Chapter 31 – I Begin My Work…

My head was still throbbing from Luna’s hammer strike earlier. The swelling had gone down a little, but every time I touched it, pain pulsed like a war drum.

At least I didn’t die. Small victories.

While Nyx, Fu Xi, and Luna huddled together in the distance, voices sharp and hushed in some heavy discussion, I threw myself into something that actually made sense. Work.

Elowen stood beside me, arms crossed, watching with that expression only a blacksmith-warrior could wear—a mix of curiosity and barely contained irritation—as I sketched blueprints across the workshop table.

“Alright…” I muttered, listing them one by one. “Project number one: a small airship, compact, maneuverable—basically a jetski that can fly. Project number two: an invisibility device… no magic involved, all tech. Project three: a motorbike. Because why the hell not. And lastly…” My pen scratched harder. “…defenses for this island. A proper system.”

Elowen’s eyes narrowed. “…Defenses?”

“Yeah,” I grinned, tapping the sketch of a massive weapon. “A cannon that can fire concentrated energy beams. Drop enemy airships like flies.”

Her war hammer thudded against the ground. She leaned in, glaring at me like I’d just insulted her ancestors. “Oi, Randy. This is basically turning the island into a fortress. Do you WANT to scream ‘target’ to the whole damn world!?”

I didn’t even flinch. “That’s why I’m also working on an invisibility device. Cloak the whole place. To anyone outside, this island won’t exist. They won’t see it. They won’t even know it’s here.”

Elowen grabbed me by the collar and yanked me up, her scowl inches from my face. “So… you’re saying… you’re going to make us a hidden floating fortress of death?”

“…Pretty much.”

Her nose twitched. Her brows furrowed. For a long second, she just stared at me. Then she let go, turned her back, and muttered under her breath, “…Damn it, why does that actually sound cool.”

I smirked, rubbing my neck. “So… you in?”

She swung her hammer to her shoulder, sighing like a woman resigned to madness. “…Fine. I’ll help. But if this blows up in our faces—literally—I’m smashing your toys first.”

“Deal,” I said, grinning ear to ear, already lost in the thrill of creation.

In that moment, the island wasn’t just rubble anymore. It was the blueprint of something greater. Something dangerous. Something alive.

And deep down, I couldn’t shake the thought—maybe I wasn’t just building weapons. Maybe I was building the future.

While Elowen hammered foundations into place for the radar dome, I crouched among the scattered stones of the island, scratching symbols with chalk and muttering calculations like a lunatic.

Who would’ve thought?
These weird crystals we dug up might actually work.

“A network of enchanted crystals, tuned and linked…” I whispered, piecing it together. “Resonance like sonar, but magical… bounce the aura back, triangulate… interpret with a hub system… basically a magical radar.”

I stood back, grinning like a mad scientist, as the golem lumbered over and lifted the spherical framework I’d just finished. “Careful, big guy. That’s the brain of the whole system.”

Inside the dome, the air smelled of metal and burnt ozone. I installed circuits, gears, and mirrors, layering science and sorcery until the framework pulsed faintly with blue light.

That’s when Oswald’s lazy voice cut through.

“Yo… I heard stories you built an airship but THIS? This is straight-up insane.”

I wiped my forehead, smirking. “Well… since you’re all here, I figured we’ll need a ceremony later. But first—find a corner of the island you like. Might as well call it home.”

“Really!?” Oswald’s face lit up like a kid getting free candy, and he bolted out before I could add “but keep it clean.”

Kline wandered in next, fiddling with a vial. “So this is the detector thing, huh?”

“Yep. Once it’s active, this will finish the island’s defense system.”

Kline raised an eyebrow. “You mean… a fortress hidden in the sky.”

“Bingo.” I grinned.

Outside, the sound of sparring rang out. Elysia’s sharp voice echoed:
“Ely! Turn and shoot the side angle!” Seraphina barked.
“Got it!!” Elysia spun, loosing an arrow that sliced through the air.

Meanwhile, Harmonia hummed melodies, practicing support spells to match their rhythm.

And from the cliffs—Luna, Nyx, Fu Xi, and Mina stood overlooking the endless skies.

Nyx leaned on the rocks, her eyes half-lidded. “This cliff… I stood here when I was little. With Iris, Kline’s master.”

Fu Xi stroked his chin. “So… tell me honestly. Why are you siding with them?”

Luna’s voice softened. “Uncle…”

Nyx’s laugh was short and sharp. “…Straight to the point, huh? Fine. I’ll tell you. I wasn’t siding with anyone. I was searching—for another homunculus. Her name is Cleo. Or Cleopatra. Unlike Harmonia, who’s all sunshine and songs… Cleo was sharp. Serious. Smarter. Deadly.”

Fu Xi’s eyes narrowed. “So your loyalty shifted… why?”

Nyx’s gaze darkened. “Because loyalty is a chain. I don’t wear chains. I follow this place. And… Lord Xorvath.”

Luna stiffened. “Xorvath… the demon lord?”

Nyx nodded slowly. “Wiser and more benevolent than Azrael ever was. He preferred trade over war. But…” her voice dropped. “…two heroes summoned by the Luminaris clan branded him a threat to the world.”

Fu Xi’s brows furrowed. “Heroes…? Summoned?”

Nyx smirked. “Want the kicker? Lady Aethoné Radiance—the so-called Saint—is a direct descendant of that same Luminaris clan.”

The air turned heavy. Even Mina stopped shifting her daggers.

Luna’s voice trembled. “Why does that matter?”

“Because the Luminaris clan once summoned someone from Randy’s world. A pirate. A man with the rarest affinity of all—anti-magic. The ultimate counter.”

Fu Xi’s eyes widened. “Anti-magic…?”

“Mm. That pirate fought Xorvath to a standstill. Imagine it—no spells could touch him. No curses could bind him. A walking null-zone.”

Luna whispered, “Uncle… does that mean…”

Fu Xi exhaled slowly. “Our side… was never allies. Only… convenient partners.”

Nyx shrugged. “Exactly. I’m not here for anyone’s war. Randy’s right. My place is here. No further.”

Fu Xi chuckled. “Hmph. Wisdom over weapons, then. Negotiation instead of slaughter. That’s a battlemaster’s path.”

Nyx tilted her head. “Then… seek Nu Wa. She’s a battlemaster too. Far south, in Eligos. A land drowning in civil war. Worse than here.”

The name made Fu Xi freeze. “…Nu Wa?”

“She’s the pirate king,” Nyx said matter-of-factly. “The reason why they become pirates is because of Drake Stroud himself teach them to become one. She commands thousands of ships. Owns the eastern seas.”

“Drake Stroud…” Luna gasped.

Fu Xi sighed heavily. “…so..we need to meet her then?…”

Nyx smirked. “Exactly. If you want safe passage, win Nu Wa’s favor. And—rumor says—the altar where Drake Stroud was summoned still stands. That’s where you’ll find your first real clue.”

Fu Xi’s grin spread wide. “Heh… so the trail begins.”

But before they could leave, Nyx’s voice cut sharp as a knife. “One more thing. Girl—” she looked directly at Luna, her eyes like burning coals—
“Be careful of the Saint. You don’t understand her yet. But Fu Xi does. And even he is wary.”

Fu Xi’s smile vanished. “…She speaks truth. The Saint is no simple ally. Mark my words.”

The wind howled across the cliff, carrying their silence. Somewhere behind them, the radar dome pulsed to life for the first time—its faint glow like an eye opening in the sky.

Mina approached Fu Xi, bowing low.
“My lord… Lady Aethoné is training them now.”

Fu Xi’s eyes narrowed like a drawn blade.
“Tell the shadows to keep their gaze upon her. Report everything. Leave nothing unseen.”

“As you command.” Mina pressed her palm to her chest, runes igniting faintly before vanishing. She closed her eyes, searching the flow of the city. “…Strange. She is not simply training. She is… building a church.”

“A church?” Fu Xi’s lips curved into a grim smile. “A nest for sermons… or a mask for a spear. This is troubling.”

Their steps brought them to the heart of the isle. The newly built dome loomed like a steel moon, its surface etched with glowing lines. Inside, sparks hissed as I tightened the final bolts of a massive barrel.

“Uh… Randy,” Fu Xi muttered, arms crossed, “what madness are you scheming now?”

“Madness?” I grinned, slapping the metal. “This is called progress. Behold—the defense system. Elowen! Fire it up!”

Elowen smirked, swung her hammer into the rune switch, and shouted:
“Ready!”

WHUMMMM.

The dome thundered alive. Rings of light spun outward, sweeping across the horizon like waves. The whole island seemed to breathe with it, pulsing like a living heart.

“It’s… beautiful,” Mina whispered.

Fu Xi pinched his nose. “…If you so much as dream of building one of these in my kingdom—”

“Eh? That was the plan!” I grinned nervously. “Protection, right? Enemy never gets the drop on you!”

“RANDY!!” Luna’s roar cracked like a whip. Her tail flared up, bristling. “STOP MAKING WORLD-ENDING MACHINES WITHOUT MY PERMISSION!!”

I waved my hands. “Relax, it’s for later! Not now! Just… preventive measures, you know!?”

Elowen shook her head. “You’re insane.”

The turret fired. The sky split.
And then it appeared.

A vast white dragon, wings blazing like angelic banners, descended with a voice that shook the bones of the island.

“WHO IS THE MASTER OF THIS LAND?!”

The pressure made even the air heavy. Mina froze, Elowen’s hammer slipped from her hand, and Fu Xi’s jaw clenched as if bracing for war.

And me?
Yeah, idiot me walked forward.

“RANDY!!” Luna’s tail puffed out like a furious cat. “Don’t you dare!!”

“Uhh… d-dragon sir!” I waved up nervously.

The dragon’s enormous head lowered, eyes shimmering like two storm-lit oceans.
“…Strange. You carry a scent I have not felt in centuries. Not prey… something else.”

Cold sweat dripped down my back. “I-I’m not tasty, I swear!!”

The dragon’s laughter boomed like thunder.
“HAHAHAHA! Not taste. Essence. You are… unusual.”

The silence was unbearable. My brain did the only thing it knew: panic improv.
“Umm… want something to eat instead!?”

“…Food?” The dragon blinked, tilting his colossal head.

“Y-yeah! Give me five minutes!”

Before anyone could stop me, I jumped into my flight suit, signaled a golem, and dove off the cliff. Wind howled past as I spiraled down, scanning the forests below.

ten minutes later.

I came back dragging half a roasted tyrant-bird carcass strapped to the golem, feathers still smoldering from my improvised flamethrower cook-job. My face was covered in soot, and my shirt smelled like barbecue.

“Lunch delivery!!” I shouted, staggering back into the clearing.

Everyone just stared.

The dragon sniffed the air, nostrils flaring. “Mmm… interesting aroma.”
He snapped the bird up in one gulp. CRUNCH. Bones, feathers, all gone.

“…Delicious.”

Elowen pinched her nose. “I can’t believe you actually—”

Luna’s eye twitched violently. “RANDY. Do you have ANY idea how reckless—”

“See? He’s happy!” I grinned, pointing at the dragon’s satisfied expression.

The beast licked its fangs, then turned back to us.
“…So. This place breathes again. I thought Lord Arcanthus had returned.”

Nyx stepped forward, crossing her arms. “This is our home now. And you are?”

The dragon’s eyes narrowed at her boldness. Then he laughed again, and his form shimmered. Wings folded in, scales dissolved, and in his place stood an old man draped in white, beard long as winter, staff in hand.

“…I am Althaeon. Dragon Lord of the South Skies.”

Seraphina instantly dropped to one knee, bowing.
“Lord Althaeon… forgive us. We only sought to protect this land.”

“Forgive? Hah!” Althaeon chuckled, stroking his beard. “Your cannons were a fine morning exercise.”

Introductions followed. Oswald, of course, ruined the solemn mood:
“Geez—he looks like Jesus. Or Moses.”

SMACK!

Elysia hit him so hard he nearly fell over. “Show some respect, idiot!”

Althaeon raised a brow. “Jesus? Moses??”

Elysia stumbled through an explanation, cheeks red.

The dragon lord threw his head back and roared with laughter.
“HAHAHAHA! Mortals from beyond, with tales of messengers of gods! Amusing! Even Drake once spoke of such things…”

That last name sent a ripple of silence through the group. But Althaeon didn’t linger on it—his eyes shifted instead toward the dome radar.

“…Curious device. Who crafted it?”

Everyone’s heads turned toward me.

“…Uh. Surprise?” I said weakly.

Soon, Luna and Elowen scrambled to prepare tea, Mina laid out food, and—somehow—we ended up in the strangest picnic of my life: sitting with a dragon lord in human form, drinking tea beside a radar dome.

Fu Xi leaned forward, voice heavy.
“Tell me, Lord Althaeon. What of the South Skies?”

Althaeon’s smile thinned.
“…The same storms as always. But the Fairy Kingdom of the North… they stir again. Whispering of war.”

The words hung over us like a stormcloud.

And as the radar dome pulsed, its light sweeping the horizon, I couldn’t shake the feeling—this was just the beginning.

Althaeon’s golden eyes locked onto me, his presence heavy enough to make the ground hum.

“Boy… I require your help.”

“Eh…?” I pointed at myself, as if there was anyone else around. “Me?”

The Dragon Lord inclined his massive head.
“Since this place has been reborn, I need someone of your… peculiar skill.”

“…Okay. That was not the request I expected from the Lord of the Dragons.” I scratched my head, half-expecting him to say, ‘Go slay a demon’ or ‘Forge me a sword of destiny.’

“RANDY!!” Seraphina and Luna yelled at the same time, voices sharp with exasperation.

Before I could reply, Harmonia latched onto me in a glowing hug, her silver hair brushing my cheek.
“See?! Randy is the jack of all trades! Even dragons want his help!”

“H-Hey—quit making it sound like I’m some universal handyman!” I sputtered, face heating.

Althaeon chuckled, the sound like rolling thunder.
“Then it is settled. I need you to build… a place for my people to cleanse themselves. Refugees from the Eastern Board and the Saints’ Kingdom flood my realm. We dragons are guardians of the skies, not masters of mortal sanitation. We… do not know how to handle this filth.”

The group froze.

I blinked once. Twice.
“…You’re asking me to build a toilet.”

“WHAT?!” Elowen nearly dropped her hammer.

“Wait wait wait!” I held up both hands defensively. “Bathhouses, toilets, sanitation—same category! He wants plumbing, not weaponry!”

Elowen squinted. “…Randy. Do you realize how cursed it sounds when you get this excited about toilets?”

“I’m not excited about toilets! I’m excited about infrastructure!”

“Sounds the same to me,” Kline muttered.

Still, gears already spun in my mind.
“A modular bathhouse. Mobile, expandable, powered by crystals. Sewage redirected into energy converters… yeah, a fortress of hygiene.”

Luna’s tail flicked in irritation, ears flat.
“You talk about toilets like they’re weapons of mass destruction.”

“They are! Against filth, plague, and misery!” I shot back proudly.

Althaeon rumbled approvingly, his golden eyes gleaming.
“Yes. A public bathhouse, grand enough for the many. My domain is overrun with mortals fleeing east and sea alike. The burden grows… vast.”

“…Vast, huh.” I exhaled, a grin spreading across my face. “Then this will be my masterpiece.”

I turned toward the workshop, determination burning.

Behind me, Althaeon whispered, low and thoughtful:
“…He smells faintly of Drake… and Lilith. Yet… his aura is entirely his own.”

Fu Xi’s arms folded. “If he builds for the people, I’ll let it pass. But when he talks about weapons… even I feel dread.”

“Yeah,” Elowen muttered, dragging a hand down her face. “Between cannons and toilets, I honestly don’t know which one scares me more.”

Inside my workshop, the forge roared to life. Golems moved like clockwork, carrying beams of enchanted steel. My sketches sprawled across the walls: modular blueprints of crystal purification baths, enchanted pipes, and waste-conversion engines.

Phase One: The Bathhouse Fortress. Portable, self-sufficient, powered by sewage energy.

Phase Two: Transport. Skybreaker was too small for this load.

I smirked. “Guess it’s time to build her… a new airship.”

Inspiration surged from memories of Earth. The massive hangar filled with the skeletal frame of a P-791-inspired craft, a sleek giant airship reborn through magic and steel.

But while the golems welded and worked, I turned to something more personal.

On a side platform, under focused lantern light, I built a smaller craft. Something I’d been dreaming about for months.

An airbike.

Its frame was forged from blackstone and kelnite, sleek and futuristic with angular edges. The body shimmered silver and dark gray, accented by a crimson rear light glowing like a heartbeat. A compact black box rested at the back-left, housing the propulsion core: airstone for lift, windstone for thrust, heatstone for acceleration.

A fusion of sci-fi and fantasy.

Its silhouette cast a sharp shadow on the gray stone floor, like a predator waiting to be unleashed.

I ran my hand along its polished frame. A cruiser-like body, modeled after a Harley Davidson, but humming with arcane energy.

Enough for two seats.

“Perfect…” I whispered.

In mere hours—thanks to tireless golems—the first prototype gleamed, engines purring with restrained power.

I stood back, wiping the sweat from my brow, heart pounding with exhilaration.

“Toilets, bathhouses, airships, airbikes… Let’s see the world keep up with me.”

But deep in my chest, I felt it.
This… this was only the beginning.

The golem’s voice echoed in my workshop.
“This machine is complete, Master. Prototype phase: testing required.”

I grinned. “Well, no point letting it sit here, huh? Time to ride.”

Memories flickered in my head—me and Elysia, years ago, sneaking out with my uncle’s Kawasaki Vulcan 1800. A beast of a bike, rumbling like a monster. We had strolled the neighborhood streets in pure bliss… until the cops caught us. The aftermath? Uncle’s furious scolding, and Elysia’s dad nearly grounding her for life.

I laughed at the memory, straddling the new machine.
“Guess history’s about to repeat.”

The engine purred with a strange harmony—magic cores blending with mechanical whirs. I twisted the throttle. The bike growled. And then—

FWOOOSH!!

The air slammed into my face as the airbike shot forward, ripping across the skies like a jet. My eyes instantly dried out from the sheer wind pressure. I was forced to pull back, coughing and blinking rapidly.

“Note to self… goggles.”

Back to the workshop, quick adjustments, and a sleek set of enchanted flight goggles now rested on my face.

“Alright. Round two.”

I mounted the bike again. This time, the ride was smooth. Effortless. The wind bent around me, magic stabilizers humming with energy.

And then, with a manic grin splitting my face—
“YEEEEEEHAAAAA!! AHAHAHAHAHA!!!”

Below, the others were deep in discussion.

Luna twitched, her ears perking at the sharp, cutting roar above.
“…What is that sound?”

Althaeon raised a brow, scanning the skies. “Strange… a shrill cry, like a beast of steel.”

“That sound—wait, no way—” Elysia’s eyes lit up. “That’s a bike!!!”

“YEAH!!” Oswald pumped his fist.

Luna’s expression darkened. “Don’t tell me…”

Seraphina shaded her eyes with one hand, spotting the blur slicing through the clouds. Her lips curled into a smile.
“He finally did it… I thought he was just bluffing.”

Kline, meanwhile, was bouncing like a kid at a festival.
“OOOOOOOH!! HEY RANDYYYYY!!!”

I hovered above them all, striking what I thought was a badass pose.
“Let me test this first before you all faint from jealousy!”

Before I could rev again, something slammed into the seat behind me.

“Wha—?!”

“Hey!!! You know I love bikes!!!” Elysia’s arms wrapped around my waist, her voice practically singing in my ear.

“E-Ely?! Wait—this is a prototype!”

“Then we’ll test it properly. Now switch!”

“Wait wait wa—HEY!!”

In one swift move, she shoved me back into the passenger seat. The bike tilted dangerously before stabilizing under her control.

“Hold on tight!”

The next instant, the bike shot forward like a comet. The world blurred. Elysia leaned into the machine like she’d been born riding it. Loop. Dive. Barrel roll. The roar of wind drowned everything but our laughter—hers free and wild, mine half terrified, half exhilarated.

Below, Luna shook her fist at the sky, tail puffed like an angry cat.
“THAT GIRL—!! EEEEKKKK!!!”

“Aw, no fair!!!” Seraphina stomped her foot, pouting. “I wanted to go next!!!”

Somewhere between the spins and dives, I realized it.
Big sis Elysia wasn’t just good with bikes. She loved them. This wasn’t just a joyride—this was her element.

I leaned close so she could hear me over the wind.
“Hey, Ely! This one’s yours!”

Her head whipped back, eyes sparkling.
“Seriously?! Thanks, Randy!! But—build me another one, okay? Make it orange! KTM RC 390 style!! That’s my dream bike!”

“Yeah, yeah… fine!” I shouted, clutching tighter as she threw us into another dizzying spiral.

When we finally landed, the others rushed over. The bike purred softly, crystal cores glowing like embers.

“The test’s a success.” I slid off, legs shaky.

Elysia, however, looked like she’d just been handed heaven itself.
“Yes!! Now that is a bike!” She kissed the handlebars, eyes shining.

Oswald folded his arms. “Geez… you’re insane.”

“You wanna try?” I teased.

“Nope. Not a fan of bikes. I’m more of a tank guy.”

“Pfft, yeah, figures,” I chuckled. “Nothing like armor between you and danger, huh?”

Oswald smirked. “You read my mind.”

And just like that, the workshop had a new project:
one more bike, orange, sleeker, and wilder—for Elysia.

Because if my big sis wanted a machine that could race the skies, I’d damn well build it for her.

“Alright, next frame’s done,” I told the golem, handing over the blueprints.

Kline trailed behind me like an excited kid. “Wait, wait—did you just say next? You’re building more?”

“Yeah,” I sighed. “Apparently, one isn’t enough anymore.”

Before I knew it, Seraphina and Elowen had joined him, their eyes sparkling.

“This is way better than a horse,” Seraphina declared, gripping my arm like I might run away. “Or even a dragon! I want one!”

“Eh… dragons are still cooler,” I muttered.

“Not if my bike’s faster.” She smirked.

And just like that, the floodgates burst.

By the end of the day, five of us were mounted on our own custom airbikes:

The hangar looked like a biker gang had taken over an airbase.

“Eh? What about you, Luna?” I asked, raising a brow.

She crossed her arms. “No thanks. I’d rather keep my feet on the ground.”

A moment later, I noticed her hand sliding across the handlebars of my bike.

“…Wait. Luna?”

Without looking at me, she muttered, “Make one. The same as yours.”

“Eh?!”

The others froze, then erupted.

“OOOOOH~!!” Seraphina leaned forward with a teasing grin.
“Luna wants a matching set~ Couple bikes~!!”

“Shut up!!” Luna’s tail puffed, cheeks flaring red.

“E-Even Harmonia wants one!” Harmonia raised her hand shyly, wings fluttering.

At this point, even Nyx sighed and turned to Fu Xi.
“Well, looks like your court just turned into a motorcycle club. What do you think?”

Fu Xi rubbed his forehead. “Uuuh… If the nobles see me riding that thing, I wonder what they’ll say. Probably think I’ve gone mad.”

“Probably ‘badass,’” I said, smirking.

“Don’t get any ideas,” Mina warned flatly.

Meanwhile, Althaeon was practically choking on his laughter.
“HAHAHAHAHAH!! Such curious machines!! Glorious!! Tell me, boy, what will you do next?!”

I grinned. “It’s already done.”

Althaeon blinked. “What?”

“I just need the other construction finished first… another airship.”

Luna’s eyes narrowed like knives.
“Not another Skybreaker.”

Elowen pinched her nose. “Oh no. Now you’ve unlocked the part of Randy that builds without sleep. Last time it was nuclear deterrent. This time… what?!”

Kline clapped me on the back. “Bro!! No way!! You’re seriously like an alchemist too!! See, Master Nyx? He’s one of us!”

“Not so fast.” Nyx reached over and pinched my ear, hard, like an angry mom.
“Kid. With this kind of thinking, even I’m getting worried.”

“Ahaha… my bad?” I scratched my head.

Luna puffed her cheeks, then muttered so only I could hear:
“Idiot. I don’t need a bike. I’d rather ride with you…”

My heart skipped. For a second, her voice wasn’t angry, just… soft.
And that was way more dangerous than her yelling.

Marlisa suddenly jumped in, eyes shining.
“Why don’t you join the Creators’ Club back at school?! The president would totally love you!!”

“Uh… yeah, no thanks. Not my scene.”

“BOOOO~”

Fu Xi folded his arms, studying me. “What kind of airship do you plan to build, boy?”

“Elowen’s dad, Anduril, already made his,” I said. “But mine’s different. I need something that can carry massive loads in one trip. Like for the bathhouse project.”

Everyone blinked. “Bathhouse project…?”

Before I could explain, one of the golems lumbered in.
“The airship is almost completed, Master. Would you like to inspect it?”

“Sure.” I cracked a grin.

Elowen’s hammer nearly slipped from her hand. “Uh-huh. This I gotta see.”

We marched into the hangar.

Fu Xi, Mina, and Althaeon all froze at the sight.

“…By the gods,” Fu Xi whispered. “It’s even bigger than the docks you helped us build.”

Mina rubbed her temples. “If Anduril saw this… I think he’d just retire.”

Elowen’s jaw dropped. “…Dad would, yeah. Probably on the spot.”

Althaeon’s ancient eyes glimmered, reflecting the silver hull like twin suns caught in molten gold. His voice rumbled, deep and knowing.
“Interesting. Very interesting indeed…”

And me?
I couldn’t stop myself from grinning like a lunatic. My chest swelled with pride, with dread, with that itch that told me this was only the beginning.

The craft towered before us—sleek, rounded like a P-791, its body swallowing the entire hangar with presence alone. The cargo wasn’t strapped outside like some clumsy barge. No—everything was hidden, tucked neatly inside the hull, the way real engineering should be.

Fu Xi finally broke the silence, his fingers brushing the cold metal.
“This… is an interesting design. But…”

Althaeon narrowed his eyes. “This is too much for the current people of this age. Far too much.”

Nyx folded her arms, sharp as always.
“Overkill. If King Azrael saw this… or worse, Aethone…”

“…she would deem you a threat,” Mina finished, her voice like steel.

Their words weighed heavy, but before I could answer, Oswald’s snort echoed through the hangar.
“Geez, Randy. Might as well apply to NASA at this point.”

I laughed awkwardly. “Yeah… my uncle said the same thing.”

“I’m serious!” Oswald jabbed a finger at me. “They’d be drooling over this thing. Fuel-efficient, aerodynamic, modular cargo? Bro, they’d eat you alive.”

“HEY, Randy!!” Elysia suddenly cut in, her voice loud enough to shake the beams above. She puffed out her chest, grinning ear to ear. “Let me talk to my dad! I bet he could pull some strings! You’d have your own lab in no time!!”

“Wait, that’s not—!” My words were drowned out by Marlisa, who was practically glowing with excitement.

“If Raul or Alfian—or anyone at school—saw this, they’d think twice before messing with you!”

“Uhh… guys—”

But then Luna’s gaze found mine. She didn’t say a word at first. Didn’t need to. Her tail flicked once, her eyes calm, serious. She knew.

I sighed, my grin fading into something heavier.
“I’m not doing this for fun. Not to show off. Not even to scare people.” My voice echoed against the steel, low but steady. “I’m doing this because… I don’t want any of us to die.”

The words lingered. Heavy. Real.

Elysia’s playful grin slipped away, her sharp eyes locking onto mine, reading the weight behind my smile.
Oswald was the first to nod.
“Agreed. We’re not here to play house or chase points. We’re here to survive. Raul and Alfian… they still think this is a game.”

“Yeah.” I clenched my fists. “Even some of the teachers… they act tough, but I can see it. They’re only thinking about themselves.”

Marlisa’s voice trembled as she stepped forward.
“But… they’re scared too. Everyone is.”

Elysia exhaled, her voice soft, but her words cut like blades.
“Fear doesn’t make them strong, Marlisa. It blinds them. And that… worries me more than any enemy outside these walls.”

The hangar went quiet.
The airship loomed above, a titan born of desperation and hope. And as everyone’s gazes turned toward me, I realized—
I wasn’t just building machines.
I was building the line between life and death.

From a distance, Mina’s sharp eyes narrowed. Her cloak swayed in the breeze as she pointed toward the docks. The golems were trudging in formation, carrying massive crates and polished beams of strange metal-stone.

“Uh… Randy…” Mina’s voice cut through the chatter. “What are they doing?”

I didn’t even look up from my sketch pad. “That? Oh, just building materials.”

“…Building materials?” she echoed, confused.

“Yeah.” I grinned, tapping my pencil against the paper. “Back in my world, we had a knack for this kind of thing. Modular construction. You make the pieces in advance, ship them to the site, and in an instant—boom—an entire building goes up without even needing a foundation. Faster, stronger, easier to move around if you need to.”

Mina’s eyes widened slightly.

I leaned back, smirking. “Even Oda Nobunaga tried something similar centuries ago. Historical records say he once raised a fortress in a single night. Scared the hell out of his enemies.”

Luna, who had been listening quietly, tilted her head, her tail flicking behind her.
“So this method… it’s actually efficient?”

“Yep,” I replied without hesitation. “Way more efficient. Less cost, less time, less headache. The only hard part is making the modules first. After that, it’s like snapping puzzle pieces together.”

Marlisa’s hand shot up, sparkling like she just solved a math problem.
“Like making a LEGO set!”

I chuckled. “Exactly. More like a giant LEGO kit.”

Elysia, of course, had to jump in, her voice loud and dramatic.
“Like IKEA!!! You just open the box, follow the instructions, and—bam! Instant furniture!”

Oswald groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose.
“Yeah… minus the hours of frustration, missing screws, and one broken marriage later.”

“PUH—!!!” Elysia burst out laughing, nearly falling over.

I grinned, but Elowen’s eyes were already gleaming with that dangerous merchant sparkle.
“Randy…” she leaned in, almost too close, “…this is something we could share with the world. A business opportunity.”

Nyx adjusted her glasses, giving a rare nod of approval.
“She’s right. Don’t be a fool, boy. This method… it could save nations. Especially ruins. Places destroyed by war. Think about it—refugees, cities in ashes… you could rebuild in days, not years.”

The weight of her words settled over the group. Even Mina crossed her arms, thoughtful.

And then Althaeon—still in his wise old man form—chuckled, his booming voice filling the air like thunder.
“Well… this is interesting indeed. A fortress in a night, a city in a week… I can’t wait to see this ‘modular magic’ in action.”

His draconic eyes glimmered like fire under the skin, and for a moment, the air felt charged.

Me?
I scratched the back of my head, sighing as the reality sank in.
“Damn it… now I’ve done it. If Nobunaga caused panic back then, what the hell am I about to cause now…?”

The nearest golem turned toward me, its glowing eyes flickering.
“All cargo is loaded. Awaiting confirmation for departure.”

“Alright…” I muttered, nodding.

Kline stretched, yawning, but there was determination in his eyes.
“So, construction, huh? Well, Randy, I’ll leave it to you. Since you’re being helpful for once… I’ll go dig into the prophecy instead.”

Nyx pushed her glasses up, her tone sharp.
“Agreed. I also need to search the Great Archive.”

Fu Xi folded his arms, his regal presence undeniable even when he was casual.
“I’ll join the search as well. Mina—assist Randy.”

“Yes, my lord.” Mina bowed slightly, her golden eyes glancing my way.

Luna’s tail swished as she spoke, her voice calm but heavy with intent.
“I’ll go check on the refugees. Their situation may be worse than we thought.”

Seraphina leaned casually on her spear, grinning.
“I’m staying here. Harmonia and Marlisa still have training under me. They’ll need polishing before anything else.”

“Eh?!” Marlisa flinched.

“Booo…” Harmonia pouted, puffing her cheeks. “I thought I could join Randy’s adventure.”

“No can do,” Seraphina said firmly. “You two are our best supporters. And besides, I’d rather keep an eye on you here.”

Elysia cracked her knuckles, eyes glinting with mischief.
“I’ll train here too. Lord Fu Xi promised to whip us into shape, and I’m not wasting the chance.”

Oswald lifted his hand like a soldier volunteering.
“I’ll go with Randy. I think he’ll need help.”

“Thanks,” I said quietly. It eased my chest a little, knowing I wasn’t heading out alone.

Althaeon’s ancient gaze swept over us all, his presence like an eternal storm behind calm clouds.
“Then it is decided. Signal me when you’re ready… and we shall depart.”

“Yep, but first—” I exhaled, glancing at Luna.

She already knew. Her eyes softened with that rare smile of hers.

We all gathered in a circle, the air heavy with expectation. Even Althaeon stepped closer, curiosity in his gaze.

Elysia tilted her head, her ponytail swaying.
“Hey, Randy… what’s this about?”

Oswald frowned. “Some kind of ritual?”

“This is… interesting,” Marlisa whispered, almost holding her breath.

Fu Xi’s lips curled into a faint grin.
“Ooo…?”

Mina folded her arms, skeptical.
“What’s going on here?”

I placed my hand over my chest and spoke clearly, my voice carrying across the circle.
“This is what we call an oath. It’s like registering yourself to this island. Once sworn, you cannot betray it. The knowledge here must never be sold, never be corrupted. This place must be protected, preserved… no matter what.”

“I see…” Fu Xi’s expression hardened, as if recognizing the gravity.

Luna smiled softly. “Randy’s been thinking about this for a long time. That’s why he’s so reluctant to share his work.”

The air grew still. I felt my heartbeat echo inside me as I inhaled deeply.
Then—

Me and Harmonia began to sing.

Her voice, gentle and melodic, intertwined with mine. It wasn’t just music—it was power, a resonance that vibrated through stone, water, and air. The others stood transfixed, their eyes reflecting the glow that began to radiate from the circle.

And then—

A voice. Deep, ethereal, inside my head.

“With this bond… your strength will be increased…”

I stiffened.
“…What the hell—?!”

“Randy?” Luna noticed instantly.

I forced a shaky smile. “Oh… it’s nothing. Just keep singing.”

But inside… my chest burned. Who was that? Why did it feel so familiar?

Fu Xi’s jaw tightened. “A songweaver’s oath… this is more powerful than I expected.”

Althaeon’s eyes widened, shimmering with nostalgia.
“That melody… Lilith sang it once as well.”

Elysia froze, her eyes darting to me. “Randy…”

Oswald’s voice cracked slightly. “Dude… this is… wow…”

Kline grinned from ear to ear, whispering, “Now that’s our Randy.”

Nyx adjusted her glasses, but her usually composed face showed a hint of pride.

And Marlisa—

Her gaze locked on me, unblinking, trembling.

Her heart pounded, the sound almost matching the beat of the song itself.

Why… why didn’t I see him before?
He’s not the Randy I thought I knew. He’s different… stronger… brighter.
Maybe that’s why… maybe that’s why I can’t look away.

Her cheeks flushed, and she whispered to herself, unheard by the others—

“…I see.”

The song rose, carrying our vow to the skies.

This wasn’t just an oath.
It was the start of something far, far greater.

Since everyone was gathered, Kline clapped his hands, smirking.
“Hey, hey. We’ve been through so many battles lately, but… has anyone actually checked their latest status?”

“Ah—right.” Elysia tilted her head, bow tightening against her back. “I’ve been fighting nonstop, I haven’t even looked at my levels yet.”

Marlisa began chanting softly to activate her status magic, but Nyx suddenly sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose.
“Really? That chant again? Honestly, the Wizard Academy has ruined all of you. There’s a more efficient way. Here, I’ll show you.”

She raised her hand… and aimed it straight at me.

“Eh? Why me?!”

“Reveal.”

A holographic screen burst to life in front of everyone, glowing letters spelling out my name. My stomach dropped.

Randy Russel (Orion)
Class: Machinist / Gunner / Survivalist
Level: Unknown
Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Anti-magic, Magimelody, Marksmanship, Craftsman/Inventor, Martial Arts, Survivalist, Anti-Poison, Stealth, Pilot’s Precision, Lady Killer, Sardonic Shot

“EHHHHH?!” I nearly fell over. “Why the hell is that still in there?! Lady Killer?! Can someone please delete that already?! And what the hell is ‘Sardonic Shot’ supposed to mean?!”

Luna crossed her arms, tail flicking as her eyes narrowed. “Uh-huh. Nya.”

Yeah. She was scary. Real scary.

Kline chuckled nervously, then quickly pointed at himself. “Alright, my turn. Reveal!”

Kline Elixirium
Class: Alchemist / Spellcaster
Level: S-Tier
Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Alchemy, Transmutation, Code Breaker, Immune to Status Illness, Craftsman/Inventor, Perverse, Lascivious Gaze

“W-WHAT?!” Kline instantly covered his face, beet red. “Oi, Nyx!! Why did you show that in front of everyone?!”

Oswald smirked, arms crossed. “I feel for you, bro. But hey… my turn. Reveal.”

Oswald Remington
Class: Arcane Duelist
Level: S-Tier
Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Arcane Combat, Martial Arts, Wall of Muscle, Chakra

“Wall of… muscle?” I muttered.

“More like meathead,” Kline teased, snickering.

“At least I’m better than Alfian,” Oswald fired back with a grin.

Elysia puffed her cheeks. “That’s true… Alfian’s a total disaster. Anyway—my turn! Reveal!”

Elysia Samuel
Class: Archer / Hunter
Level: S-Tier

Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Master Archery, Martial Arts, Art of War, Natural Leadership, General of an Army, Murderous Intensity, Brute

“…Eh?” Elysia blinked, dumbfounded.

Me, Oswald, and Kline took one synchronized step back.

“Hey! Don’t step away from me!! I’M NOT THAT BRUTAL!!!” Elysia shouted, her eyes blazing like wildfire.

Marlisa giggled nervously. “Alright, alright… my turn then. Reveal!”

Marlisa Remington
Class: Healer
Level: A-Tier

Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:

Healer, Detector, Holy Affinity, Garrulous, Hidden Affection

“…Uh, what does garrulous mean?” Marlisa asked innocently.

Nyx smirked. “Big mouth.”

Oswald laughed so hard he nearly toppled over.

“HEY! STOP IT!!” Marlisa turned red, stomping her foot.

Luna, however, narrowed her eyes like a predator. “Hidden… affection? Hm.”

Marlisa froze. “S-SHUT UP!!”

Before things got bloodthirsty, Luna stepped forward. “Fine. My turn. Reveal.”

Luna Esmereldazara Lozla
Class: Magic Knight
Level: S-Tier
Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Affinity with All Elements, Teleportation, Sealing Magic, Telepathy, Swordsmanship, Diplomacy, Natural Leadership, General of an Army, Reserved Healing, Possessive Gaze, Hot and Cold, Red-Faced Rampage, Heart’s Affection

Everyone’s jaws hit the floor.

Nyx muttered, “Ooo… that’s dangerous.”

Fu Xi was holding back a laugh.

Seraphina burst into giggles.

Elysia whistled. “No wonder she scares us.”

Harmonia’s eyes sparkled. “So cool!”

Marlisa gasped, then started laughing too.

Elowen facepalmed. “Unbelievable.”

Meanwhile Luna’s face turned crimson, steam practically bursting from her head.

“D-Don’t look!!!” she screamed before kicking me straight in the balls.

I collapsed to my knees. “Wh—what did I even do?!”

Finally, Elowen sighed and placed her hand on her chest. “Fine… my turn. Reveal.”

Elowen Stoneforge
Class: Blacksmith
Level: S-Tier
Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Master Smithing, Golemancy, Powerhouse, Leadership, Boozed Up, Poison Proof, Wild Swing, Maternal Instinct, Navigational Expertise, Paternal Bond, Irresistible

Kline immediately burst into hysterics. “PFFT—HAHAHAHAHA!”

“DON’T LAUGH!!!” Elowen roared, swinging her hammer so hard the ground shook, tears of anger welling in her eyes.

Seraphina slithered forward with a wicked grin. “Well then, my turn. Reveal!”

Seraphina Vipernox
Class: Warrior / Naga
Level: S-Tier
Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Vipernox Combat Style, Shapeshifting, Enhanced Senses, Affinity with Lightning, Fortified Physique, Allure, Mating Call, Tireless Passion, Gorgon’s Gaze

Everyone instinctively took two steps back.

“Hey! I’m not gonna turn you all to stone!!” Seraphina protested.

“Y-Yeah, right!” Kline yelped. But the moment Seraphina narrowed her glowing eyes downward at his crotch—

“OI!!! MY BROTHER DOWN THERE IS PETRIFIED!!! SOMEBODY FIX THIS!!!” Kline screamed, clutching himself in horror.

Luna smirked, her tail swishing dangerously as she turned to glare at me.

“Well, well, Randy… looks like Seraphina has her eyes on you too, hmm?”

Elysia suddenly froze, her face red. “D-Don’t you dare remind me of that time in Elowen’s workshop bath—!!”

My stomach dropped.

“WAIT—DON’T SAY IT OUT LOUD!!!”

And just like that—chaos exploded again.

Elysia shouted, Kline panicked, Seraphina hissed, and Oswald was already howling with laughter. In the middle of it all, Nyx stood there with a wicked grin tugging at her lips, clearly enjoying every second of our misery.

She tilted her head, eyes sparkling mischievously.

“Well… since everyone else is done, I suppose it’s my turn. Reveal.”

The air trembled. Her hologram appeared, golden letters flickering like starlight.

Asteria Flynn (Nyx)
Class: Alchemist / Sage
Level: SSS-Tier
Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Alchemy Mastery, Staff Mastery, Omniscience, Dreamweaver, Trickster, Magic Mastery, Spellcraft Precision, Sage’s Insight, Mastermind, Romantic Devotion, Timeless, Ageless, Youthful Appearance, Sensitive Ego, Independent Spirit, Sugar Rush, Guiding Light, Anti-Hero’s Stance

For a moment, silence. The entire hall was still. Even the golems seemed confused.

Then Elysia snapped. “OI!!! Is that even real?! That’s total BS, isn’t it?!”

“Yeah, right!” Kline jabbed a finger at the screen. “Timeless?! Ageless?! Youthful appearance?! You’re literally bragging!!”

I just rubbed the back of my neck. “… really, Nyx?”

Harmonia puffed her cheeks. “Nyx!!! That’s poppycock!!! Who the heck has Sugar Rush as a legendary ability?!”

Luna frowned, her tone more serious. “Is she really that strong…?”

Meanwhile, Althaeon burst into laughter, his booming voice shaking the floor.

“Fwahahahaha!! Sugar Rush?! Truly, the Sage of Trickery lives up to her title!”

Fu Xi slapped his thigh, laughing too. Mina, however, buried her face in her palm. “I cannot believe this woman…”

Nyx placed her hands on her hips, sticking out her tongue. “Jealous much?”

“JEALOUS?!” Elysia roared, pulling at her own hair. “That’s not even a status, that’s a biography!!”

Before the chaos escalated, Fu Xi suddenly stepped forward, aura surging.

“My turn. Reveal.”

The letters glowed bright and bold.

Fu Xi
Class: Arcane Duelist / Warrior / Battlemaster
Level: SS-Tier
Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Battle Mastery, Magic Mastery, Affinity with Lightning, Water, Earth, and Fire, Martial Arts, Diplomacy, Leadership, Battle Frenzy, Celestial Ward, Binge Immunity, Lecherous Gaze, Fatherly Love

The silence lasted all of three seconds before—

“UNCLE…” Luna facepalmed.

“Lord Fu Xi…” Mina also facepalmed.

I smirked. “Not bad… not bad at all.”

“SHUT UP!!” Fu Xi’s face went crimson, veins popping as he barked at me.

Nyx was on the floor laughing, literally rolling around. Elowen just sighed with dead eyes. Seraphina sparkled with admiration. “Oooh… powerful and shameless.”

“😍” Elysia and Marlisa both had stars in their eyes.

Fu Xi groaned. “Why did I agree to this…”

Then Harmonia jumped in, throwing her hands up. “Okay okay, my turn!! Reveal!!”

Harmonia
Class: Songweaver
Level: S-Tier
Attributes:

Skills & Abilities:
Magimelody, Harmonious Healing, Scatterbrain, Naive, Team Spirit, Cute

Everyone tilted their heads at once.

“…Spot on,” Kline muttered.

“Yep,” Oswald nodded.

I just crossed my arms. “Uh huh…”

The girls, however, didn’t say a word. They just exchanged silent looks.

“Eh? Eh?? KYAAAA!! Why is that?! Nyx!!!” Harmonia wailed, stomping her feet.

Nyx folded her arms and smirked. “Accept it.”

“WAAAAH!!!” Harmonia buried her face in her hands, her entire body shaking in embarrassment.

“C-Cute is an ability?!” Elysia groaned.

“Scatterbrain’s definitely real though,” Seraphina snorted.

I sighed, shoulders slumping as I muttered under my breath.

“God help me… why do I travel with this circus…”

To be continued