Chapter 90: Double Kallen

Kallen knew exactly where Otto was located; she'd visited the place frequently before.

Fortunately, he wasn't at Schicksal headquarters or his family's main estate, but rather in the outskirts. This was Otto's private manor where many of his experiments took place—a place Kallen had visited numerous times.

On the way to the manor, Kallen led the way while Serenade concealed their figures, allowing them to reach the entrance safely and swiftly.

Upon arrival, Serenade handed Higokumaru to Kallen. After both women exchanged an "all clear" gesture, Serenade... proceeded to walk into the manor alone.

Watching Serenade enter, Kallen remained outside clutching Higokumaru, a faint sense of unease settling over her.

I hope Serenade doesn't do anything reckless!

The nun must have informed Otto, for he wasn't in the laboratory. Instead, he stood waiting at the entrance, already dressed and groomed with anticipation.

Lord Otto's face brimmed with eager anticipation as he gazed forward, his eyes practically burning with impatience.

He possessed beautiful long golden hair that nearly obscured his eyes, yet... the way he styled his hair gave him a distinctly youthful, almost girlish appearance.

Despite being a boy, he somehow carried an inexplicable charm.

With those green eyes and flowing golden hair, one could imagine that if Otto were properly made up and dressed in feminine attire, he would undoubtedly look absolutely stunning.

When Serenade entered, Lord Otto's eyes lit up. He hurried over to her. "Kallen, are you alright? Why didn't you tell me beforehand? I could have come to pick you up directly. You know how dangerous it is for you here now."

"I'm fine. I was careful."

Serenade looked at Lord Otto standing before her. Though her expression remained calm, her inner thoughts were anything but.

The real Lord Otto had finally been revealed.

However, why did seeing Otto make me want to put a green hat on him?

(TL Note: FYI: The "green hat" metaphor, originating from Chinese culture, refers to a man whose wife or partner is unfaithful. In this context, "green" symbolizes dishonor, as the term implies that the man is being "taken advantage of" or is unaware of the infidelity. It's considered a derogatory term and is often used to describe someone in a humiliating or pitiful situation in relation to cheating.

You may see this term in other fics, so this is a explanation)

After all, Lord Otto was a man who came with his own color scheme!

Moreover, Serenade's mind was currently grappling with several questions.

After working for Schicksal for so long, why hasn't Otto paid me yet? Should I demand compensation? And then there's the matter of all those adorable girls he's killed - the Valkyries he's doomed. Maybe I should beat him up!

But then again, those weren't actions committed by this era's Otto. Would it be fair to strike him without reason?

Besides, he's currently Kallen's number one hanger-on!

"Kallen, how have you been during your time away? I heard you were shot. Are you feeling better now?" Otto observed Kallen, who stood before him in casual attire. She appeared perfectly fine, even more composed than before. Still, he couldn't help but ask with genuine concern.

While most of Otto's social graces were mere pretense, his feelings for his childhood sweetheart Kallen were undeniably sincere. At times, he even displayed a hint of bashfulness around her.

"It's already taken care of."

Serenade looked at Otto and simply shook her head. She had initially thought Otto might ask why Kallen had stolen the box, but it seemed she'd overthought things.

As expected, compared to everything else, Otto's primary concern remained Kallen.

However... Serenade appeared to have been too naive.

"Kallen, where's the box?"

"Uh..." Serenade stared at Otto, momentarily speechless.

"Don't misunderstand. You're no match for Schicksal now. They won't spare you. Why don't you hand over the box? Then I'll plead with that old man on your behalf. I guarantee they won't harm you."

"I swear by my life," Otto said earnestly, his gaze unwavering.

"This is impossible."

Not just Serenade, but Kallen herself would never return the box to Schicksal.

"Fine! Just as I suspected..."

Seeing Serenade's appearance, Otto rested his forehead in his hand as if he'd anticipated this all along.

"In that case, Kallen, you'll need to remain hidden for a while longer! But I promise you, it won't be long before your innocence is fully proven." Otto had already foreseen Kallen's refusal; his earlier words were merely an attempt to prevent her from continuing to hide.

Since Kallen refused, he would have to proceed with his prepared plan.

This meant Kallen would have to remain concealed for some time.

"..."

Serenade glanced at him in surprise. It was clear that Otto had begun taking action.

"What do you intend to do?"

"I can't reveal that yet, but rest assured—you'll know soon enough."

Otto didn't elaborate on Serenade's question.

"..."

Serenade didn't press further.

Due to the mission's constraints, Serenade kept her remarks brief. She had previously sought Kallen's insights into Otto's character and their interactions... to better understand how he conducted himself.

Serenade remained vigilant; after all, one couldn't afford to let down their guard with Otto.

Indulgence... she thought, can wait until after the mission is complete. No need to jeopardize the rewards.

Fortunately, Serenade's body was Kallen's, and having prepared herself beforehand, she maintained her composure. Otto remained oblivious that he wasn't interacting with the world's original Kallen.

Of course, this might be because this version of Otto wasn't yet the one from five centuries later. He lacked the accumulated experience that would make him as "powerful" as his future self.

Serenade kept glancing at the time. Three minutes wasn't long, and most of it had already passed during their brief greetings.

Finally...

"Whew..."

Serenade heard the mission completion notification and couldn't suppress a relieved sigh.

Noticing Serenade's peculiar behavior, Otto looked at her with confusion. "What's wrong, Kallen?"

"Nothing... Otto..."

With the mission complete, Serenade's mood immediately lightened. Now... she could afford to be carefree.

"Hm?" Otto.

"Otto, do you like Kallen?"

Serenade clasped her hands behind her back, gazing at the future Bishop before her.

"K... Kallen..."

Taken aback by Serenade's sudden question, Otto felt momentarily disoriented.

"So you do like her... Well, you should know... even though you're engaged, Kallen doesn't return your feelings. She only sees you as a good friend. Pursuing someone who doesn't reciprocate is exhausting, you know."

"What do you mean? Wait! You're not Kallen? Who are you? Or... have you taken control of Kallen's body?"

Otto's expression shifted instantly upon hearing these words. He swiftly drew a gun from his waist and pointed it at Serenade.

"Otto, stop!"

The moment he pulled the weapon, the real Kallen—Judah cradled in her arms and Higokumaru clinging to her back—rushed forward to shield Serenade.