Chapter 30: A Fruitful Meeting
Year 0003, Month VIII-X: The Imperium
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Day 75-77: Making Progress
Within the days that had passed, life continued its predetermined course. Everything proceeded according to the path it was destined to take, yet beneath the surface of normalcy, tensions simmered like water approaching a boil. The people within the city had prepared meticulously for any type of siege that would surely come if war erupted between the territories of Ogind and Arwen. Of course, such a conflict wouldn't begin immediately—there were complex logistics and strategic planning involved for both sides, each move calculated like pieces on a grand chess board. But certainly, spies may have already crossed the borders under cover of darkness, their eyes and ears gathering intelligence for the storm to come.
What truly separated the two regions was a narrow twenty-kilometer gap—a boundary passageway threading between the great forest's outer tree line. Smacked directly in its middle lay the imperial highway, a vital artery that boasted a one-kilometer dead space cleared of trees on both sides of the road. This cleared corridor stretched from the northern ice-cold tip of the central subcontinent all the way to its southern terminus cities, a testament to imperial engineering and strategic foresight they had given to their allies. The highway ran alongside the Great Central-Western River of Arkanus, its waters reflecting the ambitions and fears of those who dwelt on either side. The boundary itself created a ten-thousand-kilometer gap between the next major civilizations—the Frontier Village of Kirka on Ogind's side and its counterpart settlement in Arwen territory.
The journey that had brought August and Andy to thousands of kilometers away from crossroads had taken nearly a month or two of arduous travel just to reach the city of Gremory from the depths of the forest. How much longer would it take for long columns of soldiers burdened with their logistics trains, siege engines, and supply wagons? The mathematics of war were unforgiving, and there was also the pressing fact that winter's icy fingers were already beginning to grasp at the land. The chances of war breaking out in such harsh conditions would surely force postponement until fairer weather blessed the combatants. But that didn't mean their enemies wouldn't attempt to strike earlier, perhaps hoping to catch their opponents unprepared during the season's harsh embrace.
The city's wall ramparts had undergone thorough inspection and repair, each stone examined for cracks, each battlement reinforced against the coming storm. The warehouses groaned under the weight of supplies, filled to the brim in a dual purpose: preparation for both the brutal winter season and the inevitable invasion.
Meanwhile, soldiers and fresh recruits endured continuous drilling—combat techniques honed to deadly precision, group battle formations practiced until they moved as one organism, and commanders schooled in the ancient arts of tactics and strategy. Spears gleamed with fresh oil, swords sang as they cut through practice dummies, shields bore new leather grips, and axes bit deep into wooden targets. Maces crushed training armor, while bow strings hummed with deadly promise. Siege defense equipment stood ready like sleeping giants, maintained with the devotion of those who knew their lives might depend on these machines.
Just a few days prior, the neighboring villages and towns had answered the call to arms, sending thirty percent of their fighting forces along with twenty percent of conscripted farmers, craftsmen, and laborers. These reinforcements had begun amassing outside the city walls in a clearing specifically prepared for such an eventuality. In the coming days, they would all be welcomed within the city's protective embrace, housed in dormitories that had been expanded to accommodate the swelling numbers. They carried with them not just their weapons and determination, but also precious supplies and the additional manpower that could mean the difference between victory and defeat.
War was such a costly endeavor from its first whispered rumors to its final, blood-soaked conclusion. Not only was precious manpower expended like coins in a gambler's purse, but resources that could have built schools, hospitals, and homes were instead transformed into instruments of destruction. Lord Kirka, understanding this harsh reality, had ordered a significant increase in beast hunting throughout the region. Hunters, mercenaries, and even merchant companies were pressed into service, their skills redirected toward providing meat and materials for the coming siege.
August had thrown himself into this effort with characteristic determination, stating that it was the least he could do for the city that had welcomed him. The weight of guilt still pressed upon his shoulders like a heavy cloak, for he remained convinced that he was one of the main catalysts for this war reaching such a critical juncture. Whether or not his entry and subsequent interventions had accelerated the conflict's timeline was a question that haunted his quiet moments. Perhaps the war was inevitable—the sovereignty of Arwen had already determined that they needed this conflict to achieve their ambitions—but August couldn't absolve himself so easily.
Driven by this sense of responsibility, he channeled his energy into practical service for the city. Several days back, the reason he hadn't immediately gone to meet with Baron Kirka was precisely this commitment. After his rigorous training sessions, he, Milo, and Sibus had ventured into the nearby local forest to hunt, bringing with them the deluxe medium-type wagon whose spacious interior could accommodate substantial loads. August also possessed his magical item pouch—a gift from his master Aetherwing—but he preferred to reserve it for truly important items rather than bulky meat. Within its enchanted confines lay documents of significance, high-quality steel he had personally melted and refined for future use, and most importantly, the Mytherium.
The Mytherium—that confidential metal over which the Empire maintained strict monopoly, the very substance they had been frantically searching for across the realm. A few days back, his SYSTEM had delivered surprising news: the Mytherium had grown accustomed to his mana signature and soul essence. This remarkable metal possessed soul-binding properties among its other unique and powerful characteristics. For the first time in many long months, he had heard a familiar cold woman's voice ring clearly inside his consciousness. It was his system manager—the female voice who had maintained radio silence for what felt like an eternity. Only Admin Marcus and the standard system notifications had been providing him updates during her absence.
**[SYSTEM MANAGER DOROTHY: MASTER, THE MYTHERIUM HAS RECOGNIZED YOUR SOUL AND MANA SIGNATURE. IT CAN NOW BE UTILIZED AS AN EQUIPMENT UPGRADE.]**
This revelation had truly shocked August, who had been wondering about the female manager's prolonged absence. "Oh, you're back! Where have you been? You've been missing for several months now, haven't you?" August spoke mentally, knowing the system could perceive his thoughts regardless.
[...I HAD SOME IMPORTANT MATTERS TO ATTEND TO. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONCERN AND PATIENCE, MASTER.]
The long pause before the cold woman's voice responded somehow brought August an unexpected surge of joy. He had always sensed that the woman behind the voice in his head watched over him with more care than the old man's system. Like a doting mother or protective sister, though her vocal delivery suggested otherwise—cold and seemingly uncaring. But August could perceive the truth beneath that icy exterior.
"Ah, I see. I hope you accomplished what you needed to do. Welcome back!" August began to grin like a fool, smiling at nothingness while those who witnessed his apparently random joy regarded him with puzzled expressions. He couldn't have cared less about their bewilderment—he was simply glad that the lady behind the voice had returned to him.
Fortunately for August, Manager Dorothy's absence had indeed been for crucial reasons. Her departure involved his Game-Like System, a separate and more complex system than the standard one implemented throughout the world of Centuury. A massive update had been pending, scheduled to activate when he reached level 25—the current maximum threshold of his system's capabilities. Version 1.21.0 of his game-like system updated with each level gained, and he now had only four more incremental updates remaining in the current 1.0 version. Upon reaching level 25, his system would undergo a massive overhaul to version 2.0. Manager Dorothy had been called away for high-level meetings to determine implementation strategies and to assess how the first Prospect of the Centuury System was performing. These discussions would shape improvements to better assist their Prospect in surviving and thriving in the challenging world of Centuury.
Meanwhile, Admin Magnus had volunteered to remain behind as August's primary support, ensuring continuous system functionality during Dorothy's critical absence. This arrangement explained why Admin Magnus had been the sole source of system updates throughout the past several months.
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Day 78.1: Baron Kirka's Visit
Four days had elapsed since that pivotal meeting, and today marked Baron Kirka's turn to visit his young friend at his current residence. The Baron's curiosity had been thoroughly piqued regarding the lad who served as leader of the current traveling merchant group that Andy and Marcus had joined. They seemed remarkably fond of and respectful toward him, displaying a deference that went beyond mere professional courtesy. But like any seasoned merchant worth his reputation, Baron Kirka was the type who preferred to see for himself what manner of hidden gem and exceptional person this August truly was.
Proper etiquette had been observed—they had informed the Fernando household well in advance regarding the day and time of his intended visit, ensuring no one would be startled by his sudden appearance at their gates. In recent days, Baron Kirka had become evidently more cheerful and enthusiastic, his renewed optimism and positivity affecting his staff and those around him in remarkably beneficial ways. This sudden transformation had surprised many who knew him—no one had expected the Baron to regain his characteristic cheerfulness so completely after his meeting with Andy, yet here he was, practically radiating renewed vigor.
He traveled in comfort within his personal carriage, accompanied by a handful of trusted men and the individual who led his security detail and personal bodyguards. Also present was the master of Rommel's current protection, Head Captain Rufus, alongside a man named Commander Griffith McTown—an old veteran of the Kingdom of Ogind's elite military units. Fate had brought the kindhearted Kirka into contact with Griffith during one of the commander's darkest periods, when he had discovered the formidable warrior drowning his sorrows in a tavern. Even in his inebriated state, Kirka's experienced eye had recognized Griffith as a person of impressive capabilities and equally impressive military background.
At that time, Commander Griffith had taken early retirement from military service and had become a wandering wastrel, his distinguished career seemingly forgotten in the bottom of countless bottles. Fortunately for both men, he had encountered Kirka before alcohol could completely consume what remained of his honor and purpose. Under the Baron's patient guidance and genuine care, Griffith had been able to stand tall and proud once again, reclaiming his dignity and finding new purpose in service.
"Sir, we are approaching the Fernando estate," Griffith announced as he knocked respectfully on the carriage window, informing his employer of their imminent arrival.
"Very well, thank you as always for escorting me, Griffith. It's remarkable to think how long you've been by my side already," the Baron replied warmly.
"Not at all, my lord. It has been a genuine pleasure working for you. I'm particularly glad to see you restored to your former self," Griffith responded with sincere gratitude.
Their conversation concluded naturally as they neared the estate's impressive gates, which opened smoothly for them without requiring a stop. They were greeted by an orderly row of servants and household members, among whom stood their hosts—the Fernando family, Marcus and his mother Susan, and his friend Andy.
"Baron Kirka, welcome to the Fernando estate! It is truly a pleasure to have you grace our humble abode," Marcus declared with practiced courtesy.
"Baron Kirka, how have you been? I hope recent days have treated you well," Ms. Susan added with genuine warmth.
"Sir, you actually came! I'm so glad to see you're doing much better now," Andy greeted enthusiastically.
Baron Kirka scanned the assembled row of people with evident satisfaction, returning their welcomes with matching enthusiasm. "Thank you, everyone, and I am delighted to see such familiar and friendly faces. I've brought gifts to share with you all."
The entire group began moving toward the villa's interior, where the distinguished guest Baron Kirka was escorted alongside his guard commander Griffith. The other members of his retinue were courteously directed to remain outdoors or in other designated areas of the estate, as was proper protocol for such visits.
Conversations flowed into genuinely fun and heartfelt moments as the Baron distributed his thoughtful gifts. He presented the lady of the house with an exquisite bouquet of flowers, their fragrance filling the room with natural sweetness. Having learned that fourteen orphaned children currently resided in the household, he had brought an assortment of toys, clothing, and confections that immediately won the children's hearts and sparked delighted laughter throughout the halls.
Among his other thoughtful presents were gifts for the servants—though their numbers were modest, totaling about ten individuals: the head butler, three general servants, one dedicated gardener, one stable boy, one carriage attendant, one wagon caretaker, one skilled chef, and one nanny named Martha who had been recently hired after Marcus's return home with his newfound companions.
The household also included several other notable individuals: three recovering victims of Toffer's documented cruelty, one of whom was the brother of Princess Mee-rka. The princess herself was present, along with her loyal bodyguards Senna and Kira. Andy, Michelle, Nina, Milo, and Sibus completed the gathering, with August himself rounding out this diverse assembly.
Among all these introductions and pleasant exchanges, the Baron's curiosity finally focused on his primary objective. "Now then, may I have the honor of meeting the man known as August Finn? The individual whom my old friend Andy and Master Marcus hold in such remarkably high regard?"
Everyone exchanged glances among themselves, but only Ms. Susan stepped forward as their gracious representative. "Ah, Baron, he has been here the entire time," she replied with a knowing smile playing across her features.
Slowly, August revealed himself from where he had been standing, having blended so seamlessly with the crowd that he had become almost invisible even to trained observers. August's presence had been so minimal that he felt like a background character who fit perfectly into any gathering without drawing attention. They had been aware of his physical presence but not to the point where he commanded recognition or focus. August had skillfully employed his stealth abilities to blend naturally with the crowd—a specialty he had developed and refined during his time in the Forest of Lonelywood.
Even the veteran Commander Griffith, with all his military experience and trained perception, hadn't been able to detect anything unusual until August deliberately made himself known. The young man's aura was unimaginably controlled, demonstrating a level of self-mastery over his presence that was truly remarkable. In all his years of meeting diverse individuals from various walks of life, the experienced commander had never encountered someone who embodied such potential danger while remaining so deceptively unassuming to the casual observer.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Baron Kirka. I've heard much about you from former villagers who managed to find their way to mine after some rather unfortunate circumstances," August said, his voice carrying both respect and subtle strength.
The Baron studied him carefully from head to toe, surprised to discover that August appeared more mature than expected. While he had anticipated meeting someone young, this individual possessed the bearing of a seasoned adult despite retaining a deceptively youthful face. His physique was clearly that of an experienced warrior—muscular yet lean, every movement suggesting extensive combat training and practical experience.
"Ah! I nearly overlooked your presence entirely, young man. I hope we shall have many engaging discussions together," the Baron replied with genuine interest.
August smiled warmly in response. "Of course, sir. I believe we'll find much to discuss."
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Day 78.2: Business Associates
As the day progressed under the Baron's distinguished visit, the atmosphere throughout the estate transformed into one of genuine celebration and joy. A spontaneous mini-feast materialized for all the people present, turning the formal visit into a memorable occasion that would be talked about for weeks to come.
One of the most significant discussions that emerged between August, his team, and the Baron centered around a unique business proposition: August's Maya's Traveling Mercantile could operate under the established banner of Baron Kirka's own merchant company while simultaneously maintaining the necessary freedom to act independently. This innovative arrangement would allow them to leverage Baron Kirka's respected name and the considerable prestige of his established company for promotional purposes, while the Baron could similarly utilize their services to enhance his own reputation—a mutually beneficial collaboration.
Baron Kirka had conceived this arrangement for several practical reasons. He understood intimately how challenging it could be for traveling merchants to operate without a permanent base of operations. With this partnership, whenever they found themselves in the region, they could rely on the headquarters or various branches of the Kirka Merchant Company for support, supplies, and temporary housing. Another significant motivation was ensuring that Andy—his old protégé and trusted friend—would always have reliable means to call upon the Baron's aid should circumstances require it.
"So what are your thoughts on this proposal, August? It seems to me that neither of us stand to lose from this arrangement, wouldn't you agree?" Baron Kirka spoke with the practiced confidence of a true merchant who had negotiated countless deals.
August, while certainly inclined to accept, recognized the importance of consulting his colleagues before making such a significant commitment. "You've all heard the lord's generous proposal. What are your thoughts, Uncle Marcus and Andy? I've been considering various ways we might sell our products without constantly roaming the streets in search of potential buyers. This arrangement would allow us to sell directly to Baron Kirka's established merchant shops, where they could handle the retail sales for us. Alternatively, we could even establish our own shop here in the city."
Marcus and Andy took considerable time to contemplate the implications and benefits of the proposed partnership. The arrangement was undeniably advantageous—a genuine win-win situation for all parties involved. "Well, young master, I believe you should definitely accept this offer," Marcus concluded after careful deliberation.
Andy immediately seconded these sentiments with enthusiasm. "I completely agree with Marcus, lad. This is unquestionably beneficial for us—we maintain our independence as traveling merchants while gaining access to a well-established base of operations. It's the best of both worlds."
With unanimous agreement reached, they formalized the partnership through proper documentation, written on official paper and sealed with both blood and magical binding—ensuring the agreement's sanctity and enforceability under both mundane and mystical law. As evening approached, the Baron graciously took his leave, returning to his own residence while the villa gradually settled down from its festive atmosphere.
The day had concluded as a truly fruitful meeting, one that would reshape the future prospects of Maya's Traveling Mercantile and strengthen the bonds between these unlikely allies. As the household prepared for rest, there was a palpable sense of satisfaction and anticipation for what tomorrow might bring. New partnerships had been forged, friendships had been deepened, and the foundation for future prosperity had been carefully laid.
August found himself reflecting on the day's events as he prepared for sleep, grateful for the trust placed in him by both his companions and the Baron. The weight of responsibility felt different now—not just the burden of guilt over the approaching war, but also the positive pressure of living up to the expectations of those who believed in his potential. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but tonight, he could rest knowing that progress had been made and valuable alliances secured.
The seeds of a prosperous future had been planted in fertile ground, and with proper care and attention, they would surely grow into something remarkable. As the last candles were extinguished throughout the Fernando estate, a sense of contentment settled over all who dwelt within its walls, knowing that this day had marked the beginning of a new and promising chapter in their collective story.