NOVEL NEXT Chapter 278.1
Chapter 278.1. Interests
Passing through the inner town, Katsuyori let out a faint sigh, thinking, No matter how many times I come here, I never get used to it.
It’s too clean, too affluent. When he first learned about the concept of a “convenience store,” he was astounded.
If you put products on display in a store in the abandoned town, it would surely close within the day—robbers would line up, no doubt.
Children ate meat buns in front of the shop. Seeing them laugh as they tossed barely-touched buns into the trash made Katsuyori grimace.
Was this a sign of affluence? When wealth grows to the point where people casually discard food, should one rejoice or despair?
“You’re thinking about pointless things again. Such thoughts can wait until you’re no longer worried about food yourself. How long do people even live? Do you think you’ll change as easily as the situations outside?”
Watching Katsuyori sigh, Ares teased, prompting a wry smile in return.
“You’re right. Considering human nature, who knows when such a time will come. Perhaps I overthought it.”
Exhaling deeply, Katsuyori leaned back in his chair with a chuckle, only for the vehicle to jolt again.
Even in the paved inner town, this wasn’t ideal. Perhaps this test drive would at least gather useful data.
Maintaining a limousine was costly; Katsuyori hoped Jun would step up car production.
“Hey, this clutch pedal feels completely loose.”
“The clutch’s just for show. It’s an automatic; we don’t need it.”
“Then why add unnecessary pedals?”
“Luxury cars need clutch pedals. Nanbu-san told me so.”
“Old man Nambu’s full of nonsense. He’s probably a die-hard manual transmission fanatic.”
Hearing Jun and Ohki’s conversation from the driver’s seat, Katsuyori couldn’t help but hope Jun would focus his efforts in the right direction.
“By the way, are there any issues with today’s deal?”
“Oh, there are. As I mentioned earlier, there’s never a deal with the inner town without complications.”
“Custom production of combat suits, huh? Why not leave it to Najy—or rather, Kamishiro Corporation? They’re close to the boss, aren’t they?”
Crossing his arms, Ares asked. Though he’d only been here a few months, he already grasped the power dynamics between Amatsugahara Corporation, other companies, and noble houses. Despite his rumored bar-hopping, it wasn’t wasted time.
“These combat suits are for adventurers, and we need a large quantity. They’re made with a special fiber, and the patent holder is the lab-factory we’re heading to.”
“A bureaucratic necessity, I see. Let me guess: a political move to avoid trouble by sharing the benefits?”
Ares quickly deduced the situation, and Katsuyori marveled. The man must have been a high-ranking official before coming to Amatsugahara Corporation.
“Exactly. The president decided some compromise was necessary and instructed us to make them feel like they’re getting a share of the profits.”
“Power alone won’t cut it; that’s a constant, regardless of time or place. How much patience is required?”
“Until it becomes profitable, he says.”
“An unusual directive, but understood. I’ll follow Takeda-dono’s lead. Let’s see what this deal brings.”
Ares laughed heartily, prompting Katsuyori to chuckle as well. Typical of the president. Until it’s profitable… What a tiresome, but unavoidable, deal.
What was the saying for this? Something about the hardships of serving under authority.
“We’re almost at Nerima Laboratory, Katsuyori.”
“Got it. Let’s refocus and get to work.”
“We’ve got to earn our pay, after all.”
Both in suits, they checked their ties, which Katsuyori thought he was finally getting used to.
Nerima Laboratory, a cutting-edge facility until two years ago, now featured a reinforced glass facade providing a clear view of the reception lobby.
Surrounded by planted trees, lawns, and a clean design aimed at harmonizing with nature, it made an impressive visual statement.
The rounded structures connected by glass corridors, bustling with lab-coated researchers, conveyed an image of innovation and diligence.
Originally just a research lab, financial troubles had forced it to add a factory. The new building in the back, with its large loading dock, was likely the factory.
Impressive buildings all, Katsuyori thought, stepping out of the car with a wry smile. Their appointment ensured no issues with their visit.
Yet, the entrance hall was deserted. Despite the scale of the combat suit deal, no one had come to greet them.
Katsuyori chuckled lightly at the familiarity of such treatment, stepping out with Ares while Jun and Ohki stayed behind, inspecting the car for potential issues.
The two entered the research lab, automatic doors opening silently.
The marble-like floors, potted plants, sofas, and tables made the interior resemble a luxury hotel.
A few people cast curious glances their way but didn’t approach.
“Excuse me. I’m Takeda from Amatsugahara Corporation, here to see Director Nerima as scheduled. Is the director available?”
“Yes, Takeda-sama of Amatsugahara Corporation. One moment, please.”
The two uniformed receptionists smiled pleasantly, with one making a call. They showed a faint spark of interest at the company name but asked no questions—well-trained employees, indeed.
After being asked to wait on a sofa, they soon heard a voice.
“Amatsugahara Corporation? Thank you for waiting. Please follow me.”