Episode 88: Alliance with the Dwarves, and the Dawn of New Battle Preparations
After completing his training with the dwarves, Leon resolved to report their remarkable metalworking skills and combat potential to the higher ranks of Elysium. He had come to realize that the weapons and armor they could provide would be a vital resource for strengthening the kingdom's military, and he felt a heavy sense of responsibility to handle this properly.
That evening, Leon departed from the dwarven stronghold and made the long journey back to Elysium's headquarters. Upon arrival, he went straight to the council chamber where the senior officers had gathered. As he entered, several high officials turned their eyes toward him with keen interest.
"Leon, we have already heard of your performance in the tournament," said Commander Hallixson, greeting him with a sharp gaze. "What report have you brought us today?"
With a determined expression, Leon replied, "I come to speak of the alliance we can form with the dwarves. Their unparalleled craftsmanship can elevate our military might to new heights."
"The dwarves?" one of the senior officials interjected with skepticism. "And what makes you believe they would heed our call?"
Drawing on his firsthand experience, Leon explained, "They have long suffered under the tyranny of dragons, and they no longer wish to be dismissed or ignored by outsiders. But for their skill and strength to be truly recognized, they need cooperation—and we need their craft."
Hallixson leaned forward, considering Leon's words with gravity. "Then it seems we must explore a framework for such an alliance."
Leon continued with resolve, "We should secure resources for them, train side by side, and devise methods to maximize their potential. Through this, we can fortify the kingdom beyond what it has ever been."
The chamber quickly filled with debate, the officials exchanging ideas as they began to outline possible terms of collaboration. Leon emphasized not only the dwarves' skill but also the pride and recognition they yearned for, ensuring their worth was acknowledged.
When the council adjourned, Leon knew his task was not yet done. He resolved to return to the dwarves, to strengthen trust and convince them further of the kingdom's sincerity.
Thus began a new chapter in his journey: forging an alliance built on respect and shared purpose. Leon felt certain that with dwarven craft and his own experience in battle, Elysium would rise stronger than ever before. The time had come to prepare for the battles looming ahead.
**
Episode 89: A New Encounter — Reunion in the Orc Settlement
Leaving the dwarves behind, Leon journeyed toward the orc settlement. He had judged that building ties with the orc warriors was equally essential for the kingdom's campaigns. The orcs were famed for their raw strength in battle, and as a battle commander, Leon needed to earn their trust.
Upon entering the settlement, he was struck by the sight of massive dwellings built from timber and stone, exuding a harsh and formidable atmosphere. The very air seemed charged with the orcs' power. Steeling his resolve, Leon stepped deeper into their domain.
It was then that his eyes fell upon a familiar figure—Brakka. The formidable orc warrior, whom Leon had first encountered in battle alongside Ellahar, radiated strength by presence alone. Brakka recognized him immediately and strode forward.
"Leon. It has been some time," Brakka rumbled in his deep voice, though a flicker of disappointment crossed his expression as he realized Ellahar was absent. "And where is Ellahar?"
Leon caught the note of discontent in his tone. "I've come under new orders this time," he answered calmly.
Brakka studied him briefly, then gave a curt nod. "Then you, too, have come ready to stand among strong warriors." There was a current of challenge—but also respect—in his words.
Leon smiled faintly. "Your strength has always left an impression on me, Brakka. One day, I hope to cross blades with you."
A sharp grin tugged at Brakka's lips, though his eyes held a guarded gleam. "Perhaps. But you should know, such a contest would not be an easy one."
Behind Brakka's guarded demeanor lay the weight of his heritage—son of a rebel chieftain, caught between respect and suspicion. That distance remained even in moments of camaraderie, though Leon did not yet grasp the depth of it.
The two warriors spoke of strength, technique, and battle, circling one another like wary predators yet acknowledging one another's worth. Brakka, reluctant to bare the wounds of his past, instead turned the conversation toward Leon, measuring his resolve.
"I learn much from you, Brakka," Leon admitted earnestly. "Your experience could guide me further."
Brakka inclined his head slightly. "If our paths deepen, that may well come to pass. In the battles ahead, we will both have much to gain."
This reunion gave Leon not only the chance to deepen ties with the orcs but also the sense that his own growth was far from complete. Walking away from their exchange, he clenched his resolve once more.
"Here, I will surpass my limits. Here, I will become stronger."
***
Episode 90: Serena's Research and Quiet Anticipation
Serena was once again busy in the laboratory of the magic research institute. Following her previous work on crystals, this time she had been assigned to study various magical metals. The glittering fragments in her hands carried mystical properties—materials often used to craft golem bodies or powerful armor.
The laboratory was filled with a constant tension, yet Serena found herself within it. Small mishaps were common: a piece of metal would suddenly flare red and release heat as its reaction grew too intense. But she never panicked. Keeping her composure, she swiftly cast cooling spells to calm the runaway experiments. Her colleagues often marveled at her quick judgment and came to rely on her presence.
"You're incredible, Serena. It feels like the lab is safer just because you're here," one of them said with a smile.
Serena returned the smile humbly. "Thanks, but I still have a lot to learn. Things rarely go exactly as planned… Still, every time I manage to draw some results from these experiments, it feels truly rewarding."
Even amid her busy days, Serena often found her thoughts drifting toward Leon. She remembered how hard he fought in the tournament, especially the match in the round of sixteen she had cheered for. She wondered how he was doing now, and how much she looked forward to seeing him again.
"Leon… what kind of inspiration does he bring to me?" she asked herself. His unwavering determination, the way he pressed forward toward his goals—these left a lasting impression on her. The warmth and strength she had felt in their conversations seemed to fuel her research in turn.
As the sunset began to glow beyond the research institute's windows, Serena gazed outside and smiled softly. She thought about the meeting they had arranged for a few days later, wondering what stories Leon would share. She even considered preparing a small gift for him, realizing how much joy his smile brought her.
Amid these modest hopes, Serena renewed her focus on her research, determined that today's progress might one day contribute to the kingdom's future.
**
Episode 91: The Anticipation and Tension of a Meeting
Days passed, and at last the time came for Serena to meet Leon. She sat waiting for him at a quiet café, having paid careful attention to her appearance. Dressed in soft colors and simple accessories, she wondered anxiously, What kind of reaction will he have when he sees me?
Seated by the window with a steaming cup of tea, Serena absently watched the people passing outside—until a familiar face appeared. Camilla, walking past the café, noticed Serena and stopped. With a faint smile, she stepped inside.
"Hello, Serena. It's been a while," Camilla said, settling into the chair across from her. Serena, though inwardly displeased at her arrival, managed to keep her expression calm.
"Hello, Camilla. How have you been?" she replied evenly. Yet a subtle tension began to stir between them. Camilla's smile carried its usual edge of mockery.
"You must be waiting for Leon. I look forward to seeing him as well," she remarked casually.
"It's just a chance to exchange news," Serena answered smoothly. At that very moment, the café door opened, and Leon entered. Serena's heart swelled with anticipation at the sight of him.
"Serena, you've been waiting here!" Leon greeted warmly, his smile bright. Her chest fluttered in response. Camilla, startled for a moment by his appearance, quickly composed herself with a light smile.
"Hello, Leon. You look dashing today," Camilla said. As she looked at him, she couldn't help noticing how he had changed. His face was still ordinary, perhaps slightly better than before, but his body had grown more defined, and the aura around him felt different. He might actually be a better man than I thought, the thought crossed her mind.
Serena stepped closer with a radiant smile. "Leon, I've been waiting for you!" she said happily. Leon took her hand lightly and answered, "I'm glad we could meet like this, Serena."
The three of them sat together, conversation flowing. Camilla felt a twinge of exclusion but tried to match the cheerful tone between Leon and Serena. "So, Leon, how have you been? I heard you made quite a name for yourself at the Grand Martial Tournament," she asked.
Leon smiled. "Yes, I've been doing well. The results were beyond what I expected, and I truly enjoyed it."
Serena looked at him proudly. "That was all thanks to your effort, Leon. I'm so proud of you."
Camilla cut in, almost dismissively. "But luck must have played a part too. Next time, you'll face even tougher opponents."
Leon sensed the faint provocation but kept his composure, his gaze still warm toward Serena. "Perhaps so. Next time, I'll aim for an even better result."
The conversation continued, though Serena remained intent on savoring her precious time with Leon. She focused on his reactions, hoping to understand how he truly saw her.
Today is meant to be a happy day. I won't let myself worry about anything else, she resolved.
Eventually, Camilla felt her presence slipping further into the background. With quiet grace, she excused herself. Serena and Leon saw her off gladly, while Camilla walked away with an unexpected pang of regret lingering in her chest.