After his body training, Lian used the forge to shape the scarlet branch. It was harder than any metal in the Mortal Plane. It took the energy from almost all the Spiritual Crystals in the guild to shape it.
Spiritual Crystals were used as currency and money in the cultivation world. They contained Qi that could be used for cultivation. However, someone's realm would become unstable if they used the crystals like that. Besides being used as currency, older cultivators accumulated as much as they could to try to break through to the final realm as a last resort. If successful, they could extend their lives.
There are different levels of purity in a Spiritual Crystal. All the ones circulating outside the capital were of the lowest quality, in cyan color, and they were excavated near the clans in the interior. In the capital, they used intermediate-level ones that were worth thousands of times more. These crystals were treasured by people from outside and were hardly exchanged or consumed.
After completing his task, Lian spent the last few hours of the day with Meili. He made several different inscriptions and gave her tips for her future growth.
Meili was now at the forefront of the entire merchant guild. The former leader, without causing a stir, appointed her as his successor. Now he was her advisor, following all her orders.
Lian ordered the remaining assassin to protect Meili from the shadows. She now had all the tools and resources to develop herself. In the future, he could rely on her to acquire and process materials.
Traumatic events have marked the life of the young Dwarf. Her parents were devoured by demonic beasts, shaping her worldview and forcing her to learn to survive on her own, developing her skills independently. Life has always been harsh for her as she was surrounded by prejudice and humiliation from the majority of humans in the cities. Her appearance has always been a reason to be treated unequally and never as a woman by human men.
As she grew up, she watched her few friendships marry and build a happy, stable life with supportive partners. She always dreamed of a better life, yearning for a relationship where she would be valued and respected.
The arrival of this young stranger, undoubtedly a human, completely transformed her life. In just a few hours with him, she realized that he treated her with equality, disregarding her appearance. He maintained a respectful distance but, at the same time, gently taught and valued her, recognizing her potential.
The young Dwarf experienced a unique connection with the unknown young man, feeling assured that he didn't see her merely as a dwarf. Witnessing his skill and strength in completely overpowering the leader of the trade guild, she recognized that this was her chance to get close to someone who would truly value her. However, before surrendering to this possibility, she knew it was crucial to uncover the true identity of this mysterious young man.
Meili seemed apprehensive as Lian prepared to leave. When he was about to bid her farewell in her private room, she spoke up.
"I'm sorry..." Then, an inscription glowed in her hands.
The light headed towards Lian, and he narrowed his eyes. His disguise had been destroyed.
Soon after, he was slightly shocked. An inscription capable of exposing his disguise had to be made by someone of a high level. He didn't have the confidence to do the same.
With just a few tips, Meili used the principles of the first inscription he asked her to make and created one that could reveal his disguise. He couldn't help but give her a deep look.
"I'm sorry," she spoke with an emotional voice.
"You've completely changed my life, even without knowing me. Now you're about to leave, and I don't even know your true name or your real face." Her eyes filled with tears.
"I felt like I would never see you again either. And I wanted the chance to repay everything someday..." Her cheeks slightly blushed, revealing the sweetness and shyness in her words.
Lian wasn't angry; he was even more impressed with her talent. With some encouragement, he was sure she could become well-known even in the Divine Plane.
"I'm Lian Albedo. Work hard, and don't disappoint me. Perhaps we will meet again in the future." He spoke seriously and reestablished his disguise. Then he left the guild.
Meili watched Lian leave, and her fists clenched with determination. She knows that Lian has no idea of the impact his words had on her.
With unwavering determination, Meili makes a promise to herself. She will work tirelessly, channeling all her strength into her craft. For the Dwarves, having their work recognized is the greatest honor and achievement they can attain.
They believe that when a dwarf becomes famous for their accomplishments, they have the privilege of choosing whom to marry.
Her mother's words echo in Meili's mind as she recalls the magnificent works carried out by her father. She heard how her mother fell in love with him after receiving a magnificent weapon made by him too.
These memories strengthen Meili's determination as she aspires to one day capture Lian's heart in the same way. She believes that one day he will see her differently, recognizing her as an equal in greatness and talent.
***
Lian returned home a few hours before the fight. Riria had come out of her trance not long ago. He gave her his new weapon, a scarlet saber.
As she held it, she felt the sensation of a solid and powerful weapon as it emanated a unique energy. The saber's blade was perfectly carved, displaying an intense scarlet hue that contrasted with the darkness.
From a distance, it would be impossible to deduce that its blade was made of wood. Its deceptive appearance hides its true nature, as it is so hard and sharp that its strength is unimaginable. Sure enough, that was the weapon made after exhausting almost all the Spiritual Crystals from the Merchant Guild while using the tree's branch. It was perfect for her race.
Riria felt an instant connection with the saber. She was thrilled and excited and quickly familiarized herself with her new weapon.
As for Lian, he was now preparing for battle. He didn't want to waste too much time cultivating with a mortal clan. He would resolve everything quickly and brutally.