"Do you think I'm trying to freeload?"
Hoshino didn't panic. She continued talking with W, that crazy bomb-lady. W wasn't someone easy to guide; normal people simply couldn't understand what went on in her head, much less approach her and unlock a new character.
Hoshino could only take things one step at a time.
"Not at all. Rather than employment, think of it as an invitation. I sincerely invite you to witness all this."
W set down her glass.
Alcohol could affect one's judgment, but whether she drank or not, she maintained that same mad yet composed mindset. The gesture was more of a declaration, telling the other party that she was about to seriously consider the matter.
"Hmm... Let me take a look first. If it's interesting, I can give you a discount."
So she still wanted payment.
There was nothing more to negotiate. In any case, W had taken a step back and agreed to have a look first.
Hoshino was quite at ease. Bathing in Dawn's glory ought to awaken some familiar sense of devotion in her.
Then perhaps she could... freeload?
"Let's do something ceremonial first." Hoshino held out her hand. "You touch my ears, and I'll touch your horns. Happy cooperation."
"Your customs are truly strange."
The woman before her could be considered a prospective employer. Respecting an employer's customs was a fine mercenary tradition.
She touched Yae Sakura's ears.
They were soft and warm, like the finest, softest rabbit fur. They felt wonderful.
Once W had finished stroking them, she lowered her head and brushed aside her bangs. Hoshino gently stroked the Sarkaz's horns with her right hand while lightly closing her eyes.
She looked at every character card still shrouded in darkness.
Rita Rossweisse's Valkyrie armor, Umbral Rose, was unlocking.
0.1%, 0.2%... Hoshino