Treasure In Summer

Big Boss, it's common sense that summer is hot.

She's right. Getting angry on a hot day will only make you feel hotter.

Heh, or... is this just an excuse to strip down?~♥

Not me.

Why don't you just accept reality?

That is only natural. It has been running 24 hours a day without a break for several days.

It is only natural for any normal machine to break down under such conditions. Demanding more work is a clear violation of machine rights.

I was merely answering on behalf of the air conditioner to reply to 's question.

Yes, I will deliver the message. Hmm... It says 'over my dead body'.

They said they're closed today, so customer service is unavailable...

It looks like the earliest they can fix it is tomorrow.

Big Boss, Big Boss! They say imagining cool things helps when you're hot!!

In a chilly room with the AC blasting, eating ice cream...

A hot bath... Agh, that's hot!!

, really, now...

Instead of hot water, why not press our flushed skin together?~

Hehe~ That doesn't sound too bad either...

As expected of the Big Boss! I knew I could count on you!

Big Boss, that probably won't work.

Because today is the Day of Freedom!

What on earth did you hear?! It's a day to cast off everything and let loose!

Yes~ That's why we're taking a break too.

That is incorrect. We are always resting anyway.

As proof, our 'Closed' sign is hung up for more than half the day.

Even if it said 'Open,' no one would have come.

Searching for the nearest beach from our current location...

The Vermont West Coast is the closest.

Woohoo! I knew this would happen, so I already bought a tube!!

Oh my~♥ Now where did I put the tanning oil?~

I am not fond of the sea. It would also be troublesome if seawater seeped into my parts.

Why are you packing binoculars?

Understood. Then I will stay behind and take a nap...

As expected of our leader. I will get ready immediately.

To the beach! To the beach! Time to swim! Time to swim!

Oh my... Everyone, aren't you rushing a bit too much...?

If you rush like that, you might get into an accident.

Lumina is right. We must do proper warm-up exercises before entering the water.

Ah, Big Boss! Look out!

What do you think? Since ancient times, nothing stops people in their tracks like this.

Oh, come on, it's just a gunshot. Even if it hits you, it only stings a little.

Don't be such a baby. If you keep whining, I might actually want to shoot you.

M-May I ask what brings you here?

Get out of our way! We're finally going on a trip together!

Uh-uh, 'busy' doesn't suit you at all.

You're just going to look at half-naked girls anyway, aren't you?

You've got binoculars and sunglasses with you. It's written all over your face.

Instead of doing something so boring, how about joining me for a quick score?

Heh. Let's see if you can still say that after looking at this.

You can tell at a glance. It's a treasure map. Come search for treasure on a deserted island with me.

Fifty-fifty split if we find it. What do you say?

Oh, really? Then I guess I have no choice but to go alone.

Ah, and I even packed a bikini too...

It's the Day of Freedom, so of course!

Big Boss, you're not abandoning us, are you? Of course you're going with us, right?

Really, now... You do love playing hard to get~

Bikinis? Why bother? We can just jump into the sea like this, can't we?

I came here planning to do exactly that!

Bikinis? What are those? Is it a new kind of bread?

Yeah, I knew you'd make the right choice!

I've got everything ready to head to the island, so let's go.

Listen carefully, Freya. You only feel betrayed because you expected something in the first place.

If you don't expect anything from the start, you'll never have to worry about betrayal.

Bribery? That's so cheap! You should offer me something too before you say that!!

Boss, ! What about me?

Oh, stop...♥ You already know...

What? Are you getting me something too?

Then... let's hang out at a luxury resort next time with the money from the treasure!

We all came out to have fun anyway, so we should at least make some memories together...

Then have a safe trip!

You'd better keep this promise!

Bread... so much...

You guys take forever to say goodbye. Are you always like this?

I don't mind if you bring anyone who wants to follow along. They're your subordinates anyway, aren't they?

Well, if that's your choice...

Then let's go. To the deserted island where the treasure is hidden!

You really don't know? You caught my eye.

A bunch of looters who are no better than bugs are loitering right in front of me. Of course I'm going to crush you!

Now, let's wrap this up.

Nice, nice. I love bugs who know how to listen.

Though I wouldn't mind if you went crazy and charged at me either.

Enemy retreat confirmed. You're not going to chase them, right?

We can't chase them without Ray.

I'm not going to run just to chase guys like that.

Well, it'd be a different story if I was driving...

I was going to stop you anyway if you said you wanted to chase them.

Because riding in a truck driven by you is hell... I never want to get in one again.

Hell? Isn't that a bit too harsh???

Man, it's still a shame. Of all things, why did Ray have to get hit by a truck, fly away, and crash right into a minefield?

It was actually a tank, not a truck, and it was an anti-tank minefield, not just a regular one.

Well, she only had minor bruises, so she'll be fine once she puts some ointment on at the hospital.

Come on, it's basically the same thing. They both have wheels and are heavy, right?

And what does it matter if it's a truck or a tank? Even if a plane crashed into her, she'd just have to power through it with sheer guts.

I'll be looking forward to the day you get hit by a plane, Boss.

Sure, sure! Go ahead and hold your breath. I'll make sure to dodge it.

Well, that's enough post-victory chatter... Let's see what those bugs left behind.

Be careful not to break anything useful.

Alright, alright.

Hmm... I don't see anything particularly interesting.

Maybe because it's the Day of Freedom, but it's all beach gear.

A total waste of time. Let's head back—

Huh? What's this? There's a map.

A map? Who carries paper maps around these days?

Oho! My gut tells me this is the real deal! Hurry up and decode it.

Fine. In that case, hold it wide open toward the drone.

...Hmm. It certainly looks like a treasure map. Though it's so blatant it's suspicious.

Let me check. Marlen, compare it to actual maps and pinpoint the coordinates.

Now, while you do that, I'll go ahead and relax...

No time for that. I'm already done analyzing.

It points to a deserted island in the sea west of Vermont.

Vermont. Hmm...

Hey, Oblia—

And of course, I'm staying in the truck.

I haven't even said anything yet!

It's obvious. You're going to tell me to go look for treasure with you, aren't you?

When your Boss tells you to go, you say "Yes, ma'am!" and follow. How dare you try to slack off on your own?

Because the moment we reach the beach, you'll just drink like a fish and throw a drunken tantrum at us.

Come on, would I really do that?

And besides, if Ray were here...

Even Ray would have said no.

The Boss and a drunk Boss are two completely different entities. Practically different people.

Ray likes you, Boss, not the drunk version of you.

Aren't you being a bit too harsh just because of a little drunken banter?

It's not like we've only suffered through it once or twice. Anyway, I'm not going.

Hmm, it's no fun going alone.

How about waiting until Ray gets back?

If we go late and someone else steals the treasure, I'd be devastated!

Then you should call someone else. There's someone perfect for this kind of job, isn't there?

Sigh... I guess I really have to call him.

Are you just shy?

...No way.

You totally are. Besides, it's not like you have anyone else to call.

...Tsk. Fine, maybe I'll call our dear Fixer.

Actually, wait. It'd be a surer bet to go drag him out myself. Since it's the Day of Freedom, after all.

Do you even know where he is? I can track him down for you if you want.

It's obvious. He'll definitely head to the Vermont coast to enjoy the summer.

Indeed. I came to the same conclusion.

Then let's head out to find the treasure!

A bikini would probably be the most efficient choice.

Why a bikini? And how is that efficient?

Well... because it will serve as your best bargaining chip.

Whoa, the weather is absolutely amazing.

Hey, it's fine to enjoy yourself, but we have work to do, okay?

Oho... Great, because I've got just the thing for you.

Here, take this.

Of course. You need a shovel to dig.

Going old school is the most efficient way.

I would if I could, but none of my girls followed me here.

Besides, I've never really been good with heavy machinery.

Guns are simple, though. Even so, it took me a while to get the hang of it.

Everywhere.

Ah, about the map... It only tells us that the treasure is somewhere on this island.

We'll have to find out exactly where it's hidden ourselves.

Hey, the fact that there is treasure doesn't change.

That is exactly why I suggested bringing them along earlier.

Alright, alright. It's too late for regrets anyway, so let's just start digging.

Hey! If you don't want to exhaust yourself and collapse, you have to stay calm in extreme situations.

Especially a weakling like you...

Well, we'll see about that. Let's get digging!

Come on, dig a bit deeper. Do you really think it would be buried that shallow?

Curious? Want me to show you?

Aww, the shovel is too flimsy.

No way. More importantly, don't you hear something?

No, I'm serious! Just be quiet for a second.

S... s... s... so...! ???

What?

S... sa... ve... me! ???

Hmm... Is it a rival?

Please save me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

She's staring right at you. Do you know her?

Then we've got to save her first!

Cough... cough... Thank you so much for saving me...

For free?

Huh?

We're your saviors, you know. Unless you want to get tossed back into the ocean, you'd better pay up.

H-Huh?? Can't I just walk back into the ocean myself?

You came here of your own free will, but you're not leaving that way!

Hyaaa...! It's not like I washed ashore of my own will!!

F-Fixer! You know me! Please help me!

Uuuu... How can you treat me like this after we haven't seen each other in so long...

If you save me... I'll give them to you...

Says who? I haven't received anything yet.

And a scrawny kid like her probably can't even lift a shovel...

Really? Well, that's a different story then.

Uuu... I'm saved...

By the way, treasure...? Is there really a treasure on this island...?

We found a treasure map. Though we have no clues other than the fact that it points to this island.

Don't tell me... is that why you tried to dig up the entire beach?

It's probably not on the beach. The tide would have swept it away on days with rough waves...

Hiding a treasure means they intend to come back for it later. If it were me, I wouldn't have hidden it here.

Well, look on the bright side, it was a good experience! Just think of it as a little workout!

If you want to find the treasure, it would be better to head into the forest.

Got it. See, this is why we need a smart person around.

Ehehehe...

What are you standing around smiling for? Let's head over there already!

Tomorrow is the Day of Freedom, but do you still have a lot of work left?

Ugh... at this rate...

Overtime, leaving at dawn, and working on my day off is practically guaranteed...!!

The work never ends. Although I am the one who gave you all that work.

Uuu... but you're coming in tomorrow too, President? You'll be with me, right?

Of course I'll be coming in. However...

Hinata, take tomorrow off.

Huh? Really? I can actually take a break?

In exchange, I have one favor to ask.

Hing... of course there's a catch...

Just listen first. It's not a difficult task.

A few days ago, we detected an unidentified energy source in the waters west of Vermont.

An energy source...?

It's a rather peculiar energy source. High efficiency aside, it seems to cause signal interference in the surrounding area.

Please head over there to observe the energy. And just in case, I will have Shizuku accompany you.

Hieee... F-Fieldwork...?

Fufu, it won't take long, so don't worry too much. Besides... once you finish the task, feel free to use the rest of your time as you wish.

Whether that means enjoying the beach, getting pampered at a resort, or just going home to rest.

You are also free to use the corporate card. You should enjoy the Day of Freedom.

Th-Thank you, President!

Of course, you must finish today's work first.

Ah... of course...

I happen to have some free time, so I'll help you out. We should be able to finish in time then, right?

Of course!

Ah... the smell of the ocean after such a long time...

Leaning on the railing is dangerous...

Come on, you'll save me if I fall, won't you?

Mmm...

You'll save me, right?!

I'll do my best. Though, as a cat beastkin, I'm not very good with water.

I've never heard that before! And isn't that offensive to your own race?

It's not offensive. Besides, it's fine if I say it.

Ah... okay. I'll be careful.

We will arrive at our destination soon. Let's get this over with so we can go rest.

Yes! Then first, let me turn on the device the President gave us...

...!!! Wait... I've got a bad feeling about this...

Huh? All of a sudden?

Whoa! Why is it suddenly acting up? Did I press the wrong button?

No. Just hold on tight to the railing...

Huh?

Waaaaah!!

S-Save me!! The current is too strong, I'm drifting away!!!

Calm down. Flailing will only make you sink.

Take this for now.

I've got it!

Hold on tight. I'll pull you up.

Ah...?

Mmm... Oh dear... This is as far as I can help you.

If I jump into this rough sea, we'll both be in danger.

So... good luck.

Waaaaah!! I should have just stayed in the office sorting documents!!!

Hing... a place with no reception in this day and age... Why do I have to go through such trials...

At this rate, I can't even tell anyone I'm safe, let alone call for rescue...

I would much rather work overtime buried under stacks of documents in a freezing cold office...!

What are you complaining so much for? I told you, we'll send you back safely once we're done here.

Are you really sure? You're not going to suddenly stuff me in a drum and toss me into the sea when we're done, right?

W-Well... You did basically threaten me into cooperating...

Hey, we might look wicked, but we still know a thing or two about loyalty.

Once we find the treasure, we're getting right out of here. We'll bring you along too, so don't worry.

What on earth is that last one?

But well, if we find the treasure and have some time left over, playing around a bit sounds great.

B-But... I have a feeling that if I hang out with you all, I'm just going to suffer a lot...

And above all... I don't even have a swimsuit.

Who cares? It's the Day of Freedom, so you can just strip it all off.

I've even seen someone walking around wearing nothing but seashells.

W-W-W-What??? I-I can't do that!

That is not the issue here! There are social norms, you know...

There's no civilization or society here, right? So isn't it fine?

Um... technically... that's true, but...

I-If we all do it... I guess I could... Ah! I almost let you convince me for a second...!

No way! Why do I have to strip anyway!

Hing... trying to trick me again...

No matter how remote and full of nothing but grass this place is, as civilized people, we still must distinguish between what we should and shouldn't do!

Um... for example... well...

Oh! You shouldn't start a fire in the forest! It would be a disaster if an accident happened.

...Are you saying that because of the smoke over there?

W... What? No, that wasn't my intention—

Hyaah! There really is smoke rising! Who on earth is being so thoughtless!

I'm getting hungry. Should we go raid them?

Then leave it to me!

What? Excuse me? Raid them?

P-Please leave me out of this! That's a crime!!!

Huh? Who?

Oh, this? The swimsuit Lady Emily picked out for me.

She said a famous designer made it.

I don't know more than that. I just wore what she gave me.

...Isn't it obvious? Preparing to consume protein.

It's mine. I'm not sharing...

Hmm... Hmmm...

Even I choose my battles wisely.

I have a strong feeling I'll regret it if I pick a fight with her.

Hey, pink-hair.

Y-Yes? Is something wrong?

You're smart. So, you're hired as our negotiator!

Me, negotiate...?

Wh... What bargaining chips do we even have?

Figuring that out is also your job.

Ugh... I-I'll give it a try...

Excuse me...

No.

Well, you see...

You can't have it.

The meat...

Waaah!

Even if you ask, I still can't give it to you.

Yes... I feel some kind of energy on this island.

An energy that feels like it would taste... very deep and rich...

Hmm... Really? I can eat meat, and I can eat all of that energy?

Hmm...

Fine. The left hind leg. No more than that.

Oh, not bad.

B-But is it really okay to make promises like that? You said we were looking for treasure.

H-Hing...

Good job. Since the Day of Freedom is coming up, go get some rest.

We'll clean up the place while you're gone...

The Head Butler cannot leave the manor unattended.

Even if you are the Head Butler, you don't have to stay cooped up in the manor all day, right?

Hmm... Am I fired?

Who said you were fired!!! I told you to go get some rest!!!!

Well, telling someone to "rest" can be double-edged!

Why not say it more clearly, with a bit more heart?

Ugh... Fine! I'll give you a special reward for working so hard.

In that case, I want a mountain of meat.

You get that every day! That doesn't count as a reward.

Exactly, rewards need to be special!

Like... the right to expose yourself in the public plaza!

...? Then I'll take that.

Are you trying to drag our family name through the mud!? Absolutely not!

Then what reward?

A day off tomorrow. Actually, you've worked hard, so three days sounds about right.

Go outside and do whatever you want.

A vacation...? Are you sure this isn't a euphemism for getting fired?

Just think of it as a three-day outing. It is an order from the head of the house.

As the Head Butler, you wouldn't disobey my orders, would you?

I'll give you a card too, so spend as much as you want. Just don't lose it or put it somewhere weird.

Hmm... Understood. Then, I'll be off.

Oh, wait a second then!

Let's go buy a swimsuit together before you leave!

...? A swimsuit?

Staring blankly...

Look at that... even if it is the Day of Freedom, you don't see outfits like that very often.

Maybe she didn't have the money to buy a swimsuit...

Shh! You're too loud. Let's get out of here before she notices.

Ah! I'm hungry...

Nom nom... More meat.

Staring blankly...

Is this a vacation...? Is this a reward...?

I'd much rather spend my days like I usually do...

Ah! I feel an immense amount of energy... Where is it...

Go outside and do whatever you want.

Since doing what I want is what a vacation is all about...

Energy... It should taste good if I absorb it, right...?

This way.

Is it really okay to follow her?

That too, but... I'm concerned about what she said about energy.

I fell into the sea while investigating that energy too.

What if she runs out of protein?

Ah! Why are you staring at my chest so intently...!

Of course it doesn't!

I already have a hard enough time every time I go clothes shopping... Please don't rub salt in the wound...

You worry too much! From what I've seen, everything in life has a way of working itself out!

Haha, you can't have snacks without alcohol! Right?

Come on! I haven't even had a fraction of what I usually drink!

Huh? Someone's up ahead.

Alright! Time to earn my keep for that meat!

A moderate amount of alcohol actually helps me focus!

Hey! Hands in the air! I'll shoot if you resist! I'll shoot even if you don't!

You're just saying you're going to shoot anyway!

Hyaah! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!

Masters, what is going on?! Please calm down!

Tsk, is it the Panoticon crowd? What a buzzkill.

We... came to look for treasure.

Wh-Why did you tell them that? You said it was a secret!

Ah...! Right, we did...

...

You couldn't just pretend you didn't hear that... right?

Haha! So you're our rivals! Spit out everything you know!

Aaah, see! I told you this would happen!

H-Here it is! We followed this map to get here...!

But we don't know exactly where the treasure is, so we haven't been able to find it...

Nice! First, we confiscate it. Pinky, compare this with ours.

Um... this map is identical to the one we have, though?

There are two of the exact same map? Where did you guys get this?

I-I'll tell you everything, so please forgive us!

Good. Give me a three-line summary.

Well... I found it after one of the masters left it behind in a guest room.

I knew it the moment I laid eyes on it. "This is a treasure map!"

So we gathered some people to look for the treasure together while on vacation.

How could we ever escape Big Sis!

Exactly! If we did, she'd chase us to the ends of Edea just to spank our butts!

Yes. We came to find a treasure that will satisfy Big Sis!

She keeps saying she needs a new sensation lately, and she's been taking all her stress out on us!

It must be a treasure more powerful and stimulating than anything else in the world!

If it's that good, it will definitely satisfy Big Sis and drive her wild!

There's no way a treasure like that exists!

Heeek...! We're sorry!!

Stop bullying the weak.

...!!

This Master is actually a nice person...!

Now, since I took your side. Protein.

Huh?

Nothing? Really? None at all? I can smell it.

For every gram of protein I find on you, you get one hit.

Um... would the protein calorie bars we brought as emergency rations do?

Fine. I'll let you off the hook this time, but there won't be a next.

She's practically a gangster... I'm so glad I'm on this side.

But I feel like I've become a bad person too...

Munch munch...

Aaahh! You shouldn't litter in the forest!

It's fine. There's someone to clean up after me.

Huh? Here?

Hauuu... Next time, please give it to me instead of throwing it on the ground...

Should I?

How does this look like we're getting along at all!

That's how everyone gets close. Right?

Hing... It feels more like I'm just getting bullied, though...

Finest liquor, of course!

What else is there? What about you then?

A forest made of meat... The ultimate treasure...

Heh, I knew you and I were cut from the same cloth.

Sounds good! Let's go all out!

...U-Um, is there any way I can sit this one out...?

Hing... That's exactly why I wanted to sit out...

I hate that even more!!!!

That's a classic answer... I expected something a bit more unusual from you, Fixer...

You could just work hard like everyone else!

Why bother when you can just plunder?

...Isn't food just given to you?

Ah... There really isn't a single person on my side here...

What? If that's what you wanted, you should have said so. You've got me!

The more meat, the better too.

...By any chance, do I fall into your category of a beautiful girl, Fixer?

Wow... That's an incredibly reassuring answer...

Me? Ah... Well, as for me...

Leaving work on time, and holidays without having to go to the office.

I thought I'd finally get that treasure today...

Really? Is that all? Just quit your job and come work under me!

Since we crossed paths today, I'll hire you on the spot!

Ugh, I think I'll just stick to my current life...

I want that even less...!

For your information, my treasure is the ladies' smiles.

When the ladies are in a good mood, they give me more meat. It's a win-win.

Praise me more.

Right, enough chitchat. Let's get moving.

Agreed. I'll be needing energy soon.

I want to go back and rest soon too...

One, two! One, two!

Good! Just like that! Hold that form!

Hieek... They put me through so much last time too...

Beats me. I don't know either. From what I can see, they just came here to work out...

Energy depleted. And...

I smell it... The smell of protein...!

B-By the way, if she means protein... Don't tell me...

Alright, let's drink up. Cheers!

To gains!

Is that... a Protein Booster?

Give me a drink too.

Oh! To think we'd meet a prospective member on an isolated island like this!

Fate brought us together, but we can't just give it to you. Only those who survive our PT session can have it.

What do I need to do?

10 sets of 30 squats, and 10 sets of 30 side-to-side runs!

10 sets of 30 push-ups, and 10 sets of 30 sit-ups!

Hmm... I pass.

We have no Protein Booster to give to a weakling like you!

So that means... if I'm strong, you'll give it to me? Then I'll just take it by force.

Ho... You dare look down on us with such a lazy body?! We'll teach you a lesson!

Gah..!!!

Mmm... Is it this powder?

Gulp...

Cough, cough...!! Ugh, I'm choking...!

Protein is precious... I can never spit it out.

...

If there are fallen guys, of course I should look around to see if they have anything good!

Hey, this is the human instinct for survival!!

H-Humans are not that evil!

The fantasy you had earlier was way more evil.

W-What fantasy are you saying I had?!

I found a map... But it looks like this one is the same as ours too.

Do you think someone distributed the maps to lure people here...?

There's no guarantee this map is actually a treasure map... At this rate, it seems like a fake...

You lack romance. Are you a realist?

Waaah... That's so mean! I don't work overtime and weekends because I lack romance!!!

I dream of leaving work early too... And I have romantic dreams of a life with a good work-life balance...

Who cares? We can just wipe them all out. And then we plunder everything.

There's no way there are many people who'd look at a map this suspicious and actually decide to search for treasure...

Well, whether there are many or few, we can just defeat them all and plunder them, right?

Gasp! What on earth just happened?!

The Protein Booster is gone!

Munch, munch... Cough, cough... munch, munch...

Eating the booster straight as powder... She's strong...!!

Wait a minute! The map, the map is gone!

W-What?! At this rate, we won't find the ultimate treasure that will meticulously stimulate our muscles!

Let's look around. We must have dropped it somewhere! There's a high chance it fell when we were running earlier...!

Something's strange.

The Maids just gave away the map. As if... they didn't really need it...

So why are those guys so obsessed with the map...?

Ah... This is...!

Ugh...

A map where the X only appears when it gets wet with sweat... That's such terrible taste!

And please show some consideration for how I feel having to hold this sweaty thing!

Then do you want to hand the map over to us? Who knows what might happen to it?

I'll keep a tight hold of it... Just make sure to find it before the sweat dries, please...

Hieeek... W-What are you planning to do...?

Ah! It's around here!

Here. I sense energy beneath this.

Well, we'll figure something out!!

Fixer, give me the shovel. I'll dig.

Of course! Don't worry, I'll dig carefully.

Slightly to the left from there.

Okay!

Straight in that direction.

Roger that!

Alright, found it!

Hmm...?

The energy... suddenly vanished...

Well... it's not impossible. I have a good example...

Y-Yes! We actually have this kind of technology in Humanitas...

They embed a spell on a specific object to draw in and accumulate surrounding energy, you see?

If they used a similar spell... now that the chest has been dug up, the spell might have broken, causing the gathered energy to disperse.

Th-That's right.

Oho, so is there a mass of energy inside this chest?

Too bad it's not alcohol... Well, should we open it for now?

What is this?! It won't budge at all!

What did you say? Wanna go?!

Alright. For the sake of energy...

Lock spell deactivated. Now I'm out of energy...

Hmm...

Huh...?

Hmm...

...A pipe bomb?

...A dumbbell?

...A club?

...U-Um, may I take a look?

...?!!!

Kyaaaah!!

Waaah... I'm sorry...!

...Ah.

There's... a button here.

Well... the energy signal completely vanished, so I'm not sure.

Besides, if it's this big and thick, I might be able to fit it in my mouth, but I can't really swallow it... Ah.

If I stretch my esophagus a bit, I might be able to slowly push it down and swallow it. Like swallowing a hot dog whole...

Yeah... I don't need this.

Geez, what would I even use this for? It's a total bust!

It's too heavy to use as a weapon, and it only has a vibration feature that nobody even needs...

Sigh, if I knew it'd be like this, I would've just gone to play on the beach with the Fixer.

M-Me?

I can't even lift it, so what would I use it for...?

A-Ah, no! I don't have the authority to...

Ah, n-no, you really can't... It's not even my money, and corporate funds are out of the question...

...Ah! I just had a great idea...!

What is it? Let's hear it first.

This item... Wouldn't it be a good idea to put it up for an auction and have the Maids and trainers bid against each other?

Ah... Finally connected.

What's the matter?

Hinata has drifted away. Into the ocean.

Pardon...? What do you mean by that?

Mmm... The ocean surged after a sudden spike in energy.

...What about a rescue request? Why didn't you go save her?

I gave her an inner tube, so she should be fine. Probably...

We have a problem here too. The whirlpools won't stop, and rapid currents have formed.

Sigh... I should have rented a cruise ship instead of a yacht.

...According to the detector, the energy in question leads to an isolated island.

The currents are flowing in that direction as well.

...Then Hinata must have washed ashore on that island.

Most likely. I am 99% certain.

Please prepare to retrieve her once the sea calms down. I'll quickly send a helicopter or...

Huh...?

The flow of energy... has stopped.

That's a relief. The sea should calm down soon, so please start heading over.

Yes.

Mmm...

You felt it too, Leader? The flow of energy shifting in the waters off Vermont.

It's quite a massive flow... What on earth is about to happen?

More importantly... now that I think about it, didn't Claire head toward the coast?

You know, for her vacation...

...

No way. Claire... with the energy?

If she did, we would've felt it immediately, right?

...True, I don't feel like Claire's power has grown any stronger.

In that case, I can think of about three hypotheses.

First, someone discovered a new energy source near the Vermont coast and did some weird experiment.

Second, Claire messed with the energy, warping its flow.

And third... both of those situations happened at the same time.

...Either way, none of these scenarios look good.

We need to prepare some countermeasures...

I could go check it out if needed.

...No, I don't think that'll be necessary.

I sense... a peculiar energy wavelength around Claire.

This is definitely the test subject's presence... Right. They must be together now.

Those two... will surely find a way to resolve this mess. We have no choice but to trust them and wait.

Fufufu... Yuria, you've certainly grown.

S-Shut up! Just get back to work!

Sure, sure... By the way, mmm...

It's a pain to clean up, so is it okay if I just blow away all these tentacles spread out here?

Don't go causing another incident!

I'm nervous, but I have to do my best...

Saying it like that only makes me more nervous!! And what about my future??

Yo, I brought all those guys from earlier.

W-What is this about? Why did you call us back, Masters...?

I took their protein and ate it.

Ugh... Now we have zero booster left in our hands. At this rate, muscle loss is inevitable...

Ahem... Hello, everyone. Actually, we've acquired the treasure that you've all been looking for...

Since we have no use for this treasure, we'd like to sell it to you!

When it comes to this treasure, it boasts an incredible weight.

Would anyone like to try lifting it?

As you can see, the weight is quite substantial compared to its size.

Not only that, but if you turn on the switch...

It actually vibrates intensely!

Good weight, good grip... it's the perfect thickness and circumference. I'll be able to target all the necessary areas.

I heard that adding vibration to a grip ball enhances exercise efficiency. Is it that kind of tool?

It seems sturdy enough to withstand rough use... and since it's heavy, it can stay firmly in place...

Yes, it will definitely provide the stimulation needed to revitalize Sister...!

Now, there is only one product! It will go to the highest bidder.

The starting bid is 500,000 Credits!

What should we do... that's quite expensive?

If we pool everyone's money together, we can totally do it.

If we can buy our peace with that...

No amount of money is too much.

550,000 Credits!

We have 550,000 Credits.

Dammit, we can't let them have it. 600,000 Credits!

600,000 Credits!

Nice, looks like we can easily get at least a million.

Can't we get paid in protein instead?

Too bad.

But hey, once this job is over and we go to Vermont, we can all eat and drink together.

Agreed.

Oh, come on. We earn money to drink, eat, and have fun. Right?

Everything is for the sake of consuming more protein...

But I'm out of energy right now, so I'm going to rest.

1,000,000 Credits! Do we have any higher bids?

Any more than this is impossible...

...

Hey! You Maids!

Yes! What is it, Masters?

Think about it. Is there any reason for us to fight among ourselves?

Huh? But...

We're on a deserted island, far away from society.

Why should we follow societal rules! Especially on the Day of Freedom!

Indeed... that makes perfect sense.

You get what I mean by now, right? Alliance!

Alright. Masters, let's join forces!

...?!!

Wait a minute...! Everyone, please calm down!!

Aaaah!!! Fixer, please help me!!!

Waaah... Thank you for helping me.

Why did these guys suddenly go crazy?

Did they really think I'd just hand over my stuff?!

W-We want a peaceful life too...!

We're willing to make any sacrifice to build muscle!

Was gathering them in one place a mistake...?

What's there to regret? We gathered them because it was an auction.

Discharged... I need protein...

Ah, dammit! Taking on this many people alone is a bit tough...!

For now, tactical retreat! Retreat!!

We took it!! The treasure is ours now!!

Hooray!!! We can finally build our muscles!!

W-Wait a minute!

How are we going to distribute that treasure?

Huh? It's in our hands, so it's ours.

What? Masters, what on earth is that supposed to mean!

You said we were an alliance! You liars!!

Now that we have the item, the alliance is over!

You would have done the exact same thing if you got it, wouldn't you?

We were obviously going to share it! Of course, under the assumption that Sister allowed it...!

Do you really think we'd be naive enough to believe that? Why don't you put down your weapons first, then?

We wouldn't have pushed this hard if you hadn't done that, Masters!

Whew, they're fighting amongst themselves.

L-Let's run away while we have the chance! Nothing good will come of getting caught up in this...!

Run away? Me? Of course I have to go take it back!

Don't you have any food? I feel like if we could just get that knocked-out girl back on her feet, we'd stand a chance...!

We were just pushed back... There's no way we have another option...

Ah... I've got a bad feeling about this...

Yes? What is it, Master?

A-As if we'd believe you!

You're planning to team up with us, only to run off with the treasure!

If we actually needed the thing, would we have held an auction in the first place? We only want the money.

If we win, you keep the item and pay us for it. How about that?

But in return, I'll give you a much better price than the auction earlier.

Ugh... Fine! We'll accept that offer.

But why... do you look so pale, Master...?

S-Sucked dry...? What on earth did she...

Hey, in a lawless place like this, yesterday's enemy is today's ally.

H-Humph! They're still just weaklings who got pushed back earlier anyway! They're no match for our muscles!!

...I've recovered enough to move at full strength for about ten minutes.

It's a shame I only got a little taste... but the flavor and quality were better than I expected, Fixer.

Let me suck you again next time.

...? I don't know what that is, but I'll think about it.

T-That's the girl who was knocked out earlier...!

W-What?! When did she get up!

None of your business...

Bring it on, all of you.

Alright! Got it!

Master, pass it to us! We'll keep it safe until the fight is over!

You got it!

T-That's dangerous! How could you launch something that heavy like a cannonball!!!

Haha, sorry. I had a bit to drink, so my strength control is a little off.

They dropped the treasure!

Time for a fifty-meter sprint!

O-Oh no! We have to run too!

If we lose it again, we'll never get another chance...!

...But um, is there any point to this plan?

Ugh... There are holes everywhere, it's so hard to move!!

W-Who the hell was stupid enough to dig all these holes?!

When the fighting dies down, we just need to step in and fan the flames.

And causing trouble is my specialty!

Phew... It looks like I barely have anything to do.

I just hope this wraps up without any trouble.

Well, we'll just have to wait and see about that, won't we?

Huh?

I mean, in the end, we still have to run off with the treasure ourselves, right?

Exactly. That's why I'm resting right now.

My energy is really running on empty...

Oh...

Making me work out again... Hiiing...

*Pant, pant*... I can't do this anymore.

How do those Maids have so much stamina...?

Serving our masters every single day makes this a piece of cake...

So that's the stamina and muscle forged through real-world experience...

Hey, you guys. Are you all done now?

Huh?

What?

Great, then we'll be taking this now.

Ah! Before we knew it, we were the only ones fighting!

And after you said you only wanted the money...!

You planned this from the very beginning!!

You sneaky jerks...!

Go ahead and curse all you want. The price is only going up.

Huh?

What's up with this? Why is it like this?

It's way lighter than before... but why is it so warm...?

What? It got hot..?

Huh? What's the matter, why are you so surprised?

W-Well, there are many reasons why an object might heat up...

It seems like a device that converts and stores energy as weight, but the continuous external shocks broke the internal mechanism...

And as the stored weight converts back into energy, it's getting lighter and hotter...

If this keeps up, the internal pressure and heat will reach their limit... and cause a massive explosion!!

Never mind that, how big of an explosion are we talking about?

It depends on the amount of energy...

Considering its weight... it might easily blow away at least one whole city...!

What's going on, why is everyone so serious? Put it in plain English.

Huh? All of a sudden?

With its current weight, I could probably make it to the beach over there...

Ah, jeez. I'll take your word for it.

I don't have the strength right now. I used almost all of it during the fight...

You have to keep that promise.

I'm... spent...

Oh no... our peaceful life!!

Our muscle training!!!

Now is not the time! Everyone, run toward the forest, quick!

I told you! It's going to explode! Explode!

A huge impact in the ocean will trigger an enormous tidal wave!

Aaah, how did it end up like this...!!!!

Phew... Everyone okay?

All clear.

We somehow survived... Whew...

Hey, I looked out for you guys at the end. Nobody got hurt, right?

Was there any other way? At least you didn't get drenched, did you?

If it weren't for me, you would've been swept away like the others.

You're not the type to get hurt by that anyway, so it's fine.

Yeah, yeah.

...But um, the treasure hunt is over now, right? It really is, right?

Let's hurry back to Vermont! If we stay here any longer, who knows what'll happen...

Yeah, it's a shame, but I guess we have to call it. But the thing is...

...Why are you trailing off? Don't tell me you want to hang out here longer..?

No, hanging out aside, the boat we came on got swept away.

Oh...

W-What?!! Then... are we trapped here?!

Well... pretty much.

I guess we could try building a raft if we really put our minds to it...

But if things go south and we end up drifting at sea... you know what happens.

...What's there to worry about? We can just swim back.

All the way to Vermont from here? That is absolutely impossible!

I can do it. I'll send a rescue team.

But... *slurp*.

This is your chance to be a hero.

All you have to do is fulfill your promise from earlier.

True heroes live on through their fame and achievements.

What a shame.

Fixer, do you have any good ideas...? You're the Fixer, after all!

Huh...?

Is this really the time to be satisfying your selfish desires?! Hurry up and find a—

...Oh! It looks like someone's here!

Oh, sure. You stay here on your own, Fixer. We're heading out.

Look, there's a ship over there! And it's quite fancy...

What's a luxury ship like that doing out here...?

M-Master...? What are you doing here? ???

It should be... this island...

*Sniff* *sniff*...

Hinata's scent... and... the Fixer...?

Did you find them?

Yes. No need to worry.

It seems she's with the Fixer.

Along with a few others...

Hmm... That doesn't sound very reassuring at all, does it?

Now that we've confirmed they're alive, I will move on to the next mission.

Understood. Good work.

I wonder what on earth happened on this island...

I should investigate further.