756
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***
The next day, the former capital of the Vermont Empire.
In the square, Jin had been giving a speech for a long time. Several hours have already passed just by reading the names of the dead and paying tribute to them.
Despite the scorching sun overhead, not a single person in the square moved from their place. Many shed tears silently.
Some cried, thinking of those slaughtered by the evil god. Some wept for the fallen who died in battle. Others cried tears of joy, realizing they could still live on.
"...With this, we conclude the memorial ceremony."
Behind Jin, banners representing various factions and clans were raised. Jin turned around one last time, facing the banners in contemplation. Now it was time to make the proclamation.
"As of today, the temporary alliance between the Vamel alliance, Zipfel, and Kinzelo, who stood against the evil god, has officially disbanded. Each faction will return to their original relationships."
It was already known to all the dignitaries that a new era was dawning.
"Runcandel, Zipfel, and Kinzelo have made one agreement before the final battle against the evil god. It is a limited non-aggression pact that states we will not attack each other for at least one year after the war ends. Today, in this place, I, Jin, swear that Runcandel will not be the first to break that agreement."
Ronel and Zephirin, who were standing behind, could only ponder Jin's words.
'Why would Sir Jin publicly declare that he will not break the agreement in such a setting? Is he testing us?'
"Sir Jin would have no reason to expose his weakness. Rather than a tactic to secure a justification for the war, it seems more like a warning or a threat...'
Battle god Vahn and Murakan.
Their summoning was the biggest concern for Zipfel and Kinzelo at the moment.
Until they figured that out, the two factions wouldn't dare to threaten Runcandel lightly.
On the other hand, Jin didn't need to be as cautious as them.
"Furthermore, Runcandel intends to make all records regarding the war against the evil god available to the public. With the assistance of the Record Mage Valeria Hister."
Upon hearing those words, Ronel and the Zipfel officials barely concealed their surprise.
The mention of the "Record Mage" and "Hister" stirred up the entire square.
Whether they knew the name and its significance or not, everyone showed interest.
"The mage Valeria Hister, as a member of the Vamel allotment, participated in this war and organized nearly all records of the war. Valeria."
Responding to Jin's call, Valeria, who had been wearing a hood among the crowd, ascended the platform.
When she removed her hood, her red hair and unmasked face were revealed.
"I am Valeria Hister. As the last surviving member of the Hister Clan, I possess the ability to use record magic, as you can see."
Woooong...!
Valeria waved her silver birch staff once, and a massive record window appeared next to the platform.
It was densely filled with descriptions of the war against the evil god.
"That's magic?"
"I've heard of it. There was a clan that used that kind of magic until a few hundred years ago..."
The crowd's attention was focused on the record window.
Naturally, Zipfel had expected that Jin would continue to tightly guard any information about Valeria. The more exclusive the information, the more valuable it became.
Above all, Zipfel thought that it would not be beneficial for Jin to reveal Valeria to the public.
But Jin had a completely different perspective.
'When you lack power, you must hide everything, but now there is no need for that. Judging by their bewildered expressions, it seems entirely unexpected.'
Although Zipfel felt fear when witnessing Jin's power during the war against the evil god, they were still somewhat entrapped by their past mentality.
They still had a lingering belief that Jin was in a position where he had to conceal something from them.
"As I am the sole survivor of the Hister Clan, I cannot maintain this record window indefinitely. The public disclosure of the records will last for one week, starting today. That duration should allow enough time for this content to be transcribed and disseminated worldwide."
"Sir Jin and Miss Valeria Hister, why did you suddenly reveal the existence of the Record Mage?" A journalist asked. Of course, he was a journalist named Dino Zaglan, and the question had been prearranged.
"As this was a war in which the whole world joined forces, I deemed it necessary for all information to be transparently disclosed."
"Has this been agreed upon by the clans that were part of the temporary alliance?"
"Not exactly. Is there a need for an agreement on such matters? It is natural to disclose this to the public, I believe. That's all for now. I will answer the journalists' questions after the proclamation. Valeria, please continue."
"Yes, Lord, young patriarch. Furthermore, Runcandel and the Vamel alliance have decided to share with the world all the value that can be derived through record magic. This includes societal advancement through the discovery of lost practical techniques, restoration of lost history, and international criminal tracking, to name a few."
For thousands of years, Zipfel had clearly been the driving force behind the world's "progress."
Even everyday essentials containing the word "magic" were all products developed by Zipfel.
It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that everything essential in life with the word "magic" originated from Zipfel.
However, according to Valeria's words, now Runcandel and the Vamel alliance could potentially replace Zipfel's position.
Is that really possible?
Even if they weren't journalists, someone would inevitably ask that question, but the crowd didn't voice any doubts.
It was because Jin Runcandel, the young patriarch of the swordmasters, was asserting it with confidence.
The weight of the honor Jin had accumulated over time was shining brightly.
"But as I mentioned before, I am the last mage of the Hister Clan. There are limitations to what I can do with only one body. Additionally, until the war with the evil god, I was being pursued by a certain group for a long time, making it quite difficult to restore my clan's magic."
The phrase "certain group" seemed considerate.
The moment Ronil sweated over such thoughts, Valeria boldly spoke out the name.
"That group's name is Zipfel."
This time, the crowd's attention shifted to the Zipfel representatives.
"Between our Hister Clan and Zipfel, there exists a long and dark history that I cannot fully explain to all of you. However, as a comrade who fought alongside Zipfel during this battle, I now humbly request that you let me go. If Zipfel gives up its ambitions toward the Hister Clan, I, too, will strive to forget the past."
Of course, it wasn't sincere.
Even if Zipfel truly gave up on the Hister Clan, Valeria's resentment toward them wouldn't diminish in the slightest.
It was merely a statement uttered to tarnish the name of Zipfel. Zipfel would never be able to accept those words.
To refuse meant becoming trash, while accepting meant making an impossible promise in front of the public.
In the end, Ronil sighed and chose the former.
"Miss Valeria's proposal is unacceptable. It seems this is not an appropriate occasion to discuss such sensitive matters. However, I wish you good fortune."
Jin silently pondered Ronil's response and thought.
'If it were Veradin, he would have demanded Valeria prove whether her words about forgetting the past were true using the record magic. In that case, they would have had the upper hand. It's a disappointing response, Ronil Zipfel.'
Valeria nodded her head.
"I understand. As you said, it is not an inappropriate occasion. I have just presented the stance of the Runcandel and Vamel alliance to the Zipfel side. If it seemed rude in any way, I apologize."
With this highly provocative gesture, it was not easy for Zipfel and Kinzelo to grasp the situation.
They couldn't help but be confused whether Jin could fully use the power that he had during the Battle of the Evil god.
'He made a commitment to uphold the Non-Aggression Treaty, but with such provocation, it seems like he has some confidence.'
'...It was a good decision not to bring lord Kadan. The tension would have escalated.'
Valeria stepped back behind Jin.
"Although I showed a somewhat unfavorable side just now, please be reassured that the Glyek contamination zones left by the previous temporary alliance will be purified with the combined effort of all parties involved. This concludes Runcandel's statement. Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to all those present and to the comrades of the war who couldn't be here. I will now take my leave."
Jin bowed his head to the crowd.
Once again, it was a sight that could never be seen in the previous Runcandel.
Therefore, people felt that the current Runcandel was like a clan lower than ever before.
But at the same time, it also felt stronger than ever.
As Jin stepped down from the podium, applause and cheers erupted, and the journalists hurriedly followed Jin and Valeria.
***
While the attention of the journalists and the crowd was focused entirely on Valeria, Jin quietly left the capital.
His destination was the official capital of the Empire.
It was the former territory of the Old Sword Emperor Castle, now known as the "Territory of the Sword Emperor."
After Dante ascended to the throne, he relocated the capital to this place, but it was merely a symbolic change to honor Ron.
Territory of the Sword Emperor was a land where not only administrative facilities but even humans and animals could not survive due to the chaos.
That's all the people knew, or at least that's what they thought.
"Dante."
At Jin's voice, Dante turned around and smiled.
In front of Dante was a beam of light left by Ron and the words they had engraved together with their swords in the past.
Sword Emperor Ron Hairan. Becoming the light of Hairan or the light of the world in this place.
"You've come? Jin."
Jin received the glass Dante handed him and carefully placed it in front of Ron's light, offering a silent prayer.
Their meeting here today was not just to honor Ron.
"The land is being purified much faster than we thought."
"It must be thanks to my grandfather watching over me."
Territory of the Sword Emperor, known to be still enveloped in tremendous chaos, had actually transformed enough for people to be able to inhabit it.
Only Jin and Dante knew this fact.
From an external perspective, the Territory of the Sword Emperor still appeared to be engulfed in dreadful chaos.
"It must have been a difficult decision. Are you really okay with it?"
"It wasn't that difficult. I made this decision once I confirmed the rapid purification of the land. I'm sure my grandfather would have wanted this too."
Dante's decision was none other than to use the purified Territory of the Sword Emperor as a secret shipyard for the Vamel alliance.
757
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There was not a single force currently observing the territory of the Sword Emperor.
As the contamination zones left by Glyek were not yet completely cleared, the most severe Territory of the Sword Emperor was completely off the table.
"If we use this place as a shipyard, we won't face any constraints from any force. The visible chaos makes it difficult to suspect, and even if they do suspect, meddling with the Territory of the Sword Emperor... would only mean that they are challenging me, ready to face the consequences."
Dante's words carried the symbolic weight of the "Land where Ron fell."
No one dared to touch the resting place of the hero who saved the world without any justification.
Dante and Jin raised their glasses, smiling.
"The basic construction of the shipyard will be quickly completed once our knights, technicians, and the Black King and Ghost mercenaries are deployed. Our researchers were quite amazed when they saw Dr. Qwaul's blueprints and creations."
"He indeed possesses exceptional genius."
The designs the Imperial researchers examined were not the blueprint of the Golden Fleet.
They were the blueprints for the underground shipyard and state-of-the-art battleship equipment that he had newly implemented.
Just that alone made the Imperial researchers unable to hide their admiration for the Vamel alliance's technology, which had surpassed them by centuries.
If they combined Valeria's and Qwaul's abilities, it wouldn't be an incorrect statement.
"But I have some concerns."
"Is it because of the suspicions regarding Ganesto's bloodline, like the evil god?"
"Yes. If Sir Padler's last words were true, Dr. Qwaul could also eventually become one of Ganesto's puppets. And perhaps..."
Jin paused for a moment, swallowing a sigh.
"It could also apply to us flagbearers, the children of the evil god. We too have received a portion of Ganesto's blood."
Of course, that was the worst-case scenario.
Until now, apart from Joshua, no one showed any signs of such a nature, but it was a well-known fact that the remaining flagbearers were born from Rosa.
"It's a terrible story indeed. However, it seems that you and the remaining flagbearers won't be affected. If Lokia Ganesto could have intervened in your inner realm battle, the evil god wouldn't have ended that easily."
"That's true. Still, I will continue to confirm me, flagbearers, and Dr. Qwaul through Valeria."
So far, there has been no apparent connection to Ganesto in the records.
If Valeria couldn't find any evidence even after finding the succession temples and raising the level of record magic to the maximum, then he could completely set his minds at ease.
"Don't worry too much. For now, what's important is the construction of the shipyard, the mass production of battleships, and replenishing mana supplies, materials, and manpower."
"I have thought about the mana."
"What is it?"
"The mirror."
"Colon's artifact?"
-[Yes. What this seal is containing is the very source of infinite mana. And the expanding mana can erase this entire world at any time...]
Kullam, the god of mana, said this during the massacre of the native colon inhabitants.
Jin had been restraining the use of the mirror as much as possible, abiding by Kullam's warning.
He only used it in truly urgent moments, when he needed to save his comrades and people.
"Didn't you call it a dangerous object?"
"Yeah, I didn't mean to use it recklessly just because it's urgent. I secured a means to use it safely."
To be precise, it wasn't securing, but rather confirming.
Since leaving for closed door training in Laprarosa, Jin had achieved explosive growth.
In aura, mana, and shadow force, in all areas.
As a result, Jin had reached a state where he could control the seal of Solderet, which blocked the mirror's mana, and absorb its power.
Moreover, there were dual safety measures. If Jin were to lose control of the seal and an accident were to occur, he could check the state of the mirror through record magic.
When Jin explained this, Dante nodded.
"If you say so, then you should be able to use it without any problems. So, all we need to do is solve the manpower and resources issues?"
"Mages from various regions who have confirmed the existence of Valeria will come. Of course, that alone won't solve the manpower issue, so we'll have to find people ourselves."
"I'll quickly look into it. As for resources, except for steel, we can secure enough supplies within the Empire. It might be a bit difficult, though."
The most important material was steel.
Even with a large infusion of mana, highly pure steel that wouldn't deteriorate was needed the most for battleship construction.
Even after considering the entire Runcandel and Vamel Alliance, there was still a severe shortage of steel.
Just the task of rebuilding the damage and supplying weapons was enough to strain the available resources. If they wanted to acquire steel, they had no choice but to trade with external forces.
"I plan to meet with Kinzelo soon and negotiate on that matter."
"If you're in charge of negotiations, it will undoubtedly be an unfair deal again."
"Well, this time we don't have as much backing, so if they come out uncooperative, we'll have to adopt a submissive stance. Demanding that much steel itself is an announcement of battleship construction, so the negotiation alone is a burden in this situation."
"Hmm."
"I'm going to meet with the leaders of the Minche Blacksmith Association soon, so we might be able to acquire some through them, thanks to lord Picon's reputation..."
As Jin mentioned that, Dante suddenly clapped his hands. Smack!
"Uh?"
"What's the matter Dante?"
"Come to think of it, I remember hearing something like that from Grandfather when I was young!"
-Ha! Is there really no way to manipulate the Minche Blacksmith Association? They enjoy all the protection, yet their arrogance knows no bounds. Ah, if only we could have a good conversation with them, the Empire's steel reserves could easily surpass the combined amounts of the major clans.
-I've heard that they even rejected Chiron's exclusive contract a few years ago, Lord patriarch. Don't be too disheartened.
-Calmine, don't try to comfort me with that. Chiron just got rejected, but as soon as I mentioned an exclusive contract, I was kicked out! Chiron is scary, but I'm not. Tsk! Grandson, come here and sing a song for me. I can't seem to shake off this bad mood.
-Yes, Grandfather! What song would you like me to sing?
-I think your self-composed and self-written "March of the Sword Emperor" would be good.
It happened when Dante was six years old.
As Dante explained the memory, Jin's pupils twinkled.
"March of the Sword Emperor? Did you really compose that song when you were six... No, that's not important. The fact that the Empire's steel reserves could surpass those of the major clans... Did Sir Ron really say that?"
"That's right."
"He is talking as if the entire island of the Minche Blacksmith Association is made of steel, but it doesn't make sense."
"Well, I don't think Grandfather would say something that isn't true, so there's probably something."
The fact that the "Minche Blacksmith Association" had a tremendous amount of steel was something Jin should have known, regardless of this conversation. It was recorded in the highly confidential documents of Runcandel that were lost during the Evil God War.
Jin didn't know that, but anyway, he felt like a breath of fresh air had come through.
"I have a feeling things will go smoothly. I should go to the island of blacksmiths right away."
"Right now?"
"We should finish the drinks we had with Sir Ron first. Let's drink slowly. I have a lot to say to Sir Ron too."
"I thought someone busy like you would scold me for drinking alcohol here."
"Oh, come on, it's just one bottle."
The two laughed and finished their drinks.
***
The Island of the blacksmiths.
Located in the unprotected zone of the northern imperial waters, the island was not particularly large, about the size of a small city.
Being in the unprotected zone, the Island of the blacksmiths always received the protection of the Empire. Although a considerable number of personnel and budget were allocated, the Empire had to provide them to receive supplies from the Association.
Not only the Empire, but Runcandel also periodically sent knights to eliminate the monsters near the island, and even Zipfel offered various assistance to the Association.
Despite receiving all of that, the members of the Minche Blacksmith Association never bowed their heads to anyone, making them one of the most exclusive and proud groups in the world.
Jin, along with Syris and Vin Branche, arrived near the island on Mort.
From a distance, the island seemed dark and gloomy even in broad daylight.
"...Do you think those annoying people will bow their heads just because lord Picon is here?"
Syris said. She had visited this place a few times with Talaris and had unpleasant experiences.
"It's about a 90% possibility, Lady Syris."
"So it's not a sure thing. I wonder if they'll even give a word of thanks for the assistance in the Evil God War. They are such shameless people."
"Don't worry too much and let's go."
The announcement of the arrival of the "Picon Minche" had been sent in advance.
It was a message that they had never received from the Picon even once in nearly a thousand years.
In fact, now that they had arrived, Jin felt a little nervous.
Although it was widely known that the Association was composed of fanatical followers of Picon, it was still uncertain whether they could obtain the exclusive contract "unconditionally."
The thought of having to make a deal with Kinzelo if the Association refused was also daunting.
As Mort swam towards the harbor, the members of the Association, who had come out in advance, glared at the group with suspicious eyes.
Jin fixed his gaze on one of them.
The person had a tattoo of "Anvil" on his forehead.
'Is that person Anvil?'
At first glance, Anvil gave the impression that communication would be difficult.
"Stop right there!"
"Are you the young patriarch of Runcandel?"
"Yes."
"Present evidence to confirm your status!"
Despite clearly seeing the black coat adorned with ten black swords, Anvil displayed a rude attitude.
"I am Syris Endorma, the acting master of the Hidden Palace."
"I... I'm Vin Branche."
"The young patriarch Runcandel and the acting master of the Hidden Palace may enter, but Vin Branche is not allowed. Especially the young patriarch Runcandel will have a lot to explain to us today! You have been renting the weapons we provided to Runcandel without any consultation... And that ridiculous message..."
Jin gestured to Vin, indicating that there was no need to say more.
It meant to immediately summon Picon.
As soon as Vin Branche's appearance began to transform into the manifestation state, the person with an anvil tattoo trembled all over when he saw Vin's appearance change like Picon.
"You... Is it really... Picon Minche...?"
[That's right! I am the legendary blacksmith, Picon Minche! Currently, I am also a god of the blacksmiths.]
Thud!
The man and the members of the Association sat down, blinking in disbelief.
Anvil didn't even doubt the appearance of the manifesting Picon.
Anvil quickly corrected his posture and the members of the Association followed suit.
Soon, Anvil spoke, satisfying Jin.
"From now on, everything in our Association, down to every grain of sand on this island, belongs to Lord Picon. Please forgive us for not recognizing you from the beginning and showing disrespect."
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The sudden extreme low behavior of Anvil left the group momentarily dumbfounded. Not only did Anvil kneel down, but he even prostrated himself and began to bow.
As they looked closely, tears were dripping onto the floor.
Anvil, at least, maintained some dignity as the leader and felt deeply moved by the situation.
The members beside him burst into tears.
'Are they insane...? Crying just because they heard the name 'Picon Minche'? Unbelievable.'
Jin pondered over those words, suppressing his astonishment.
If there really was more steel on this island than the combined stock of the Vamel alliance, then there would be no need for regret in Kinzelo.
[Will you give it all?]
"Of course!"
[Are you really okay with that?]
"Lord Picon, our Minche Association is composed solely of those who sincerely follow your will. Your words from a thousand years ago are still burning in our hearts."
What did I say?
Picon actually wanted to ask that but cleared his throat and waited for Anvil's next words.
"Do not leave the blacksmith's forge. Dedicate yourself only to forging weapons. Until the master appears."
Those were the words Picon often said to his disciples in the past.
Of course, the "master" he mentioned did not refer to himself.
At that time, Picon watched as his less talented disciples became disheartened. In the spirit of encouraging them not to give up but to devote themselves wholeheartedly, he spoke those words. As a result, many of them ended up creating masterpieces.
After Picon's death, that intention was faithfully passed down to future generations for about fifty years.
However, as time passed, the initial meaning of Picon's words gradually distorted. Not understanding the true intent, Anvil interpreted them this way.
"Our association has been eagerly awaiting the appearance of a true master, someone who can elevate the blacksmiths of this world and thus be truly worthy of being called Picon's reincarnation. That's why the association has maintained a three-member governing system for the past thousand years without appointing a Iron King."
What is an Iron King...?
Picon suppressed the urge to ask that question and smiled as naturally as possible. Yes, you have all faithfully followed my will, so he put on that expression.
When Picon was alive, there was no position called the Iron King.
The legendary blacksmith symbolized Picon.
Anyway, according to Anvil's words, the temporary leaders known as Fire, Anvil, and Hammer were not true successors. They had been keeping the position of the real leader, the Iron King, vacant all along, waiting for a blacksmith worthy of being recognized as Picon's successor.
And now, unexpectedly, not even Picon's successor, but Picon Minche himself, the god of blacksmiths, came to the association. It was only natural for them to react so strongly.
From the association's perspective, the long-awaited Iron King had finally been reborn.
[Hmm... Excellent.]
As soon as Picon spoke in a solemn voice, Anvil and the association members lifted their heads.
Their wet eyes shimmered as if they were people who had received salvation.
Then, suddenly, Anvil startled and lowered his head.
"Oh! Oops... I hope I didn't go off topic in my excitement. If you find it burdensome to accept the assets of our blacksmiths, then..."
Jin quickly jabbed Picon's side.
[That's not the case. From today onwards, I will guide you again.]
Although it was a casual remark, it had a tremendous effect.
"It's the greatest honor to be born! Please come inside!"
Before moving, the members of the association took out small trumpets from their pockets. It was a trumpet that signaled the truth of the letter from the Vamel alliance.
As soon as the trumpet sounded, the previously darkened island suddenly brightened.
Flames sprouted throughout the large area of the island, which accounted for 80% of its total area.
The members of the association who had been waiting in the blacksmith's shop hurriedly moved their feet, preparing to greet Picon.
At the same time, Anvil's attitude towards Jin changed.
"Please forgive my rudeness earlier. Now that Lord Picon has graced us with his presence, from now on, the young patriarch shall be regarded as our benefactor."
"Thank you for saying that."
And me? Syris wanted to argue, but she suppressed her temper. It was mind-boggling, to the point where words failed to come out.
At the entrance of the blacksmith's shops, all the blacksmiths of the association were lying down in a row.
'There are truly fanatics among them.'
Although there was a bit of exaggeration, Jin felt relieved to have gained reliable allies and smiled.
Just like with Anvil, a sea of tears opened up for a while, and Picon encouraged each person as they were introduced by the officials.
No one doubted Picon.
Not only because his appearance perfectly matched, but also because Picon instantly recognized the purpose and completion of the equipment and weapons in the blacksmith's shop.
With just a few words of conversation during the process, the blacksmiths acknowledged Picon's skill and were grateful.
[Fire, why did you choose this island as the holy land for the blacksmiths? It's not even my hometown.]
Once the formalities and greetings were over, Picon directed serious questions on behalf of Jin.
"Is it alright for me to answer without the presence of the acting master of Hidden Palace?"
"I will personally vouch for the acting master of Hidden Palace. And from now on, I hope you also show respect to the acting master. She is my guest."
"I will do so."
If Chiron, Talaris, or Ron had personally witnessed this scene, they would have been astonished and rendered speechless.
Syris sighed inwardly, lowering her head.
"The reason we established our headquarters here is because of Marine Steel."
"Marine Steel?"
"It means 'steel from the sea.' The headquarters of the association has been on this island for about three hundred years. We chose it as the headquarters because there is no other region with as much Marine Steel as here."
[I know about Marine Steel's existence, but it must be extremely difficult to extract. I've heard that the association currently possesses more steel than the Empire or any other major power.]
"Half of that statement is true, and half is false."
[Explain.]
Even at this moment when the association's biggest secret needed to be revealed, including the Fire, the high-ranking officials showed no hesitation.
"First of all, we extract Marine Steel through the inner core monster, who is the ruler of the sea. His name is Vailam, and he is a friend that the past officials embraced. Although he is a monster, he doesn't have a clear consciousness like them and doesn't have any intentions or reasons to harm humans."
"Are you saying that such a monster exists?"
In response to Jin's question, the officials nodded their heads.
"Yes, young patriarch. His food source consists of marine organisms and seaweed. Since he mostly resides in the deep sea, he rarely catches people's attention."
So, he was a benevolent being more akin to a spiritual beast than a monster.
"Long ago, Vailam made a deal with us. Since Vailam needs to sharpen his teeth periodically, he had reached his limit in grinding them on unprocessed Marine Steel from the seabed."
"So, if he brings Marine Steel, you mean that you process a part of it to create steel chunks for Vailam's tooth sharpening?"
"That is correct."
The Marine Steel buried in the waters near the blacksmith's island was almost infinite.
Normally, the cost of mining and processing Marine Steel far outweighed its value, so no one bothered to dig for it. However, the association had obtained Marine Steel practically for free through Vailam for hundreds of years.
The association was also the only group capable of rapidly processing such large quantities of Marine Steel.
The idea that monsters and humans could coexist in this manner was an unexplored concept.
"It's an amazing story. You have kept this fact hidden for so long."
The officials guided the group to the underground of the blacksmith's workshop.
In the center, there was a massive opening mechanism, and as the officials pulled a lever, the floor split open, revealing the sea. It was a space large enough for several merchant ships to enter and still have room to spare.
With such a space, the sight of Vailam supplying steel to the association would never be revealed to the outside world.
"Thanks to this background and the mindset passed down by Lord Picon, our association has never had any reason to feel inadequate anywhere. Until recently, it would have been true to say that the association possessed the most steel in the world."
The group exclaimed in awe while gazing at the surging sea.
Jin was impressed, but he also sensed a powerful aura emanating from the sea.
"It seems Vailam has been tainted by chaos."
At that remark, the officials grimaced, their brows furrowing as if in pain.
"...That's correct. The relationship between Vailam and the association is not merely a simple symbiotic one. Now, we are practically friends. The chaos spreading throughout the world, from the Battle of the Sword Emperor Castle to the Evil god, has afflicted Vailam, making him sick."
As Fire blew several trumpets towards the sea, the water's surface surged and foamed.
After a while, the wounded Vailam appeared, resembling a colossal whale.
[Phiiii…]
His cry sounded similar to that of a whale, and overall, his round and gentle appearance didn't seem threatening, just as the officials had described.
However, black spots of chaos were visible all over his body.
Vailam continued to cry out in agony without respite.
"If Vailam doesn't recover, it will not only hinder the extraction of Marine Steel but also plunge the entire association into the sorrow of losing a friend."
There was joy in Picon's arrival, but there was also the sadness of having to bid farewell to a friend.
Picon carefully chose his words, and Syris couldn't hide her pained expression at Vailam's cute yet suffering appearance.
Then Jin, staring intently at Vailam, spoke.
"Fire, has there been any physical transformation in Vailam?"
"What do you mean?"
"Excluding the black spots, is Vailam's appearance exactly the same as before he was tainted by chaos?"
"Well, yes."
Jin smiled slyly.
"It seems I might be able to heal that friend of yours."
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Only the eyes of the three people, Fire, Hammer, and Anvil, bulged out as if they were about to pop out.
"You can heal Vailam!?"
"Is that really true?"
"You didn't know? In our Vamel alliance, there is a device called the Chaos Purifier. It can almost perfectly purify the chaos corruption that hasn't transformed the body."
[Pipi, Pi...]
Vailam made a groaning sound and sank back into the water. Even briefly pulling his body out of the water seemed difficult for him.
"There aren't absolutely no variables. We've never tested whether the device works perfectly against monsters, and their size is so enormous."
Encountering a case where the chaos was not reinforced but eroded was something new.
"Young Patriarch, please help! If you do, we will do anything."
"If I help?"
As Jin interrupted and asked, the officers twitched and glanced at each other.
"...Creating a masterpiece for the Young Patriarch."
It may sound simple, but it wasn't. It meant that all the world's greatest blacksmiths (except for Picon) would come forward to create just one sword.
"Leave that to Lord Picon. Do you think there's just a casual relationship between me and Lord Picon?"
Of course, even if the officers combined their strength, they couldn't compare to Picon.
"That's not it."
[It's a very special relationship. If it weren't for the Young Patriarch, I would still be hiding inside that empty body.]
"Cough! Then, what do you want?"
"I don't want anything in particular."
"Nothing? Then why did you mention it?"
"It was you who spoke as if you were going to give something, not me. I just thought of extending my goodwill. However..."
"However?"
"If you really want to repay me, how about joining the Vamel alliance?"
"Do you demand an exclusive contract?"
"I know that the Association is a neutral force that doesn't get involved in worldly affairs. But now is not the time when you can afford not to pay attention. If you are a person with abilities, you must stand on one side or the other. That's why the Hidden Palace and Nameless abandoned their long traditions and gathered under the banner of the Vamel Alliance."
The Association has never been affiliated with any faction since its founding.
The eyes of the officers became serious. However, that serious atmosphere was not born out of discomfort or concern about the proposal.
"...If that's the problem, wasn't the answer already decided when Lord Picon came to us?"
"As you can see, Lord Picon is an absolute existence for us. It's not just a symbolic story. Now he has become a real god of the blacksmiths. Lord Picon's will is our will."
"Just like Lord Picon is already on the side of the Young Patriarch, it's natural for us to join the alliance, isn't it?"
"It's true that the answers are quite satisfying, but you accepted it too quickly."
"We were also mentally prepared to some extent. We are not completely indifferent to how the world is going."
"If we have to choose one side anyway, it was our conclusion that it should be Runcandel or the Vamel alliance rather than the Zipfel. Since the blacksmiths seem to fit better with knights than mages."
With a sly smile, Fire extended his hand to Jin.
"I'll rely on you from now on. It's true that the decision has been made, but I wasn't in a state where I felt particularly good about it."
"Is that why you were being impolite when I arrived?"
"That's how we've always been. Anyway, now that we have met the Young Patriarch in person, I think it's not so bad."
"Not just not so bad, but a day when you think you are lucky to choose me will come."
Jin smiled and shook hands with Fire. Now that they had become a family, it was a gesture using familiar terms.
[Looks good. Well, since the conversation seems to be over, let's quickly go and help that Vailam. As I heard, without that guy, both the Association and the Vamel alliance will face a lot of obstacles in the future.]
The physical transformation could happen immediately if they were unlucky, so they had to hurry. Shortly after arriving on the island, Jin had already seized control of the Association, but there was no time to bask in joy.
"I will go to Tikan to get the Purifier. Taking Vailam to Tikan seems impossible. Lady Syris, let's go."
They immediately headed for Tikan on Mort. Fortunately, since Mort's condition had improved significantly after the Evil God War, there were no major problems with consecutive long-distance teleportations.
"Young master? Have you already returned?"
"Yes, Gilly. Everything went very well."
"Oh, as expected of our Lord!"
"Jet, bring the Chaos Purifier. We have to go back."
While Jet was getting the purifier, Jin explained the situation to his comrades. It was so simple that it didn't need much summarizing.
"This time, Sir Hedo will come with us. We'll need your tremendous strength."
"Of course."
Fortunately, Sandra had already left with Bale for a walk, so she didn't cause a fuss about joining as well.
[Boong...]
When they arrived back on the island, Mort collapsed and struggled to catch his breath.
"You've arrived!"
As they descended underground and placed the Purifier, the officers looked at it with mixed feelings. It wasn't that they doubted its performance, but they couldn't envision this small device being able to handle Vailam's massive body.
"Fire, blow the horn again to call Vailam."
As the horn sounded, Vailam responded much slower than before and emerged injured on the surface. Hedo jumped into the sea and tied a rope around Vailam's body, while Syris manifested her Myriad Ice ability to create a large ice floor for Hedo to step on.
"Jin, pull!"
Hedo pushed from below, and Jin pulled with all his might. They were attempting to extract the massive creature solely using brute force.
Swoosh!
After a moment, Vailam was pulled out as if plucked from the depths.
"Oh, Vailam!"
"Snap out of it!"
The officers held Vailam tightly and trembled with relief, but from Jin's perspective, his condition wasn't too bad, fortunately.
"It's at the initial stage of corruption. If we do well, it might be purified within a few days... or even today if the Purifier works properly on monster."
They attached the Purifier's cords to various parts of Vailam's body. Soon, the device vibrated, and a murky energy began to be absorbed into the cords.
Every five minutes, Jin and Hedo would immerse Vailam back into the water. As his energy weakened, he couldn't stay above water for long.
The arduous purification process continued until midnight.
[This creature, so fiercely revered by Runcandel's young patriarch and the world's strongest in terms of strength, is likely the first of its kind.]
Even if it took not just a day but even a month, it was worth it. The benefits gained were almost immeasurable, and Vailam, like the Association, became an integral part of the alliance.
As the final traces of corruption seeped out, Vailam's skin glistened.
The transformed Vailam, no longer resembling a moldy creature, exuded a beauty that could be compared to an unknown, shining white whale.
"...If this is a monster, then what was wrong with those creatures that rolled in the Black Sea?"
Even Hedo, who boasted of experiencing the most monsters in the world, had never seen such a unique creature.
"Well, who knows?"
Peep, peep, peep! Peep, peep!
Vailam, now energized, emitted a pleasant cry. Its wriggling and body-beating movements were unmistakably expressions of gratitude.
[You, my benefactor, I shall repay your kindness!]
During the treatment, Jin overheard that Vailam had learned human speech from the blacksmiths. Jin chuckled at Vailam's impressive words.
The blacksmiths shed many tears. They conveyed various words to Vailam and burst into tears.
"Continue to gather the marine steel by traversing the seas and deliver them to the blacksmiths."
[Understood, but something is lacking!]
"Do you know where the Sword Emperor's territory is?"
[I do!]
"How many days would it take to swim there?"
[Three days.]
"In a state where you can carry a full load of marine steel?"
[Still three days.]
"How much can you carry?"
[About my own weight!]
"Isn't that difficult?"
[Piece of cake. Peep-peep-peep. Light stroll!]
Clap, clap. Jin found himself involuntarily clapping his hands.
If Vailam could swim to the Sword Emperor's territory and back in a week, carrying a load of refined marine steel each time...
Steel shortage would be out of the question. There was no need to consider cost-cutting measures. Even if steel was poured randomly into battleship production, there would still be an excess.
Not only would Vailam transport the steel, but also the Empire's steel reserves, minimizing the risk of exposure to enemies due to the underwater transportation.
[If that's what I need to do, can I?]
"Yes. Let me know when you're ready, and you can start helping from then."
[Okay! I'm hungry. I'm going to eat!]
Splash!
Vailam dove into the sea, splashing seawater over the blacksmiths. They seemed pleased despite being drenched.
"Vailam has never broken a promise. So, young patriarch..."
"The Association is the same."
"Judging from what Vailam said, it seems like the young patriarch wants to produce a fleet."
"That's correct."
"If you provide us with the design blueprint, we will send the necessary parts in the exact shape you need. We will send them for simple processing on-site."
The Association was not only skilled in swords but also unmatched in metalworking in any field.
The Vamel alliance had acquired the key materials and exclusive blacksmiths for fleet production, while the Association had rescued their friends and regained access to the infinite marine steel. The group took a moment to celebrate with a bottle of alcohol, toasting to their success. Everyone had a lot of work ahead of them.
"We'll take our leave now. From now on, Lord Picon will reside here."
[Of course. When you leave, please make sure to send my hammer and supplies. Sword of Hedo and 7th flagbearer is almost complete, so I'll let you know when it's done.]
As they prepared to board the Mort, Vailam leaped through the water, bidding them farewell.
Along with a warm heart, the faces of those who had not yet returned came to mind.
'Now, I must go find my elder sister Luntia and Ms. Luet.'
760
[T.L: punisher87]
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The Kaldran Snowfield.
As Jin arrived here riding the red owl, he felt a sense of unease. Even if he were to encounter Luntia again, unlike with Vailam, the current purification process wouldn't be able to heal her.
His second sister remained engulfed in the madness of chaos, enduring lonely times as a monstrous being.
The chaos subsided, revealing the endless expanse of the pristine snowfield, with a cave leading to Luntia's subspace.
[Myaaah....]
Upon reaching the cave, as if urging him to muster his strength, Shuri licked Jin's back.
"Shuri, thank you."
"Aren't you thankful to me too?"
"Oh, right. I'm grateful to you too. Bale, let's gradually unleash your power."
As Bale transformed, the cave quickly overflowed with a golden aura.
The first time Jin came to find Luntia, he accidentally opened the portal to the subspace through Shakan and shadow force. However, this time the portal formed in the center without consuming any energy.
Even from the entrance of the portal, a dense chaos could be felt. The evil god and the prophet had met their complete demise, but the chaos used on Luntia hadn't disappeared.
[It seems quite eerie... Do we really have to go in? After all, you currently have no means to bring back your sister.]
"Hurry up and come along."
Sending Shuri back to the ruby, Jin stepped forward into the realm beyond the portal.
A vast subspace unfolded before him. The flow of time in the subspace differed from that of the human world, so he had to quickly examine Luntia and leave.
However, even as he tried to recall the path he had taken last time, he couldn't find it. There were no markers left by Valeria as before, so the subspace was nothing but a hollow darkness.
"Bale, you go that way, and I'll explore this side..."
Just as he said that.
Suddenly, Jin felt the approach of a chaos energy from a distance. It was an incredibly fast pace, as if rushing forward.
'Is that Elder sister Luntia's energy?'
The aura is dense. It likely means that there's a high chance Luntia has lost her sanity.
Once again, his chest felt tight, but Luntia, who appeared shortly after, dispelled Jin's ominous premonition in an instant.
[Jin, the youngest!]
"Elder sister?!"
Surprisingly, Luntia retained her sanity from when she was human.
-[If I connect to that, I'll go mad again.]
Her words from last time.
The "connection points" that linked her and the subspace still existed, and her appearance had horns on her forehead, just like before.
[Am I looking much better than you expected?]
"It sounds like lines from a villain, to be honest. It's surprising, but I am very happy."
[Hehe, little by little, my sanity has been returning. Now it's completely back to how it used to be. I think it's thanks to you defeating the evil god.]
Indeed, Luntia's regained sanity was a result of the evil god's death. The chaos that had lost its master could no longer erode Luntia's mind. Although it could be said that Luntia's will was remarkable for such a thing to be possible.
"I'm truly relieved, Elder sister."
[And who's this?]
"This is Bale, a former ten great knight of ancient Runcandel."
[What? I greet the esteemed ancestor!]
As Luntia knelt down and paid her respects, Bale grinned with satisfaction.
[Yes, yes. Finally, I met a descendant who knows etiquette. This brat always tries to get the better of me. Doesn't seem to understand the concept of how ancestors should be treated! Give him a good scolding for me as elder sister!]
"He's a bit reckless, but still an interesting companion. Please understand, Elder sister."
Jin spoke as he helped Luntia to her feet.
[Look at this, again, again!]
[If he's a former ten great knight, shouldn't you be showing the utmost respect to the revered ancestors?]
"That may be true, but he's not an ancestor who sacrificed everything solely for the clan. Me and my comrades almost died because of him. Now, little by little, he is becoming more like ten great knights."
Jin continued, summarizing the events that had taken place during their time apart, explaining them to Luntia.
While Luntia listened to the story, she didn't show much emotion, but occasionally her eyes took on a bitter gaze.
When the story of Diphus' death came up, she even shed tears. Unlike the Myu, Anne, Ran, and Vigo, Diphus' death held a different weight for Luntia as well.
[...Yes, you became the young patriarch,] she said.
After the story concluded, Luntia now showed courtesy towards Jin. She wanted to congratulate her younger brother, even if she couldn't attend the appointment ceremony.
[You've worked hard, Jin. While you and the others fought so desperately, I couldn't do anything. It must have been a heavy burden for you.]
"Please don't say that. Merely regaining your consciousness is a great source of strength for me. Once you return, you will have plenty of tasks for the clan."
Since their last meeting, Jin had felt a deep bond with Luntia. The remaining flagbearers were now his true family.
"To heal you, we'll need the help of the sister battle god. Please wait a little longer until then."
[You'll do well on your own, but don't spend too much time on the task of rescuing me. Now that my consciousness has returned, I'll focus on my personal training as if I were in closed door training. Even if you can't save me from here, I won't hold any resentment. Don't come to me too often; it's pointless.]
"I will definitely bring you out."
[But, Jin.]
"Yes, Elder sister."
[Before you came, someone had already visited this place. I wanted to tell you when you arrived.]
"Such an incident occurred? Please tell me in detail."
[At the time, I had regained about half of my sanity, so the memory is vague. They were wearing a robe that covered their whole body, so I couldn't see their face, but the voice was that of a woman. I couldn't possibly guess who she was, but listening to the things you mentioned... perhaps she was Lokia Ganesto, the traitor from a thousand years ago.]
As soon as Jin heard Luntia's words, he had a strong intuition.
Originally, this subspace was the fifth tomb of Temar. It was a space that couldn't be accessed without having a connection to a Solderet like Jin or a deep association with Runcandel from a thousand years ago.
Even the Prophet had likely consumed something from a thousand years ago to open this place, and Valeria had used Bale's handkerchief she acquired during her investigation to gain entry. Jin and Heddo had also entered through the shadow force and Shakan.
Therefore, it was highly likely that the person Luntia met was Lokia. If not, there were no other former ten great knights.
[Wait, how was her voice? Was it clear or somewhat muffled?]
[It was closer to clear, Sir Bale.]
[Lokia's voice was a bit hoarse.]
"You can easily change your voice. What did she say to you?"
[She proposed a contract to me. If I were to make a contract with her, she would immediately free me from this place and make me the matriarch of Runcandel.]
Even in her partially restored sanity, Luntia outright rejected the proposal.
[After I declined, she said some other things... but I can't remember the details. From then on, her voice was barely audible as I struggled to suppress my madness. Damn it, if that person had come a little later, I could have heard everything and told you. It's frustrating.]
"There might be a way to identify the parts you don't remember through record magic."
[The Hister mage whom I wounded?]
"Yes, as soon as Valeria finishes her task in the Imperial Square, we will come back and examine the records. Even if you couldn't hear it, the words that person spoke will surely be preserved in this space."
Valeria was currently maintaining the record window regarding the evil god war in the Imperial Square and couldn't move. Jin decided that as soon as that task was finished, he would bring Valeria back to examine the records of Luntia again.
[Oh, I didn't think of that. I told you not to come too often, but I guess I'll be seeing you again soon after today.]
While it was good to unexpectedly find clues about Lokia or the person suspected to be her subordinate, it also worried Jin. If Lokia acted so swiftly as soon as the evil god disappeared, it meant that she was preparing something else.
'If what Sir Padler said is true, Lokia Ganesto is a person who carried out her plans so perfectly that not even Rosa could detect her involvement."
Even Rosa, who was undoubtedly a flawless human that Jin himself had to acknowledge, couldn't perceive Lokia's intervention until she perished as a evil god. This meant that Jin had to scrutinize every detail and activate all his senses.
[Thus, you should return for now, the youngest. I've heard that time in this subspace passes much faster compared to the human world.]
Even though Luntia emphasized it several times, Jin couldn't help but feel uneasy about nodding his head. There was still one piece of news that he hadn't conveyed to Luntia.
"Elder sister."
[Are you going to talk about the story regarding my nanny, Lisham? Your expression looks heavy.]
Lisham, the nanny of Luntia.
She was the person who strongly insisted that Luntia replace Padler and become the owner of this subspace, but once upon a time...
No, she was still the most precious mother to Luntia.
Since the day Jin first met Luntia in the subspace until now, he had someone investigate the whereabouts of Lisham and her daughter.
[...Nanny Lisham is no longer in this world, right?]
"Yes."
Lisham had passed away.
It was revealed that the evil god was directly responsible for her harm.
[The youngest, I hope you don't resent Nanny Lisham too much. She has already departed... She was someone more precious to me than my own life. Even if Nanny Lisham hadn't asked me, I would have ended up being forcefully bound to this place anyway.]
Back then and even now, Jin understood Luntia's feelings. Even if he and Gilly were in the same situation, Jin would never be able to resent her.
[What happened to the nanny's daughter and grandchildren?]
"I received news about them just the day before yesterday. They became refugees during the war but fortunately survived. They are currently living in the southern part of the empire."
[Until I can leave, can you take care of them a little?]
Without a moment's hesitation, Luntia spoke.
Jin gazed into her eyes silently before answering that he would do as she asked.