In a newly forged space, partitioned off by layers of dimensional walls from the arena where the birthday festivities had recently concluded, ∇∮◆￡ and Electrone were deep in conversation.
"But really, Electrone, your luck with draws and lotteries is so incredible—it's enough to make anyone envious. I was certain I would be the first one to see him, but I never imagined you would find a way to meet Kaito-sama before me like that."
『...Outputting dissatisfaction... <Actually, shouldn't we address the fact that you spent the last several minutes relentlessly pummeling this Cyber Angel's face?!> ...Your fixation on facial strikes is nothing short of barbaric.』
"I... I truly am sorry about that."
『Outputting emotion... <It’s hard to keep a grudge when you apologize that sincerely. Tiana, you’re usually so sweet—why do you turn into a mindless berserker the moment your switch flips?> ...I detect something akin to this unit’s own toggling of emotional states.』
"I suppose my self-control is simply lacking. It was a shameful display, really..."
∇∮◆￡ bowed her head, her expression heavy with remorse. Although she became an unstoppable engine of violence when her jealousy was triggered, she was normally a gentle, kind-hearted soul. She seemed truly sorry for having lost control and running amok earlier.
『When it comes to emotional outbursts and lack of self-restraint, this unit would also be guilty given how heated I get in the presence of my idol, so I shall refrain from further criticism. Outputting another topic... <By the way, how was it? You went to visit Nebula-sama, didn't you?> ...In that regard, this unit is also quite envious.』
"It was wonderful. Nebula-sama hasn't changed at all; she’s exactly the same person she’s always been. Just talking to her made me feel so happy... And she saw right through me. She knew I was jealous of you and the others, so she let me help her create the birthday present she’s giving to Kaito-sama. After tea, we worked on it together. It was absolute bliss."
『...Outputting dissatisfaction... <What?! You got to do something that amazing, and yet you still felt the need to beat me to a pulp?!> ...The injustice is staggering.』
"I... I truly, truly have no excuse. I am deeply sorry."
『Outputting complex emotions... <Ugh, stop being so honest! If you keep bowing your head like that, I can't stay mad at you...> ...My internal state is becoming quite convoluted.』
Faced with ∇∮◆￡’s account of helping Nebula with Kaito’s gift, Electrone complained with a look of pure envy. However, because she was ultimately kind herself, the moment ∇∮◆￡ admitted her faults and apologized, Electrone found it impossible to stay angry.
"But on that note, didn't you receive official permission from Shallow Vernal to visit Trinia, Electrone? That means you’ll be able to see Nebula-sama whenever you want. I’m so jealous... I’d love permission too, but Shallow Vernal is terrifying. I could never negotiate with her."
『Outputting emotion... <That right was an unexpected blessing. It was a development I never could have predicted. Of course, I must be careful not to be a nuisance to Kaito-sama, so I’ll need to be mindful of my schedule, but I am thrilled.> ...It certainly adds a new level of vigor to my oshi activities. Next, outputting assumption... <As for whether you can obtain the same permission... unless another special occasion arises, it likely depends on whether Kaito-sama takes a liking to you. If you win his favor, it is highly probable that Shallow Vernal will grant you permission as well.> ...This is merely a logical deduction, of course.』
Though it had been a byproduct of coincidence rather than a planned outcome, Electrone now held official permission from Shallow Vernal to visit Trinia. Since she had also secured a promise from Kaito to go see him eventually, she might actually have a chance to visit Nebula sooner than ∇∮◆￡ would see Kaito again.
"That’s a tall order. I would love to be friends with him, of course, but approaching him with the hidden intent of 'being liked' feels disrespectful. I plan to just be myself and see where it goes. So, who knows how it will turn out..."
『Outputting straightforward opinion... <Honestly, you have a wonderful personality. As long as you don't go into 'Barbarian Mode,' I think you’ll get along with him in no time.> ...Assuming her switch remains in the off position, I recognize the Bipolar God as an individual of excellent character.』
"Haha, I'm glad to hear you say that. Oh, wait—Nebula-sama gave me some of her specialty black tea leaves as a souvenir. Why don't you join me for a cup, Electrone? Think of it as an apology for the punching... I also have some snacks we made together."
『An incredibly tempting offer. I shall graciously accept the invitation. Outputting joy... <Black tea made by Nebula-sama! Oh, I can’t wait! I knew through my omniscience that she was producing tea and pottery, and I’ve been dying to try some!> ...My anticipation is reaching maximum capacity.』
∇∮◆￡ and Electrone were close friends under normal circumstances, and once the jealousy-fueled friction was resolved, the two returned to their usual lively and cheerful rapport.
Serious-senpai: "Readers who have followed the story this far have probably already guessed. Kaito will likely make some unconscious proposal, Shiro will grant it... and Lilia's stomach is going to take a direct hit in the near future."