About ten days had passed since Nebula manifested as the Spirit of the World Tree, and by now, she had seamlessly integrated into Kaito’s household.
Since she didn't require sleep, she spent the deep hours of the night perched on a branch of the World Tree while Kaito and the others slept, only beginning her day as the sun crested the horizon.
Her first task was inspecting the World Tree—her main body—to prune stray branches or balance the foliage. After tidying her own form, she would make her rounds through the rest of the garden, tending to the other trees and plants, clearing fallen leaves, and cleaning the area around the fountain.
As if claiming the adjacent garden of Lilia’s mansion as her own territory, she extended her care to her neighbor’s grounds as well. It was during this routine that several figures emerged from the manor.
...Hmm, quite early. Is that Aoi-san and Hina-san? It looks like they’re preparing for a trip.
Seeing Aoi and Hina preparing to depart at such an early hour, Nebula approached them with a bright, welcoming smile.
"Aoi-san, Hina-san, good morning."
"Ah, Nebula-chan! Mornin'!"
"Good morning, Nebula-chan."
Hina returned the greeting with her usual energy, while Aoi followed with a gentle smile. Over the past ten days, the two of them had spoken with Nebula many times and had already become quite friendly.
"Are you both heading out so early?"
"Yes, we have a job as adventurers that’s taking us a bit far today. We should be back by evening, though."
"I see... Hmm."
Nebula nodded at Aoi’s explanation, her expression shifting into one of quiet contemplation. "One moment, please."
"Huh?"
Leaving the two girls tilting their heads in confusion, Nebula flitted back to the World Tree. She plucked two leaves and quickly returned. She held out the unique leaves—each distinct for having a different color on its front and back—offering one to each of them.
"Please take these with you. I’ve imbued them with a simple Rain-avoidance Magic. As long as you carry them, you shouldn't get wet for the rest of the day."
"Wait... Nebula-chan, is it going to rain today?" Hina asked, eyes wide with surprise.
Nebula glanced up at the sky and nodded. "The air is a bit humid, and judging by the movement and size of the clouds... I expect it will start falling shortly after noon."
"Oh, I see... Thank you, Nebula-chan. That’s a huge help."
"No, it’s my pleasure. It shouldn't be a heavy downpour, but the ground might get muddy. It might be wise to head back to the city a little early if you can."
"Thanks, Nebula-chan! Well, Aoi-senpai, should we pick up the pace a bit?"
"I think so. Let's just make sure we don't rush into any mistakes."
"Have a safe trip, you two. Take care!"
"We're off!"
Nebula waved brightly as Aoi and Hina waved back, smiles on their faces as they set off. She watched them until they were out of sight before returning to her gardening.
Once she had finished her maintenance, Illness emerged from the mansion carrying a large laundry basket. Nebula floated over to her immediately.
"Illness-san, good morning! Is it time for the laundry?"
"Good morniiing. Yeees... Since it looks like the weather will turn baaad this afternoon, I'm planning to hang these out early and take them back in before nooon."
"I see."
Nebula and Illness were remarkably close, perhaps because their personalities were so compatible. Both were exceptionally attentive and shared a similar wavelength in how they approached their duties.
"I’ve finished with the garden, so allow me to assist you."
"That would beee a big help. There's quite a lot today—is that alright with youuu?"
"Of course! I am an Absolute One; this is a trivial matter!"
"Kuhihi, how very reliaaable."
Illness chuckled at Nebula, who laughed along as she floated beside her. The two of them began hanging the laundry, chatting casually as they worked.
"That reminds me, Illness-san. Master has given me permission to start a small plot behind the house."
"Oh? That sounds interesting... Will you be growing vegetaaables?"
"No, I was thinking of growing tea leaves. I’m currently deciding which varieties to plant."
"I seeee. If you're the one growing them, Nebula, I'm sure they'll be wonderfuuul."
"Fufufu, I am an Absolute One, after all! Naturally, I shall produce something magnificent. Though, in truth, I simply found myself with a bit of idle time on my hands, so I thought I would find something productive to do with the gaps in my schedule..."
Despite the relaxed atmosphere of their conversation, their hands moved with practiced efficiency. The massive pile of laundry was finished in the blink of an eye. Perhaps their friendship was rooted in the fact that both possessed such high levels of competence.
Nebula continued to help Illness with her chores, enjoying their pleasant conversation until the time finally came for Kaito to wake.