"Amisar, can you please call all the Fays listed here to gather in the Castle's Throne Room?" Richard handed a list written on beast skin to Amisar, who accepted it with a smile and quickly set off to fulfill her Master's request.
Richard and Vara walked together toward the castle, their footsteps echoing softly on the stone path. Meanwhile, Zalis began to clean and arrange the table, with Gartha stepping in to assist him.
Richard noticed a dozen Fays bustling around the castle grounds, carrying tools and materials as they worked. The roof had been completed along with the walls. As he entered the large double doors of the castle, he saw the familiar carvings of dragons. This time, the carvings were unfinished, and the craftsman was absent. Stepping inside, Richard was greeted by an unfinished grand staircase that spiraled up toward the second floor. Its handrails were rough-hewn and dotted with splinters. The grand foyer was illuminated by soft beams of sunlight streaming through the narrow, high windows. The space was expansive, with vaulted ceilings that soared upwards, showcasing exposed wooden beams. The wooden floor was cool and smooth with wooden planks and tools scattered all over. Along the walls, half-finished carvings of intricate patterns of leaves emerged from the wooden walls, awaiting completion.
The fresh scent of timber and limestone filled the air, while the sound of distant hammering echoed from a side corridor where craftsmen were busy refining the rooms leading off the grand entrance.
Richard stole a glance at Vara, who showed no emotion and simply stood beside him. Shaking off his amazement, he proceeded to walk toward the Throne Room, which was just to the right of the grand staircase. His footsteps were heavy and filled with excitement. The details on the corridor as he walked toward the Throne Room were rich with storytelling. Even though they were still unfinished, he could easily make out the narrative. It was a tale of a brave human boy and his mighty dragon, locked in epic battles against monstrous beasts. Each panel told a part of the story—fierce clashes with creatures of shadow, moments of camaraderie between the boy and his dragon, and the final scene of triumph as peace was restored to the realm. Richard's heart swelled with a profound sense of belonging and pride as he took in the artistry.
Arriving in the the Throne Room, Richard and Vara was welcomed by the soaring ceiling adorned with wooden beams carved into intricate motifs of dragons, eagles, and swirling clouds. High, narrow stained-glass windows lined both sides of the room, casting colorful reflections on the polished wooden floor as the sun moved across the sky. Each window depicted scenes of legendary battles, heroic figures, and mythical creatures.
A very long table stood in the center of the room, flanked by 15 chairs on each side. The table, though simple in design, gave the room an air of formality and grandeur.
On the dais stood an unfinished throne, a masterful piece carved from dark mahogany. The back of the throne rose high, sculpted with the figure of a coiled dragon. The armrests featured delicate carvings of intertwining vines, symbolizing growth and strength.
Behind the throne, a large tapestry hung from ceiling to floor, depicting a fierce battle between beasts and Fays, with a Fay Queen triumphantly standing at the center, her eyes ablaze with power. Above the tapestry, banners in deep hues of red and gold bore the sigil of the Nest—two entwined dragons encircling a star.
Despite the grandeur of the room, Richard could not help but notice the unfinished work. The throne lacked final touches, the tapestries and banners were still a work in progress, and the intricate details of the room were yet to be completed.
The emptiness of the room was deafening. There were only Richard and Vara standing within its vast space. The silence weighed heavily on the air, making the room feel even more cavernous, as if the walls themselves were holding their breath. It seemed that everywhere they went, there was not a single soul left, only the faint echo of the workers hard work lingering in the corners. The soft hum of distant hammering, the shuffle of footsteps from far-off halls, and the rustle of wind outside were the only sounds that broke the stillness.
Then, from the left side corridor of the dais, a Fay even more stoic and upright than Zalis appeared. He got a dark and slightly wavy hair, that was pulled back into a low, practical knot. His eyes are deep and reflective, the kind that seem to always be lost in thought. He have a high cheekbones and a strong jawline.
Curious, Richard opened the Fay's stats.
Name: Eryndor Norreathem
Profession: [Master Craftsman] Architect
Level: 1 (349/3,000)
Grade Level: Yellow
Age: 1 day, 8 hours, and 38 minutes
Loyalty: 92/100
Physical Stats: (Scales with Level)
Intelligence: 25
Strength: 18
Constitution: 21
Agility: 23
Skills:
Woodcarving Mastery: [Eryndor's advanced skill in woodcarving allows him to shape and design intricate, large-scale wood structures, bringing detailed patterns to life with minimal tools.] (Passive Skil)
Effect: Increases crafting efficiency by 40% and grants a 25% boost to construction durability for wooden structures.
Architect's Vision: [Eryndor possesses a natural leadership ability and a keen eye for structural design, allowing him to coordinate large projects and direct fellow builders with precision. His guidance improves team productivity and enhances structural integrity across complex builds.] (Passive Skill)
Effect: Increases work efficiency of nearby allies by 25% and reduces construction time by 20%. Additionally, boosts the durability of structures by 10% when Eryndor oversees the project.
Masterwork Design: [Creates intricate designs with symbolic elements that reflect balance and nature. His art is said to hold minor enchantments, giving structures an ethereal quality.] (Passive Skill)
Effect: Grants a +20% aesthetic appeal and a minor enchantment effect to structures, which can increase allies' morale when nearby.
Richard gulped hard, awed by the skill of the Fay before him. This Fay could be categorized as a Legendary Yellow Grade Fay—an architect specializing in craftsmanship. There was no doubt it was he who had created the stunning carvings on the castle gate, doors, walls, ceiling, and throne, among other places.
"Master," the Fay said, bowing to Richard, then turning to Vara. "My Queen."
"Eryndor, I love your carvings," Richard said, filled with awe and respect. "And the village is starting to take shape."
"It is my honor to serve you, Master, and the Queen. I have personally overseen the building of the castle to show my respect to the Crown," Eryndor replied.
Richard could only smile in response. "Please join us for the first Council Meeting later. I also want to look at the blueprints for the current and future design of the village."
"It would be an honor to do both, Master," Eryndor said, bowing to both Richard and Vara before returning to his work.
Richard didn't disturb Eryndor, who was now busy finishing the throne. Two Fays entered the throne room, and after showing their respect to Richard and Vara, they proceeded with their tasks under Eryndor's guidance. In half an hour, the Throne Room transformed into a well-furnished space. Everything began to take shape. However, they paused their work as the Fays summoned by Richard started to gather.
Richard walked to the wooden table and took the chair at the center, with Vara sitting beside him. Zalis, Gartha, and Amisar took their seats to Richard's right. The four Yellow Grade Fays—Kael, Elys, Lira, and Nex—sat beside Vara. Eryndor sat directly across from Richard, while Toren, Eira, and Lyra sat to his right. Thalos and Elara, the Blue Grade farmers, sat to Eryndor's left, followed by the two Blue Grade alchemists, Wendel and Faith.
Once all the Fays invited to the meeting were present, Richard began the session.
"Thank you all for coming," he started. "This meeting marks a significant step in the growth of our Nest. Each of you plays a vital role in shaping our future."
"Let's start by establishing a department for each essential function within the Nest," Richard began, his voice confident and resolute.
He turned to Eryndor. "You will lead the Department of Public Works and Construction, overseeing all current and future building projects. Your department will also be responsible for planning the future development of Moirai's infrastructure, ensuring that we give our citizen a place they will take pride in. I saw the the standards of quality and artistry you have established in your works and I expect the same as you lead the department."
Eryndor's deep, reflective eyes glistened with determination. "It is an honor, Master. I will devote myself to shaping Moirai worthy of the Crown's legacy."
Richard nodded and turned to Toren, a Yellow Grade Fay who had recently been summoned and was a commander. "Our Nest is surrounded by a dense forest, and it is home to a myriad of beasts. In the last 15 hours alone, we experienced over 16 waves of attacks. This is alarming, and if it continues at this rate in the days to come, Moirai will be overwhelmed. What do you suggest, Toren?"
Toren's deep, contemplative eyes narrowed as he considered the situation. "Master, the current rate of attacks indicates a heightened activity among the creatures in the forest. To defend effectively, I suggest immediate measures. We need to establish a perimeter defense system—watchtowers at key points around the Nest that will provide early warnings. This will give us precious time to react to approaching threats. And at the same we build a wall to secure Moirai more."
"A wall is what we badly needed," Richard approved.
"Defensive walls are part of Moirai's development plan. However, we need time and security as we build out the walls," Eryndor added which made Richard more satisfied. "It's settled then."
Torren continued, "Additionally, we should form specialized scout teams to map the forest and identify potential dens or strongholds of these beasts. This will allow us to strategically strike and reduce their numbers before they can form organized assaults."
Richard listened intently, nodding as the plan unfolded. He likes how this Fay Commander mind's run. "And what of the manpower required?" Richard asked.
Toren's jaw tightened as he considered the question. "I plan to have four squads and Kael, Elys, Lyra, and Nex will be the squad leader for each. Each squad will have their own tasks. However, training must be expedited. I also recommend enlisting Fays skilled in stealth and reconnaissance for the scout teams. And they will be a separate branch."
The room fell silent as Richard absorbed Toren's suggestions. He glanced at the four Fays—Kael, Elys, Lyra, and Nex—who exchanged looks of mutual understanding and determination.
"Very well," Richard finally said, breaking the silence. "We will proceed with your plan, Toren. Kael, Elys, Lyra, Nex—you have your orders."
Next, Richard turned his attention to the two alchemists seated further down the table, Wendel and Faith. They both watched him intently, their expressions a mix of anticipation and determination. "We need a steady and reliable supply of potions and elixirs to support our defensive and offensive efforts," Richard began, his voice firm and resolute. "The Alchemy Department will be at the heart of these operations, ensuring our soldiers have the resources they need."
Richard continued, "These potions and elixirs must also be made available to the public to ensure the well-being and health of our citizens. The health of our people cannot and will not be compromised."
Nods and affirmations echoed around the table. Wendel and Faith exchanged determined glances, ready to take on the challenge.
Richard then shifted the discussion, his expression serious. "Currently, our arsenal of weapons and armors is lacking. While we do not have a blacksmith capable of forging the weapons we need, we must make do with what we have for now. Eira and Lyra," he said, turning to the two skilled tailors, "you will be tasked with ensuring that our soldiers are equipped with the best armors possible."
Both Eira and Lyra, seated with poised composure, nodded with confidence.
"All the materials looted from the beasts are all in your disposal," Richard assured them.
"We may have the materials but we lack designs for making armors, Master," Lyra interjected. "We can make our own designs but it will take us 10 days to finalize the designs and finally produce them."
Richard pondered for a while and answered, "I can give you three designs of armors but I still want you to create our own designs to align more on the materials that are available."
Lyra smiled and didn't comment any further "Thank you, Master."
Eira, who had remained attentive throughout, spoke up. "Master, with your permission, we would also like to work closely with the alchemists to integrate any enhancements or protective enchantments into the armors. This will give our soldiers an added edge in combat."
Richard's eyes lit up with approval. "That's an excellent idea, Eira. Coordinate with Wendel and Faith."
Lyra's smile widened with determination, and she nodded in agreement. "We will not disappoint, Master."
Afterwards, Richard turned to the last two Fays seated at the table, Elara and Thalos. "At the moment, we lack farmland and livestock, as we do not yet have strong control over the southern arable land territory," Richard began, his voice steady and resolute.
He then shifted his gaze to Toren, "Toren, make securing this area your second topmost priority after the defense of the Nest. We must establish complete control over the southern arable land," Richard said,- "Once it is secured, Elara and Thalos will transform it into a thriving source of food and resources."
Toren's eyes narrowed with understanding as he nodded. "Understood, Master."
Richard looked back at Elara and Thalos, who now wore expressions of both determination and anticipation. "This land will be the cornerstone of Moirai's future food supply. Once it is under our control, I trust both of you to cultivate it into a prosperous farmland, full of crops and livestock that can support our growth."
"Good," Richard said, satisfied with their resolve. His gaze shifted, "Amisar."
Amisar, slightly startled by hearing her name spoken with authority, straightened in her seat. "Yes, Master?" she replied, her tone attentive.
Richard then turned his attention to the entire council, his voice resonating with command. "All of you," he continued, addressing the assembly, "for any manpower requirements to fulfill your duties, submit your requests to Amisar. She will oversee all aspects of personnel management and recruitment, ensuring that each department gets the resources it needs."
Amisar's expression transformed from initial surprise to a look of determination as she nodded. A wide smile then formed on her face. "Thank you for the trust, Master."