Volume 1, Chapter 44: Transferred to Ocean Branch

Finally, Xia Chen survived the first day within the simulation scenario.

Although most of the subsequent time involved mundane tasks, fortunately, no major surprises occurred.

He woke up, checking the time.

Fifteen days within the simulation scenario equated to merely three hours in reality.

He couldn't help but exhale deeply.

This was likely the first simulation that didn't cause any discomfort, despite not killing the Herrscher of the Void. Nonetheless, his overall outcome was still commendable.

As for why the Herrscher fled...

It's probably because Otto instructed Durandal to let her escape.

However...

Would Otto be aware of what transpired in this scenario?

A hint of concern flickered in Xia Chen's eyes.

With lingering worries, he proceeded to open both supply crates.

[Congratulations! You've obtained 'Hanna (Upper)' and 'Hanna (Lower)'].

[Under the influence of Stigma Ana Schariac, they have been decomposed.]

Xia Chen sighed internally, "Figures."

Unbeknownst to him, the stigma space on his back began expanding, revealing the ethereal form of the consciousness residing within.

Meanwhile, at Schicksal Headquarters.

Otto, leaning comfortably in his chair, slowly opened his eyes.

"Hmm, it's been quite a while since I last dreamt."

"Was this recent dream...some kind of omen?"

The next day, Amber received an unusual order from Director Otto, leaving her somewhat perplexed.

"Xia Chen's abilities are exceptional, but his experience is still lacking. The Ocean Branch currently needs more personnel; assign him there for further training."

These were Otto's exact words.

Despite her doubts, Amber faithfully executed the command.

"Yes, Director Otto," she replied.

She promptly relayed this information to Ana, who was still leading the provisional squad with only numerical designation.

"What?" Ana seemed puzzled. "Transfer to the Ocean Branch? Why?"

"It's Bishop Otto's directive," Amber stated calmly. "With most regional Honkai Events resolved, Xia Chen's growth potential here is limited. Coincidentally, the Ocean Branch requested additional manpower from headquarters."

"The Ocean Branch has decent resources, so you needn't worry about any unfair treatment towards him."

"Then I'm going too." Ana spoke like a petulant princess, pleading, "Lady Amber, Sister Amber, I want to go as well."

Being the young princess of the Schariac family, she shared a personal rapport with Amber and naturally tried to charm her way through.

"No, it's not possible," Amber firmly rejected Ana's request this time. "Although your injuries have healed, certain aspects related to your Schariac lineage have not fully recovered."

"But you're transferring my teammate away..."

"I will arrange for new members to join your squad," Amber firmly stated. "Moreover, Bishop Otto only sent him away for training, not indefinitely. He remains a member of the Snow Lotus Squad."

"Rest assured, Schicksal highly values Xia Chen. This assignment is meant to provide experience and aid his growth." However, even as Amber spoke, she sounded uncertain.

While Honkai Events could occur at other branches, the Ocean Branch was virtually immune to such incidents.

Based on Schicksal's analysis of numerous Honkai Events, they typically happened more frequently in areas with higher levels of civilization and dense populations.

In contrast, Australia, vast and sparsely populated, was practically untouched by modern civilization. The reason Schicksal established a branch here was due to its indispensable mineral resources.

There was genuinely no need to worry about Honkai Events occurring in this region, as the conditions were simply not conducive.

It felt akin to being exiled.

Of course, Amber couldn't reveal this to Ana. She herself didn't fully understand why Otto had made such a sudden transfer; perhaps he merely believed the Ocean Branch truly needed additional personnel.

Ana pouted reluctantly.

"Well then..." she bargained, "Could you give Xia Chen more vacation time, please? Come on, Sister Hanako."

"I'll determine it based on actual needs," Amber replied, feeling slightly overwhelmed.

While Otto has always been in charge of Schicksal, he does not directly manage specific affairs; that responsibility largely falls on Amber. Consequently, she frequently interacts with other influential families.

The House of Schariac is staunchly loyal to Otto, but their opinions still need to be considered by Amber.

Ana's eyes brightened. "I'll take that as a yes."

Both parties ended the communication.

A slight sadness crept into Ana's gaze.

She genuinely didn't want to part from Xia Chen. Since the Snow Lotus Squad's devastating loss, it was Xia Chen who had consistently stayed by her side.

Although most of the time they simply ate together and trained alongside each other without any overtures beyond friendship, she unconsciously grew accustomed to this shared routine.

However, this is Schicksal.

Schicksal is a military organization, and its orders must be obeyed without question.

As members of the House Schariac, unwavering followers of Schicksal, Ana naturally understood this obligation.

With a heavy heart, she informed Xia Chen about the situation.

"After the Ocean Branch Valkyries complete their duty reports, you will leave with them." She gently straightened Xia Chen's disheveled collar, worn askew from training, and said, "There usually aren't significant issues at that location. However, afterward, you might be identified for focused development, which could mean leaving the Snow Lotus Squad."

Xia Chen felt a weight in his thoughts.

It was clear that this decision was connected to the simulation scenario.

Otto had merely chosen a path ensuring no interference with his plans.

He held her hand and said, "It's alright, I'll come back."

Her expression softened slightly, revealing a hint of relief.

"I won't leave you."

"Hmph, who asked you to follow me around?"

Despite her words, she didn't let go of his hand.

Frowning slightly, she said, "The training intensity at the Ocean Branch definitely won't match that of the Immortal Blades, and it's more relaxed there with plenty of girls."

"Don't flirt or get too close to anyone else, understood?"

"Mm-hmm, okay."

Xia Chen looked deeply into her eyes: "I'll listen to you always."

"That's better." Ana's lips curved upwards slightly.

"Right, close your eyes; I have something for you."

"For me?" Xia Chen obediently closed his eyes, unsure of what to expect.

Then, he felt a gentle kiss, as light as a butterfly's touch, on his lips.

When he opened his eyes, the girl had already darted away.

In his hand, he found a necklace with half a heart pendant.

Xia Chen's eyes sparkled, and the corners of his mouth lifted gently.

Even the Stigmata on his back seemed to react positively, reflecting his excellent mood.

Just then, a Valkyrie from the Ocean Branch approached him.

"Hello, I'm Gretel, an A-rank Valkyrie from the Ocean Branch. Lady Amber has briefed me about everything," the girl named Gretel stood before him and continued, "Our departure is scheduled for 9 AM two days from now. Please ensure you're prepared by tomorrow."

"Alright."

Xia Chen managed a forced smile, feeling his newfound joy dissipate instantly.

His good mood was completely shattered by this woman's interruption.

Xia Chen sighed and just as he prepared to continue training, he noticed Durandal approaching.

"Durandal... Captain."

He stood still, feeling somewhat puzzled.

Looking straight at him, Durandal said, "I originally wanted to spar with you to gauge your progress over this period. However, since I heard you're leaving, it's best if you take ample rest. But when we meet next time, I'll still seek another sparring session."

"Don't regress; otherwise, it would be truly disappointing," she cautioned before departing promptly.