MC POV
I looked at my painting, quite satisfied—it conveyed the spirit and impression I aimed for.
And at that moment, I heard a voice, as my psychic power—so focused on the painting—finally became aware of the presence of other individuals in the room.
I turned around and saw Leonardo, Colonel Pedro, Daniel, and finally, Tiago.
The one who spoke and approached quickly was Tiago.
"Alex!! The painting is amazing!! As always, you're great at this stuff. I still remember when you painted that picture of my favorite cartoon. I had to beg you to do it, jejeje," he said, scratching his head in embarrassment.
I touched his head, remembering that moment. I had painted it using colorful paints, aiming for a pop-art style. The character was a big, strong, and courageous earth bull—a rather peculiar hero compared to others... perhaps because Tiago identified with the earth element, which is somewhat similar to his metal affinity...
Then I heard Colonel Pedro's voice as he approached and observed the painting curiously.
"You really are... peculiar, Mr. Alex. Using old techniques and materials to paint... most people today do this in virtual reality or simply have machines reproduce it—or leave it purely digital. But even without much knowledge on the subject, I can clearly say this is of high quality."
He looked at me, probably impressed and curious about such an unusual skill—but I had no intention of explaining.
"Thank you, I like hobbies," I said simply, with a calm and saintly smile on my face—something not hard to pull off, considering I was literally a saint in my previous life.
That alone seemed to leave him impressed and unsure how to respond.
Leonardo was the next to approach. He looked at the painting for a few seconds, then stared at me in a much more focused and analytical way—more than he had looked at the painting. It made me feel a bit itchy, so I had to speak.
"What was ge—Leonardo?" I adjusted the title from our previous conversation.
He smiled.
"Nothing... just remembering. Someone with a lot of skills tends to attract attention... and remembering that squirrels like to keep things..."
He murmured so softly I barely heard it, and I honestly didn't understand what he meant. Still, something about it felt subtly irritating, so I just ignored it.
Before he could say more, Colonel Pedro intervened, stepping forward quickly.
"Well, actually, Colonel Daniel and I came to officially welcome you. Now that the ship is stabilized in space, you're free to move around as you wish."
The general looked like he was about to speak, but Pedro interrupted again.
"Ahem, ahem And now the General and I have documents and matters to resolve regarding the 4th Army, so I'll let Colonel Daniel handle the introductions from here."
At the end of his speech, two simultaneous reactions followed—one from the General, the other from Daniel.
"WHAT?"
"Really?"
The General's aura turned cold and moody—frost even started to form on the floor.
That was definitely the version of the General that nobody dared approach. Of course, that made no difference to me—considering the types of enemies I've already faced—but I imagine it scared others. I also moved slightly in front of Tiago; it probably wouldn't affect him much, but just in case...
"Yes, no discussion."
And without giving the General a chance to reply, Pedro pulled him away.
If the General really wanted to resist, it would've been easy—but I doubt he'd hurt his right-hand man so easily. Besides... they're cousins.
Colonel Daniel snapped back to attention.
"Ahem, ahem Well... where do you guys want to go?"
I looked at Tiago.
"Hmm... the mech engineering room?"
"Okay, let's go."
I placed the painting beside my bed before leaving.
Soon, we arrived at the room. It was large, filled with mechs surrounded by different orc and sub-orc engineers. I saw Tiago's eyes light up slightly.
In truth, Tiago has always loved this field of science, but he had given up studying it. I plan to help him change course and encourage him to return to studying.
Even though I don't have direct knowledge of mechs, I'm well-versed in weapons engineering, robotics, and energy systems. While the scientific and theoretical foundations differ somewhat, I haven't fallen behind compared to my past life's level of technological advancement—in fact, in some aspects, especially robotics, this world might even be ahead... considering my other life as a hacker and programmer.
Tiago is not only intelligent—his metal-based powers also provide a natural affinity for this field.
The engineers noticed Tiago's glowing eyes, called him over, and began explaining and showcasing things. Tiago, although shy, paid close attention.
I decided to join them too. I don't plan to change my path, but I'm curious—and I want to support Tiago.
Before I could join, Colonel Daniel spoke up.
"Alex, I'm going to grab some snacks—be right back!"
"Okay."
And like lightning, he vanished down the hall. I could even see faint sparks and a black tail trailing behind him... looked like a leopard with electric powers.
"...Well, guess he's hungry?"
I didn't dwell on it and joined the semi-class session happening around the excited engineers of various ages and races.
I should probably keep an eye on Tiago around the orcs too—just in case. Though I doubt anything would happen, especially with the 4th Army and the strict regulations of the Federation in place.