Chapter 54
"I truly apologize, Kait, Third-Rank Citizen (Enec Lagif)."
Regarding the apology from Palnesbrogia, Kait had nothing in particular to say. Honestly, he had no interest whatsoever in his reputation within the Corporation. And in a sense, not even within the Federation. He did, however, have a slight unease that the Space jellyfish might have oddly exaggerated his image.
Since rescuing Earthlings was one of the current goals, as long as it didn't negatively affect the Earthlings who would be rescued in the future, Kait didn't mind if his reputation or evaluation was manipulated as others pleased. If people arbitrarily made him the villain and complained behind his back, it was the same as if it didn't exist—as long as he didn't hear it.
Once the rescue of the Earthlings was over, he truly wouldn't care what kind of rumors were spread or where.
"Well, I'm not particularly bothered. By the way, about Tuna..."
"Yes. We'll give up on protecting the space eel species. The Federation respects Tuna's freedom, right?"
'That's right. As a practical matter, even if it's not Tuna, forming friendly relations with a space eel requires making enemies of all the others. The fact that Tuna respects us organic lifeforms already makes Tuna an ideal partner for coexistence.'
As long as Tuna's obsessive affection for that organic eel remained, it was unlikely that Tuna would try to devour any planet with life. Earth still had snakes and other similar creatures, but since they had gills, introducing slithery fish-like species should suffice.
Palnesbrogia had learned that the space eel's ecology and the policy of protection were fundamentally incompatible. It would be nice if this led to a broader perspective on protecting rare species.
"It's true the Corporation complicated matters. I'd like to offer some kind of apology gift to Third-Rank Citizen Kait and Lord Tuna."
"Even so, I wasn't particularly harmed, so... I don't really have anything I want right now... hmm."
Still, doing nothing for the deeply apologetic Palnesbrogia felt a bit cold. They were quite a pleasant individual, and Kait wanted to stay on good terms.
As he tilted his head, wondering if there was anything, his eyes happened to meet Gorou's. Speaking of which...
"Ah, Gorou-sensei. What will you do next? Do you wish to immigrate to the Federation?"
"Eh? Ah, yeah. That would be great, if I'm allowed to."
"In that case, Palnesbrogia, could you cover the loan that Gorou-sensei owes to the Corporation as an apology to me?"
"Huh!?"
The one surprised was Gorou. He stared wide-eyed at Kait, who ignored him for now.
From Palnesbrogia's perspective, erasing one person's debt probably wasn't much of a burden. They asked with a slightly confused expression.
"Would that really be acceptable?"
"Of course. I figure Gorou-sensei could repay it quickly depending on his work."
"Wait, wait a moment, Captain! That would really put me in a bind."
"You say that, sensei, but I honestly don't have anything I want right now. If we leave debts between me and the Corporation, we'll just be on edge with each other. I'd rather settle it now."
"Still..."
"Besides, if you came back burdened with debt, wouldn't your sister worry?"
"Ugh."
If his sister, who had sent him off believing in his future, found out that he had actually been a victim of human trafficking, she would be deeply distressed. Even if he returned safely, knowing he was buried in debt would surely break her heart. Hearing that, Gorou's face twisted in anguish.
After overcoming various internal conflicts, Gorou finally bowed his head deeply.
"S-sorry. Just this once, may I rely on your kindness...?"
"Alright, it's decided."
With this, there would be no more debts between them and the Corporation, and his new friend could begin life as a Federation citizen without worries. A win all around.
"Since we're at it, how about we cancel the debts of the other Earthlings who wish to immigrate?"
Since it wasn't a large amount, Palnesbrogia suggested it, but Kait shook his head.
"I don't think it's necessary to go that far. I don't really have any personal connection with the people employed by the Corporation."
"I see. ...By the way, are there any other applicants for immigration to the Federation?"
"At the moment, it seems there's no one besides Gorou Saitou. Apparently, rumors have spread quite a bit among the lower ranks."
Hearing the escort's reply, Kait involuntarily shrugged.
"See what I mean?"
"We'll promptly correct the moral climate within the Corporation."
From Palnesbrogia's body, anger seemed to bubble up once more.
Kait decided to change the subject and addressed Terapolapaneshio.
"Well, putting me aside, I wonder if Tuna wants anything?"
'Who knows? For now, I'd say Tuna's mind is probably occupied with the new Federation-made body.'
At those words, Palnesbrogia's movements suddenly froze.
As if forgetting everything else, they rushed up to Terapolapaneshio.
"What is this about? T-e-l-l m-e!"
"Careless of me... But aren't you the same?"
'M-mgh.'
The Space jellyfish groaned in displeasure.
***
"I see. So you want to visit planets inhabited by lifeforms that resemble you."
'Exactly. But with this giant body, that's a problem.'
"Indeed."
Looking up together, they saw Tuna opening its gills.
Even Gorou no longer reacted negatively to the term space eel. Come to think of it, he had also gotten used to the Space jellyfish at some point. He was steadily building resistance to the series of amusing space seafood.
Thinking it was a perfect opportunity, Palnesbrogia skillfully tapped their body with one of their legs.
"Then, we of the Corporation will assist as well."
'Hmm?'
"We'll temporarily integrate the Corporation's mechanical research department into the Federation. Let's fully support the development of technology that allows Lord Tuna to travel between bodies safely."
'Is that alright? I thought your transfer technology was kept secret even from the Federation.'
"It's fine. The confidentiality agreement became irrelevant when the other party disappeared. This should serve as a fitting apology to Lord Tuna, don't you think?"
Long-distance transfer technology that didn't rely on psychic power didn't exist in the Federation. If they could provide it, the research would certainly progress. All that remained was to enable smooth consciousness transfer.
The phrase "the other party disappeared" momentarily brought to Kait's mind those who had declared war on the Federation—but the thought quickly vanished.
"That's true. I'm sure Tuna will be pleased."
'You should tell Tuna directly. That'll cheer Tuna up instantly.'
"Indeed."
Tuna was surprisingly sentimental.
Imagining what kind of dramatic reaction Tuna might have, Kait was already looking forward to it a little.
***
—Oh, Palnesbrogia! I hereby declare you a dear friend of mine!
"T-that's too much. This is simply our apology."
—Even so, I am overjoyed! It brings me closer to meeting the yet-unseen eels!
See? I knew it.
Watching the joyful eel and moss creature, Kait smiled warmly and suddenly thought of the Corporation staff who had been punished.
He had no complaints or interest in the fact they were punished by the Corporation. Still, it was true that some kind of grudge had formed between them and him.
Kindness and mercy alone don't erase hatred or resentment. And thanks to the modifications, both he and they had long lifespans ahead.
"...Good grief."
After paying off their debt to the Corporation, they might form a ship or a fleet. The possibility of them returning for revenge wasn't low.
While smiling at Palnesbrogia and the others, Kait quietly steeled himself for that day to come.