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

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"I... don't quite understand." After a long moment, Welt furrowed his brow, staring unblinkingly at Zeke.

"Schicksal has packaged their fight against Honkai as their core ideology, instilling unwavering belief and commitment from top to bottom. With this shared and clear vision, all Valkyries willingly risk their lives in battle."

Welt listened attentively, nodding slightly with dawning comprehension.

Zeke sighed, his feelings towards Otto complex, before continuing:

"For five centuries, Otto emphasized this faith and, indeed, defended it relentlessly. Consequently, countless individuals throughout history have willingly sacrificed themselves for Schicksal.

As for the darker aspects like human experimentation, Otto never intentionally concealed them; many were aware of such practices. Yet most chose to continue supporting Schicksal because its ideals were fundamentally correct. The pursuit of a higher purpose justified these minor ethical compromises.

"And Anti-Entropy? Let's set aside the rank-and-file soldiers for now—Cocolia, even among us high-ranking members here, do you know our guiding principles? Do you truly believe in them?"

"I..." Cocolia opened her mouth but hesitated, then awkwardly shook her head, unable to respond.

Zeke chuckled scornfully.

"As you can see, even Cocolia, who has risen to the position of Enforcer, is unaware of our precise ideals and lacks faith in our philosophy. How should other members of Anti-Entropy perceive our cause?

This lack of clarity led to divisions between so-called Conservatives and Radicals. Even I, having joined recently, could establish the Spark Faction.

For what does Anti-Entropy fight? If we ourselves cannot grasp our principles, with conflicting voices within our ranks, how can outsiders understand our mission? This brings me to my third question."

Welt's brow was deeply furrowed, his expression grave, eyes flickering with mixed emotions. He struggled to find words.

"Zeke, teach me," Welt finally said earnestly after a long pause.

But Zeke shook his head.

"I cannot teach you directly. However, I can share these points:

First, we need clear, correct, and steadfast principles;

"Secondly, we must instill this belief from top to bottom, forging a pure and united organization.

"Thirdly, boldly raise our banner, declaring to Schicksal and all mankind what we aspire to achieve, gathering those with hearts of justice around us.

"And finally, remain steadfast on this path. This is the correct way to reshape the world, transforming heaven and earth."

"...That's enough. Listening to you speak, I feel a profound awakening within me. Thank you, Zeke. Wait, should I ask if you're interested in becoming the Alliance Leader? Your insights are deeper, and you're more intelligent than I am; undoubtedly, you could lead us much further."

"Alliance Leader!" Raiden Ryoma stood up abruptly, his expression shifting rapidly.

Welt gestured for him to sit back down but continued gazing intently at Zeke.

Zeke shook his head once again.

"I cannot do it."

"Why not? Neither your experience nor age should be concerns!"

"Sages embody principles, guiding multitudes by their actions. Welt, you are a Sage, whereas I am not. The ideas you propose and the commands you issue will always be trusted as voices of justice and fairness, allowing us to wholeheartedly believe and follow them."

"But I'm different; even my own decisions don't seem entirely selfless and impartial to me. I can be an Enforcer, but not the Alliance Leader.

Welt, this responsibility is one only you can bear. Not me, not Otto, nor anyone else—only you!"

Zeke straightened up, his conviction unwavering.

Taken aback, Welt leaned back slightly, adjusted his glasses, and let out a wry laugh.

"How should I put it? While I appreciate your trust, I think you're exaggerating too much. I'm just an ordinary person, feeling overwhelmed by such pressure. It seems beyond me."

"You fear neither death itself, yet you dread this responsibility?"

"It's different. I could die for protecting the world without hesitation. But shaping ideologies will impact all of Anti-Entropy, countless individuals, and perhaps echo through generations... I fear making mistakes, yes, I am afraid."

"Fear is appropriate here. Those who aren't afraid couldn't handle this task," Zeke said with profound meaning.

Initially taken aback, Welt then nodded in agreement.

Indeed, without fundamental respect and reverence, one cannot exercise sufficient caution or dedication, rendering them unfit to establish guiding principles.

Zeke waved his hand, and several books appeared on the table.

"This world lacks a poignant epic of triumphs and sorrows... These books are compiled from my memories, revealing much that should be helpful to you. Study them carefully and gain insights, but do not blindly trust everything written. Times and circumstances change; unquestioning reliance on books can be more detrimental than having none at all. Afterward, I hope you'll venture out."

"Venture out?"

"Not as the Anti-Entropy Alliance Leader, but as an ordinary individual. Engage with people from different regions, organizations, and social classes, interact genuinely with them, understand their thoughts and aspirations, and grasp their needs and desires.

With your most compassionate heart, you will surely resonate with theirs. I don't know what ideology you ultimately form, but I believe an idea encompassing everyone's voices and aggregating all their wishes must be true!"

As Zeke spoke slowly, recalling numerous histories and heroes from another world, he couldn't help but feel overwhelmed, a sense of homesickness stirring within him.

Welt lowered his gaze, pondering Zeke's words deeply.

"Everyone's voices... everyone's wishes... the correct ideology..."

His eyes grew brighter and brighter; those warm, friendly eyes that had been ever-present since their first meeting now seemed to ignite with determination.

"I will go, I must go! This world is already filled with distortion. If anything can save everything and reshape it into something beautiful, it has to begin with the right ideology and the organization that believes in it! I am determined to make this happen!"

Welt burst out laughing heartily, his laughter echoing throughout the conference room as if conveying his resolve and enlightenment.

Even Kiana, who usually avoided deep thinking, and Cocolia, who always prioritized profit, found themselves strangely moved by him.

Zeke emerged from his reminiscence, gazing at Welt with a gentle smile.

"I entrust this task to you. We will develop the power to change the world, while guiding the path falls upon your shoulders. Welt, I've observed you for quite some time, and making this decision required great conviction. Once this journey concludes, perhaps you truly will become my chosen Alliance Leader."

"So after all this talk, you never saw me as your Alliance Leader?"

"A naive idealist? I can trust you, but I could never truly follow you. This world is cruel; if you're not strong enough, it would be better to side with Otto at least his path seems viable."

"Well then, just wait and see. I'll give you a satisfactory answer."

Welt carefully gathered up the pile of books, holding them like priceless treasures. He trusted that Zeke wouldn't lead him astray, so these must contain valuable knowledge.

As he left, under everyone's gaze, his steps were steady and powerful, as if carrying a mountain without faltering for a moment.

Outside the door, Bronya, serving as a guard, looked up at Welt.

With a smile, Welt ruffled her hair before continuing on his way.

"For over fifty years, I've carried Joyce's ideals, adhering to the teachings of Eins and Tesla, leading us to where we stand today."

'I do not feel burdened or misguided; their beliefs were beautiful, and their souls shone brightly. Walking on their path, I am firmly convinced of my righteousness.'

'But Joyce, it's enough now. I have obtained everything from you, even lingering at the day of your demise. Now, I must move forward, express my own voice, and... truly guide this world to become better.'

'You will surely support me, won't you, Joyce?'