"But his reputation on the forums is… formidable. He is the ruler of the Takayama Prefecture. His domain is a massive, nigh-impenetrable fortress of living metal and stone. He is considered one of the 'Three Great Crafters' of Japan, a master of Alchemy and Creation. He is… a titan of industry. And he has just claimed the single greatest artisan in the country as his own."
I stood up from the bed, the last vestiges of my earlier pleasure gone, replaced by the cold, hard reality of high-stakes demonic politics.
The easy, straightforward path to acquiring my new quartermaster had just been closed.
The front door was now guarded by a very large, very angry golem.
"So, a direct invasion is off the table," I mused aloud.
"For now."
"Indeed, my Lord," Pixia squeaked.
"To challenge a Demon King of the Golem-Master's stature directly would be… unwise."
I looked at Chloe, who was now dressing with a silent, deadly efficiency, her earlier passion replaced by a cold, murderous focus.
