Chapter 45: The Chance to Become a Full-Time Employee?!

Chapter 45: The Chance to Become a Full-Time Employee?!

 By the time Hokuto arrived at the Outer Spaceport, the place was already packed with personnel.

 Everyone stood in neat formations, wearing the same uniform, resembling a well-disciplined military force.

 At the front was a large metallic platform, where Durandal and several Valkyries of Immortal Blades stood at attention, their backs straight.

 They exuded elegance, strength, and discipline, their presence commanding the crowd's attention.

 Whispers spread through the gathered workers—

 "That's Durandal, right? The radio announcement said she's Schicksal's strongest Valkyrie?"

 "Isn't it usually that maid, Rita, who handles these things? Why is it Durandal this time?"

 "Damn… golden hair, blue eyes, long legs—she's gorgeous!"

 "Bro, why do you think she called us here? Do you think we're finally getting a raise?"

 "Yeah, right. Like they'd ever announce a pay raise publicly. Just wait, she'll explain soon."

 Hokuto, who had no expectations, simply shook his head.

 Most of the whispering workers were just like him—temporary staff.

 Because they weren't official Schicksal personnel, they had never been briefed on the truth about Honkai or the Valkyries.

 The only explanation they ever received was that Rita's vague speech about "working for humanity's future."

 It wasn't until recently, when Theresa's forces stormed Schicksal, Kiana awakened as the Herrscher of the Void, and chaos erupted, that the higher-ups finally decided to explain things to the temporary workers.

 Seriously, Otto is such a bastard…

 He sends people to work in a warzone without even telling them?!

 What a fcking scumbag boss!*

 Hokuto was mentally cursing Otto when Durandal's voice rang out loud and clear.

 "You have been gathered here today for one reason."

 He looked up—

 Durandal stood tall, hands behind her back, gazing over the entire crowd.

 She wore a Valkyrie's Honor combat suit, which was simple yet imposing—a military-style uniform, black tights wrapped around her flawless legs, and polished boots that only enhanced her cold, commanding aura.

 But—

 Her tone today was strangely gentle, as if she were holding back something.

 "This is about the events that happened recently."

 As soon as she spoke, the murmuring stopped.

 Everyone focused on the mysterious Valkyrie, waiting for her explanation.

 Hokuto was curious, too.

 What kind of "explanation" are they giving us?

 An official apology?

 No way—Otto would never allow that.

 Maybe… an announcement about a salary increase?

 But as soon as Durandal continued, he realized how wrong he was.

 "The work we do here is directly tied to humanity's survival."

 "But the world is not ready to face the truth."

 "That is why we have kept things confidential."

 Durandal's voice was firm yet measured, as if she were choosing her words carefully.

 "Schicksal has always conducted thorough background checks before hiring new personnel."

 "However, since all of you have already witnessed Honkai firsthand…"

 "The Overseer has decided to conduct an evaluation."

 "A test."

 Hokuto froze.

 A test?

 The crowd reacted instantly—

 "Wait, wait—what kind of test?"

 "And what happens if we fail?!"

 "Are you guys just gonna kill us if we flunk it?!"

 Durandal raised a hand, signaling them to calm down.

 "Those who pass will become official Schicksal employees."

 "But that also means committing to the fight against Honkai."

 "As for those who fail…"

 "You will be dismissed with generous severance pay,

 but you will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement."

 The moment she said "severance pay," the crowd quieted down.

 Even those who had been freaking out earlier suddenly looked less worried.

 Hokuto looked at them with mild contempt.

 Tch… spineless cowards.

 Guess they don't care where they work, as long as the money's good.

 He turned away from the crowd, when suddenly—

 Someone asked the most important question.

 "Um… Miss Durandal?"

 "Yes? What's your question?"

 "What happens… if we break the confidentiality agreement?"

 The entire crowd held their breath—waiting for her answer.

 And then—

 Durandal smiled.

 "Heh.

 Schicksal has deep connections with world governments.

 We handle Honkai threats for them…

 And in return, they handle any 'problems' for us."

 Silence.

 The entire crowd shut up immediately.

 Yeah, no one was gonna f*ck with Schicksal now.

—

 One by one, the workers were escorted into private rooms for testing.

 Each evaluation took barely ten minutes, so the process moved quickly.

 Soon enough—

 It was Hokuto's turn.

 He entered a sterile white room.

 A single table and two chairs were set up inside.

 Durandal was already seated, waiting for him.

 "Please place your hand on the scanner."

 Hokuto did as instructed, feeling a slight electric current run through his palm.

 "You're done. Now, please fill out this form."

 She handed him a clipboard.

 He took one glance at the first question—

 [Do you consider yourself human?]

 [Yes / No]

 "…The hell?"

 Who the f*ck wrote this test?!

 He almost wanted to complain, but then—

 He remembered.

 Durandal had been in the stream before.

 If I talk, she'll recognize my voice…

 Better just shut up and fill this in.

 He finished the form and handed it back.

 As he turned to leave—

 Durandal suddenly spoke.

 "So… your name is Hokuto?"

 End of Chapter 45