After dinner that day, while everyone prepared for the great battle that might unfold tonight, Galina once again stood on the deck railing with Shade, gazing out at Fatumonst Island as its Gas Lamps lit up one by one.
"Before I met you, I often couldn't tell which mattered more to me: being a duchess or being a witch. But now I know. In this world, power must ultimately belong to oneself.
Claire's hometown is truly beautiful. Growing up in a place like this, it's no wonder she has such a warm, relaxing personality."
Shade also looked out at the scenery of Kael-Todd Town.
"Once things settle down here, we can visit this place often, just as we often visit Vesta Woodland or Green Lake Island."
Galina smiled and nodded, then asked:
"By the way, how are the expenses during this incident being divided?"
Since it was a joint operation, feeding and clothing so many people naturally cost money. The Radiance Messenger had not yet gained the ability to produce food or fabric from thin air.
Although discussing Gold Pounds and Crowns was rather vulgar, they were not truly family in the strictest sense yet, so the expenses had to be made clear.
During previous incidents, costs had mostly been split according to the order in which everyone arrived. Of course, Bella, a true local power in Moon Bay, had even said that no one else needed to pay, but naturally, no one agreed.
"Everyone is still splitting the expenses according to Illustrious Miss's accounts. In addition, one tenth is set aside as a fund for the Radiance Messenger's future maintenance and upgrades.
"With war drawing near, Sivie's family shipyard has had orders nearly explode since last year. She said she would be responsible for maintaining the ship in the