In his heart, Azlan was both surprised and touched. Without the slightest hesitation, Akane immediately told him to touch both Light Orbs, even though she was the one who found them.
Based on the limited information they had, Azlan understood that Light Orbs were divided into two types.
First, the type that would directly merge with the first person who touched it, becoming a permanent and inseparable possession of that person. The three Light Orbs he had obtained—Sacred Gear Divine Dividing, Mystic Eye of Heavenly Eyes, and 𝄃𝄃𝄂𝄂𝄀𝄁𝄃𝄂𝄂𝄃—were this type.
Second, was the type of physical property item that could be used by anyone, had physical form, and could even be taken or seized by others if not guarded. The clearest example was Akane's 4D Pocket.
"Akane, do you know what you're saying?" Azlan looked at the girl seriously. "Each of these Light Orbs is extremely valuable. It's not an exaggeration to say they could change someone's fate. And you just give them to me?"
He took a breath, trying to calm the turmoil in his heart. "You're the one who found both these Light Orbs. They're yours."
Akane shook her head. "I can't fight like you, Azlan-kun. If these Light Orbs contain power or weapons, in my hands they would only be wasted. I can't use them to their fullest."
Her eyes sparkled with deep sincerity. "But you're different. You're already strong, and you need to become even stronger. So you won't get seriously hurt like today. I can't bear to see you like that again. So, please... take them. Become stronger. That will be best for both of us."
Hearing that sincere and caring explanation, Azlan's heart was touched.
"I'll ask one last time. Are you sure you won't regret it? Having super or supernatural powers is many people's dream."
"My dream is to see you safe and healthy. The power to protect what's precious is more important than power for oneself. And to me, you are the most precious. So, no, I won't regret it. Not once." Akane answered without hesitation, her voice clear and firm.
Seeing the sincerity and firmness in Akane's eyes, Azlan felt a wave of emotion hit him. Finally, he nodded slowly.
"Alright. I accept. And I promise, with whatever power these Light Orbs give, I will protect you. Even if I have to risk my life."
(Oh my... Azlan-kun says such words with such a sincere expression. There's no woman who wouldn't fall in love with you hearing that.)
Akane's heart pounded hard, and she was sure her cheeks must be blushing red right now. Fortunately the rechargeable lamp light wasn't too bright. She lowered her head slightly, trying to hide the silly smile and sudden embarrassment that appeared.
Not noticing the girl's reaction beside him, Azlan had already shifted his full attention to the two Light Orbs in the wardrobe.
Both orbs were volleyball-sized and transparent, allowing them to clearly see their contents.
The Light Orb on the left contained a fruit with a very striking appearance. The fruit was round-oval shaped, similar to a pineapple, with bright golden yellow skin that emitted a soft glow. The most striking characteristic was its surface texture filled with very detailed raised patterns, forming a series of interconnected heart shapes neatly arranged, like intricate art carvings.
The Light Orb on the right contained six female action figures, each about 15 cm tall, with the details of their clothes and faces covered by veil-like cloth.
"A fruit and... six Barbie dolls?"
Azlan couldn't hide his confusion. The contents of these Light Orbs were far stranger than any he'd found before.
"Oh, Azlan-kun, those aren't Barbie dolls." Akane corrected, having calmed down enough to correct him.
She approached and examined more closely. "Barbie dolls are usually taller, their proportions more fantastic, and their expressions sweeter. These figures are more realistic, their clothes are very detailed, and they look like characters from some story. These are clearly collectible action figures."
"Whatever." Azlan shook his head. "It doesn't matter whether they're Barbie dolls or action figures. What's clear is that no Light Orb contents are normal items."
"Whether it's your 4D Pocket, or Sacred Gear, Mystic Eyes, and 𝄃𝄃𝄂𝄂𝄀𝄁𝄃𝄂𝄂𝄃, they're all items that transcend common sense. So, this fruit must not be an ordinary fruit, and these six action figures must not be mere toys."
He decided not to think about it too deeply. Whatever they were, he would know once he touched those Light Orbs.
Thus, without further hesitation, Azlan extended both hands and touched both Light Orbs simultaneously.
*PA!*
A soft sound like a soap bubble popping. The energy filaments forming the Light Orbs' shells immediately vibrated and disappeared once Azlan's touch reached them, leaving the objects inside exposed.
*BUZZ!*
Instantly, two streams of information, different yet equally clear, flowed directly into Azlan's mind, informing him of the basics of what he had just obtained.
At the same time, his left hand automatically closed around the golden heart-shaped fruit, feeling its slightly cold skin and raised heart texture. However, his right hand that should have been holding the six action figures felt nothing.
*SWISH!* *SWISH!* *SWISH!*
A rapid and simultaneous hissing sound filled the room. Before both their eyes, the six small action figures shot from Azlan's empty hand and floated into the air. Dim light enveloped each small figure, and in an instant, they began to change, enlarge, transform.
The light faded quickly, and where the six action figures had been now stood six young girls.
They all wore the same uniform dress: an elegant yet somber jet-black gown, adorned with frills and fine lace in darker black or gray, emanating an aura of death and decadence.
Hair in various styles and colors. Their delicate and beautiful facial features were almost all hidden behind thin black veils covering the lower part of their faces, where Chinese characters added to the mysterious impression.
The six girls stood for a moment, their sharp eyes immediately fixed on Azlan. Then, with perfect and synchronized movements, they bowed low and performed dogeza—prostration with foreheads touching the dusty floor—right in front of him.
"Master!" They exclaimed in harmonious voices, a choir that was gentle yet full of obedience. "We await your command."
Azlan and Akane could only stand dumbfounded, their mouths slightly open. The quiet room suddenly felt very crowded.
After several seconds of stunning silence, Azlan slowly raised the fruit in his left hand and looked at the six girls still prostrating before him.
"Devil Fruit... and Automaton..." He murmured, naming the two unexpected items he had just received from the Light Orbs.