The factory's upper gallery had become a quiet corner for focused play. Soft crystal lights glowed along the walls, and wide windows offered a peaceful view of the Petronas Twin Towers. Hakurou sat at one of the large PCs, his posture straight and his hands moving with the same precision he used when wielding a blade. The screen showed Dota 2, a game he had discovered only days earlier. Since then, he had returned every free moment, drawn deeper into its world of strategy and swift decisions.
He chose his favorite hero, a swift swordsman who moved like the wind. His fingers guided the character through the lanes with exact timing. Every last hit on a creep, every careful dodge, every coordinated team fight felt like an extension of his sword training. The game demanded focus, patience, and the ability to read the flow of battle—qualities he had spent centuries perfecting.
Rimuru entered the gallery quietly and paused when he saw Hakurou completely absorbed. The older man's eyes never left the screen, his breathing steady as he issued commands to his team through the voice chat. A small smile touched Rimuru's face. "Hakurou, you seem very focused. Is the game helping with your training?"
Hakurou did not look away at once. He finished a precise team fight, securing victory, then paused the match and turned with calm respect. "Lord Rimuru. This game called Dota 2 has captured my attention more than I expected. Each match feels like a real battle of wits and skill. The heroes move with purpose, and every decision carries weight. It sharpens my mind in ways I did not anticipate. I find myself returning whenever my duties allow."
Milim appeared in a flash of pink energy, landing lightly beside the desk. "Hakurou is playing again? I saw you yesterday too! You are always here now. Is the game that good? Show me your favorite hero!"
Ramiris floated closer, her small wings fluttering with curiosity. "You look so serious when you play. The way your fingers move is like dancing with a sword. Can I watch a match with you?"
Shuna stepped in with gentle grace, carrying a tray of fresh tea. "Sir Hakurou, you have been here since early morning. Please take a moment to rest and drink this. The game seems to bring you great focus, but your body still needs care."
Gobta peeked from the doorway, grinning. "I heard you are really good at Dota 2 now! Can we play a match together later? I want to see your sword hero in action!"
Veldora entered with measured steps, his golden eyes showing quiet amusement. He relayed Takumi's words clearly. "Takumi says your dedication to the game is impressive. He remembers how it helped him sharpen his own mind in his old world. The strategy and timing in Dota 2 mirror the way you wield a blade. It is no wonder you have become so absorbed."
Hakurou accepted the tea from Shuna with a small bow of thanks. "The game has become a quiet companion. In the arena, every movement must be exact. One mistimed skill can cost the match, just as one wrong step can cost a duel. I have spent many hours studying the heroes and their combinations. It feels like training my spirit as much as my body. I find myself thinking of new sword forms inspired by the way they combine their abilities."
Rimuru sat down nearby, his voice warm and understanding. "I remember the same feeling from my old life. Dota 2 taught me patience and the value of working with others. If it brings you joy and sharpens your skills, then enjoy it freely. The factory is here for all of us to use as we wish."
Milim leaned in closer to the screen. "Show me how you play! I want to learn your favorite hero. We can team up next time and win together!"
Hakurou allowed a small, rare smile. He resumed the match and explained each move in simple words. "This hero relies on swift strikes and careful positioning. Watch how I time the ultimate ability. It turns the tide when used at the right moment." His fingers moved with elegant speed, guiding the hero through a flawless fight. The team on screen coordinated perfectly, and victory flashed across the monitor.
Ramiris clapped her hands. "You make it look so easy and beautiful! The way you control the hero is like watching you practice sword forms in the morning light."
Gobta cheered from the side. "That was awesome! Your timing is perfect. I want to learn from you. Let us play a match together soon!"
Shuna refilled the tea with a gentle smile. "Your focus is admirable, Sir Hakurou. The game has clearly become part of your daily practice. I will prepare special snacks that give you energy for long sessions."
Benimaru entered the gallery and watched the screen with sharp interest. "The strategy in this game mirrors real battlefield command. Your skill level is already high. We could use recordings of your matches to train our younger warriors in coordination and decision-making."
Diablo appeared silently at the edge of the room, his crimson eyes calm. "Precision in every action. Your dedication to the game reflects the same dedication you show in protecting Lord Rimuru. It is inspiring."
Souei materialized in the shadows, observing quietly. "The game demands awareness of the entire map. Your play shows the same vigilance you use in scouting."
Veldora placed a steady hand on the back of Hakurou's chair. "Takumi says you have the makings of a top player. The way you read the flow of battle is natural to you. Continue to enjoy it. The factory and the sanctuary are open to you anytime."
Hakurou paused the next match and turned to the group, his voice steady yet carrying a hint of quiet passion. "This game has awakened something in me. It is more than entertainment. It trains the mind to see opportunities and dangers before they appear. I find myself applying its lessons to my sword practice—new combinations of strikes, better timing, and the importance of supporting my allies. I am grateful for this world Takumi and Veldora have helped create. It has given an old swordsman a new way to grow."
Rimuru smiled with deep warmth. "Then let us make sure you have everything you need. The private sanctuary has a dedicated station ready for you. Play as much as you wish. Your growth benefits all of us."
Milim grabbed Hakurou's arm with playful energy. "Come on! Let us play a quick match together right now. I will pick a hero that fights beside yours. We will win and have fun!"
The group gathered around the screens, laughter and encouragement filling the gallery. Hakurou's quiet addiction had become a shared joy, drawing everyone closer. Matches began, strategies were discussed, and the factory hummed with life as the sword saint found new strength through digital battles.
As the afternoon light streamed through the windows, Hakurou guided his hero with the same elegance he showed in real combat. His addiction had opened a new path of growth, one that strengthened both his spirit and the bonds of the federation.
Veldora watched with mature satisfaction. "Takumi says this is the perfect way for a warrior to keep his edge. The game keeps the mind sharp and the heart young."
The gallery filled with cheerful voices and the soft sounds of keyboards. Tempest's gaming culture had found another devoted soul, and through Hakurou's quiet passion the whole group felt inspired to explore and grow together.