Chapter 161: As Expected of Keqing—She Has Both Power and Beauty

That's right—Gabriel was watching Gabriel DropOut.

And she was enjoying it immensely.

"If only the demons of the underworld were as adorable as anime ones..." "But... is this girl really an angel?" "You can use tissues like that?!"

As she watched, Gabriel started muttering.

Such bizarre behavior.

"Why not give it a try yourself?"

Hearing her mumbling, Takumi couldn't help but comment.

Startled by his voice, Gabriel quickly shut off the video and stowed the terminal.

"Lord Takumi!"

She looked a bit embarrassed—like a worker caught slacking off by their boss.

She was supposed to be a good angel!

"No worries. Keep watching if you like." "Gabriel is pretty much your alternate self in another world, isn't she?" "You're similar in rank, after all."

Takumi smirked as he said it.

Gabriel = Gabriel, after all.

"I'm nothing like that angel!"

Gabriel rolled her eyes.

She wasn't that degenerate!

Takumi chuckled at her denial and sat down.

"How are things here? You settling in alright?"

He started making small talk.

He'd brought her here and then kind of left her to fend for herself.

He really was a sinful man.

Gabriel nodded in response.

"I've gradually gotten used to it. This world is wonderful." "I've even gathered quite a bit of faith already."

"I never expected people in another world to believe in the Lord too."

She sighed.

Especially those who had survived the apocalypse—their faith was incredibly strong.

Thanks to that, her work had gone very smoothly.

Only Velier had been a bit of a hassle.

Those magical girls were incredibly curious about what angels were.

If it weren't for Lilia's help, she wouldn't have managed it.

Hearing this, Takumi nodded.

"I've noticed. Very impressive."

"Gabriel, if you ever want to visit home, just let me know." "I've found a way for you to return anytime."

Smiling, he offered the news.

Gabriel's eyes lit up.

"Really?! If I ever want to go back, I'll definitely ask."

That was great news.

She'd been prepared to stay long term, but Takumi had given her a pleasant surprise.

She could go home whenever?

That was amazing.

She was relieved now.

She decided to return when she had time.

Takumi checked in on heaven's condition, teased Gabriel a bit more, then left.

Watching him go, Gabriel smiled happily.

Whether it was the thought of returning home—or because of Takumi— she was in a great mood.

...

In the following days, Takumi alternated between chatting in the group and checking on Aincrad.

He also visited the Flame-Chasers.

Even revived Sakura's little sister.

Due to Aincrad, the place became wildly popular.

Many youths came to fight monsters and gain combat experience.

Even magical girls from Velier were sent up there.

It became part of their training.

Velier put great importance on Aincrad.

If it weren't for space limitations, they would've sent all their idle magical girls to train.

In addition, the magic high school had reopened.

High schoolers were returning to school and beginning magic classes.

Teachers dispatched by Velier were in place.

Everything was on track.

Finally, Zhongli had completed his preparations.

He sent another spatial bracelet.

Takumi received it and released the people inside.

Seeing who was leading the group, Takumi was surprised.

"Oh? Miss Keqing?"

"Didn't expect you to come. I thought Ganyu would be leading."

Recognizing the iconic cat-ear hairstyle, Takumi was amazed.

Truly, Keqing had it all—power, looks, elegance.

She was stunning.

"Hello, Mr. Takumi. I am Keqing, Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing, dispatched by Lord Zhongli." "I'll be in your care."

Keqing spoke seriously.

Zhongli had told her that Takumi would be the first person she met here, and that he would handle all arrangements.

"Just call me Takumi. No need to be so formal." "We're the same age, after all."

Takumi chuckled at her serious tone.

Keqing blinked.

Same age?

She looked at him in surprise.

She had assumed he was someone like the Lord of Geo—an ancient being.

But he was saying they were the same age?

"Don't look so doubtful." "We really are the same age. I just got lucky."

Seeing her skepticism, Takumi smiled.

He had simply gotten lucky and gained power quickly.

Hearing his explanation, Keqing finally understood.

So that's how it was.

But she didn't press further.

"Then I won't hold back." "Takumi, our people are here. Please guide us."

Keqing got into work mode.

"Sure. Zhongli chose a spot on the other side." "Follow me."

Takumi opened a spatial gate and walked through.

Keqing, amazed by the portal, quickly called her curious followers to move.

A group of them followed Takumi to the location Zhongli had chosen.

The area was near the sea, with plenty of rocks and open space.

It was a good spot.

Even had access to the ocean.

Keqing's eyes sparkled.

"This is the place Lord Zhongli selected." "You're free to build however you like." "Here, I'll hand each of you a terminal." "I'll also have robots deliver supplies and construction materials."

As he spoke, Takumi manifested terminals and handed them out.

Keqing's eyes lit up as she received hers.

Everyone got one, and Prometheus began teaching them how to use it.