6.10: Highest Level Access.

Hearing the words “Aether Core,” Xavier’s eye widen, a hint of indiscernible emotion appearing.

Yet he soon returns to being nonchalant.

Xavier: “Yes.”

Xavier: “The modified Protocores in the abandoned research base and No-Hunt Zone No. 7 possess energy derived from an Aether Core.”

MC: “How can the Hunters Association not be aware of them?”

He thinks for a moment before shaking his head.

Xavier: “They aren’t for now.”

Xavier: “The Hunters Association only knows it holds powerful energy, but they don’t have the means to analyze it. They won’t be making any progress on that front for a while.”

MC: “Why didn’t you tell them?”

Xavier: “You didn’t tell them either, right?”

He remains calm as he avoids answering my question.

Xavier: “Everyone has secrets and their reasons for doing things. Regardless, I won’t be your enemy.”

Xavier: “And it appears you have more secrets than me.”

MC: “...”

Nervous, I avert my gaze.

Xavier: “The reason you want to investigate the N109 Zone is because of your family. Am I wrong?”

MC: “...You also heard about it.”

I take a deep breath and look into his eyes.

MC: “The secrets surrounding tbe Aether Core can explain what happened to me and them.”

MC: “But since we both want to look into this, even if you aren’t my enemy now, you might be later.”

Distressed, Xavier furrows his brow. I silently apologize to him in my heart.

Suddenly, he grabs my arm and the user interface for the Huner’s Watch appears.

Hunter’s Watch: Xavier has requested to synchronize access privileges. Accept?

MC: “?”

Before I can react, Xavier accepts rhe request on my watch.

Hunter’s Watch: Synchronizing access privileges... Please wait.

Hunter’s Watch: Synchronization complete. Your current access privileges are at the highest level.

Hunter’s Watch: You can use the best training grounds available, use the S-Rank database, and request weapons from Armory 0001-0005...

I’m stunned. With an air of serenity, Xavier smiles at me.

Xavier: “Now do you trust me?”

MC: “You gave me access privileges just like that? You should’ve thought about it some more.”

Xavier: “They expire in 24 hours.”

Xavier: “You have 23 hours and 59 minutes remaining.”

MC: “!”

I quickly stand up and get ready to leave. I take a few steps before turning around.

MC: “Thank you.”

Xavier: “You’re welcome.”

Xavier: “Nothing in this world can be fully explained. Still, I hope you find out the truth.”

Leaning against the bookshelf, he waves.

As soon as I reach the door, a strange scent catches my attention. I turn around again.

Xavier: “Did you forget something?”

MC: “Xavier, what’s that smell?”

Xavier: “Huh?”

MC: “... Something is burning. You must have left the oven on.”

Xavier: “...”

Xavier: “...Oops.”