Train Station

So, who are we taking here?

Taking what?

Who, not what!

Who's going to ride on AZX? Who is our passenger?

Oh, you don't know?

There aren't any trains that run in the Outpost.

!!

Excuse me?

Not a single one?

Correct. The Outpost is not connected with the Ark or the surface.

All we have is this station,

and the train is inoperable as well.

Wait, if you don't take any passengers, how come there's a station?

What's the point of even having it?!

What's the point?

AZX is parked right outside the Outpost.

Isn't that meaningful enough?

I-I guess so, but...!

Why not just put the AZX in an exhibit then?

Soline.

You have to think about the big picture.

Someday, the Outpost will be quite famous.

Eventually, it will be connected to the Ark via railway.

And further in the future, when we reclaim the surface,

the railway will connect to the surface.

That will be this train station's time to shine.

... Will that day ever come?

Absolutely!

The future is unwritten.

With that in mind,

let's start preparing for that day by cleaning up the train station!

!!

Erm... right now?

Yep! Unlike the Ark, we don't have any cleaning robots here.

We'll have to clean it by ourselves.

The entire place?

All by ourselves?

I'm afraid so!

...

D-Diesel... I think I might have a stomachache. I'm gonna go rest for a bit.

You just need a pick-me-up! Have some strawberry candy.

No, that won't help!

Well, considering how energetic that response was, you must be feeling better already.

...

Let's get to it then!

Where are you going, Commander?

You're going to help us, right?

Everyone's counting on us.

You're helping, aren't you?

Is all of this really necessary?

It's like a big event!

Well we're not event planners!

Oh, hi Commander.

Infinity Rail decided to venture out a bit.

We're calling it the Light Rail Food Truck.

That's right! This is just a test run.

If it goes well, we plan to sell food inside the train station.

So, I was wondering...

Are you any good at cooking?

Perfect!

So what do you know how to make?

Mmm, sweet and sour... makes your mouth water!

Coincidentally, it just so happens that that's what we're serving today.

Making sweet and sour chicken isn't easy, but I like a good challenge.

Toast, huh?

I'm a big fan of toast with lots of strawberry jam,

but unfortunately today's main dish is sweet and sour chicken.

I've already prepared all the ingredients, so don't worry.

And Soline will be your assistant if need be.

Hey, why me?!

I'd love to help, but I'm really backed up at work, so I've got to go.

Oh, by the way, Brid said she'll drop by if she's free after work.

Best of luck to both of you!

What's the point of this?!

Why are we doing this at a train station that isn't even operating?!

All I've been doing is cleaning all day, now I'm expected to cook as well?

Commander, are we going to use this onion?

Slicing onions always make me cry. You do it.

Hmm, not too bad... what do you think, Commander?

I've tasted it so much, I can't really tell anymore.

Are you sure that won't make it too spicy?

Don't you think that'll make it too sweet?

*Sniff sniff* so this is where that smell is coming from!

Smells delicious.

Novel insisted we follow the scent,

so here we are.

Hey, Noob! What are you doing here?

Oh, it looks amazing!

Just as I thought, always trust your nose.

Hm...

count me out.

Just one bite! Once you try it, I'm sure you'll love it.

I'm not sure about that...

You sure? Well in that case, don't mind if I do.

The smell is making my mouth water.

I'm still not entirely convinced,

but if you insist, Noob, I'll try some.

Well... if I die of poisoning...

I think we can trace it back to this chicken.

Oh come on, it's not that bad!

I knew it!

It was fine when I tasted it earlier...

Then I'd say your taste buds are shot.

It is rather baffling how this chicken came to taste like this.

I feel like I need to call in forensics...

Not bad, just... peculiar.

No, it's bad. Plain and simple.

I'm sorry to say this, but it's... just terrible.

Cooking this terrible should be a crime.

Hey, if you've got nothing nice to say, then beat it!

As a detective, I am duty-bound to tell the truth.

I suggest you give it another try.

Even though I doubt it'll turn out any different.

I refuse to believe it's that bad! What do you think, Commander?

So you're saying there really is something wrong with my taste buds?

I thought it was really good...

Right? I thought it was okay...

Novel and Exia are the ones with bum taste buds.

Besides, everyone has different taste.

How's everything going?

Brid!!

I had some time on my hands, so I decided to stop by.

Diesel told me you two were making sweet and sour chicken?

Ah, so this is it then?

Sure, why not?

Hmm...

What do you think?

I'll... refrain from commenting.

What?! Don't tell me you hate it too?

It might not be a top seller.

Suffice to say I don't think the food truck will be a success.

Yeah, we worked out butts off!

And we all appreciate that,

but for the moment at least,

I think it needs a little bit more improvement.

I'll talk to Diesel.

Sorry, I really should be getting back to work...

I'll see you around.

Commander, I really think we're...

So this is the fabled AZX.

It's my first time seeing it with my own eyes.

Have you ever traveled on this train before, Cutey?

It looks like the door is open. How about we go in and poke around?

Come on!

What's the big deal? We're just taking a quick look around.

Who knows what neat things we could find inside?

Hey, how come the door closed? Wait, could you want to...

You little devil! You're so bad, tee-hee!

Oh, really? Guess the door shut by itself then.

But... How do I open it? I don't see any levers or anything.

Ah, here's a button to open it.

Guess it's broken.

Seems so.

There must be some other way of opening it...

Actually, this is kind of exciting! It's like a puzzle we've got to solve.

What... yo... ing?

Wh... doi...?

Can you understand what she is saying?

In that case...

The handle! Use the handle! Open the door!

The door! How do we open it?

Ah! Go... it... open!

What are you two doing in here?

Huh?

Why did you come inside?!

Huh? Should I not have?

We can just open the door and get out anyway.

Huh? What the... how come it isn't opening?

It's broken, and we can't get into the driver's compartment either.

All right, get out of the way. I'm gonna blast the door off its hinges.

I'd advise against that. Not unless you want to end up in court on vandalism charges.

They've already got enough on their plate as is.

Well, we can't just sit around and wait for someone to come to save us.

Then again, if you two are willing to become my test subjects, I'd be willing to spend a little more time here...

Test subjects?!

Fine then, you got any better ideas?

I left mine in the laboratory.

I was just popping out for a short errand, so I didn't bring mine.

All right then, our only recourse is to smash the window.

Weren't you against that just a minute ago?

That's because you wanted to use your gun! How about we use something safer like... the fire extinguisher.

I guess we don't have much choice.

Huh? You were against it when I proposed the idea.

That's because you wanted to use your gun!

I'll count to three, then I'll smash the window.

1.

2.

3!

What the...?!

*Cough cough* What are you doing?

I think I pulled the safety pin by accident.

*Cough* I can barely see! That's it, I'm going to use my gun...

*Cough* Man, things got a little hairy back there.

*Cough* We all nearly became cautionary tales.

Oh for Pete's sake! I just cleaned this place up! What happened?

How did you even manage to get on the train without authorization?

*Sob* I just spent ages cleaning this place, and you're asking me to calm down?!

I'm going to get Diesel and Brid. You all stay right here!

I told you we should have just blown the door off and made our escape.

We are so screwed...

Hey Coach, are you busy?

It certainly seems that way.

... It certainly doesn't look like it.

I knew it.

Come with me.

The garage at the train station.

A part from my board broke, and I'm having a hard time finding a replacement.

Since the AZX is at the train station, I figured they'd have plenty of parts.

...

You said you were free.

Any chance I can use this part? I really need it.

Sure, I've got a couple of spares in the back.

But there's a beta type and a gamma type. I'm not sure which will fit your board.

Hmm... I'm sure both would fit.

I'd go for the gamma type if I were you.

Huh? Helm?

I came to see the AZX. It's something of a companion to the Admire, so I actually come here fairly often.

... Actually, the Admire isn't something I can see whenever I want.

Hey Helm, how're you doing?

What makes you recommend the gamma type? I think beta would fit better.

Because that's what the Admire uses.

... Ships and boards aren't exactly the same thing.

Epinel. The Admire is the strongest ship there is, yes or no?

Um... yes?

The parts used by the strongest are also the strongest. So just use the gamma type.

Wait! When you put it like that, I must disagree.

The AZX uses beta parts, so I think it's safe to say that they've got the better performance.

... Let me get this straight. Are you saying that the AZX is better than the Admire?

What if I am? It's not like that's such an outrageous statement.

I'm not saying the AZX isn't impressive, but it doesn't hold a candle to our ship.

...

What's the top speed of the Admire?

That's not fair. It's a seafaring vessel.

I'm well aware of that. Now tell me, how fast?

... The AZX uses traditional ammunition, doesn't it? The Admire uses particle cannons.

Which take forever and a day to recharge.

And blow Tyrant-class Raptures to smithereens in the blink of an eye.

Those pea shooters of yours wouldn't even put a dent in the AZX's armor. From what I hear, the Admire might as well be made of paper-mâché.

It wouldn't ever get hit to begin with, thanks to our anti-aircraft guns.

The only reason you need anti-aircraft guns is because you're too scared to be in the thick of it.

Everyone knows the most powerful weapons are kept on the rear flanks.

Oh, is that right? Well, let me tell you...

Don't you think you should stop them?

You're the commander. You should mediate any disputes between Nikkes.

??

??

... Huh?

Perfect! That'll settle it.

Right. Whichever part Epinel selects will decide who's the strongest.

Beta parts used by the AZX.

Gamma parts used by the Admire.

What'll it be?

Well?

...

I-I think the AZX and the Admire are both impressive in their own right.

The Admire has incredible firepower which can intercept enemies and allow our allies safe passage on the high seas.

Meanwhile, the AZX is the fastest train the world has ever seen and helps transport troops and supplies with lightning speed.

I can't say which is stronger than the other.

I think they're both the strongest at what they specialize in.

...

...

She's right. You can't compare the AZX to anything else.

Same goes for the Admire.

Let's just keep rockin' it in our own special way.

You said it.

*Sigh*

...

Please.

You barely did anything.

...

...

...

...

As you can see, I'm being followed.

Although I haven't the faintest idea why.

That'd be much appreciated.

Sssh!

Can't you see I'm tailing her?

A professional maid should possess a wide range of skills.

I've been honing my infiltration and stalking skills for over a year now.

This is the first time I've seen someone walk so surreptitiously.

If it weren't for Cocorella's thermal tracking, I'd have lost her long ago.

Whoever she is, I mustn't let her out of my sight.

She must be a spy sent from the Intelligence Department.

...

Looks like this situation calls for a little acting.

Help me, Commander.

This little girl seems to be a fan of classic spy espionage.

Not cold-blooded assassinations.

We need to come up with a scenario that's tailored to our personalities.

You'll be like a character straight out of an old film noir.

For example,

a messenger for an organization, or something along those lines.

I'm not so stern with everyone.

Those who remain on the right side of the law,

I treat with utmost kindness.

Now, I was hoping you could do me a favor.

You're going to pretend to be a messenger for an organization.

See that bench over there?

Walk over to it, but act natural.

Sit down.

Take out your tablet and pretend to watch the news.

Then, you'll give me the signal.

A hand gesture, or something with your eyes.

Something that I'll be able to discern easily.

Is that the signal?

He must be the messenger sent by the Handler.

The mission is... To monitor L.

My colleague is the target? No! This can't be happening!

...

I'm pretty sure I saw this same story in a movie last year.

If I remember correctly, L will receive the very same order.

Then they spy on each other.

...

... L.

Yes, I've made contact with the messenger on the platform.

What? You've been issued the same assignment?

...

Understood.

You and I will join forces.

I'm making my way to you now.

Hey!

This must be the climax! Up and away!

I've gotta catch up to her!

...

...

Master, help me up!

...

...

The spy got away?

...

...

It is?

Then... I suppose there's nothing else we can do.

A proper maid should also know when to call it a day.

That's enough stalking for today. I should head back to the Maid Cafe.

Are you coming, Master?

I've got some new patterns I could draw with the ketchup. The spy's face, a train platform...

Then I can show it off to everyone.

Isn't the entire purpose of a train station

so that you can ride a train to different locations?

How come you can't operate it here?

No, no, no!

How many times must I tell you?

It's not as if the train isn't operating because we don't want it to.

It's because the train tracks aren't connected.

... I'm still not getting it.

Ugh... Commander, did you bring her here to annoy me on purpose?

What are you talking about?

What?

Then why don't you get her out of here?

If that's the case, why didn't you say so sooner?

...

Very well.

This is going to push my professionalism as a train attendant to the limit.

Follow me. I'll give you a private tour.

??

I came here looking for adventure.

Didn't you just say that

there aren't any rails to ride?

How on earth are we gonna set out for a new location?

You mustn't be so parochial with your mindset.

Is riding a train or boat a prerequisite for adventure?

Uh...

Countless people come to visit this place.

While they're here, they laugh and have a great time, and take countless photos.

Do you know why?

Because it's exciting to see something that differs from their everyday life.

Think about it. Is it common to have a station this well-kept without a track?

Definitely not.

Exactly. That's why people say

this seems like a place where trains soar through the sky.

Some even say that this station feels like it's come out of a fairy tale, where time travel is possible.

So there you have it.

The very absence of certain things in fact stimulates the imagination.

Not just today. I'm always like this.

Anyway, my point is:

As you should!

Anyway,

my point is:

We're not protecting this station for no reason.

It is our belief that one day this station will have tracks running through it.

However, even now, we have a great amount of pride in what we do here.

We light up other people's lives.

...

So, as you can see,

you don't always have to look to faraway places for adventure.

...

Are you all right? You look troubled.

No, it's nothing.

I've just never thought about this stuff before.

Just like you tidy up this station every day,

we also keep the Admire spick and span.

And there's a real meaning to all of it.

You were also spot on with the other thing.

You don't have to sail the high seas

or ride the rails to have a rousing adventure.

Could you show me around this place a little more?

I want to experience the sense of adventure that resides within everyday life.

!!

Of course!

Our station may look impressive from the outside, but that's not all. We have plenty of additional information inside as well.

Exhibits covering the history of the Ark Express's construction,

and the various iterations it went through.

All with plenty of visual aids.

We also have a spot where you can take a photo with the train.

Thanks, hehe.

Why are you talking like that? I'm not a child.

And also...

It's so sweet! What is it?

A strawberry candy I pilfered from Diesel's desk.

They're a big hit with visitors, and can lift their spirits, so I try and hand them out often.

Seriously? You're interested in candy too?

!!

*Crunch crunch* Delicious.

Moving on to the exhibit...

*Crunch crunch* Sure.

So we can see what it was like there at the beginning of the Outpost?

I've always been curious about how a place like this started out.

Of course, we have a short video that plays every 5 minutes.

Ah! Welcome, Commander!

Over here.

Sorry to call you so suddenly.

Um... We're planning to clean up the AZX and the station.

It's gonna be a lot of work, so...

I know it's a bit much, but, could you possibly lend us a hand?

Besides cleaning the AZX's interior, we've also got to clean the wheels!

Is this reasonable?

I don't really see why we have to do it either.

We just heard that someone higher up wanted to inspect the AZX,

so we got orders to clean it up real nice, and make it look brand new.

Brid is busy with other repairs, so that's why I called in the cleaning master!

Hehe! Great idea, Soline!

Hehe.

Yep!

Speak of the devil...

Here she comes.

Hmm?

Huh?

Oh, um...

Hello, ladies!

I-I'm Privaty, and I'll be your maid for the day!

Whether it's cooking or cleaning, I can do i...

Huh?!

M-Master?

What are you doing here?

Good grief.

We asked for a cleaning master, but they sent Privaty of all people?

I gotta admit the outfit looks really good on you, hehe.

My goodness...

You're a maid now, Privaty?

Y-yeah!

You got a problem with that?!

There's no need to get so upset!

I was just a little caught off guard, that's all.

So... are you any good at cleaning?

Hmph, of course!

... I'm not convinced.

Come again?

Look, let's be real here.

We specifically asked for a cleaning master, and out of nowhere, you showed up.

You don't exactly scream cleaning master, do you?

Hey!

You better think again.

I'll show you just how skilled I am at cleaning.

You want this place to be immaculate? You got it!

What's all the fuss about, seriously?

Did I say anything wrong?

Not at all.

Anyway, it looks like she's started cleaning. Should we join her?

Sure.

Phew, finally done!

Thanks a bunch, everyone!

Big shoutout to Privaty for extra effort!

*Huff huff*

Huh? Me?

I mean, you practically cleaned the entire AZX all by yourself.

So, I can't thank you enough!

Oh, that?

Piece of cake.

I was wondering if we could trouble you with the next cleaning as well?

Wait, what?

Y-you'd want to invite me back?

Yeah.

I didn't realize you were so good at cleaning,

and such a reliable helper as well.

Exactly!

Oh, I don't want to put any pressure on you.

You're more than welcome to decline. No hard feelings.

... I didn't say I wasn't interested.

I'm just glad that you all have noticed my capabilities.

Feel free to call me if you ever need help.

After all, it's my duty as a maid to serve you.

That's great!

Thanks!

Thanks for the help as well, Soline, Commander!

Thank you for coming along, Teacher.

Ugh, why do we have to go on a field trip anyway?

Not only do we have to schlep out here and watch the hologram explaining the Ark Express' entire history,

we've also got to write a report about it.

Aaarrgh, just thinking about it makes me so annoyed.

Can we go do some karaoke after?

Nice! That gives me some much-needed motivation.

I'll do my best.

Now, where do we have to go, exactly?

This place is bigger than I thought...

Candies♪

Strawberry candies for you♪

Huh?

Teacher...

What's that sound?

Is there a vending machine that's broken?

Wait, I see her!

Let's head over there.

Hmm?

It's what everyone likes!

Oh.

Hi Commander!

And you are...?

Hi.

I'm Ein from the M.M.R. Vocational School.

Diesel... right?

Was that you singing a while ago?

That's right!

It's my favorite song.

I've been practicing every day. Would you like to hear it from the beginning?

Oh, sure!

Candies, strawberry candies for you♪

Hehe, how was it?

...

It...

was amazing!

Totally the coolest!

Are you a singer by any chance?

I'm afraid not.

Do you use social media?

Not really, no.

Darn, that's too bad.

If you posted videos of your singing, I think it'd be a big hit!

Some people may even want to challenge you in a sing-off. It'd be huge!

Hehe, it seems you really like my singing.

Of course!

I didn't just like it, I loved it!

Your voice is almost too perfect to be true.

Oh, we can't waste our time chatting here.

Teacher!

Let's hurry to the karaoke.

You too, Diesel.

You're not busy, are you? Is this a good time?

Karaoke?

Sounds fun, hehe.

Sure, I can come. I just finished cleaning.

Awesome!

I wanna hear you sing in a karaoke bar.

Let's hurry!

We can do that later!

To the karaoke bar!

Diesel, they're coming today, right?

That's right.

It's been a while since I've seen you this excited, Soline.

The quality of our food select...

Er... I mean, the quality of the AZX itself is gonna improve!

How could I not be excited?

Hehe, that's true.

Oh, hi, Commander. I didn't see you.

Commander?

If you're here, then where's...

Hello!

Sorry that we're a little late.

Hey there.

Welcome, Crust. Welcome, Bready.

Do you have anything for us?

We sure do!

A whole bevy of food options, designed to be consumed easily onboard the train, just as you requested.

I spent a lot of time making them.

And I spent a lot of time tasting them.

Personally, I recommend the AZX Iron Rails Lunchbox Set.

Sounds promising.

May I take a look?

Of course!

Six special lunchboxes, each with AZX-inspired names.

Four types of bread, all molded in various railway-themed shapes.

As for the water and drinks, we kept those as is.

What do you think?

It's perfect.

Just looking at them makes my mouth water.

I do have a question, though.

This train isn't in operation, right?

So why do you need food options?

We wanted visitors coming to see the AZX to experience the feeling of actually riding a train.

Simply sitting in a chair and listening to explanations can make for a boring tour.

We figured visitors might get hungry,

so we wanted to create a special dining experience unique to the AZX.

I see.

That's a great idea.

I appreciate you saying that!

...

Huh? Did someone say my name?

Wh-what are you talking about?

I'm over the moon. The AZX finally has its own unique dining options.

Ah, that reminds me!

I haven't introduced all the food yet.

May I present to you...

The snacks!

!!

Oh, thank goodness!

I was starting to get worried that there'd only be full meals and no snacks.

Hehe, sorry if you got stressed out for a second.

Now then, allow me to explain what we have on offer:

Four types of AZX-shaped cookies.

Ten types of candy inspired by track ballast.

And a special item specifically requested from Diesel...

We used the AZX's very own Choo Choo Splendamin to create this Choo Choo Ice Cream!

The lunchboxes are my favorite, but this is a close second.

Want to try one, Soline?

Er...

I'm not really into sweet things.

But...

if you insist.

While we're at it,

would you all like to sample these while sitting inside the AZX?

Food always tastes better when eaten in the proper setting.

Wow! Can we really?

We'd love that.

You're so right. Where you eat food can drastically change its flavor.

All right, everyone, dig in.

Oh boy, this looks so good!

Bon appétit!

Bon appétit!

Mmm...

It really does feel different.

Eating this in the setting where it was meant to be consumed really brings out the flavor.

Absolutely. It didn't taste this way at all when I was making it.

Mmm. I'm so glad we asked for your help, Crust.

I could be full to bursting, and still want to pack away more.

*Lick* *Lick*

So good.

This is the special item you requested, isn't it, Diesel?

That's right.

I usually don't like sweet things, but this is seriously good!

Glad you like it!

Can I have a bite too?

Be my guest.

*Lick*

!!

The wonderful cooling sensation, combined with the perfect mix of flavors...

It's really delicious. Hehe.

Seems like we have two satisfied customers, hehe.

We certainly do.

You did a great job.

Hehe, invite us to come along next time you do.

That'd be great.

Having a meal on a train for the first time was such a unique experience.

I won't be forgetting these flavors anytime soon.

Hello, Commander!

Welcome!

Hello.

Oh, were you wondering because I didn't tell you?

It's nothing big!

You know how busy we've been lately,

and you've helped us out in so many ways!

I just wanted to thank you properly, so I asked you to come!

Come to think of it, it's been quite some time since the three of us have gathered like this.

Yeah, you're right!

You two have been so busy, you've barely had any time to rest.

Even today, you both just barely made it on time.

From the way you put it, it seems you haven't exactly been busy.

O-of course not! I've been suuuuper busy too!

But it's really nice to see everyone all together like this!

Hehe, right?

I've prepared a little gift for you, though it's nothing much.

Oh, you too?

I prepared something too!

I've prepared mine as well.

When it comes to saying thanks, a gift's the best, hands down!

Oh my, looks like we're thinking of the same thing!

I guess it's time for a gift-giving ceremony!

I wouldn't exactly call this a gift.

I just brought some drinks for everyone—please help yourselves.

Ooh, drinks! Sounds great!

Perfect, I was just getting thirsty too!

I picked the drinks based on everyone's preferences, so just help—

...

I'm sorry.

... Instead of drinks, I brought my work tablet.

I must have grabbed the wrong bag in my rush.

I really can't believe I made a mistake like this...

Oh, don't sweat it! It happens to the best of us.

Really, it's all good!

Yep, yep!

On second thought, I'm not that thirsty, so it's all good!

Regardless, I apologize...

...

...

All right, I'll be next!

Here you go, everyone!

*Sniff sniff* Mmm, it smells sweet!

I think I know what it is.

It's that thing Diesel and I like, isn't it?

It must be.

Teehee.

Oh! I thought it'd be the candy Diesel always buys!

It seems to be grape-flavored.

... What?

No way... I clearly asked for strawberry candies...!

Maybe the clerk made a mistake?

Now that I think about it, I recall something like this happening before.

Ah... that might be it.

I should have checked the envelopes again after I got them.

I was in such a rush picking them up before coming here... I totally forgot.

I'm sorry.

It happens.

Don't worry about it too much.

Yep, yep!

I like grape candy too, so it's all good!

I really wanted you to try the strawberry candy... It's such a shame...

...

...

I-it's okay, really!

I definitely prepared these properly, so cheer up!

Here, take this, Commander!

And this one's for Diesel and Brid too.

Oh, thank you!

Thank you.

Of course!

Huh?! What?!

W-wait a sec! Diesel, Brid, what'd you guys get?

Gah!

Th-that's not right!

Wait, can you all hand those to me for a sec...?

I was gonna give them in this order.

I swear I memorized it, but I rushed over here and must've mixed them up.

... Sorry.

No, it's okay. This keychain is so cute!

Really, it's fine!

I like mine too.

I was gonna shout "Surprise!" right when you opened it...

but now it's totally ruined, ugh...

...

...

...

Oh my, a pin!

Oh, it has AZX on it.

Wow, so shiny!

...

...

... Ughh.

No, I like it.

The AZX lettering is excellent.

It's so shiny and pretty! I love it!

I'll wear it every day!

Don't be silly!

This is the best gift ever, Commander!

I'll keep doing my best!

Thank you too, Brid, Soline.

Let's keep working hard together!

Wh-what!? You don't have to say it like that!

I've... grown a bit too, you know!

I'll try even harder!

Diesel, Soline, Commander.

Thank you, as always.

I look forward to continuing to work with you.

Although I didn't bring any drinks with me, I thought I could prepare something simple for you here. Would that be all right with everyone?

Hehe, sounds good!

I'm down with that!

Is that okay with you, Commander?

Hahaha! It's only ever when I'm with you that I get to experience things like this.

This is the first time I've ever seen a train station that's completely empty.

And at such a late hour too.

It's the perfect time and place to have a little... secret fun, wouldn't you say?

I'm just saying.

Since I got to pick the spot for this little date, I wanted to choose somewhere that not just anyone could go.

Wait.

Would you rather I'd chosen your room...?

Who's there?

Commander and... an acquaintance, I presume.

What are you doing here at this hour?

Aw, there goes the mood...

I didn't think anyone else was here.

What do you mean?

Because an engineer's job doesn't just end when the train reaches the last station.

We still have to put the train in the depot and then submit our logs.

And there's plenty more to do besides that.

It's all part of the job.

I wouldn't be doing what I do if I didn't like it.

By the way...

I'd heard rumors,

but is this the newest maid at the Maid Cafe?

The name's Velvet, and I'm currently the most popular maid at the cafe.

Haha, it feels kind of embarrassing when I say it ♥

I see. May I ask what you're doing here at the station?

Me?

Master and I were just about to get up to a little adult misch—

You came here for work?

... I'm sorry, but I cannot imagine anything a maid would need to do at a station.

What sort of work exactly?

What was it again...?

Oh, right!

I wanted to come up with a new dessert to serve people who work late, so I came to ask a few questions.

A dessert for people who work late?

Yeah, I thought we could add something new to the menu.

As someone who works late, what would you like to see on the menu?

Hmm...

I'm fine with anything really, so long as I have it with a good cup of coffee.

Sorry, that probably isn't a very good answer.

No, that's great!

You said your name's Brid, right?

Next time you come to the cafe, I'll give you a little something extra on the house as a thank-you for answering my survey.

Just make sure to pick me ♥

I was already impressed that you came here so late for work,

but to promote your job outside of your workplace...

You really must be passionate about what you do.

Hahaha... You won't find many people more passionate about their job than me!

I imagine you must also feel a great sense of responsibility toward your work, then.

You bet I do.

I've always been thorough when it comes to accomplishing the missions I'm assigned.

I never let go of a target until the job is done.

See? I'm not letting go of Master, either ♥

You never let go of a target...

I need to adopt that sort of mindset, as well.

What do you mean? I think we're on the same page.

We are talking about work, aren't we?

That's right!

This conversation is strictly about *work*...

So tell me, Velvet.

Are you fairly meticulous in your work?

People sometimes tell me that I go overboard.

Isn't doing too much better than not enough, though?

There's nothing wrong with being thorough.

After all, you have to be absolutely certain you've finished the job.

If you leave anything undone, it could come back to bite you.

That's why it's especially important to tie up loose ends.

I agree. You must ensure nothing is left undone.

Only then can you perform your next responsibility without issue.

No one besides the Commander has ever seen eye to eye with me like this...

I'm glad to have met someone who thinks like I do.

If I may ask another question...

What do you do when someone tries to talk to you while you are focused on your work?

Although it is never my intention,

I find that when my full attention is on whatever I am doing, I sometimes don't answer if someone tries to speak to me.

Oh, you should definitely ignore them. Intentionally, even.

When you're doing something important, you can't afford to be distracted.

If you miss your target because you're talking to someone else,

that person's not going to take responsibility for it. Right?

...

The world really is vast...

I didn't think there was anyone who took their job more seriously than me.

I never imagined someone else would prioritize work to this extent.

Oh, I'm always serious in everything I do.

I may look like I'm playing around, but in reality I'm always doing my best.

What are you talking about, Master?

We're discussing *work*...

Or more precisely, our attitude toward work.

We weren't talking about different things at all. We're on the same page, remember? ♥

What?

No, not in the slighest.

Actually, I'd like to talk even more.

If you don't mind, Velvet...

I know it is late, but could I have a bit more of your time?

I'd like to continue our conversation back in the station office.

This is the first time I've ever met someone with whom I can speak so freely...

Hmm... Decisions, decisions.

If you promise to come to the Maid Cafe sometime later, I might consider it.

Sure.

I often go to the Maid Cafe for coffee anyway.

Well then, if you promise to order the omurice, then I promise to answer your questions even more sincerely ♥

Advertising for your workplace even in the middle of a conversation... Your professional commitment is truly remarkable.

Understood. I will order the omurice and even a dessert as well.

Haha! Thank you ♥