Volume 1, Chapter 46: The Situation at the Ocean Branch

By the time Wendy appeared in the original storyline, the Ocean Branch had already been completely destroyed. Thus, Xia Chen's knowledge about the Ocean Branch came solely from Alvitr.

Although he was mentally prepared for poor conditions at the Ocean Branch, Xia Chen did not expect them to be this dire.

It wasn't that the living environment was subpar; Schicksal ensured adequate standards in that aspect.

Rather, the training facilities were severely lacking. The Ocean Branch not only lacked the Memory Battlefields but also didn't have common weight-training equipment used by the Immortal Blades.

Gretel, with self-deprecating humor, said, "Any Valkyries with strong combat desire or exceptional talent at the Ocean Branch are recommended to other branches or even Headquarters. I'm the exception."

"I don't enjoy fighting; instead, I prefer relishing the present moment."

Upon arriving at the Ocean Branch, Gretel proactively assigned him a room and took him to the branch base to input his information.

"One day you'll leave too, but at least during your stay here, I hope we can get along well." She extended her hand as she spoke.

Xia Chen nodded, replying, "Yes, of course."

On his first day, he acquainted himself with various individuals.

Unlike Schicksal Headquarters, which predominantly consisted of elite Valkyries, the Ocean Branch had a smaller number of Valkyries among its personnel. Instead, it mainly comprised experimental researchers and business elites recruited by Schicksal.

Their work was unquestionably crucial. Apart from studying the Gem of Desire, these personnel also helped alleviate the research burden on Schicksal Headquarters' numerous institutes.

Australia indeed provided an ideal setting for research, with its vast, sparsely populated land and abundant resources.

As Alvitr revealed, some tests of the Augmented God Machine were conducted in Australia, and the initial design framework for Divine Machine Baldr was developed by the Ocean Branch.

Of course, this had nothing to do with Xia Chen.

In any case, during subsequent Revelation scenarios, the Schicksal Series robots never truly proved useful. Ultimately, it was always the Valkyries who cleared these crises.

These business elites naturally played a crucial role in supporting the Ocean Branch's revenue from mineral resources alongside Headquarters' interests.

While most men in this world served as cannon fodder, they weren't entirely useless. Logistics remained a vital component of any military organization.

The executives were somewhat surprised by Xia Chen's arrival but still welcomed him cordially. However, their smiles seemed rather insincere.

Xia Chen understood; individuals accustomed to dealing with high-ranking government officials often wore such fake smiles. Moreover, at eighteen years old, no matter how exceptional he might be, these seasoned professionals likely viewed him as just another inexperienced youth.

Not everyone comprehends the true value of warriors.

In fact, many people saw Valkyries merely as elite enforcers.

Fortunately, Otto controlled Schicksal and maintained enough influence to suppress governments and conglomerates worldwide. Otherwise, Valkyries could easily become pawns sacrificed in political games among nations.

Honestly, from the moment Xia Chen arrived at the Ocean Branch, he felt deeply uncomfortable and out of place. Everyone here wore masks of insincerity, including Gretel.

Despite the relaxed training environment, it was challenging for him to fit in.

After enduring a somewhat lively banquet, he returned to his room only to hear his communicator buzzing.

"Hi." Ana greeted him through the video call with a pout. "If I didn't contact you first, would you ever reach out? You're so stingy."

"Just finished handling some matters," Xia Chen vented to her. "The atmosphere at the Ocean Branch is completely different from what I expected. I thought it would be like the Immortal Blades, where we just focus on training."

He briefly shared his observations and feelings with Ana.

She furrowed her delicate nose sympathetically. "It really sounds tough for you. Sigh, unfortunately, there's not much I can do about it. Although the Ocean Branch is still part of Schicksal, each branch has its own unique focus."

She paused before continuing, "The Ocean Branch is responsible for supplying many resources to Headquarters, so they require individuals skilled in commerce rather than combat Valkyries. Honestly, I'm not sure why Amber transferred you there."

Even now, Ana couldn't fully comprehend it.

She even suspected that her father might have disapproved of Xia Chen and used Amber's influence to have him reassigned.

Xia Chen sighed, "I thought life with the Immortal Blades was tough enough, but now I realize that place suited me best."

"Hmph, well, you better adjust to your new situation for some time," Ana responded after a moment. "If we were stationed outside Headquarters, social events like banquets would still be frequent. Some local families even seek to marry Valkyries, making such unsavory affairs commonplace."

As a member of the House of Shaniyat, she had insights into certain matters.

Humans inherently aspire for power and influence, especially within Schicksal, which holds significant advantages in global resources and ecological dominance. This attracts many who wish to align themselves with the vast ship that is Schicksal.

To consolidate its control more effectively, Schicksal does not reject overtures from local elites. If a Valkyrie and a local dignitary mutually consent, marriage poses no issue.

It's worth noting that within Schicksal-controlled territories, Valkyries automatically receive military ranks recognized by various countries. For instance, Himeko holds the rank of major, while Kiana is a second lieutenant, acknowledged by most nations across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

With such recognition, Schicksal significantly reduces its operational funding needs, saving both time and resources.

Ana paused momentarily before saying, "I certainly don't want to deal with these matters myself; I'll have to rely on you then, Lord Xia Chen." She winked playfully.

Xia Chen, slightly taken aback, nodded promptly. "Sure thing."

"But only if I'm allowed to accompany you," he added.

"Hmph, relying on the dignity of House Schariac, I will definitely persuade Big Sister Amber."

"Big...Sister Amber?"

"What's wrong with that? Do you prefer calling her Aunt Amber?" There was a hint of mischief in her eyes.

Xia Chen shrugged it off.

Changing the subject, he asked, "By the way, how are your new squad members doing?"

"They're not bad, although they can't compare to the Immortal Blades, just like how I can't match Captain Durandal. But I'm quite satisfied," she replied, pausing briefly. "Soon, I'll take them out on missions. Rest assured, I will restore the Snow Lotus Squad's reputation," Ana stated firmly.

Encouraged, Xia Chen responded, "Yes, I'll also strive hard here at my end."

After ending the communication, Xia Chen took a deep breath.

He planned to take a shower and then proceed with his simulation training.

Just then, he heard movement outside the window.

Approaching it, Xia Chen saw Gretel pushing a wheelchair, with a girl seated on it—the same one they had encountered earlier.

They appeared to be engaged in conversation, strolling under the dim night sky.