Chapter 8

It’s been a few days since Aeta rescued the Otherworlders, and since then, her days have been filled with various activities, both magical and physical. She continued her magical studies, exploring the new spells she had learned from the grand library. Eliyen and Tomoe assisted her in mastering her newfound abilities, and together they worked on strategies to further enhance her magic.

Under the guidance of her elder brother, Theren, Aeta honed her sword skills, gradually becoming more proficient with each passing day. The encouragement from her friends and Hikaru, along with her increasing confidence, drove her to succeed in both magic and swordsmanship.

As they spent more time together, her relationship with Hikaru grew stronger. Aeta felt a special connection with Hikaru, knowing that they both had come from Earth and shared a unique understanding of the world they had left behind in addition to her crush that she had with Hikaru.

As days turned into weeks, Aeta’s journey in Nirvalise continued to be a mix of magical exploration, sword training, and the blossoming of friendships and deeper connections. Her adventures were far from over, and she looked forward to whatever challenges and discoveries lay ahead.

Her adopted father, Lord Augustus, had allowed Aeta to have use of a special workshop in the Lord’s Manor. That way, when she wasn’t going to Astral Academy, or being with Hikaru, she was there practicing and figuring things out. Until eventually, after what felt like mere years of research, she finally looked up from her books and stepped from her table. “Could one of you please do me a favor and take this message to the carpenters?” she asked her friends.

Eliyen and Tomoe both nodded, ever ready to assist Aeta. Eliyen spoke first, saying, “Of course, we’ll be happy to help. What’s the message you’d like us to deliver to the carpenters?” Tomoe, ever watchful and prepared, stood ready to accompany Eliyen to the carpenters’ workshop.

“it is an odd request, but I’d like them to construct a wooden skeleton. It will be for a new project I’m working on.” Aeta said, handing the piece of paper over. “this should explain how I want them to be.

Eliyen and Tomoe both looked at the diagram and the instructions on the paper. After a brief moment of consideration, Eliyen spoke her question, “A wooden skeleton? It’s an interesting project. We’ll convey your request to the carpenters as you’ve outlined it. Anything else you need, Lady Aeta?” Tomoe nodded in agreement, ready to carry out the task.

Aeta nodded her head. “Once you’re done, could you go to the adventurer’s guild? I’d like to see a manifest of some of the things their adventurers have brought back, I might have need of them.”

Eliyen and Tomoe both agreed to Aeta’s request. “Of course, we’ll get the wooden skeleton built and then head to the adventurers’ guild to gather information for you,” Eliyen replied. “Is there anything else you’d like us to do?”

Tomoe added, “Once we have the information from the guild, should we return here or meet you somewhere specific?”

Aeta smiled at their diligence. “That is all for now, and once you’ve gathered the information, please return here.”

Eliyen and Tomoe nodded in agreement and left the workshop to carry out Aeta’s requests. While they were gone, Aeta continued her work, excited about her new project and what it might lead to.

A smile played on her lips, and she spoke to herself “Okay, King Souma Takuya, let’s see if we can build a smaller version of that Mechadra, that, that one baffling woman made.” Aeta said to herself, as she looked over her notes. “this should work...” The workshop was filled with the hum of activity as she worked carefully on her design. She couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation of what she might achieve.

Tomoe and Eliyen soon returned to Lady Aeta, after 15 minutes, that it took to get to the Provincial Capital, and 15 minutes back. “My lady, we’ve given the carpenters your request, and we have the manifest from the Adventurers’ guild,” Eliyen said, handing the manifest over to Aeta.

Aeta accepted the manifest from Eliyen and immediately perused its contents. Her eyes scanned through the list of items the adventurers had brought back, looking for anything that might be of use for her project. “Thank you, Eliyen. For now, we have some more work to do.” She returned her attention to her designs and the thing she was planning to build.

After working on her design, Aeta became distracted by the Manifest, so she returned to it, and carefully went through the manifest, examining it for specific monster parts that might be useful for her project. She made a list of the items she needed, marking down the page numbers and details for each item. Once she had gathered the necessary information, she set the manifest aside and looked at Tomoe and Eliyen.

“I have the list of materials I need from the manifest. Tomoe, could you please go to the Adventurer’s Guild and see if they have these items in stock? Eliyen, help me gather the tools and materials we need here in the workshop. We have a project to get started on,” Aeta said with determination.

As Tomoe rushed to the Adventurer’s Guild to inquire about the materials on Aeta’s list, Eliyen assisted Aeta in gathering the necessary tools and materials for the workshop. They carefully placed the Orichalcum and dragon scales on the table, ready for Aeta’s project. They organized the tools neatly and set up everything for their work.

Aeta took a moment to review her design and double-check the list of materials. Once everything was in place, she turned to Eliyen and smiled. “Thank you, Eliyen. Let’s get started on this project. I can’t wait to see the results.” With the necessary tools and materials at hand, Aeta was prepared to begin crafting her creation.

Aeta’s alchemical skills allowed her to extract and refine the valuable material from the dragon scales, which she decided to call “Dracomail.” Afterward, she used her magical slime companion, Sosaku, to incorporate the Dracomail and Orichalcum into her project.

When Tomoe returned with the monster parts and the wooden skeleton, everything was in place for Aeta to start assembling her creation. The wooden skeleton provided the basic structure, and the monster parts would serve various functions in her project.

Aeta smiled and nodded to her companions. “Thank you, both of you. Let’s get to work. This is going to be an exciting project.” She then began the process of constructing her invention, using her extensive knowledge, materials, and the assistance of her trusty companions.

With Sosaku’s incredible abilities, the wooden skeleton was transformed into an Orichalcum structure, providing a solid base for their creation. Aeta and her companions then meticulously added the monster parts, with the Dracomail serving as a protective covering. The Mountain Ogre Muscles provided strength and resilience to the creation.

As the project neared completion, Aeta marveled at the amalgamation of materials and craftsmanship that was taking shape. She couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the final product.

“Amazing,” Aeta said, gazing at their work. “Now, I’ll need to enchant it with the appropriate spells and magic circuits. Let’s see if we can bring this creation to life.” She began the enchantment process, infusing the construct with the necessary magical energy and functionality.

Eliyen and Tomoe watched as Aeta worked her magic, as they looked at what they had created.

Aeta’s magic flowed through her creation, enchanting it with life and purpose. The construct began to take on a semblance of animation, as its Orichalcum form radiated with a faint ethereal glow. The enchantments were intricate, designed to give the construct agility, strength, and coordination, making it more than just a mechanical structure.

As they cast the final enchantment, the construct twitched and then gradually stood up, its Orichalcum frame shifting and adjusting. It was a marvel to behold, an artificial being brought to life through Aeta’s magical abilities and her control.

With a satisfied nod, Aeta stepped back, looking at her companions. “It’s done. What shall we name this creation?” She couldn’t help but smile at the success of their project.

Tomoe and Eliyen looked on in awe of their project. Eliyen looked over at Aeta. “You mentioned before you plan on using this as a substitute for going on adventures, right? I’d say we could think of an adventurer name, something easy for most to say.” Eliyen said.

Aeta nodded in agreement. “That’s a good idea. Let’s see ... How about ‘Aurora Steelheart’? It’s easy to remember and sounds quite adventurous.” She looked at her creation, and the ethereal glow made the name even more fitting.

Tomoe nodded in approval. “Aurora Steelheart it is, then, a fitting name for our magical construct.”

Eliyen chimed in, “Aurora Steelheart, it shall be. May she assist us in our future endeavors.”

With the name decided, Aeta turned to her companions with a determined expression. “Aurora Steelheart, let’s see what you’re capable of.” She said as she focused her magic control and activated a few enchantments to make the construct move and followed her instructions. Aurora Steelheart flexed her Mountain Ogre muscles, showing she was ready for action.

Aeta smiled, impressed with her creation. “You’re a beauty, Aurora Steelheart. Let’s put you to the test.” With that, she led Aurora Steelheart out of the workshop, ready to take her on a test run and see how her magical construct performed.

“With the muscles of my more animalistic cousins, the Mountain Ogres, she’ll be very strong, and Dracomail will allow her durability, I dare say, she’ll be able to walk through fire,” Tomoe said as she walked with the four. “Also ... it occurs to me, our new creation might need something in the way of armor, something an adventurer would wear. Once we are done testing her, we should ask around.”

Aeta nodded in agreement. “You’re right, Tomoe. We’ll test her first, see what areas need improvement, and then consider outfitting her with suitable armor for our adventures.”

They continued to put Aurora Steelheart to the test, exploring her capabilities and seeing how well she performed in various scenarios. Once they gathered sufficient data, they could make the necessary adjustments and enhancements.

Tomoe tested Aurora’s accuracy, and she tested for strength, while Aeta tested her speed. They had her target a bear in the forests of Verdantwood Province, deeming it suitable. Aurora’s performance during the tests was impressive. Her strength, speed, and accuracy seemed promising. As they continued to fine-tune her capabilities, it was clear that she had great potential. They decided to return to the workshop to make any necessary adjustments based on their observations.

On Return to the workshop, Eliyen grabbed a measuring tape she had on hand and began taking Aurora’s measurements, making sure to include everything. Eliyen’s meticulous measurements would ensure that any outfits made for Aurora Steelheart would fit her perfectly. This attention to detail was crucial in making sure their creation could blend in seamlessly while on adventures. With all the data collected, they would be ready to start creating outfits tailored specifically for Aurora.

“Alright, I’ve finished taking her measurements and wrote everything down. Also considering her skin is technically dragonscales, what kind of outfit materials should we use that would work well?” Eliyen asked her friends.

Aeta pondered the question for a moment. “Considering her dragon scale skin and the fire resistance it provides, we should opt for materials that are durable and can provide additional protection. I’d recommend leather and metal plating for her outfit, along with some padding on the inside for comfort. It should provide a good balance of protection and flexibility for her.”

Tomoe chimed in, “Additionally, we can enchant her outfit with fire-resistant spells to enhance her protection against flames.”

With a plan in mind, they were ready to begin crafting Aurora’s adventurer outfit, ensuring it was both stylish and functional.

Once the designs were made, Eliyen darted out of the workshop to get the outfit made for Aurora. “Once Eliyen returns, we should decide on what we say is her origins. Do we keep it mysterious, or just outright allow people to know she was created by us? Plus, those of you, from Earth, you had a creature, right? Made out of parts?’ Tomoe said and asked.

Aeta nodded, considering Tomoe’s question. “I think it’s best to be upfront about her origins. We can explain that she’s a creation made by us, and we can even highlight the fact that she incorporates various magical materials and components. This way, we can maintain transparency and maybe even inspire others to pursue similar endeavors.”

Tomoe agreed with her lady’s words. “I like the idea of being honest about her creation. It could spark curiosity and conversations. Plus, it’s a good opportunity to share our knowledge and expertise.”

With the decision to be straightforward about Aurora’s origins, made, and her name remained unchanged. They now awaited Eliyen’s return with the completed outfit.

Eliyen soon returned with a new outfit, and she had what seemed to be a wooden sword in hand underneath. This sword appeared to be a prototype weapon design. Unfortunately, it was likely not useable due to its appearance, blade width, and length. “I’m back, with outfits and possible weapons we could get Sosaku to create. Unfortunately, the blacksmiths aren’t up to making it,” she said.

Aeta took the wooden sword in hand and inspected it. “Indeed, the material alone would be a heavy two-handed weapon at best, but with Aurora’s Mountain Ogre Muscles, she could theoretically wield it one-handed.” She said, “This design was created by an otherworlder, wasn’t it? It’s familiar. It does look like a design that I’ve seen in some games back on Earth, a massive great sword. It’s impressive, but we’d need to make it more practical for Aurora, considering her unique materials and strength.”

Tomoe added, “We could definitely ask Sosaku to recreate a more suitable weapon for her, something that fits her build and abilities. It should also be made from the materials we have, like the Orichalcum and Dracomail, to match her overall construction.”

Eliyen handed the new outfits to Aeta. “These should fit her well, and the materials are specially designed for her unique needs. We should have her try them on.”

With Aeta in control, Aurora began putting the clothes on, and Aeta smiled “Now she looks the part of an adventurer, though I’m not certain we should make a sword out of Dracomail, as it’s considered a “living metal” but there was a material I’d thought up before that we could use for her sword.” Aeta said.

Tomoe and Eliyen watched as Aeta dressed Aurora in the new outfit. Aurora indeed looked the part of an adventurer now. Aeta’s idea of using a different material for the sword caught their interest.

“What material are you thinking of, Aeta?” Tomoe asked. “We should ensure it’s something suitable for her and her unique abilities.”

“Mountain Ogre Muscles, give strength, Orichalcum is already stronger than bone, in addition to its other capability, hmm. In the other world, I thought of making a material using Titanium, Steel, Tungsten, Chromium, but do those exist in this world?” Aeta said.

Tomoe and Eliyen exchanged looks, and then Eliyen spoke up. “I’m not sure about some of those materials, but I believe we have something similar to steel here. Tungsten, however, I’m not so sure about. I think it’s worth asking around or maybe doing some research in the libraries to see if any similar materials exist in this world.”

Tomoe nodded in agreement. “I agree. We can’t be certain if we can find exactly what you’re looking for, but we might discover materials with similar properties that can be used to create the sword you have in mind.”

Aeta pondered their suggestions. “Yes, you’re right. I’ll look into it. In the meantime, we have a capable adventurer at our disposal. I’ll test her abilities further, and we can decide on how to introduce her to the world.”

With their new creation ready and the prospect of further adventures ahead, they continued their work on refining Aurora Steelheart and her abilities.

Aeta soon tested whether Aurora could cast spells, and discovered that yes, she could, and with her in control, she didn’t need to chant her spells. As Aurora was put through more tests, they tried to think of a good sword-based weapon that would be perfect for Aurora. Aeta was pleased with her success. The testing continued, focusing on her combat capabilities and how she could use her new magic and strength effectively.

In the meantime, they brainstormed ideas for a suitable sword-based weapon for Aurora. Aeta thought about materials that were more readily available in their world. “Perhaps a weapon made of enchanted steel or some other locally available alloy would suffice,” she suggested. “We could also incorporate some unique design elements to make it visually striking. As we continue our adventures, we can always look for rare materials or enhance her weapon further.”

Tomoe and Eliyen nodded their head in agreement. “Agreed, that would be best to use for now.” They said at the same time, then laughed at each other. “Now then, I think we should introduce our Aurora Steelheart to the citizens, and especially Lord Augustus, as technically, she was born as it was in his province. He has to be made aware of new citizens.” Tomoe said.

Aeta agreed with the idea of introducing Aurora Steelheart to the people of the province, especially to her father, Lord Augustus. “It would be best to discuss her origins and purpose with him. I hope he’ll appreciate the benefits she can bring to our province.” Aeta said on the topic.

With their new creation ready for the world, the group prepared to introduce Aurora Steelheart to the province’s residents and, ultimately, to Lord Augustus. They wanted to make sure her arrival was smooth, and that everyone understood her role as an adventurer and protector of the province.

Once they got Aurora dressed, the four made their way to the door and entered the Lord’s Manor Proper. There they countered Hikaru Murama, Aeta’s crush, who gasped as she nearly walked into Aeta, and stepped back. “Oh, my! Sorry about that, I was coming in to see you, and who’s she?” Hikaru asked, pointing at Aurora.

Aeta smiled and introduced Hikaru to their new companion. “Hikaru, this is Aurora Steelheart. She’s an adventurer and guardian created by me and our friends. Aurora, this is Hikaru Murama, an important friend and ally.”

Hikaru looked at Aurora with a mix of amazement and curiosity. “Wow, you created her? That’s incredible! It’s a pleasure to meet you, Aurora,” she said with a friendly smile.

Under Aeta’s control, Aurora bowed to Hikaru. “We’re taking her to introduce her to Lord Augustus. How about you come with us?” Aeta asked Hikaru with a smile on her face.

Hikaru nodded enthusiastically. “That sounds like a great idea! I’d love to meet Lord Augustus and be there for Aurora’s introduction. It’s a big moment!” The group made their way to Lord Augustus, who was in his study going through some documents. He looked up as they entered, and when he saw the group, he smiled.

“Greetings, everyone,” Lord Augustus said. “What brings you here today?”

Aeta stepped forward, introducing Aurora Steelheart to him, explaining her origins and their intention to have her serve as a guardian and adventurer for the province. Lord Augustus listened carefully and observed Aurora with interest.

“Aurora Steelheart, huh?” he mused. “Very well then, I welcome you to our province, Aurora. Your purpose is admirable, and I’m sure you’ll serve us well.” With Lord Augustus’s approval, Aeta and her friends felt even more determined to integrate Aurora into their lives and community, ready to face new adventures and challenges together.

Lord Augustus looked at Aurora one last time, before turning his attention back to Aeta and Hikaru. “By the way, I’ve called for a meeting with the Victims of the Otherworlder Summoning, used by the Demons, to discuss things including an incident, which you know about, Murama-san, correct?” Hikaru nodded her head.

Hikaru nodded again. “Yes, I’m aware of the incident you’re referring to. I’ll make sure to attend the meeting, and I’m sure Aeta will be there, too.”

Lord Augustus smiled at their commitment. “That’s good to hear. We must work together to heal and rebuild, and such meetings are essential for that purpose. I appreciate your dedication to our province. Now, I won’t keep you any longer. You have a new member to introduce to the community, after all.”

With his blessing, Aeta and her friends took their leave, their thoughts filled with optimism for the future and the adventures they would face alongside Aurora Steelheart.

The four soon left Lord Augustus’s office, and Aeta couldn’t help her curiosity get the better of her. “incidents?” she asked and Hikaru nodded “People are afraid of us, some try to avoid us, and in some cases there were harassment, we’ve tried to apologize for what the demons made us do, but it might be too soon. Some of the Otherworlder victims were talking about leaving, but doing so could be dangerous without support of some kind.” Hikaru said.

Aeta nodded thoughtfully as they walked. “I can understand their concerns. It’s a difficult situation for everyone involved. We need to find a way to help them integrate into our society while providing support and understanding. We should definitely attend the meeting and see how we can contribute to resolving these issues.”

As they continued walking, Aeta couldn’t help but wonder about the impact her actions in the world were having on the victims who had been forced to do terrible things. She hoped that they could find a way to heal and rebuild together.

Aeta remembered the cabin she had approached when she arrived in this world and remembered hearing that there were more cabins out near Experimental Zone Alpha. She didn’t verbally speak her mind, but she had an idea she could bring up at the meeting.

As they continued their journey, Aeta kept her idea in mind. She knew that finding more cabins in Experimental Zone Alpha’s rest area for newcomers could potentially provide shelter for the Otherworlders and help them integrate into this world. It was an idea worth discussing at the meeting, and she hoped it could be a step towards a more comprehensive solution to the problems they were facing.

With her mind made up, she focused on introducing Aurora to society, hoping to make a good first impression on the public.

Aeta and her companions continued to introduce Aurora Steelheart to the public, and over time, she became known as a unique and helpful individual in Verdantwood Province. Her impressive abilities and the respect she earned among the people led to her acceptance as a fellow citizen. During one incident, a bull had escaped its enclosure, and immediately Aurora charged forward, using Aeta’s power, and stepped in front of the bull before it could injure some kids nearby. Struggle as the Bull might, it couldn’t move Aurora, who held on strong.

Aurora’s heroic act not only saved the children from harm, but also solidified her reputation as a guardian and protector of the community. News of her brave action quickly spread throughout the province, and she became a symbol of courage and resilience for the people.

As time went on, Aeta and her companions continued to help Aurora adapt to her role as a citizen of Nirvalise. Their journey together was filled with adventures and challenges, but it was through their collective efforts that they found ways to live peacefully in their new world, finding unity among its diverse inhabitants.

Registering Aurora as an adventurer was a smooth process, thanks to Aeta’s influence and her heroic actions. With her newfound status as an adventurer, Aurora Steelheart could contribute to the community in a more official capacity, joining her fellow adventurers on quests and missions. Her unique abilities and strength made her a valuable asset to the guild, and she quickly gained the respect of her fellow adventurers.

Soon it was time to return to the Lord’s Manor, and as they did, she saw many of the Otherworlders also approaching. From Hikaru, she was introduced to each of them, and she learned of their skills and their previous backgrounds before they entered the meeting hall. Aeta sat beside Hikaru, and Eliyen and Tomoe remained outside. Only Aurora was allowed in, mostly because, as a special kind of puppet, she was under the control of Aeta.

The meeting hall was filled with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty as the victims of the Otherworlder Summoning gathered along with Aeta and Aurora. Aeta observed the group of otherworlders she had only heard of until now. Each one had a unique story and set of skills, and it was clear that they were all grappling with their own challenges since arriving in this world.

As the meeting began, discussions focused on the recent incidents, including the one that Aeta had intervened in. There was an air of tension, as the victims sought understanding and acceptance among the local citizens. Aeta listened to their stories and concerns, empathizing with the struggles they faced. She couldn’t help but think of her own journey and how she had found a place in this world.

When the opportunity arose, Aeta shared her thoughts and experiences, highlighting her successful integration into society and her collaboration with creating Aurora. She suggested creating a support system for the Otherworlders, including establishing cabins and a safe zone outside Experimental Zone Alpha, where they could live and train together. Aeta believed that by working together, they could help each other adapt to their new lives and become valuable members of the community.

The meeting discussions continued, with Aeta’s proposal generating interest and support among those present. Over time, a plan was developed to implement her idea, and Aeta’s influence grew as she became a voice of unity and hope for the Otherworlders.

Lord Augustus added to the meeting as he not only included where the cabins were, and how advanced they were using a new combination of technology and magic together. It had been decided that these cabins would be moved to be closer to Aeta’s cabin, which established a residential district.

The combined efforts of Aeta, Hikaru, and Lord Augustus led to a promising future for the Otherworlders. The creation of the residential district near Aeta’s cabin, equipped with advanced technology and magic, offered a safe and supportive environment for the newcomers. The vision of a community where Otherworlders could thrive and learn to harness their unique skills began to take shape.

As the meeting concluded, a sense of unity and hope permeated the room. The attendees left with newfound purpose and determination. Aeta, who had once been a stranger in this world, had become a symbol of support and progress, and she was determined to continue working alongside her friends to create a better future for all.

Aeta watched as many of the Otherworlders left, they had packing to do after all, and then she turned to Lord Augustus, and spoke to him. “By the way, I meant to ask about the monsters in Experimental Zone Alpha. Have any been discovered to be a reincarnation like me?” she asked, as he was the leader of the experiment, she was certain he might be aware.

Lord Augustus considered Aeta’s question carefully. “The monsters in Experimental Zone Alpha have always been a mystery, and we’ve encountered various forms of creatures there. It’s possible that some may have similarities to the Otherworlders, but determining if any are reincarnated like you is a challenge, especially since they’re mostly feral and difficult to communicate with. However, your unique situation might provide an opportunity to investigate further.”

Aeta nodded, understanding the complexities of the situation. It seemed that there were still many secrets to uncover in this world, and she was determined to continue her exploration and research. “Though I admit, I had hoped because the magic particles that created them came from you, they’d be less feral. But maybe it’s because they are scared. I mean, I was when I first arrived,” Aeta admitted.

Lord Augustus nodded thoughtfully. “Fear can make even the most reasonable creatures act irrationally. The magic particles might indeed affect their behavior, It’s a complex situation, and more research and understanding are needed. Your own journey and experiences here have been instrumental in bridging the gap between our worlds. It’s quite the undertaking.”

He paused and then continued, “Aeta, your unique abilities and your ability to control that construct make you a significant asset, not just for your family, but for this entire region. I’m sure you’ll continue to uncover more mysteries and make positive contributions.”