Chapter 47: New Discovery
Several days passed after the whirlwind return from Vintross. Elowen settled back into its familiar, industrious peace, now augmented by the cheerful chaos of nearly a dozen extra children exploring their new surroundings under Sister Alia’s gentle guidance. The twin foundations of the Light and Dark churches rose steadily, side-by-side, a testament to the village’s newfound, if slightly awkward, understanding of balance.
Riku, for his part, allowed himself a rare moment of quiet repose. He lay sprawled comfortably on his premium futon in the inn room, the late afternoon sun slanting through the window. The gentle whir of the ceiling fan overhead was a soothing counterpoint to the distant sounds of village life – children’s laughter, the rhythmic clang from Gnord’s forge, the murmur of voices from the fields.
He closed his eyes, letting the simple comfort wash over him. It wasn’t the absolute idleness he’d once dreamed of, but it was a peace earned, a quiet moment snatched amidst the unexpected complexities his new life kept throwing at him.
Just need Rennan to get back with those investors, he thought idly. Then we can really get the coolbox production line going. And maybe figure out proper plumbing...
Ding!
A familiar, translucent blue panel shimmered into existence before his closed eyes.
"Ah, System, my friend. Where have you been all these days?"
On a vacation, dear host.
"Really? You gave me nothing, even though I finished my half-completed mission and disappeared for days. How do you want to explain yourself?" Riku asked, with a mocking stern expression on his face.
That... The system forgot and left to...
The system paused, seemingly hesitating.