As the dust cloud approached, a sudden change in the goblins' demeanor was palpable. Their weapons lowered, and a sense of calm washed over them. Jarvis, observing from the back, was perplexed. Why had the goblins lowered their weapons? The danger couldn't be so overwhelming that they thought there was no point in fighting. These were no ordinary goblins; they were far stronger than their wild counterparts, and Alphagob was particularly formidable. This could only mean one thing: someone significant was approaching.
As Jarvis pondered this, the dust settled, revealing Akira emerging from the cloud. He raised his hand in a friendly greeting. "Hey! How are things going?"
"Welcome, Master Akira," Jarvis responded with a respectful bow. "I didn't expect you to be here."
"I was getting bored, so I decided to check on you guys," Akira said with a smile.
"That is very kind of you, Master. I was just wondering why the goblins lowered their weapons," Jarvis said.
"Because they are my summons, they must have sensed me," Akira explained. "I want to see how things are going, so I will head into the cave."
"Yes, Master, as you please," Jarvis replied.
Akira examined the gathered ores, pleased with the progress. He then ventured into the cave, with Alphagob following closely behind. The two goblins guarding the entrance returned to their positions. Inside, Akira found another pile of ores ready to be transported. Alphagob began loading them onto the cart.
Akira, satisfied with the progress, thought to himself that he wouldn't need to buy ores from merchants anymore. He instructed the goblins to take a break and continue after Alphagob returned. Akira ventured deeper into the cave, marveling at its vastness. It was surprising that no one had discovered this rich vein of minerals. He mused that the amount of ore here could turn Concordia into a major trading hub.
However, Akira knew that Lord Leonard would exploit this resource to his advantage. He needed to ensure the mine remained a secret, as its discovery could lead to the lord claiming it. The transportation of ores would inevitably draw attention.
"Alfred," Akira called out.
"Yes, Master, what can I do for you?" Alfred's voice echoed in his mind.
"Does teleportation exist in this world?" Akira asked.
"There are references in some old texts, but that technology is lost to this world," Alfred replied.
"So, teleportation is possible, but we need to rediscover it. Concordia was once the capital of this kingdom, so there must be lost knowledge in its well-preserved library," Akira mused.
"Yes, Master, it's possible, but I can't say for certain," Alfred agreed.
"That's good enough for me. Tomorrow, we are going to the library once again," Akira decided, turning back.
By the time Akira returned to the goblins, Alphagob was already back, standing guard. Akira told him, "That's enough for today. Resume mining tomorrow."
The goblins and Alphagob began preparing for sleep, and Akira joined them in the cave. The next morning, Akira was woken by the commotion of the goblins. As he had predicted, another goblin had evolved into a hobgoblin, the team leader of the mining group. Akira officially named him Deltagob.
Alphagob went outside to fetch breakfast from Jarvis. The group ate together, and Akira informed Alphagob, "I think the carriage is full enough. It won't be able to carry any more ores. Gather a final batch and return to the base. I will inform Jarvis."
Alphagob nodded in agreement, and Akira left the cave to relay the plan to Jarvis. He also told Jarvis, "I'm heading to the city. It might take me some time to get back to the base."
With that, Akira set off towards the city, leaving Jarvis and the goblins to complete their final tasks. The mining expedition had been a success, and now Akira's focus shifted to uncovering the lost secrets of teleportation, ensuring their operations remained hidden from prying eyes.
Running with maximum speed and constantly using mana, Akira knew he could reach the city quickly and ensure a sufficient workout for the day. As he sprinted, mana poured from his body in waves, an aura of power that repelled any monsters or creatures that might have otherwise approached him. This display of strength did not go unnoticed. Several adventurers on the road mistook him for a high-grade monster, their curiosity piqued and their caution heightened but after having a look at Akira's mask they knew that it was adventurer Fate and it was nothing to worry about.
Among the adventurers, a group recognized Fate. They were familiar with his unique aura and presence, and they knew there was no need for concern. One group, more curious than the rest, signaled Akira to stop he sped by. Akira known to everyone as Fate stopped just a little ahead. Their leader, a tall man clad in armor, called out, "Hey there! Was it your carriage back on the mining path?"
Akira slowed to a halt, his aura dimming slightly as he responded, "Indeed, it is my carriage". The guy then again asked," the hobgoblin as well? ". Akira replied," Yes! the hobgoblin is my summon, and no one should interfere with my property."
The adventurers exchanged glances, their tension easing. "Good to know. We just wanted to make sure it wasn't a threat. Safe travels!" the leader said.
Akira nodded and resumed his sprint, his mana flaring up once more. The city of Concordia loomed closer with every step, its towering structures and bustling streets promising knowledge and discovery.