Honkai Diary: Start With Picking Up A White-Haired Treasure

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"Ha ha ha! Fascinating, truly fascinating! Do you know how long it's been since I've had such an equal conversation with someone, even engaging in mutual banter? People around me are either too foolish, too afraid of me, or both—simultaneously stupid and fearful. Being constantly above everyone isn't as enjoyable as one might think."

Otto burst out laughing uncontrollably, his interest in Zeke growing stronger as he watched him through the screen.

Zeke nodded, picked up a glass of chilled water from the table, and raised it to Otto across the digital divide.

"You're absolutely right; conversing with intelligent minds is indeed a pleasure. The clash of thoughts and knowledge always brings infinite surprises. Here's to great wisdom, here's to remarkable Mr. Otto."

"And to you, intriguing young man."

During their first interaction, Otto had also referred to Zeke as "young man," but it carried a casual condescension. Now, this term signified acknowledgment, even hinting at a deliberate sense of camaraderie.

Otto raised his glass, took a sip of red wine, and reciprocated Zeke's toast. Then, he asked:

"So, regarding your theoretical framework, do you have any plans yet? I'm not rushing you; after all, developing and implementing a new theory is akin to building a modern city from scratch. However, precisely because it's challenging and since this theory originates from you, only you know its origins and how to proceed. Therefore, it's best to start planning early."

"I found a girl."

"Oh?"

Otto conveniently displayed a look of curiosity.

Zeke's lips twitched. Why did it feel like Otto had suddenly developed a penchant for acting, eagerly engaging in these dramatic exchanges with him?

"Her power involves time, which allows her eyes to perceive even more intricate and fundamental information."

Otto's eyes lit up.

"You mean Sin Mal's ability could serve as a suitable starting point?"

Zeke had never mentioned Sin Mal by name before. With a resigned sigh, he placed his hand on his forehead.

"Mr. Otto, just how many eyes do you have on me? I barely interacted with anyone during my journey; how were you able to track me?"

"Well, one of you is Schicksal's invaluable asset, and the other is a young prodigy of our era. How could I let you wander freely without concern? There's no ill intent; I merely wanted to be ready to offer some modest assistance when necessary, that's all~~"

Yeah right, like I'd believe that! Zeke internally rolled his eyes but maintained a composed facade as he remarked mildly, "Schicksal truly knows no limits."

"You flatter us. Since you already have a plan, I won't dwell further on it. However, regarding Cocolia, although her position within Anti-Entropy is not yet secure, this indeed presents an opportune moment for seeking cooperation. Just bear in mind, she is cunning and scheming. Have you considered what leverage you'll use to open negotiations?"

Zeke turned his gaze towards the bright moon outside the window and replied calmly, "There's no need for concern there. I will present her with an offer she simply cannot refuse."

"Adopting two girls with Honkai Energy compatibility risks confrontation with Schicksal, and your terms are...a cold fusion device to solve the Titan mech's power issue, along with accompanying research materials?"

At an orphanage miles away, Cocolia gazed at the palm-sized metallic pyramid on the table, a black USB drive, and the letter in her hand, lost in thought.

Titan mechs were dual-powered combat machines utilizing both Honkai Energy and conventional electricity. With formidable mobility and firepower, they formed the core strength of Anti-Entropy's forces against the Valkyrie troops.

For issues related to Honkai Energy, Tesla and Einstein had provided flawless solutions—such matters demanded expertise, not amateur tinkering. However, the key technologies for conventional energy remained tightly guarded by the Conservatives' top scientists.

Cocolia, representing the Radical faction within Anti-Entropy, could obtain a limited number of energy cores through legitimate requests to expand their Titan force but lacked the ability to independently produce them.

The lack of autonomy in producing Titan units was the key reason why the Radicals could never gain the upper hand over the Conservatives.

And conventional energy core development wasn't something that could be achieved overnight; even now, there had been no significant breakthroughs.

If this cold fusion reactor were genuine and resolved the issue of independent production for the Titan unit, Cocolia's rising influence would skyrocket exponentially. With some deft maneuvering, she might very well become the de facto leader of the Radical faction.

This opportunity was simply too enticing to pass up.

Cocolia pressed her fingertips against her brow.

"Bronya, how did you come across these?" She turned to address the emotionless girl with gray spiral curls standing beside her.

After all, Bronya was the one who brought them here.

Bronya lifted her gaze, her voice cool yet distinctly childlike as she replied expressionlessly:

"Bronya discovered codes belonging to my former organization near the orphanage grounds. Concerned about potential threats to the orphanage, I followed the trail left by those codes. Eventually, I found these items three kilometers away, placed on a tree stump in the forest, along with a letter addressed to Mother Cocolia."

Upon hearing Bronya's description, Cocolia instinctively doubted the authenticity and origins of these items.

The question of their authenticity could be quickly verified, so there was no need to dwell on it for now.

As for where they came from... It couldn't possibly be the military organization that Bronya belonged to before. If they possessed this kind of capability, Anti-Entropy wouldn't have been able to establish such a foothold here, let alone with such ease, as if walking through unoccupied territory.

In any case, assuming the materials were genuine, the mysterious benefactor behind them must possess not only groundbreaking technology but also formidable intelligence capabilities.

"I cannot...refuse..." Cocolia murmured, setting down the letter.

The offer was enticing, and its timing couldn't have been more opportune—just when she desperately needed a breakthrough. It felt akin to placing a refreshing glass of water before a traveler parched in the desert; who could say no?

Adopting two children aligned perfectly with her intentions anyway.

Facing off against Schicksal? Isn't that what every member of Anti-Entropy should be prepared for?

The only question was whether this mysterious benefactor had some deeper scheme.

And by delivering such a valuable item directly to her, did they not fear she might take it and refuse to do their bidding...? True enough, she wouldn't. Whether out of caution against the unknown or considering potential future transactions involving even more enticing technologies beyond cold fusion, Cocolia would never betray someone's trust.

"This person either knows me very well or is supremely confident I'll deliver... Very well, then, consider it done."

Cocolia picked up the pyramid-shaped cold fusion device, her golden curls shimmering under the lamplight, a charming yet dangerous smile on her face.

"Mother Cocolia, you're like a cunning fox. Bronya mourns for whoever has caught your eye."

"Now, now, why say such harsh truths?" Cocolia stroked Twin Spiral Booster's head affectionately, exasperated but indulgent.

"I see. Well then, if you have any further questions, feel free to reach out at any time. I eagerly await your results."

"Thank you for your kindness. Goodbye."

Zeke ended the call, leaned back, and let out a long breath.

Interacting with Otto always yielded abundant technical insights. He was like both an artist brimming with inspiration and a precise, intricate machine. Despite Zeke's intellectual superiority, their exchange had been on equal footing, providing him with numerous revelations.

But in other aspects...it was truly exhausting.

It was hard to discern which of his words held deeper meaning and which were merely straightforward statements.

Nevertheless, after adjusting his mindset, Zeke felt no fear toward Otto anymore. Both possessed exceptional minds, but Zeke also held the advantage of absolute knowledge, knowing that Kallen was Otto's fatal weakness... To still cower before him would be unbecoming of a man.

After organizing his newfound information, Zeke paused for a moment, stepped outside, and gently placed an extra blanket over the sleeping Kiana. With this task completed, he finally concluded his day's labor and went to bed for some rest.