with Kurume rice patterns, a kaku obi tied around it, and wooden clogs under his bare feet. “I’ll take my leave then.” First Lieutenant Nakanishi saluted Rinko and left -once again the sounds of the doors sliding shut could be heard. Kikuoka, who was still standing, leisurely leaned on the consoles, and explained in a husky impassive voice, “But I still have to stay on this ocean for another month. I can’t just continue to wear a uniform like that.” He opened his arms wide and smiled. “—Professor Koujiro, Miss Reynolds, it’s been a long journey. I’m really glad that you would come to RATH, and that our invitations have proved their worth.” “Well, since we’re here, we’ll have to intrude on you, though we can’t guarantee that we can be helpful.” Rinko nodded back, and the assistant beside her greeted him in the same manner as well. Kikuoka’s eyebrows curled up as his gaze remained on the luxurious blond hair of the assistant, and immediately smiled. “You are quintessential to this plan no matter what, the last person amongst the trio I felt would be part of this. Finally, the three of you are all gathered in the belly of this turtle.” “Oh, I see... one of them must be you, Higa-kun.” Rinko said so, and the second guy who had his back facing them up till now stopped his hands and turned the chair around.