Honkai Diary: Start With Picking Up A White-Haired Treasure

Theresa spent four days at the Far East Region's temporary command center before boarding a luxurious aerospace passenger plane to return to Saint Freya Academy—the last sanctuary in the region. With ample firepower guarding it, even the academy's Valkyrie reserves could withstand considerable Honkai Energy. Its isolated location also drew less attention from Honkai Beasts, allowing it to remain intact.

Inside the cabin, Theresa held a list of undercover agents provided by Zeke. As she read each name aloud, she shot a sidelong glare at Himeko, visibly irked.

"Oh, you Murata Himeko! Never mind the others—they're students who willingly embraced Welt's ideology; as Principal, I have nothing to say about that. But I've always treated you well, yet you dared to secretly collaborate with our enemies? How can you face me?"

Slamming her hand on the table, Theresa angrily demanded an explanation.

Himeko leisurely poured herself another glass of wine and crossed her legs gracefully as she looked back at Theresa with a flirtatious air. "What can I say? You know Captain Ragna's dream was to create a peaceful world where children could grow up happily... Schicksal cannot achieve this vision, but Anti-Entropy is making progress toward it step by step. Besides, haven't I done nothing yet?"

With remarkable composure, Himeko spoke fondly about their fallen leader, Ragna, her lips curling into a faint smile tinged with nostalgia and acceptance.

Theresa rolled her eyes dramatically. "So if I hadn't accepted Zeke's terms, you were planning to stage a rebellion within the academy and hang your Principal from a streetlight?"

"Perish the thought. At most, I'd turn little Theresa into my personal pillow and lock you in my bedroom."

"As if anyone would willingly set foot in that pigsty—it's a disaster zone! And don't forget to call me 'Principal'!"

Theresa pounded the table, visibly irked.

After a long pause, Theresa rapped her knuckles against the table and continued with a serious expression.

"I forgive you... So...could you please give Kiana a chance?"

Theresa's words were three parts jest, seven parts plea.

Crack!

Himeko crushed the wineglass in her hand, drenching her red dress with liquid that accentuated her breathtaking curves.

Himeko understood what Theresa was referring to immediately.

Her former team—including Captain Ragna, whom she deeply respected—had perished during the Herrscher of the Void's rampage. And the Herrscher of the Void was another side of Kiana—an event Theresa had known about for some time, though it remained unclear whether Himeko herself was aware.

Judging by Himeko's reaction now, Theresa found her answer.

"You already knew?" She looked at Himeko, feeling helpless and guilty.

Himeko fell silent for a moment before responding, "The day I declared my stance, Zeke approached me for a talk."

"It seems he holds great trust and confidence in you. Considering his concern for Kiana, otherwise, he wouldn't have revealed the truth to you."

"Yes, Zeke is very forthright. It truly is an honor to be trusted by him."

"Sorry..."

"It's not your fault." Himeko took out a handkerchief, dabbing at the spilled wine on her attire, her expression composed.

Theresa sighed and tore up the list she held. "So, what do you think now?"

"...I'm not sure. I can't bring myself to hate Kiana, but forgiving her seems impossible too. It's been so long since we last spoke... Let it be for now. The captain wouldn't want to burden a child with resentment."

"I'm sorry."

"As I've said, this isn't your fault; there's no need to apologize."

"She's my grandniece, so anything concerning her involves me as well. I promise you that I will spare no effort to create the world you and Mrs. Ragna envision. And if one day Kiana loses control...with full determination, I'll personally end her life. Therefore, please refrain from showing any resentment towards her. I know it's asking a lot, but truly, I beg you. Despite appearing optimistic, the pain and pressure she carries may surpass anyone else's. If even those closest to her start hating her...I dare not imagine how she might break down." Theresa clasped Himeko's hand, gazing intently with pure, flawless eyes.

Under such scrutiny, Himeko felt uneasy and turned away. "You...seem different somehow. Did something happen over there?"

"Yes, I've seen through some illusions, but let's not get into specifics. Knowing too much isn't always beneficial."

Much like Theresa now, understanding Himeko's predicament also shed light on her own dilemma and even clarified why Saint Freya Academy had enjoyed such smooth sailing over these years.

Otto's laissez-faire approach was undoubtedly one reason.

But another critical factor was that when Theresa defied Otto's policies, several high-ranking members within Schicksal secretly supported her—not because they shared noble ideals, but because they needed a banner to oppose Otto, allowing them to divert resources meant solely for him and profit amidst the chaos.

Even this opposition was tolerated by Otto as a means to control unruly factions. When necessary, he could swiftly identify and eliminate undesirable elements—incidentally supporting his granddaughter Theresa in the process.

Had she not managed to escape from Otto's puppet show, Theresa might never have unraveled these intricate machinations throughout her life.

"Sigh..."

Theresa deeply sighed, reflecting on numerous past events and grappling with how to face Otto.

A parent's love is the hardest debt to repay. And Otto's affection for Theresa went far beyond mere familial ties.

Her life was created by Otto; her name and identity were bestowed upon her by him. Even her entire existence had been meticulously planned out by his hand.

Most importantly, if Otto's treatment of her had merely been exploitation, it might have been easier to bear. But that unwavering, all-encompassing care he showed her was never insincere.

The debt could not be repaid, nor gratitude fully expressed. Despite Theresa's deep disdain for Otto's actions, she knew she would struggle to confront him directly, even given the chance. If not for Cecilia's sacrifice shattering her rationality back then, she wouldn't have found the strength to defy Otto face-to-face, remaining trapped under his influence for over a decade.

Himeko noticed Theresa's somber mood and heavy heart. She herself felt equally helpless about Kiana's blood feud. So, decisively changing the subject, she asked:

"Speaking of which, won't there be issues with endorsing the promotion of Introduction to Ideology at the academy? The archbishop explicitly banned it."

"No, he has already indicated lifting the ban. Undeniably, this beautiful and grounded ideology will resonate with many Valkyries seeking perfection. Over time, as Welt and others continue their efforts to transform the world, more Valkyries will sway or change their stance. This isn't necessarily bad, because the ideals are noble, and adhering to them is right."

The more Valkyries who understood this philosophy, the stronger Anti-Entropy's forces would become—and that was undoubtedly beneficial for combating Honkai.

"It may sound subtle," Theresa continued wistfully, "but if I had to choose someone to lead humanity, between Grandpa and Zeke or Welt, I'd trust them over him any day."

She gently caressed the Introduction to Ideology textbook on the table, her eyes filled with warmth.

Never before had she imagined there could be people capable of standing for such universal values, envisioning such grand yet simple dreams.

As expected of Welt—truly awe-inspiring.

Himeko nodded, smiling softly.

"As long as you're aware, I'm concerned about potential chaos escalating. No matter how beautiful Welt's ideals are, overcoming Honkai remains our greatest challenge right now."

"No worries; I'll proceed cautiously. Zeke and his allies will also support us. In any case, everything we do is for a better future. We will triumph. A world where equality prevails, exploitation ceases, justice reigns, and freedom flourishes—it's inevitable. I firmly believe this because those striving towards these goals are all strong yet compassionate individuals."

Theresa turned, gazing out at the clouds outside the window with unwavering confidence.

Cecilia, if you could see the world now, I'm sure you'd be relieved. There are so many kind-hearted souls who cherish humanity; we've never been alone.

Kiana, wait for me—I'll find you. No one can stop me, I swear on my honor as your aunt...

Theresa closed her eyes. Four days and nights of intense study and deep contemplation had taken their toll, leaving her utterly exhausted.

The passenger plane soared through clouds, gradually approaching the peaceful and tranquil Saint Freya Academy.