighboring World. Although it consumed a bit of Reiryoku each time to use, there was nothing more convenient than long distance communication. Despite saying that, due to the possibility of being monitored in the Seventh Region Netzach, using it should be avoided as much as possible. 

“Ara, ara.” 

Cistus was staring at her vibrating smartphone. 

It was extremely rare for Hibiki to try and contact her. Perhaps Hibiki kept her distance from Cistus because she was also Kurumi. 

……Nevertheless, Hibiki wasn’t hostile towards Cistus. In regards to supporting Kurumi, Cistus and Hibiki shared the same position. 

“Hello, is there anything wrong?” 

“Cistus-san! Kurumi-san……Kurumi-san. Kuru??????mi-san!” 

“Calm down. What happened? A sneak attack?” 

“No, that’s not it! Kurumi-san……has become a rabbit!” 

It seemed necessary to go to them as soon as possible. 

Cistus decided on that. 

And so. This was it. 

“Bunny girl……” 

“Wooooooow! Woooooow! My Kurumi-san, Kurumi-san, has become the most popular bunny girl in the Seventh Region Netzach!” 

“You’re in the way, Hibiki-san.” 

Kurumi, who had become a bunny girl, was standing there. High heels, fishnet stockings, a black corset, and a rabbit ear headband. 

Seeing this perfect bunny girl dressed up, Hibiki stood crying while on her feet. 

“……What are you doing?” 

“Working.” 

Rather than a <Zafkiel> in Kurumi’s hands……there was a signboard there. It seemed to be a part-time job promoting the casino. 

“I see, so you’re working.” 

Cistus deeply nodded while convinced. 

“Please go do something else!” 

“No, there’s nothing wrong. You will continue gathering information. The two of us will continue earning as much YP as needed. Military funds will likely be very important.” 

Cistus blankly shrugged before disappearing into the shadows again. 

Already Quasi-Spirits with wallets began gathering one after the other. 

“……Everyone, welcome to the casino Octopus Pot. Thank you all for your patronage.” 

“U-Um.” 

A Quasi-Spirit raised a trembling hand. It seemed she had won a lot of YP from the other casinos. 

“Do you need funds?” 

“……That’s right. I right now reaaaaaaally lack money. But if you raise money for me??” 

“If?” 

“I will be very happy.” 

A brilliant smile, immediately afterwards some Quasi-Spirits began collapsing one after the other. 

“Wooooooow, wooooooow, mine, mine??” 

Then Hibiki grasped tightly on the raining downpour of YP coins. 

“Well, Hibiki-san should also change clothes to work as well. You should also try your best to earn YP. Let’s work together to earn money.” 

“Uhh, this feels like something a gigolo would support……but it doesn’t feel bad!” 

Hibiki whispered as she transformed her Astral Dress into a bunny girl outfit. 

“That reputation isn’t pleasing to hear!? I simply need to make money independently!” 

If Kurumi was a bunny girl wearing a black corset, then Hibiki was the exact opposite. 

Everything but her black fishnet tights was completely white. 

“Okay, please hold on. I’ll put on my most attractive face now.” 

Hibiki rubbed her cheeks and then turned to face the audience. 

“??” 

Several Quasi-Spirits were trembling. In front of Higoromo Hibiki were bottomless everyday optimists. 

“I don’t know if I have a tomorrow because of an illness……without YP I’ll be very troubled.” 

In front of them was a beautiful silver haired bunny girl with a melancholic expression. 

“Uh. I don’t know if that illness is a lie……but I’ll still give you YP……!” 

Several people were drawn to Hibiki. 

“……If I’m a gigolo, then you’re a scammer……” 

“I’m doing my best, so don’t say that!” 

Hibiki intensely protested against Kurumi’s whispers. 

In any case, the two part-timers were on the main street advertising for the Octopus Pot. 

However, the twist was that the main source of income for those two came in the form a money shower. 

Of course, this was tolerable within their part-time job. After all, they couldn’t complain that pedestrian Quasi-Spirits were simply throwing an offering of YP at them while they were holding the sign. 

In the first place, the audience size increased by 1.3 times each day since they took this job. Even when deducting the 50 million YP Kurumi had already earned from them, an excess of money was entering the casino. 

Of course, these things were also passed onto her ears. 

“Kurumi-sama!” 

“Geez, you’re here.” 

As Kurumi was walking on the main street, there was a joyful cry. Hibiki gave a look of disgust at the girl who appeared as expected. 

Top hat with a sleeveless white blouse, this look seemed more suitable for the Seventh Region Netzach than it did for the Third Region Binah. She had fiery red hair and a teardrop and star marks on her face. 

“Cattle Mutilation-san who ran away from the Eighth Region Hod!” 

“It is Carte À Jouer! My name doesn’t give the impression of kidnapping cows! And I’m sorry for escaping!” 

“Ah, it’s been a while.” 

“Ah, Ace of Spades-san!” 

As of Ace of Spades nostalgically called out, there were other cries of “Long time no see”, “It’s been such a long time”, and “I’ve missed you so much” as the other trump cards jumped out in harmony. 

“I’ve heard all about it, Kurumi-sama! It seems you’re going to compete in Texas Hold’em! If there is anything I, Carte, can do, just mention it!” 

“Yes, yes. There are two things I wish to ask of Carte-san. Can you hear me out?” 

“Yes!” 

Carte replied immediately. It felt like she was going to follow no matter what order was given. 

Hibiki thought that the coordinated outfits between those two right now looked subtly out of place. 

“First of all, I want you to lend your face to Hibiki-san.” 

As Kurumi explained the situation, Carte gave a distressed nod. 

“Gu, mu. But why shouldn’t I participate? I have some experience in Texas Hold’em??” 

“Although I’ve considered that, I have another important role for Carte-san.” 

“Mu?” 

“Actually??” 

Kurumi secretly whispered to Carte. 

“I can’t believe that Spirit is earning money through working. Doesn’t that Spirit have any pride!?” 

“Well, it’s not that difficult to do with that much popularity.” 

Miyafuji Oka was biting into her handkerchief. Ariadne was giggling, Maya was impressed by such a hand being played, and Sagakure Yuri was at a loss for words. 

Of course, it was easy to place pressure on the casino where they worked. 

However, this was different than the order placed on not letting Tokisaki Kurumi gamble. During that time, the casino was suffering a loss in profits, so it gladly accepted Yuri’s order. 

But this time was different. They were gaining profits. 

And that knowledge was passed on to the other casinos. If they placed pressure on Octopus Pot, it would just provide a chance for another casino to hire those two. 

“Well, I don’t think you need to worry.” 

Ariadne said to Yuri while enjoying her nap. 

“It’s impossible to earn 50 million from that alone. At most it will be around 15 million.” 

“Why?” 

“It’ll get boring soon. There are not many people here obsessed with idols like in the Ninth Region Yesod.” 

“……That’s true.” 

Sagakure Yuri gently stroked her chest. If so, the situation wouldn’t change. 

“65 million vs 195 million. There’s an overwhelming gap in terms of funding. In this case??” 

“It’ll be our victory.” 

Miyafuji Oka’s eyes became as sharp as the tip of a spear. 

Seeing this, Ariadne also narrowed her gaze. 

“Ariadne-san, the lynchpin will be you.” 

“Okay, okay. I know. Miyafuji-san, Yuri-san, I’ll also be in your care.” 

As Ariadne said those words, the atmosphere of the room turned frigid. 

The mass produced Yui models doing chores here firmly clenched their hands. 

They are cheap mass produced models, almost like robots……but despite that they had some degree of emotions left where they could still tremble. 

It happened when they instinctively recognized failure and immediately withdrew as soon as possible to for the sake of self-preservation. 

That is to say, a feeling born when completely terrified.