To the Survey Region

Syunosuke and Millina, summoned to Roxx's Pharmaceutical's office, inquire about the current state of the Damura Star Cluster Kingdom.

"Due to the intervention of the Akeria fleet, the front lines have been advancing and retreating alternately. We managed to push back the enemy near the capital planet, but that has instead caused the battlefield to spread out, and now sporadic combat is occurring even in remote sectors. It's quite troublesome, really."

Listening to the assistant's explanation, which seemed somewhat troubled, Shinosuke nodded.

Indeed, Shinosuke had himself witnessed a small-scale fleet battle while en route to Librina.

"However, this approach is quite inefficient. With forces scattered and sporadic combat ongoing, neither side is likely to deliver a decisive blow, leading to an uncontrollable war of attrition."

While we're just a company and can't fully grasp the bigger picture, we'd certainly appreciate if this situation didn't drag on much longer. Fortunately, Librina, located on the remote frontier, hasn't yet been caught in the crossfire—but we're already facing disruptions in raw material deliveries and product shipments. For companies like ours and ordinary citizens, we'd be happy with whichever side wins, as long as normal life can be restored as soon as possible.

Shin nosuke gave a reluctant shrug and a wry smile in response to the official's words.

Though the official's remarks came across almost like a complaint, they likely reflected the honest feelings of ordinary citizens.

"I'm no expert on military matters, but this war began with our country at a disadvantage. That changed when Akneria's fleet intervened, turning the tide and bringing us to a standstill. However, a stalemate like this likely means a prolonged conflict. I know it's bold to ask, but if we could receive just a bit more reinforcements, I believe we could shift the balance in our favor."

"You're right, but realistically, it's quite difficult. If we intervene any further, the Rimulia Empire will inevitably turn its attention toward Akneria. That would shift the dynamic from Rimulia Galactic Empire versus Damura Star Cluster Commonwealth to Rimulia Galactic Empire versus Akneria Galactic Federation. Akneria's space forces won't get involved to that extent."

"You're right about that. Either way, it's quite a nuisance for us."

Just as they were having that conversation, a message arrived reporting that the unloading operations and formalities had been completed.

"Anyway, if you need our services again, please contact the Sirius Stellar Province Free Merchant Guild. If the terms are agreeable, we'll be happy to take on the job once more."

"We'll be counting on you then."

After exchanging greetings with the representative, Shinosuke left the office with Millina and headed back to Fubuki.

When the two returned to Fubuki, just as Seira and the others were coming back from whale watching.

"Shinosuke-san, it was amazing! We saw whales up close—really close! It was incredible! We actually sailed right into the middle of a pod! We saw whales right in front of us! And the song! The song too..."

Sera, calm down for now. You're not acting like a proper air traffic controller.

Shin nosuke gently chides Seira, her eyes sparkling with excitement that hasn't yet settled down, with a smile.

Oops, sorry. I got a bit excited.

We had a valuable experience. I understand your excitement, but we must set sail immediately. After the sea whales, we'll be investigating the space whales with Mr. Sanders and his team.

"Yes, that's right. We'll begin preparations for departure immediately."

After saluting and watching Seira dash into the interior of the Fukuki, Shinnosuke began preparations for departure following a report from Marks, who had been overseeing the cargo operations.

As Shinnosuke checked the Fukuki's various systems, he started up the engines.

"Departure permission has been granted."

Upon receiving a report from Ceyla, Shinnosuke launched the Fukuki and moved toward the atmospheric departure point.

"Time is short, so we're going to break away from the atmosphere all at once. Everyone, fasten your seatbelts."

After confirming that everyone had secured their seatbelts, they initiated the atmospheric departure sequence.

"Output at 60 percent, bow elevation at 40 degrees."

The Fukuki began ascending while increasing its speed.

"Thrust 70, elevation 50... All hands, prepare for G-force. Thrust 100, elevation 60."

The Fukuki surged forward with maximum power, accelerating sharply as it continued its ascent.

The sky displayed on the monitor shifted from blue to indigo, then darkened further and further.

Finally, shaking off Librina's gravity, the Fukuki returned to space.

"...Atmospheric exit confirmed. Nose down, align the ship's orientation horizontally with the galactic reference line... Good, we're back in space. Seatbelt usage is now optional. Only a few hours spent in the atmosphere—what a hectic few hours..."

While Shinnosuke takes a moment to breathe, Seira remains utterly delighted.

"An incredible experience. I'd love to land on another planet and meet all sorts of whales."

Everyone aboard the bridge laughed at Seira's hopeful words.

On their return journey from the Damura Star Cluster Commonwealth, they encountered no combat and avoided any ships from the Rimurian Galactic Empire, successfully reaching the territory of the Akneria Galactic Federation. But from here, the real work ahead truly began.

Sanders and Yan had already brought all the necessary equipment onto the bridge, and preparations were complete.

"Then, we'll proceed with Sanders' team's investigation. From here, we'll deviate significantly from the normal route. Marks and Sera, maintain strict vigilance—don't miss even the slightest change."

"Understood."

After giving instructions to Marks and Sera, Shinnosuke turned to Milena.

"I'll need Milena to assist Marks and Sera."

"Yes, of course. Shinnosuke-sama, may I use the glass monitor at this station?"

"That seat is currently reserved for Milena alone. You may use it freely."

Having received permission, Milena quickly donned the same glass monitor as Shinnosuke was using and connected it to the equipment at the co-pilot station.

(Though it's just work, being matched with Shinnosuke-sama is... well, actually, it's incredibly thrilling.)

(Incidentally, Milliena currently has her forehead eye closed—would the glass monitor be useful if she opened her third eye?)

While Shinno and Milliena were lost in their own thoughts, Fubuki veered off the regular flight path and headed toward the survey zone.