Mebius World Online – Mari’s VRMMO Diary, Embarking on a Laid-back Adventure as a Novice - Chapter 111
111. Mari-nee and the Summer Night Sky (Part 2)
With a sense of trepidation at Yuuki-san’s words about Caduceus Corporation’s utmost hospitality, I was being pushed in a wheelchair by Masato towards the main company building.
Incidentally, Maki was closely attached to Masato’s back, forming an impenetrable defense.
From the outside, it probably looked like I was being shielded by the two of them.
Amidst a mix of anxiety, nervousness, and embarrassment, we proceeded under Yuuki-san’s guidance.
However, along the way, we didn’t encounter anyone, which was odd considering it was a Saturday with a fireworks festival happening, a strange time indeed.
Although it’s a holiday, given the building’s size, it wouldn’t be unusual to meet someone.
Perhaps sensing my curiosity, Yuuki-san turned around and seemed to glance at Maki, who was hiding behind me and Masato.
I see, the hospitality is meant for us as a family.
As expected of Yuuki-san, thorough in every detail… But, you know, it would have been nice to inform me in advance for the sake of my peace of mind.
Speaking of which, peace was already gone, replaced by an unsettling feeling that seemed to be growing.
What will become of my daily life…
Inside the building, which matched its exterior with a unified white theme, the first floor had an automated reception counter and elevators. This was typical of most buildings, but what stood out were the numerous desks and chairs presumably for work scattered throughout.
Usually, the first floor of a building, being the company’s face, might have flowers or paintings but not workspaces.
Adding to the peculiarity was the interior itself. The walls, floor, and ceiling emitted a soft light, creating a calm atmosphere despite the lack of traditional lighting.
“This first floor is referred to as the ‘Matrix’ among us employees. It comes from the Latin word meaning ‘something that generates.’ Initially, there were no workspaces here, but as employees claimed that working here improved efficiency, the president eventually decided to make it this way. While it’s good to value employees, a bit more attention to appearances would be nice,” Yuuki-san muttered, brushing back her short hair with a troubled expression that seemed kind despite her words.
I felt a sense of familiarity with her expression, and indeed, the space was comfortable.
Even Maki had relaxed enough to come out from behind Masato’s back and was looking around with interest.
Following Yuuki-san’s lead, we approached the elevators where someone was waiting.
Though our conversation was brief, I recognized the person…
“This is Sawa, who you were introduced to by Mari-san earlier. He will guide you from here. Sawa, I’ll leave them in your care.”
“Yes, Yuuki-san.”
With that, Yuuki-san bowed and entered a different elevator, leaving us behind.
“Akizuki-sama, please come this way.”
Being called ‘sama’ felt awkward, and I would have preferred not to, but Estelle already called me ‘Ane-sama.’
Hehe, time for the distant look skill!
I didn’t want to use it, but that’s why my skill is improving…
While Sawa-san opened the elevator, Masato pushed my wheelchair inside, yet Masato kept an unwavering gaze on Sawa-san throughout.
Thinking back to what Sawa-san had said back then, I couldn’t blame Masato for being suspicious.
While I kept silent, the elevator doors closed, and I felt us begin to ascend.
The sensation was subtle because the acceleration was so smooth and quiet.
Looking at the display that typically showed the floor number, I noticed it was blank.
Maybe it was unnecessary because we’d reach the top in an instant?
Just as I was wondering if we’d quietly arrive at our destination—
“I deeply apologize for that time!”
Suddenly, Sawa-san turned to face us and prostrated himself on the floor.
What? An immediate apology and a prostration!?
Masato looked surprised, and Maki was frozen behind him.
“Despite it being my fault, I took out my frustrations on Mari-sama and said many rude things… I am truly sorry!”
With his forehead pressed to the elevator floor, Sawa-san kept his head bowed.
“I’m not concerned about it anymore, and it’s all in the past. Your apology is more than enough.”
“But still!”
“Mari-nee said it’s fine. Anything beyond this is just imposing your feelings on her.”
“! … I apologize.”
Masato’s words were harsh but important.
No matter how well-intended the message, if the recipient doesn’t want it, it’s not for their benefit.
This applies to truths and facts as well.
After Sawa-san raised his head, I signaled Masato to come closer and awkwardly patted his head.
“Hey, Mari-nee! I’m not a kid anymore!”
“I know that, but there’s no rule saying it’s only for kids, right?”
I laughed as Masato turned his embarrassed face away, then spoke to Sawa-san again.
“As Masato said, further apologies aren’t necessary. Instead, if it’s alright, could you tell me what happened to you afterward?”
“Yes, of course!!”
Sawa-san began to recount his experiences.
He was introduced to Caduceus Corporation and went for an interview, where he was asked about his goals and whether he had the resolve to achieve them.
I had heard about his goals before, but I wondered what kind of resolve he meant. When I asked, Sawa-san began trembling and muttering like he was in a trance.
It reminded me of someone… Ah, Allen-san’s face came to mind.
Um, this isn’t my fault, right?
After calming down, Sawa-san expressed his gratitude instead of another apology, and I accepted it.
Eventually, the elevator stopped, and we seemed to have reached our destination, though it felt like quite some time had passed.
As we exited the elevator, we were greeted by Yuuki-san, who had been waiting for us.
I noticed her glancing at Sawa-san, and I realized why the elevator display was blank and why we didn’t feel the acceleration.
Just before Yuuki-san took over guiding us, I asked Sawa-san to stop using honorifics for me.
“If I do that, Yuuki-san will… scold me!”
He said this with a desperate expression.
Did you almost say something dangerous just now?
Yuuki-san, what did you do to Sawa-san…? As I sighed, I noticed Maki smirking quietly.
It seems we have another culprit here…