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If Bochang's memory served him correctly, after he soundly thrashed Cocolia previously...
Her eyes had indeed changed to gray.
"What the heck... Or did she put on colored contacts?" Bochang remained uncertain and didn't feel inclined to investigate further. He glanced briefly at Cocolia before turning his attention away. "Come to think of it... I believe they aren't related by blood either..."
During a casual conversation with Dan Heng earlier,
this topic had been mentioned. Bronya was an adopted child of Cocolia, with no biological connection between them.
Naturally...
their appearances also didn't suggest any familial ties; their features were distinctly different.
Cocolia's attire hadn't changed much from before—still predominantly white with green accents. However, the Great Guardian emblem that used to adorn her chest was now noticeably absent.
Cocolia had already handed that artifact to Bronya.
Upon meeting, Cocolia briefly exchanged pleasantries with Bochang before inviting everyone to take their seats at her prompting.
In Belobog, the stark contrast between the Upper and Lower Districts was evident even in their dining experiences.
Especially for Bochang's group, situated within Qlipoth Fort—the very heart of power in Belobog.
Natasha's meticulously prepared breakfast now seemed inferior compared to the lavish dishes served here.
"Mr. Bochang, during your morning tour of Belobog today, did you notice the building under renovation near Fountain Square? It's our city's History and Culture Museum, undergoing its routine ten-year refurbishment."
With Cocolia's arrival, the conversation shifted; she took over talking with Bochang while Bronya occasionally chimed in but refrained from initiating topics herself.
Bochang vaguely recalled the History and Culture Museum mentioned by Pela when serving as their guide. However, due to ongoing renovations, they couldn't visit it.
"Yes, I noticed... Is there something specific about it?" Bochang paused, unsure why this topic was brought up. He wasn't particularly interested in history museums.
Bochang paused eating, unsure why Cocolia brought this up.
He had no interest in history or culture museums. Dan Heng might appreciate them, though; rumor had it that whenever they visited a civilized planet, he diligently collected all available information, cataloging it meticulously into his knowledge bank—a task more akin to a scholar than a bodyguard.
Bochang stopped momentarily, uncertain of Cocolia's intentions.
"Nothing specific, I just wanted to ask... If possible, would Mister Bochang be willing to serve as the museum's director?"
"After all, the pioneer squad has greatly assisted Belobog."
"I've been thinking lately, and I believe offering some form of gratitude would be appropriate..."
Cocolia continued at length, leaving Bochang momentarily baffled about her true motive.
"Become the museum's director? Well...I don't have the time for such commitments. Each day on the Astral Express is already exhausting, focused on trailblazing new worlds. Plus, there are several young ladies who need my attention..."
As if anticipating Bochang's concerns, Cocolia reassured him, "Mister Bochang, you needn't worry... You won't be burdened with managing the museum's daily affairs. Those tasks can be handled by Pela and the other deputy director."
"Of course... should Mister Bochang have any directives, the museum will follow accordingly."
With Cocolia's reassurance, Bochang realized she wanted him to serve merely as a figurehead museum director.
Is she trying to tie me down to Belobog?
Cocolia...she certainly knows how to play her cards. If this were my past self, I would have agreed without hesitation.
Gently shaking his head, Bochang stroked his chin and asked, "What benefits would there be for me in becoming the museum director?"
"Of course, there are benefits..." Cocolia smiled, her mature face radiating a distinct glow. "As the museum director, it becomes your personal property. You can reside in the rear annex, essentially having your own dwelling in Belobog. Additionally, you could even collect admission fees from visitors. How does that sound?"
Upon hearing this,
Bronya and Pela felt slightly unsettled.
However...
Intimidated by Cocolia's authority, neither of them spoke up, only thinking, Mrs. Cocolia must have her reasons; best not to overthink it.
A residence? Having a place to stay in Belobog would indeed be convenient if I visit often.
The prospect of owning his own house was something Bochang couldn't easily resist.
"Well, since you put it that way, I gratefully accept Mrs. Cocolia's gift."
Hearing this response,
Cocolia's smile grew even brighter.
This was the first time Bronya had seen her mother laugh so joyously, startling her enough to hastily take a sip of water to calm herself down.
Cocolia responded, "No need to thank me; this is simply what Belobog should do."
While Bochang seemed slightly pleased,
Pela wasn't as thrilled.
"Ugh... I already have plenty of work, and now managing the museum too? Wait... If I take on this role, couldn't I provide even better education for the children? Especially those from the Lower District." With that thought, Pela suddenly felt reinvigorated.
As a caring "big sister," Pela deeply cared about Belobog's children and desired them to receive quality education. This sentiment led her to previously share Belobog's history with a group of youngsters within the city.
After everyone had their fill,
as the midday feast neared its end,
Bochang's phone rang.
Opening it, he found a message from the pink-haired girl:
March 7th: It's getting late, still not back yet?
Seeing this text,
Bochang strangely felt like a doting wife at home urging him to return.
Bailu leaned over and asked, "Who's that?"
"It's March, she's rushing us to go back," Bochang replied.
Upon hearing this, everyone's attention turned towards him.
Cocolia, Bronya, Pela, and Bailu—all focused their gaze on Bochang.
Even the former Great Guardian held her breath momentarily.
The dragon race little loli pouted, "Nope, no way! This miss wants to play here a bit longer. Didn't you just say we should rest for the afternoon before leaving?"
"Indeed, it would be good to catch some sleep," Bochang agreed...
...as he yawned.
Due to March 7th's antics last night, Bochang hadn't gotten much rest. Then, rushing to Belobog to find Tingyun had further drained his energy, taking up half the day.
Feeling slightly weary, while he could certainly go without sleep, having established a routine, Bochang preferred the comfort of a proper nap.
Cocolia stood up and suggested, "Since Mister Bochang wishes to rest, let's conclude lunch now... There are rooms available at Qlipoth Fort; I'll escort both of you there."
"Bronya, you and Pela proceed with transferring the artifacts to the museum."
Upon receiving this command...
Bronya and Pela, who had already paused their actions, also rose from their seats.