After meeting with Themis in her dream, Furina felt much more spirited.
She greeted a Melusine as she passed by, then pushed open the office door.
Focalors, with her chin propped up by one hand, was yawning with tears glistening at the corners of her eyes.
Rubbing her slightly sore eyes, Focalors looked at Furina who had entered the room. Her indifferent expression vanished completely, replaced by a gentle smile.
"Good morning, Furina."
"Mm, good morning, Focalors."
When Furina reached Focalors, she naturally settled into the nearby chair.
Watching the revitalized Furina with her chin propped up, Focalors reached out to tuck a damp strand of hair behind her ear.
She must have missed it during her wash-up.
Divine power gathered at Focalors' fingertips, evaporating the moisture from the hair. She sighed, drawing Furina's puzzled gaze.
"Furina..."
A mischievous smile played on Focalors' lips as her jade-white fingers poked Furina's soft, rounded cheek.
As Furina's bewilderment deepened, Focalors leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Next time, perhaps ask Themis to be gentler. After all, whatever she does to you in dreams... it echoes back to me."
Furina froze.
Focalors' words reverberated through her mind. She broke them down syllable by syllable, triple-checking she hadn't misheard - that this truly meant what she thought it did. Her shock was so profound that her hair stood straight up, trembling violently as her eyes widened to their fullest extent.
Then, her face flushed crimson as her heart screamed wildly.
Having successfully witnessed Furina turn into a blushing, steam-emitting mess, Focalors smiled contentedly.
Ah, there's nothing quite like saying such things to Furina's face and watching her blush so deeply she nearly faints.
Feeling thoroughly satisfied, Focalors exuded a sense of clarity and vitality, which only served to highlight Furina's mortified expression—as if she wished to dig a hole in the ground and disappear.
-
Phosphorus City, dawn.
Ahchoo!
Themis sneezed softly, tilting her head in confusion.
Strange. Who could be talking about me behind my back?
The city had been basking in spring's warmth and blooming flowers, with bright sunlight every day. It couldn't possibly be a cold. Furina and Focalors must be mentioning me again.
At the thought of Furina and Focalors, Themis smiled happily.
Surrounded by an aura of joy and ease, Themis walked through Phosphorus City's streets with Red Vita. The pair—one tall, one small—created a striking sight as they strolled together, Red Vita skipping cheerfully beside her.
"Themis-sis!"
"Today's patrol is about to begin."
Swinging her small, pale fists, Red Vita's youthful face brimmed with anticipation.
Though Phosphorus City's patrol routes had been traversed countless times over these centuries, Red Vita's enthusiasm for her work remained undiminished each day.
While her impulsive nature occasionally led to comical mishaps, as the city's representative, she proved remarkably responsible and capable.
Themis, with a mixture of exasperation and amusement, caught the overly eager Red Vita who was about to dash off. "Little Red, don't run too fast. You might bump into someone."
"Nonsense! It's still early. Everyone's still inside!"
Red Vita's clear, wide eyes reassured Themis that there was no need for concern. She puffed out her chest, guaranteeing absolute safety.
With a resigned smile, Themis released her grip, letting the girl bounce along the streets with infectious energy. Red Vita paused to admire shop displays, occasionally darting after birds that perched momentarily by the roadside.
"Public facilities are operating normally..."
"The streets remain clean..."
"No lost items on the road..."
"No laundry blown away by the wind..."
Red Vita had patrolled and inspected the main streets of Phosphorus City, reporting back to Themis.
Themis silently pulled out a notebook and pen, following behind Red Vita while checking off today's tasks with her pen.
The work of a Regent was so ordinary, it felt like a lifetime had passed.
Little Vitas' already adorable face now looked increasingly angelic.
Retirement life in Phosphorus City is truly wonderful! Themis thought.
Rubbing her chin, Themis smiled and reached out to flick Little Red Vita's stray hair repeatedly.
The soft hair swayed in the breeze, yet remained stubbornly upright despite Themis' teasing.
Since Themis followed behind Red Vita with careful movements, the energetic girl ahead remained completely oblivious to her antics.
Occasionally, early morning residents passing by would smile at the scene, leaving Red Vita utterly confused.
Seeing Little Red Vita's puzzled expression, Themis simply gave passing residents a hushing gesture.
It's just a harmless little thing.
And with Little Vitas being so cute, who could resist teasing her?
Furina was a blue-white kitten, while the seven Little Vitas resembled newborn kittens.
Kittens, those adorable creatures, are meant to be kissed, hugged, and lifted high into the air.
Without hesitation, Themis reached out and lifted the Red Vita high above her head.
"Haha, so high!"
Standing tall allowed for a broader view - being held aloft gave the kitten an even wider perspective.
The Red Vita smiled happily; this novelty was a new experience for her.
However, only Themis would do such a thing.
After all, the Little Vitas were at least as old as the city itself.
In her daily life, maintaining the reliable image of an agent meant she'd never let anyone lift her high like this.
Themis could get away with it because the Little Vitas saw her as one of their own.
Though she looked like an adult, Themis carried the dependable aura of a Sister Big Vita.
The "lifted high" experience ended when Red Vita spotted residents approaching.
"Ahem."
With a cough, Red Vita pretended nothing had happened, forcing her adult demeanor.
Behind her, Themis stifled a laugh.
"Another peaceful day in Phosphorus City. All systems normal!"
"Moreover, we haven't received any quests from everyone."
"Indeed, thanks to everyone's efforts, Phosphorus City remains exceptionally peaceful today!"
After finishing the patrol, Themis slung her notebook over her back.
The magic trick of making the notebook and pen disappear never failed to make Red Vita's eyes sparkle with wonder, no matter how many times she witnessed it.
Speaking of quests, Themis recalled Lumine, who was likely still running errands in some remote corner of Teyvat at this hour.
Lumine's workload grows heavier by the day, while Katheryne's residence grows ever larger.
Ha, Themis couldn't help but laugh twice in her heart at the players' quip.
With Red Vita's duties complete, Themis, as Regent, proceeded to check on other Vitas to see if they needed assistance.
After making her rounds, she found everything still unusually tranquil.
If only Fontaine's work could be this leisurely.
But she knew better. After all, Themis wasn't some tireless workhorse; she was just another employee.
Why do everything yourself when you can slack off?
The Orange Vita of Accumulation and the Harmonizing Violet Vita were busy carrying out their duties in the city.
These two Vitas typically assisted with childcare, visited the elderly, and helped the citizens of Phosphorus City plan upcoming events and celebrations.
The Red Vita of Righteousness, Inspector of Phosphorus City, was enthusiastic but sometimes too zealous, causing people trouble. The Green Vita of Justice, the city's Iudex, was always lecturing the Red Vita of Righteousness.
Next came the Orange Vita of Resilience, followed by the Yellow Vita of Truth, both possessing simple and innocent qualities.
The Green Vita of Justice, the city's Iudex, was serious yet had an endearing side.
Then there was the Cyan Vita of Light, the city's recorder, followed by the Blue Vita of Foresight, the wisest and most mature Vita.
Cyan secretly admired Blue and would imitate his actions in private.
The Blue Vita of Foresight had a wide social circle and could quickly become familiar with others. He possessed vast knowledge and was well-versed in many things.
Finally, there was the Violet Vita of Harmony, also passionate and full of creative ideas, responsible for organizing the city's celebrations and events.
Thanks to the Vitae's efforts, Phosphorus City had not experienced any major harmful incidents for centuries.
This was something to be proud of and celebrate.
Logically speaking, with such development continuing, peaceful and harmonious days should follow.
Unfortunately, Themis had already noticed abnormalities in Phosphorus City.
As for the information, of course it came from the forums.
"Ah... being chosen as the main plot's setting, doesn't that mean disasters are bound to occur...?"
Shaking her head, Themis felt she should start considering her escape route.
-
In the real world, after a tense and thrilling wait, the new version of Honkai 3rd officially launched!
CatCatEatsNoMedicine, wearing a brilliant smile, opened her live stream and promptly entered her friend's channel at the exact scheduled time.
Later, Macaca could hardly believe CatCatEatsNoMedicine had transformed into this absurd state.
Now, Macaca normally and unremarkably opened Honkai 3rd, updated the version, and logged in.
"Rua—! Immortal Fu Hua! I'm here!"
"Immortal Master! I'm your dog!"
[Opening Salvo—!]
[Are there really so many people fighting over the role of a dog now?!]
[Shivering in cold fury, why doesn't anyone want to be a cat?!]
CatCatEatsNoMedicine, surrounded by a live stream full of spectators, happily munched on melon seeds.
While Macaca's comments certainly provided the audience with opening entertainment, CatCatEatsNoMedicine felt it wasn't enough.
In CatCatEatsNoMedicine's eyes, Macaca's performance remained too conservative.
But then again, considering CatCatEatsNoMedicine herself was a die-hard fan of Themis, it made sense.
Miss Macaca, this one has a heart as vast as the sea—she falls for every white-haired wife she meets. Her heart must have shattered into countless pieces, with each fragment bearing more than one white-haired beauty.
[CatCatEatsNoMedicine's Live Stream]
"Tsk, I know she likes white-haired women, but isn't this a bit excessive?"
"Unlike me—I only have eyes for Themis!"
[Do I have the demeanor of Cao Zui?]
[Will I be waiting for you in bed with Furina?]
At these words, the chat erupted in frenzy, launching another round of public shaming.
All of CatCatEatsNoMedicine's previous "Cao Zui" remarks from the live stream were dredged up and thrown back at her.
"Ahem! That was just a momentary lapse—a child's indiscretion!"
"Let's not dwell on past embarrassments!"
CatCatEatsNoMedicine waved her hand, coughing twice to erase the humiliating memories. She turned her attention to Miss Macaca's performance. Having reviewed the main storyline and event scenarios, she now understood the context.
In Macaca's live stream, the audience was smaller than CatCatEatsNoMedicine's viewership, but still substantial.
The uninvited viewers, self-proclaimed "ship fans," stubbornly donned the skin of the Herrscher of Domination and began their screen peering.
As Macaca entered the main storyline, her eyes lit up at the sight of the young girl on the screen.
"Wow, so cute! Looks so soft and delicate."
"One punch would make her cry for hours!"
"Pity she's not white-haired. Otherwise, I'd love her even more."
[The Chinese obsession with white-haired girls finds perfect embodiment in you.]
[Those ancestors of mine who loved white-haired girls! We're just reverting to ancestral traits! What's wrong with that?]
[White hair equals youthful appearance - no problem!]
[You vile foreigner! What's wrong with the young girl? How dare you think of hitting her!]
[Remember Big Vita? Since I can't have the adult version, can't I at least take the younger one?]
Among the sea of comments, Themis found herself blending in.
Seeing Macaca's nickname, Themis froze momentarily, amused by the name.
Who would've thought? This new streamer has such a childlike heart.
Macaca, Upsy Daisy, rua! rua! rua!
Ahem, never mind, can't remember it now. Let's not dwell on it!
She shook her head, trying to clear her mind of these thoughts.
The most important task now was to observe the unfolding plot. By understanding the general storyline, she could plan her next steps accordingly.
Her ultimate goal remained unclear - whether to usurp the Creator God's throne or find a way to escape Phosphorus City for Earth, locate the Second Divine Key, and return home.
Themis gazed at the peaceful Phosphorus City as the rising sun brought its residents to life.
Among them were the Little Vitas - small, short, but remarkably dependable.
Sigh... I should try my best to help the protagonist. It wouldn't do for the Little Vitas to be sad.
Though that's only if I still have a life to speak of.
Selflessly sacrificing myself for others? That's not something I'd do, except maybe for Furina and Focalors.
Even though the Little Vitas were pure, adorable, and kind, welcoming her with enthusiasm when she arrived here...
I really am not a good person.
-
"Themis-sis—!"
"Hm?"
Hearing someone calling her, Themis turned to see Red Vita rushing over in a flurry.
"What's wrong? Red Vita, why so flustered? Did something happen that you can't handle alone?"
"No, no! It's Laudis!" Waving her hands, Red Vita quickly explained upon seeing Themis's puzzled expression. "After you left earlier, I saw Phil. She can't find Laudis."
"Laudis...?"
Themis was utterly confused. She'd been in Phosphorus City for days now. While she might not know everyone, she should at least recognize most residents' names. Yet she'd never seen "Laudis" on any of the city's resident lists.
"Did someone go missing?"
"Huh?" Red Vita's mouth dropped open in realization. "Oh! No, no, it's not a person. Phil's cat is missing!"
"I see, so you're looking for a cat," Themis nodded in understanding. "In that case, I'll join you in the search."
"Little kittens are experts at hide-and-seek. With more people, we can find Phil's cat faster."
Hearing Themis' words, Red Vita, the little girl, nodded vigorously in agreement. "Yes, yes! Sister Themis, let's go find Laudis together!"
"Where should we look? Do we have any clues?"
Themis' gaze shifted slightly away from the forum's live stream, a worried expression crossing her face.
"Don't worry, Sister Themis! There's no need to fret. Even though we don't know where Laudis went yet, we'll definitely find it!"
The little girl pumped her tiny fist and confidently thumped her chest.
Watching Red Vita's unwavering confidence, Themis couldn't help but think, Could it be that we're actually worried about different things?
However, Red Vita couldn't see Themis' forum, so she remained unaware of Themis' true concerns.
"Um, by the way, where did Phil lose her cat?"
"Phosphorus City is so vast; we can't possibly search every corner."
Themis and Red Vita began searching for the little kitten. According to Red Vita, it was a black one.
Once, Red Vita had seen Laudis perched in a tree, worried it might fall and get hurt. She climbed up to save it.
But then she fell herself, smashing through Phil's garden and spending three days bedridden.
Hmm, though Red Vita makes it sound so casual, as if discussing ordinary matters, Themis still detected something unusual in her account.
As city agents, the Little Vitas possess the city's authority.
Yet this power offers them little practical advantage. They might not even be able to defeat an adult.
Though their lifespans are long, their bodies remain as fragile as ordinary humans'.
How strange, Themis mused. The Big Vita moves with divine stealth, and the Creator God Sa appears equally formidable.
Why create these powerless city agents?
Is it to make them more relatable to humans, better understanding our needs?
Pondering intensely, someone observed the Creator God Sa's behavior was truly peculiar. Destroying the world while simultaneously creating it—her actions were somewhat contradictory. Yet it was clear that, like Otto, Sa harbored her own obsessions.
"Phil said Laudis went missing early this morning," Themis remarked.
"Ah, that's really worrying," Red Vita replied.
"Why worry? Can't find Laudis?" Themis felt Red Vita's concern was excessive. "Laudis should know the way home. She might have just gotten carried away playing and forgotten the time."
"Sister Themis, you're right—but what if Laudis encountered danger?" Red Vita pressed.
"Uh... danger?"
Themis blinked her large eyes, scanning Phosphorus City. She couldn't discern any threats beyond the possible Honkai Beasts and quantum creatures that might haunt the main storyline area. Surely such misfortune wouldn't single out the cat named Laudis?
Glancing at the forum's live stream, Themis wondered what madness had seized the System again. Watching the stream showing herself and Red Vita patrolling through Phosphorus City's storyline segment, she felt a sudden weariness settle over her.
The distracted look of divided attention made Red Vita feel somewhat worried.
"Don't be afraid, Sister Themis."
"Even if Laudis accidentally locked herself in the basement, or carelessly ignited fire that burned her fur... well, as long as we find her quickly, everything will be fine!"
"Laudis will definitely be alright!" Red Vita reassured her.
Themis smiled, "This kind of thing is more likely to happen to you, Red Vita, isn't it?"
"Laudis is just an adorable cat. Whether it's locking herself in the basement or setting a fire, she couldn't possibly do it."
"Ah, I can already imagine how much Orange worries about you every day."
Red Vita puffed out her cheeks, "What's that? I'm perfectly reliable!"
"As the city's Inspector, I complete all my work properly!"
"Of course, of course," Themis agreed. "Just as expected from Little Red. You're truly amazing."
"Heh heh, that's natural!" Red Vita boasted. "The city agent of Phosphorus City is just that incredible!"
With hands on her hips, Red Vita puffed out her chest and lifted her head, brimming with confidence.
Like a proud yet adorable kitten, Themis skillfully patted Red Vita's fluffy little head and gently pinched her cheeks.
As if by magic, she produced a candy made by Orange and stuffed it into Red Vita's mouth.
The candy was sweet, its deliciousness making Red Vita's eyes crinkle with delight.
"Sister Orange's candy is as good as always!"
"Indeed, Orange's candies are always delicious." Crossing her arms, Themis poked Red Vita's cheek. "But remember to brush your teeth properly."
"Watch out for cavities—they hurt terribly."
"Mm-hmm, I'll be careful about brushing!" Red Vita shuddered at the thought of cavities. "Those things are horrifying. Teeth getting hollowed out? Ugh."
The mental image of children wailing in pain from toothaches made her cringe.
She definitely didn't want cavities—just looking at them seemed painful enough.
Red Vita resolved to not finish Sister Orange's candies all at once from now on.
Just like Green Vita had said—moderation is key.
"Hmm, according to Laudis's ankle tracker, we should be around here..."
As Themis watched Red Vita retrieve high-tech devices that starkly contrasted with the ancient Roman city's ambiance, she sighed at the glaring incongruity and silently cataloged these jarring elements.
Phosphorus City and Fontaine shared nearly identical architectural styles and existed in comparable historical periods.
Yet in terms of technology, Phosphorus City outstripped Fontaine by countless measures.
Strangely, despite this advanced technology, not a single weapon or defensive mechanism could be found within Phosphorus City.
Has their tech tree grown so twisted it's lost all sense of direction?
Truly befitting a planet with only one city - such profound peace and tranquility.
Themis recalled Belobog from the neighboring Star Rail. If Belobog's people came to Phosphorus City, they'd undoubtedly settle here permanently.
After all, the environment of Belobog compared to Phosphorus City is like night and day.
Wait, no - Phosphorus City is also a mainline location, plagued by disasters just like any other. I should wait until I've completed all the main scenarios before making comparisons.
Red Vita led the way, following the tracking device's signal, until they arrived at a secluded, rarely-traveled path.
"Hm? Is that... a cat collar?"
A single collar lay abandoned on the ground, its owner nowhere to be found.
Picking up the collar, they noticed strands of fur still clinging to it.
"Laudis had worn this collar for a long time. It shouldn't have come off unless she resisted it."
Themis held the feline tracking collar, and Righteous Vita's heart filled with worry for Laudis.
"C-could she have really gotten into danger?"
"Don't panic, Righteous Vita. Since the collar is here, Laudis might be nearby too."
Trying to calm Righteous Vita, Themis placed the collar in her hands. "Perhaps she lost weight recently or accidentally caught it on something."
Hearing this, Righteous Vita's anxiety eased slightly. "You're right, Themis."
"It might just be an accident."
Themis stroked her chin. "Let's search the area first. Call Laudis' name."
"Okay!"
Nodding, Red Vita immediately began shouting Laudis' name.
Soon, a cat's meow echoed from nearby.
Exchanging glances, Themis and Red Vita followed the sound.
After a thorough search, they found Phil's cat at a stone pillar in the city.
"Ah, I finally found you."
Seeing the kitten, Red Vita instantly let out a sigh of relief.
"Phil was so worried about you. Come on, let's go back together."
She reached out to pick up the kitten, but the little cat hissed in warning, its breath puffing out sharply.
Themis stopped Red Vita from approaching. "Red Vita, don't go near it yet. Laudis is very cautious right now."
"It must have been frightened by something. If we approach now, it might scratch us."
Red Vita: "Ah? What should we do then?"
Themis patted Righteous Vita's questioning head and gave an assuring gesture. "Leave it to me."
Watching Themis' confident demeanor, Righteous Vita wondered how she would make Laudis lower its guard.
However, Themis didn't have any fancy methods. When frightened, cats instinctively hide in small, dark places or seek their owner.
But neither option was available here, with only an open field surrounding them.
Instead of coaxing, direct action might be better - though it could stress the cat more.
Under the kitten's wary gaze, Themis extended her hand.
This time, Themis didn't use the Space Sovereign's power. Instead, she called upon the Life Sovereign's strength.
The innate life force naturally draws living beings closer. As the frightened cat was drawn in by the pure vitality, it gradually relaxed.
Without any obstacles, exactly as expected, Themis caught the kitten.
"Huh? That's it?!"
Little Red's mind couldn't believe it. Had cats become so picky about who they liked?!
Laudis had clearly been ignoring her before!
"Of course, that's enough."
Holding Laudis, Themis gently stroked the cat's head with years of experience. The technique was somewhat similar to how she handled Furina, but there were significant differences.
At least holding Furina didn't leave Themis's clothes covered in fur.
Perhaps this was what cat owners meant by "the joys of pet ownership."
"Mew~"
The kitten nestled contentedly in Themis's arms, though its hind legs twitched unnaturally.
"Themis-sis, what's wrong with Laudis?" Righteous Vita asked, concern coloring her voice as she observed the cat's unusually raised leg.
Frowning, Themis examined Laudis's bleeding hind leg. "Just a minor wound. Nothing serious."
Her life-infused fingers brushed the injury, and the cut on Laudis's leg healed completely.
She wiped the area clean with a tissue, removing all traces of blood.
Red Vita leaned forward under Laudis's watchful gaze. Emboldened by Themis's presence, she poked at the cat's leg repeatedly until satisfied the wound had vanished. Then she began to jump up and down excitedly.
"Wa-wa-wa-wa..."
"Woah!"
Red Vita's eyes sparkled as she watched from the side, her mouth agape with excitement.
"Is this... part of the magic too?!"
"That's incredible magic!"
Themis chuckled softly. "Yes, exactly. Isn't it impressive?"
"What an amazing trick!" Red Vita exclaimed, her admiration genuine.
"Themis, this is the first time I've seen you use this magic!" she added, pointing to the small red flower pinned on her waistband. "Last time you used magic was when you gave us these flowers."
"Little Red, if you're curious, I could perform at thee celebration later. What do you think?"
Holding the kitten, Themis watched as Red Vita clapped excitedly. "Everyone in Phosphorus City would come to see your magic, Themis!"
"Oh, it seems Little Red is really looking forward to it. In that case, I'll think carefully about what magic to perform at the next celebration~"
"Heh heh, I'll make sure everyone prepares a big stage! It'll be so lively when everyone comes to watch the magic show!" The enthusiastic and energetic Red Vita couldn't contain her excitement at the thought of the future celebration.
"Alright, Red, since Laudis has been found, could you please take it back and give it to Phil?"
"Huh? Me?" Red Vita pointed at herself, staring at Laudis with her finger.
Laudis mewed pitifully in Themis's arms, clinging to her as if its life depended on it.
But when Red Vita reached out to take it, Laudis desperately clutched at Themis's clothes.
"Hey, Laudis! Be gentle! You're going to tear Sister Themis's dress!"
Seeing the claw marks raking through Themis's white dress, Red Vita puffed out her cheeks and poked the kitten's head.
"Mew~"
Laudis stared at Themis with pleading, watery eyes, as if saying, "You really won't keep hugging this adorable little kitten? You're going to give it to someone else?"
Themis smiled without hesitation and placed Laudis in Red's arms.
"Be good and play nice with Red, okay?"
Laudis let out a soft mew and reluctantly settled in Red's embrace.
"What's your problem? You're acting like you have some beef with me. That was just a misunderstanding last time, and I already apologized!"
Red poked Laudis's head, cheeks puffed as she huffed angrily.
Red turned away, ignoring the cat completely. I'm not listening, I'm not listening....
Watching the retreating figures of the cat and human, Themis felt a mix of exasperation and amusement. Phosphorus City's cat, this intelligence is simply too high. It can actually understand human speech.
But the little kitten is still too naive. I've already found my favorite cat.
The adorable, fluffy blue-white Furina Cat - she's truly worthy of being cherished!
Of course, the blue-white Focalors Cat also deserves plenty of kisses and hugs.
We already have two cats at home. No need for any others.
But then again... I should probably go check. This doesn't seem so simple.
If Laudis had injured herself, she wouldn't be so cautious.
And Phosphorus City has always been peaceful and tranquil. The people here are quite simple-minded. There's no reason to be so wary of familiar faces.
The only possible explanation is that something new - or perhaps some creature - has appeared in Phosphorus City that Laudis doesn't recognize. She might have even been attacked.
What a troublesome time.
"I originally thought the Creator God was simply letting me live out a peaceful retirement," Themis said with a long sigh, her expression clearly stating, "I knew it."
These Creator Gods and Celestia were particularly skilled at making trouble where none existed.
"Retirement life, how wonderful~"
"If possible, I'd love to retire too."
Blue-green peacock feathers materialized out of nowhere, and Themis wore a conflicted expression.
"Miss Feather, are you trying to freeload off me?"
"Eavesdropping is quite impolite, you know."
"Oh, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to," Vita apologized promptly, though her tone carried both mischief and insincerity. "I didn't intend to keep hanging around you, either. It's just that in all of Phosphorus City, your signal is the best~"
"I'm doing my best to avoid being confined to my room, bored to death."
"Indeed, your situation seems quite dire," Themis observed.
"Quite~ dire~" Miss Feather drawled, her voice thick with resentment.
Themis: "So, you got confined. Did you do something naughty?"
A barely perceptible smile flickered in her eyes. Though it might be inappropriate to find amusement in this situation, she couldn't help but find it hilarious to see Big Vita getting her comeuppance.
After all, the whole affair—failing to escape with a bucket and getting caught red-handed—was utterly dramatic.
Vita: "Naughty? Not really. I'm just a poor little feather. What mischief could I possibly cause?"
"I just didn't want to keep working, so I slacked off a bit."
"Who knew the Creator God was so stingy? I barely made it five minutes before being dragged back."
Themis couldn't contain herself and let out a stifled chuckle.
Vita, confused: "What's so funny?"
Clearing her throat, Themis assumed a serious expression. "Nothing. I just suddenly remembered how adorable my wife is, and how much she loves me."
"Go on."
How could Vita possibly continue? The words left her utterly speechless, frozen in shock. She could only murmur, "You have a wife?!"
This was truly the most significant discovery in days. Vita was stunned.
"Ahem, yes, I have a wife. My wife is my superior."
Themis's superior... Wait, isn't Themis's superior also my superior?!
Vita's hand flew to her forehead, her pupils shaking. That cold-hearted Sa actually has a wife?
Vita could no longer maintain her composed facade. Her perfect mask gradually shattered. "Sa... What did she do to you?"
The tone in her voice carried immense weight, tinged with self-doubt and the crumbling of her worldview.
"Pfft—"
I'm sorry, I can't hold it anymore. Themis knew she should explain, but she just couldn't stop laughing.
Miss Vita's conjecture was reasonable, but could it be possible that the "superior" they both mentioned wasn't the same person?
"Why are you laughing again?"
"Never mind that. What matters is Sa—what exactly did that woman do?"
"As far as I know, that woman isn't interested in anything. How could she become your wife?"
Miss Vita revealed a hint of urgency she didn't even realize herself, though it might have stemmed from mere gossip.
This didn't hinder Themis from spinning her tale: "I have two wives!"
"My wives are absolutely adorable!"
"They both adore me to pieces."
"So, Miss Feather, let's continue our conversation from last night."
"Everything you've told me so far revolves around the Creator God Sa."
"So, what exactly is your relationship with her?"
Vita's smile didn't reach her eyes. "It's simply an employer-employee relationship. Nothing more."
"Oh, I see. Since you put it that way, I'll take your word for it."
The corner of Vita's eye twitched. What did he mean by "take your word for it"?
What other relationship could she possibly have with Sa beyond creator and creation? Even if she wanted something more, given Sa's... condition...
Well, forget it. She might as well hope for Sa and Phosphorus City to get married instead.
"Let's change the subject." Themis recalled the recent events and walked toward where the cat's collar had fallen.
"That cat was attacked earlier."
"Can you tell where the attacker is?"
Vita shrugged. "I'm not even in Phosphorus City. My range is limited to less than a meter around you."
"If you don't know, how could I possibly know?"
"Oh, I see," Themis said.
Nodding, she reached out and pinched the floating peacock feather. Now she fully understood.
"So, you're saying you can't help me at all, right?"
Vita was thoroughly satisfied that Themis had spoken her mind so quickly. She readily admitted, "Exactly! That's exactly right!"
"Fine. Since you're useless, go back to your confinement."
Tossing the peacock feather aside, Themis coldly lifted her leg and strode away.
"Hey! Don't abandon me like this!"
In disbelief, Vita suddenly saw Sa's shadow in Themis's actions.
They're all the same—cold-hearted bastards who discard you after use.
Vita suddenly understood why Sa would personally bring Themis back to Phosphorus City.
In the face of Vita's pleas to stay, Themis turned a deaf ear.
The claim that her feather's range was limited to a meter around her body was utterly useless. No way would she believe that.
She'd clearly left the feather on the bedside table, yet it found its way to her. This feather must be bound to her.
Since Vita's feathers would come seeking her anyway, there was no harm in casually discarding them.
When the time came, Vita might reveal more truths to soften her attitude and gain her trust.
Of course, Vita might not need to build a relationship with her at all. That would be ideal—complete detachment would save everyone trouble.
As Themis' figure receded into the distance, Vita in the confinement room covered her face with her hands. After a long moment, she raised her head.
"Heh~"
"Sa really did herself a favor by acquiring such a formidable specimen."
Themis proved unyielding to both persuasion and force, revealing herself to be far from the gentle, pure-hearted facade she presented.
Every action carried a strong sense of purpose; she would never abandon her goals due to others' opinions or words.
"Hmm~ It seems Phosphorus City might become more interesting soon."
A smile graced Vita's face, but her rose-red eyes remained icy cold.
-
Made a discord if anyone is interested
https://discord.gg/BFW77h7XyS