You'd rather have extra hands to help than turn them away! Kushi looks like she knows a thing or two about this place — with her help, finding the key should be easy.

“First of all, if I may…” You check her forehead to see if the fever has gotten worse. She doesn’t have any real fever, the Beef Bowl did its job. This is something different. Vortexia commends you for being attentive!

“Isn’t evidence such a wonderful thing?” Kushi is pretty confident she’s no longer sick. If you ask her, she’d say she wasn’t to begin with. “Ah! I spoke again. Old habits die hard.”

“Ehem, when it comes to the earlier topic, inappropriate question or not, I find you cute.” You clear your throat only for a less-than-smooth change of subject. Vera is groaning. “But the thing is… I’m here to find a key of sorts.” Now Vera is happy that you’re focused.

“M-Mya! E-Excellent, I can sense that you mean your words from the bottom of your soul!” Kushi almost explodes from the joy. “A-As for the key, what kind of key are you speaking of?” Kushi is willing to hear you out not to blow her chances. Her query has been answered anyway.

“For starters, there’s a mysterious locked closet here.” You point at it.

“That? It’s a matter of little importance! Just things they couldn’t fit in the storage room.” Kushi chuckles at this waste of time. “The owner buys so many props and collectible trinkets that the place is cluttered to the brim. Quite unsafe, you shouldn’t get near it.”

“It wouldn’t be like that if nothing important is in it, right?” You can’t shake off your curiosity!

“Agreed. I’ll unseal it for you if that’s what you desire.” Kushi pulls her purse from the side of the bed and rummages through it to find the key. “I’m allowed to stash my valuable equipment in there.”

“Why not in the kitchen?” You wonder.

“I won’t allow the chance of a lowlife getting to touch my knives, even by accident.” Kushi is protective of her utensils.

“Uhm, it’s not that big of a deal, as long as the knife cuts, it’s fine, right?” You shrug.

“Ugh, the words of an amateur coming from such raw talent and beauty…” Kushi recoils. “Hmph, this is a sign that your skills can develop even further…” The Main Chef changes perspectives. You’re not sure if this means much from a person who doesn’t think that beef and shrimps can go together. But she’s right, you’re an amateur...

“I’m gonna open it! What about the seals?” You get closer, but...

“Hm, those are for show. Props from an old movie production the boss took part in. He might see them as amusing. Perfect to trick bandits.” Kushi dismisses your worries. “Watch your head once you open it.”