Oberon sat still on his bed while Hakuro bowed low to her knees, imitating the respectful pose of a shinobi before their master. Each of Orstrid's servants had a unique way of serving him; his shield mimicked a royal knight's etiquette, a skill she'd gleaned from his memories, while Hakuro, a loyal shinobi, obeyed his every command without question.
"I am glad you're okay. You did a splendid job, Hakuro, and you don't need to cover your face."
Hakuro hesitated briefly before removing her fox mask, revealing long black horns previously hidden beneath the mask's long ears. When she first appeared, her appearance had led him to mistakenly believe she was a demon, but now he knew better.
"My lord, I am truly glad to see you well," she said with a gentle smile. Despite her pale white skin—though not as pale as Hilda's—and eyes as dark as charcoal, her smile could make any man's heart skip a beat.
"First, can you share the information about the elves that Ares plans to attack in less than a week?"
'With this, Aunt Hyrmr and Father should be better prepared for what's coming,' he thought.
Unlike other servants, Hakuro and her sister Shiro were linked; they shared one body but had two minds, always in close communion.
"… It's done, my lord," Hakuro replied with an affirming gaze.
"Good. With that, my aunt and father could be better prepared. I read Siv's report, and it seems you all exceeded my expectations. After everything is done, I will grant some of your wishes."
'Though I learned they rarely have desires beyond serving their master.'
Servants did not need to eat, sleep, or fulfil mortal needs. Their purpose and abilities were reflections of their nature. However, contracted spirits like Hakuro were different. Their character, purpose, and abilities were predetermined by the contracts their masters wrote into their summoning spells, imbued with their master's wishes.
"We would be thankful for that, Lord Oberon."
"Hakuro, you've been in Rakia for weeks now. What word comes to mind that could describe Rakia?" Oberon asked, his eyes keen with curiosity.
"Decay," Hakuro answered without hesitation. "That's the word that comes to mind after spending my time here."
Oberon understood her conclusion after only a short stay. It was a country where, in the past, sustaining so many deaths without collapse would have been impossible, but the story was different when other countries funded the war.
'It's possible that the Empire is funding Ares to weaken the Elven Kingdom, but why so suddenly?' he pondered.
The Empire indeed had some grudge against the elf, but after the new queen took the throne they had been more quiet.
'It may had to do with Nora wanting to speak with me?'
"My lord?"
"Hm, I'm sorry. In this time of war, our vigilance will be tested. Hakuro, I will rely on you to protect me from the shadows."
Hakuro already bowed to her knees, emitted a terrifying aura. Oberon knew that Hakuro felt left behind while her sisters fought on the frontlines, and she remained here, watching the enemy closely.
"I vowed to serve you, Lord Oberon. My enemies will never find a place to hide, for shadows are my domain." Her gaze was firm and resolute.
As her master, the only appropriate response was a smile of relief and reassurance.
"Glad to hear it. Tomorrow we must find a way to rescue Prince Marius before the battle begins. Kidnapping him would be easy, but it would cause chaos and suspicion."
"My lord, if I may," Hakuro interjected.
"Sure."
"I understand Goddess Phobos's plan to take over the capital when Ares leaves, but even if that succeeds, I am not sure the soldiers returning from the war would support her."
Hakuro's concerns were indeed well-founded. If the soldiers were not willing to obey Goddess Phobos or the new king, there would be civil war or riots, leading to Rakia's ruin.
"… Ares will die at the end of the war. Not only him, but most of the leaders and half of the soldiers will perish."
Oberon noticed the change in Hakuro's reaction.
"No worries. I will not be the one to kill Ares and those soldiers, nor will it be the Elven royal soldiers. Still, it depends on all the actors in place." He began to show signs of frustration but quickly regained his composure.
"It's hard, yes, but it's not my first rodeo… Though I am a bit worried about Orstrid and Riveria."
"Tomorrow they will start the expedition. Is that my lord worried about?"
"I never doubt Orstrid or any of your ability, but other than your sister Shiro you would find trouble blending in a group."
Hakuro went silent and didn't know what to reply to her lord's statement knowing there was truth in it.
----
~(Third POV)~
Two hours before dawn, Orario thrummed with anticipation. The usual pre-dawn calm was disrupted by the electric buzz of adventurers and spectators congregating at the dungeon entrance. The rare spectacle of powerful adventurers from various renowned Familia assembling was an irresistible magnet for onlookers.
At the heart of the gathering stood Finn Deimne, Captain of the Loki Familia, exuding authority, flanked by the formidable Gareth. Ottar, a towering presence, held his usual commanding stance on the stage. However, the crowd's collective gaze was irresistibly drawn to an elf with golden hair and piercing red eyes standing silently at the centre, emanating an aura of quiet intensity.
Several adventurers braved the crowd, attempting to approach him, but a single icy glare from Riveria froze them in their tracks. Her protective demeanor was palpable.
"Riveria-sama, I feel someone staring with ill intent," Orstrid whispered, his voice tinged with unease.
Riveria discreetly scanned the gathering, her eyes narrowing as they landed on a group of Amazons. Their predatory gazes locked onto Orstrid like hunters sizing up their prey.
With a resigned sigh, Riveria advised, "Just ignore them." She was well-acquainted with the Amazons' nature, notorious for challenging strong male opponents to duels, though their interest in elven males was indeed an anomaly.
"And that man?" Orstrid's voice wavered slightly as he gestured subtly towards a figure in the crowd.
Riveria's eyes followed his gaze and instantly recognized the man with long yellow hair and expensive royal attire. He was a striking figure amidst the throngs of adventurers.
"His name is Hedin. One of the executive members of Freya Familia," Riveria said, her tone carefully neutral.
"Hedin... Master did warn me not to interact with him," Orstrid murmured, his anxiety palpable.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, Riveria nodded. "Given Oberon's father's history with him, I can understand why Oberon is worried. However, during this expedition, it is strictly forbidden to start any fights among adventurers." She attempted to ease the tension in Orstrid's gaze with a reassuring smile.
The crowd's anticipation grew as dawn crept closer. The atmosphere was thick with unspoken challenges and hidden agendas. The stage was set for a day filled with intrigue, danger, and the promise of unforgettable encounters.
"Yo! Riveria," came a cheerful voice, breaking the murmur of the crowd.
Riveria turned to see Tsubaki, lugging a bag twice her size, her expression as bright as ever. Beside her stood Hephaestus, donning her usual attire and signature eye patch.
"Sorry, we're a bit late. Your friend took her sweet time inspecting my goddess," Tsubaki said with an apologetic grin.
Riveria nodded. "I understand."
Hephaestus's eyes, fully healed now, were being closely monitored by Flora, one of Oberon's devoted servants. "She said she'd visit again, though I don't know what she meant by finding an 'egg' while inspecting my stomach," Hephaestus mentioned, a puzzled look on her face.
As Hephaestus and Riveria exchanged pleasantries, Tsubaki's gaze swept over the throng of adventurers with a hint of concern. "With so many high-level adventurers here, are you sure it's safe?" she asked, her voice low and wary.
Riveria shared Tsubaki's apprehension. The assembly of powerful adventurers left Orario vulnerable to an attack from Evilus or other malevolent forces. "We've considered all worst-case scenarios. It should be safe," Riveria reassured her, stealing a glance at Loki, who was deep in a heated argument with the guild staff, her irritation growing by the minute.
"Loki-sama expects, or at least hopes, they will take the bait," Riveria added, understanding that Loki's plans, though often inscrutable, seldom failed to deliver results.
Hephaestus's concern shifted. "Orstrid, when do you think Oberon will come back home again?" she inquired, her voice tinged with a mix of hope and worry.
"Master expects it to take longer than a week, but with teleportation magic, he should be able to travel back and forth between Enalius and Orario if the conditions are met," Orstrid replied, his tone measured and reassuring.
Hephaestus breathed a small sigh of relief. "I hope it's over quickly," Tsubaki chimed in with a chuckle, flashing a teasing smile at her goddess. "It will be a suitable present for him, don't you think, Hephaestus-sama?" she continued, her grin widening.
Hephaestus's smile softened. "Fufu, indeed. It would be my greatest masterpiece, and I hope he will like it," she said, though worry still lingered in her eyes. Sensing her unease, Orstrid added, "I know Master would love Lady Hephaestus's present."
Hephaestus's heart skipped a beat at Orstrid's comforting smile, even though she knew it wasn't Oberon. The warmth in Orstrid's gesture gave her a sliver of peace amidst the uncertainty.
"T-thank you, Orstrid. I think I will head to the podium; it seems the guild staff are giving Loki quite a handful," Hephaestus said, her voice betraying a hint of exhaustion.
As Hephaestus walked away, Tsubaki moved closer to Orstrid. "Hey, are you sure you want to take part in this? I can't see how you can avoid talking to anyone with so many eyes on you," she whispered, her tone laced with concern.
Orstrid went silent for a moment, his brow furrowing as he gathered his thoughts. "Master wants me to protect Riveria-sama in his absence, and I will do just that. Knowing my lack of social skills… if there is something I am worried about, it is creating bad rumors about my master because of my inadequate social skills," he admitted, his voice tinged with self-doubt.
Riveria gently smacked Orstrid on the head, her expression one of gentle disapproval. "You're too hard on yourself, Orstrid. I've seen your gentle nature toward Ais, and she always tells me how much she likes the way you are."
"T-thank you, Lady Riveria," Orstrid stammered, a blush creeping up his cheeks.
They exchanged warm smiles, the camaraderie between them evident. Just then, Tsubaki noticed the crowd behind them start to part, creating a path for someone approaching. It didn't take long for her to recognize the person.
"Oh, here comes trouble," Tsubaki muttered under her breath.
Riveria followed Tsubaki's gaze and saw a group from the Ganesha Familia, led by Ganesha himself, with Shakti by his side. As Ganesha stood before them, he threw his arms upward and struck a peculiar pose.
"I AM GANESHA!!" he proclaimed loudly, his voice booming across the square.
Shakti sighed, allowing her god to have his moment, knowing the heavy atmosphere had just lightened considerably.
"Good day! Everyone looks so excited, I can feel it right to my muscles shaking with excitement!" Ganesha boomed, radiating enthusiasm. At the same time, he felt a chilling gaze from Shakti, who sat silently but communicated her warning loud and clear.
"Ahem, my apologies. This is probably our first meeting, Oberon," Ganesha said with a beaming smile, turning his attention to Orstrid.
Orstrid responded with a short nod. Sensing the awkwardness, Riveria stepped forward. "I am glad to see you in good health, god Ganesha, and you too, Shakti. I see you brought many of your members," she said, steering the conversation away from Orstrid.
Seeing Riveria's subtle cue, Tsubaki quickly joined in and take Ganesha attention away.
"I want to say the same, but… I did hear what happened to your home. I pray nothing terrible has happened, Riveria." Shakti spoke with great condolence.
"Thank you, Shakti, but my home is in the firm hands of my father and his royal guard. Still, it's a war—I will see what happens," Riveria said, her voice wavering slightly as she tried to convince herself as much as Shakti.
Shakti attempted to change the subject. "I was a bit worried at first, reading your letter suggesting bringing such a large number of our Familia," she said.
"It is in our best interest to strengthen the Ganesha Familia, knowing our enemy might attack soon," Riveria explained, her determination shining through.
After a long discussion between Freya and Loki, it was decided that Finn would lead the expedition. Those remaining on the surface from the Freya Familia included only Ottar, while Loki's side had Noir, Alicia, Bara, and other lower-level members. With their reputation, Evilus would have to think twice before making any move.
"Hmm." Shakti's eyes narrowed as she noticed Oberon's unusually silent demeanor. The last time she recalled, he was always engaging and lively in conversations, which made her worried.
"Oberon?" Shakti called out, trying to catch his eyes.
Unaware of Orstrid's disguise, Ganesha didn't notice the difference, but Riveria was caught off guard and couldn't think of a quick excuse. "My apologies, Shakti. Oberon can't speak right now."
Shakti's expression changed to one of concern. "Is something wrong?"
"It is rather complicated to explain, Shakti. Oberon and I appreciate your concern, but I assure you, there's nothing for you to worry about," Riveria replied smoothly, trying to allay her fears.
Seeing nothing unusual in Oberon's appearance, Shakti had no choice but to accept with a short nod. Tsubaki's effort seemed in vain as Ganesha took a step forward, his curious eyes behind the mask fixing on Orstrid, making him feel nervous.
"I do not see the physique of a mage. Shakti told me you saved one of my children. You have my gratitude. Plus, Shakti's little sister seems to like you. Well, who could blame her? You broke a record by levelling up in less than a week. Hahaha!" Ganesha laughed, though his usual cheerfulness seemed subdued.
"Once again, I am asking you to take care of Shakti and the others for me," he added, patting Oberon on the shoulders with a large grin.
Ganesha then took his leave, allowing Riveria and Orstrid to breathe a sigh of relief.
"Shakti, how is Ardee?" Tsubaki asked, changing the topic.
Shakti sighed heavily. "Oberon's method seems to work, but she has yet to reach the threshold he set."
"Did Ardee receive her Falna yet?" Riveria inquired.
"After seeing how hard Ardee trained, Lord Ganesha insisted she receive her Falna. It would have been a waste not to gain any status from all her efforts, so she has it now," Shakti explained.
"Then, bring her to my shop. I may have a weapon that piques her interest," Tsubaki said with a large grin.
"Well… If she asks for something custom-made, please keep the price reasonable, Tsubaki," Shakti responded.
Tsubaki laughed. "It depends on how much we harvest during the expedition."
Riveria felt a gentle tug on her sleeve; it was Orstrid pointing towards the stage. "Tsubaki, Shakti, it's starting," Riveria tried to shift their attention toward the podium.
Today's expedition was led by the Loki Familia, which meant that Finn, as the captain, took the stage to give a small briefing to the eager adventurers wanting to start.
"Greetings, everyone. As you have all been briefed by your captains, this expedition will take us to the 36th floor. It will be a dangerous journey, I'm not going to lie, but with great rewards in materials. However, don't let that wealth blind you to coming back home alive!" Finn shouted while raising his right hand in the air.
"YEAAAAH!" The atmosphere buzzed with electrifying energy as adventurers rallied together, their fiery determination filling the air.
"Well, as expected from Finn, everyone is fired up. Riveria, Oberon, Shakti, I will take my leave," Tsubaki said as she headed back to her Familia group.
"I think I will do the same," Shakti said, turning her back towards her Familia, but she threw a last glance towards Oberon who stood silently without their eyes meeting.
Riveria, noticing Orstrid's unease, placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "It's okay, Orstrid. I know you will do your best and Oberon will not be disappointed after hearing about your efforts."
A radiant smile spread across Orstrid's face as he replied, "Thank you, Riveria-sama."
----
The border between Rakia and the Elven Kingdom buzzed with tension as soldiers stood nervously, their anger palpable. The forest, a once-pristine sanctuary, now bore the scars of a recent fire. Skilled magic had extinguished the flames, but the charred remains and ashes served as a grim reminder of the destruction.
"This is a terrible sight," Levos muttered, surveying the devastation from the high peak, his brow furrowed in worry.
"Levos-sama, what should we do?" a female mage asked, her voice tinged with urgency as she joined his side, her eyes wide with concern.
"…We can't let the enemy advance any further. If they reach Valinor, it could spell our doom. Hold the defense line at all costs," Levos commanded, his voice resolute.
Valinor, a sacred and forbidden area, was off-limits to all but a select few. It was the resting place of the high spirit that had once protected the elves from a monstrous flood when the dungeon first appeared.
"As you command, Levos-sama," the mage replied before hurrying off to relay the orders to the other eleven groups stationed nearby, her steps echoing urgency.
"Hm?" Levos's attention was caught by a bird flying towards him, cutting through the tension like a knife.
"Oberon," he murmured, extending his arm to let the bird land. The bird carried a tube-shaped bag containing a scroll of messages sent by Oberon's servant. Unbeknownst to Levos, his son was deep within enemy territory.
"…Three days before Ares joins the army."
Levos learned from the captured soldier that the enemy would advance when their god of war arrived, giving the elves perhaps a week, if not less, before facing a massive army. The final paragraph of the letter wasn't just information—it was a desperate plea.
"This," Levos read aloud, his eyes wide with disbelief, "…please do not tell Mother about my request." The last sentence left him speechless, a shiver running down his spine as he contemplated his son's ominous words.
"Is this Riveria-sama's plan? Or perhaps the work of the goddess Loki?" he pondered aloud, his mind racing with possibilities and concerns.
As Levos grappled with these thoughts, the elven mage returned, noticing the shift in his demeanor. "Levos-sama, is something wrong?" she asked, her voice filled with worry.
"…Nothing. I must return for a while. I need to meet Hyrmr. Take charge in my absence," Levos replied, his voice firm but his mind clearly elsewhere.
"I understand, Levos-sama," she replied, bowing slightly before he departed, her eyes lingering on his retreating form with concern.
----
Far from the raging frontlines, deep within the sacred depths of Wishe Forest, Viska stood sentinel over the slumbering village. As the first tendrils of sunlight pierced through the dense canopy, the villagers began to stir. Yet, the usual melodies of the morning—songs, laughter, the chatter of cheerful voices—were conspicuously absent. An oppressive silence hung heavy in the air, and the absence of a particular man was a gaping void that none could ignore.
"Good morning, Viska-sama."
"Ah, Laffey, good morning," Viska replied, her voice warm yet subdued.
Laffey approached, her footsteps barely whispering against the forest floor. She wasn't alone; nestled in her arms was little Lefiya, barely a year and a half old, her eyes wide with innocent wonder.
"And a very good morning to you too, Lefiya," Viska whispered, forcing a gentle smile. An almost unbearable urge surged within her—to pinch those chubby cheeks, to cling to this fragment of purity in a world teetering on the brink.
"Mornying," Lefiya mumbled, her tiny voice struggling to wrap around the words.
"Fufu, well done, Lefiya." Viska tenderly brushed a stray curl from the child's face.
"I've been worried," Laffey confessed, her gaze drifting to the distant horizon. "She still struggles with her words, unlike young master Oberon."
"Oberon is... exceptional," Viska replied, a shadow passing over her features. "You remember his birth, don't you?"
Laffey nodded slowly, the memory as vivid as the day it happened. The night Oberon was born was fraught with tension—the air thick with anticipation and fear. Viska's labor had been arduous, each passing moment stretching into what felt like an eternity. And when Oberon finally emerged, he did so in eerie silence—not a single cry, unlike any child they'd ever known.
"I'm still upset he didn't bid us a proper farewell," Laffey murmured, her voice tinged with both hurt and frustration.
Viska chuckled softly, though her eyes betrayed a deeper worry. Lefiya watched them both, her innocent gaze flickering between the adults, sensing the unspoken tension.
"You know it would've been too painful for him," Viska said gently. "Saying goodbye to both of you—especially to Lefiya, his precious little sister..."
"Viska-sama," Laffey hesitated, her hands tightening around Lefiya. "I hope I'm not overstepping, but... are the rumors true? Has the enemy truly burned half of Valinor?"
Viska's expression hardened, her eyes reflecting a storm of emotions—sorrow, anger, a hint of despair. "They have," she confirmed, her voice barely above a whisper.
"With their infernal magic weapons. The destruction they wield matches our most powerful spells. They saw the forest as a mere obstacle, so they set it ablaze. All this before they've even deigned to declare war upon us."
"How could they commit such atrocities without a declaration of war?" Laffey's voice quavered, a mix of fear and indignation. "What drives them to such madness?"
"Rakia has always been this way, ever since the days of the god Ares," Viska replied bitterly. "They believe that only when their deity steps onto the battlefield does true war begin. Until then, they indulge in these cruel provocations. But fear not—my husband and Hyrmr are prepared. Trust in them to protect us."
"I've never doubted Lord Levos or Hyrmr-sama," Laffey said, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "But I fear for young master Oberon. He wouldn't stand by and watch all this unfold."
Viska's lips curved into a sad, knowing smile. "Fufu, I suspect he's already taken matters into his own hands. There is an unknown group that has been helping our side from the shadow."
"Is the group lady Viska meant a group of white hair humans?"
There is indeed a rumor spreading about the unknown side that aids the elves, but they never speak nor interact they just kill the Rakia soldier at night after that they just go without a trace.
"I am not sure if they are indeed human."
~(Oberon POV)~
An hour before the start of the expedition, I woke up from my bed, feeling remarkably at ease despite being in enemy territory. I could sleep peacefully knowing Hakuro, my loyal servant, was always by my side, ready to protect me from any threat. I stretched my body and washed my face with warm water using my magic.
"*Growl*... I need something to eat. Hakuro, are you awake?" I called out.
("I always am, my lord.")
"Anything unusual while I slept?"
("Nothing to concern you, Master.")
With that reassurance, I dressed and used the magic item that altered my appearance to that of my human self. As I looked around the city in the early morning light, I noticed something peculiar.
"It's awfully quiet," I murmured.
("The slave class must stay indoors until seven, my lord.")
"So I've heard... This city feels more like a prison than a place to live," I said under my breath.
After wearing clothing I left my room when I heard a couple of steps as I gazed at the source it was mostly slave doing their daily house task our eyes did meet, but they just kept averting their gaze before I greeted them.
After a couple of steps, I arrived at the dining hall that was the same size as the tavern I just visited yesterday. In the room, there were goddesses Phobos and Karen still my eyes surveyed around looking for the other person, but there was none.
"I expected there other members," I spoke with a curious voice.
I know their presence as Kuro eyes around the manor however, I am aware that Phobos did invite the other members of Phobos Familia.
"Most of them are still in the workshop… it seems they are not interested had talking with their goddess."
'Can they really do that?' I puzzled.
Riveria did tell me that the gods and goddesses had their authority of short that forced any mortal to do their bidding.
'Was she being restrained from using it?'
I resisted the urge to sigh after seeing how Phobos's condition was. Knowing how essential they are I know I had to do something.
"I will talk to them but, we had to eat first."
While I am gazing at the chef who is busy preparing the meals.
"Thank you, Oberon." Phobos showed her gratitude with a smile.
"It's too soon to say thanks, but I will do my utmost, but before we head there."
Hearing my stomach growl it made both of the women giggle a bit.
"You will love lamb stew cooked by my servant Rudeus."
----
As we approached the workshop, the rhythmic hammering and the creaking of gears grew louder with each step. The air was thick with anticipation. I wasn't alone; Karen was by my side, dressed in her signature purple casual attire. Her sword, usually an extension of her arm, was conspicuously absent.
"You already know the other members of Phobos Familia, right?" Karen inquired, her tone curious.
"Mostly, but I prefer to form my own opinions," I replied with determination.
She nodded, understanding the wisdom in my words. Relying on others' perspectives can often lead to misunderstandings. The Phobos Familia, largely composed of the Crozzo family, wielded significant influence in Rakia, blessed with the ability to craft powerful magic swords.
"I may be the captain of the Familia, but they are..." Karen hesitated.
"If there's something you're not ready to share, hold onto it until you are," I reassured her.
I stepped forward and pushed the door open. A wave of intense heat engulfed us instantly. Inside, the vast hall was lined with roaring fire furnaces on either side. A large watermill powered a hefty hammer at the center. Nearby, a grey-haired man was fully engrossed in his work.
"That man is Garon Crozzo, head of the Crozzo family," Karen pointed out.
Phobos had mentioned that the Crozzo family was loyal to the Rakia Kingdom, but their true allegiance—whether to the king, Ares, or the people—was a mystery.
'Well, there's only one way to find out.'
Our arrival went unnoticed by the blacksmiths, all deeply absorbed in their tasks. The quality of their weapons and armor was clearly different from those crafted by Hephaestus's children.
"Go away, I'm busy," the old man barked without looking up.
Karen stopped, but I advanced, closing the gap. As I approached, the old man finally looked up, revealing a stern, white-haired figure with a muscular build that belied his age.
"You must be Rudeus," he acknowledged.
"It's an honor to meet you," I replied, keeping my tone respectful.
His gaze was more interested in the sword I carried on my wrist.
"That sword you carry, it's Hephaestus's work, isn't it?"
Recognizing Hephaestus's craftsmanship, I showed him Uldster. "She made it as a gift when she took me as her apprentice."
Upon hearing the word 'apprentice,' he examined me more closely. "You... Hm. I heard Phobos-sama brought a blacksmith to aid us, but my hands are full here, so without further ado..."
He gestured toward an empty furnace, and I understood immediately.
"How many did you need for you to face goddess Phobos."
"Hm, let's see… if you can make at least ten well-made swords. I will maybe consider it."
With a confident grin, I replied, "Make it twenty."
Every worker stopped and fell silent for a few minutes before Garon responded.
"You are not joking aren't you?"
"I am not."
"… Rudeus, you have my word, but if one of the swords you make is not up to the standard I will forget this deal ever happened. You are goddess Hephaestus's apprentice, right? Prove to me that it's not an empty gesture of yours."
He replied, turning back to his work.
I turned to Karen. "Inform Goddess Phobos it takes time at least before dawn."
Karen's eyes widened in disbelief. "Is that even possible?"
"Just trust me, Karen," I said, a grin spreading across my lips.
("My lord?")
Hakuro, hidden under my shadow, called softly.
("Yes, Hakuro?")
("My apologies, master, but is it wise to make a weapon for our enemy?")
("True, but the sword I'll make will be infused with earth magic. In a nullified magic zone, it will shatter to pieces.")
("I see, I should have known you'd thought of that.")
Even though we spoke via telepathy, I could sense her disappointment.
("You're still young, Hakuro, just like your sister. You need to learn some things, so never hesitate to ask me questions. By the way, that old man has a spirit blessing.")
A high elf had once told me that we could sense the presence of spirits, either in form or essence, similar to the feeling I got when near sacred trees. I felt a chill when Hakuro spoke with a flat, cold tone.
("Give me the order, my lord, if you wish—")
("No, he's a decent person, unlike Ares's children. His bloodline may benefit us in the future.")
As I headed to my station, I caught sight of a young child with red hair watching curiously.
'A child in such a hazardous place?'
Our eyes met briefly before he retreated upstairs.
("His name is Welf Crozzo, my lord. The youngest inheritor of the Crozzo bloodline.")
("I see.")
'Such a pure soul, no wonder Phobos has high expectations for him.'
("I'll focus on crafting until midday. Unless there's an attack, please do not disturb me, Hakuro.")
I observed a mountain of rare ores and a slave continuously feeding coal into the fire. A tube connected to each furnace, pumping air from a mechanism powered by gears and a three-meter-tall machine.
'Tsubaki would be ecstatic seeing this.'
"Well, better get to work!"