The Ex-Machina on a Dimensional Journey

Fujimaru Ritsuka explained patiently. He knew why Xiu Er had come along: she wanted to "witness more worlds." Unlike those tasked with "saving humanity," she was driven more by the chance to "sightsee" in different Singularities.

Strangely, though their goals were so different, their attitudes seemed to be the reverse of what he would have expected.

"Question: isn't the incineration of humanity an urgent crisis?"

Fujimaru Ritsuka's explanation puzzled Xiu Er. Wasn't their situation dire? They were the only people left on Earth.

"Why are you so 'idle'?"

"Actually, Xiu Er, I think you're the one in too much of a hurry. It's only been two days."

Fujimaru Ritsuka spoke helplessly. He was still half-asleep and wanted to go back to bed.

"..."

Did I get it wrong?

Xiu Er lowered her head, seemingly trying to decide whether the boy was telling the truth.

He wasn't angry. When it came to Xiu Er, Fujimaru Ritsuka couldn't bring himself to be.

At first, that had been because he was afraid of her. Now, it was simply because he knew her personality.

"You asked Dr. Roman and the others too, didn't you?"

"Affirmative. But their answers were much the same as yours."

Xiu Er stated it calmly, but the boy caught a trace of disappointment in her cool voice.

All he could do was sigh inwardly.

"While you're waiting, Xiu Er, you could get to know everyone at Chaldea..."

"You've been on your own these past two days. How about trying to make some more friends?"

Fujimaru Ritsuka patiently coaxed her, hoping to turn her attention elsewhere.

"Objection: I have 'friends.'"

"I know. I mean making friends with the people at Chaldea. Your old friends aren't here right now, are they?"

The boy kept trying to persuade her. He seemed to think