The Degree
Host a Party

Two weeks, the promised time to end all this will come tomorrow. Everyone looked forward to the day with fear and nervousness.

Can't sleep well. The thought of whether they can still see tomorrow or not haunts everyone.

It's only natural because war is not a small and cool fight like in the movies. War is about how people kill and are killed. There is never any such thing as happiness or pleasure in war. Only a fool would support war.

Realizing that the people felt so, the meeting was held at Arthur's request. He said that at least he wanted to provide entertainment to ease thinking and improve morale.

“I've read several books on the history of warfare. Generally they would throw a party or a show before going to war. It will encourage people to eagerly look forward to the party after the war is over.”

Ray knew what Arthur meant. In many stories telling a party or performance before going to war will help lower the tension of the army before heading to the battlefield.

Some even offer great rewards to those who survive after the war with the aim of raising morale and lowering tensions.

Tense is not a good thing when fighting because when you see the chaos on the battlefield there is a possibility they become useless.

“In short it was the last banquet, right?” Ray draws his conclusions from Arthur's words.

Arthur looked at Ray sharply, “I was reluctant to use such a harsh sentence but it was indeed a fact that it was the right sentence.” Arthur obviously didn't like it because of the last supper as if they would no longer live for tomorrow.

The order nodded in understanding what Arthur was trying to say, “You have a point. When army moral warfare is very important. Now I understand that people who are not afraid to die are very creepy.”

After thinking for a few seconds the Order smiled and suggested to throw some kind of party. For that they need a budget of DP that is not small because they refuse to use supplies for war.

Although the big party will make them off guard when it arrives, Ray took the initiative to take responsibility for security. Not only him but Terumi, Leo, and Mein took part on the basis of personal desires.

Ray doesn't know about the others but he acts because he has his own plans and this is a good opportunity.

No one rejected the suggestion of the Order at all until someone knocked on the door and entered the discussion room.

“I heard it a little but more or less I understood the situation. No problem I joined, right?”

Erina appeared from behind the door with a gentle smile. Everyone was surprised by her presence but did not question why she could come here after seeing Erina sitting in an electronic wheelchair.

Everyone's faces seemed to be asking the same thing and Erina was certainly sharp enough to realize.

“My condition is better than expected. Serum D actually really improves my recovery ability, although I haven't been able to do any strenuous activity.” Erina played her hands and fingers that could move even though it was still very limited.

After letting Erina join in and explain the details from the start. Erina voiced her agreement.

No one rejected the sudden plan but Ray noticed that Arthur was observing Erina with a suspicious look.

Has he noticed the signs?

Ray couldn't confirm it because there was no related evidence, but considering his actions was likely.

The meeting is dissolved and Ray walks with Leo and Terumi.

“It feels like we haven't been together like this for a long time, huh?” Terumi folded her hands on her back and leaned slightly to look at Ray beside her, and Leo on the other side.

“Ah, for some mystery reason I want to hit someone.” Terumi interrupted with a smile that looked scary. His hands had already formed fists and Terumi rolled up her sleeves.

Leo put his hand in his pocket and walked casually as if nothing had happened. He also started whistling even though no sound came out.

If allowed to continue the situation may be bad so Ray chooses to divert it.

“Everything is preoccupied about things to do. Even I barely have a break.” Ray took a long breath.

In reality during this preparation period he only slept for two hours. The tasks he was responsible for could be said to be very many and not light. Almost all other executives have the same fate. As Ray recalled, Sebastian barely slept at all.

Even the Order who was famous by its lazy and sleepy nature did not show it during these times. It was enough to show his seriousness in responding to the Rebellion.

“That must be heavy for you, Ray. I hope you won't get sick or anything like that because your intelligence and skills are needed,” Terumi said. “For tonight's party, are you really sure you'll volunteer to help take care of security?”

Leo rested his head on both hands, “True, why don't you just rest considering you've been working too hard? In addition there is no guarantee tomorrow will be light.”

As soon as tomorrow morning they had to set out to destroy the Rebellion. Even the biggest worry is that they are disappearing because of the missiles. Although only speculation but it is still a threat that needs to be taken into account.

In addition, it is undeniable that Open World is the hardest task to go through.

“I myself enjoyed it. What about you guys? You also assume the responsibility of maintaining security.”

Ray has his own reasons for choosing to take care of security. To be honest, this party was predicted to happen and this is a good time for Ray to make the last step.

Terumi and Leo should have no reason to leave the party but instead help with security.

“I joined because I felt bad. People work very hard but I don't do much. In addition ...,” Terumi said while singing her lips while glancing at Ray occasionally.

My reason is you, Ray. Terumi continued in his heart.

He refuses to say it out loud so Ray doesn't know. Terumi was also not aware that Leo was watching him and knew without having to be told.

If I had leaked it to Ray, how many wounds would Terumi have on my face? I don't want to think about it. Think Leo.

“Yeah, I personally don't like this party very much because there are more people who don't make me comfortable. Surely you two and other executives are not among that group.” Leo smiled brightly and started giggling.

Terumi finally showed the same wide smile, “We have known for quite a long time but the time we spent three like this is very short. I hope we can stay together like this!”

“I agree. What do you think, Ray?” ask Leo curiously. “You don't mind knowing that we want to stay around you?”

Terumi was also very much looking forward to Ray's answer given his more reserved personality.

Ray stared at the ceiling and smiled small, “I thought ... that's a great idea.”

Both are reliable and they also rely on each other. Ray certainly felt comfortable when with them because there was no trickery like Erina did.