Seeing the situation, the young man became even more arrogant, not feeling the least bit sorry for being late.

Of course, this is from Ryuto's perspective.

"Oh, really? Just arrived, huh? That's good. I was afraid the captain was going to demote me, after all... if it's the captain's order, I can't go against it."

"..."

Faced with what could be seen as a provocation, Crepes·Clair just remained silent, lowering her head.

"Hey, what's going on here? Why do I feel like her relationship with her subordinates isn't very good?"

Ryuto leaned over to Tanan Mas's side, quietly inquiring.

"Well..."

Perhaps sensing Ryuto's accusing gaze, Tanan Mas hesitated, but ultimately spoke up.

"It's not something to be proud of, actually it's just that."

"Just that?"

"Yeah... how should I put it, you know about the captain's personality, right?"

This answer did surprise Ryuto.

"Personality? Is that related to this?"

"Oh, yes, the captain has a rather serious personality, you must know that."

"...Well, I do know that. And then?"

"It's because of the captain's personality that her relationships with her subordinates aren't good. After all, with this kind of personality, while it's good for work, it can give off the feeling of being too much in other aspects."

"Too much?"

"Yeah, it's like being too strict. Although being strict is a good thing, to some people, it might come off as nitpicking. And also, since the captain is basically a workaholic, in terms of interpersonal relationships... well... So, as time goes on, the subordinates start to have grievances against the captain."

"I see."

Although it sounded strange, Ryuto could understand. Being overly serious isn't necessarily a bad thing, but in some aspects, it can give off an aloof and frosty feeling.

Just like that guy, Seto. Even though there was nothing wrong with him, in the eyes of others, he appeared very cold.

Most people wouldn't be able to handle that. After experiencing it once, they wouldn't actively approach him again, after all...

No one likes seeking trouble, and there's nobody who would willingly go up to a cold reception.

And when the person in question is rather inept in interpersonal relationships, it's not surprising that they become isolated.

However...

"But that doesn't seem to be the main reason, right?"

Ryuto looked at Tanan Mas meaningfully.

"Uh... why not? Did I express it incorrectly?"

With that question, Tanan Mas's expression instantly froze.

That reaction was answer enough.

"There doesn’t seem to be a problem with your expression, but what you expressed doesn't seem quite right, does it?"

"Huh? Why would you say that?"

A hint of embarrassment appeared on Tanan Mas's previously smiling face.

"Although what you said earlier is true, it's not just that her subordinates are distancing themselves because of her personality. In my opinion, it seems like there's more to it, after all..."

After a brief pause, Ryuto continued with a smile.

"That can no longer be considered just distancing."

"..."

Perhaps realizing the truth couldn't be hidden, Tanan Mas sighed, then reluctantly spoke.

"Although I don't really want to say it, if I don't, I guess you won't let it go. Well... since you're involved in the plan, if your departure leads to the failure of the plan, all the blame would probably fall on me. I can't afford that responsibility, after all, I don't want to lose my job."