Chapter 341. Receiving a Pass Necklace (2)

Upon returning to the warehouse—no, workshop, Chi-Woo secretly looked at Yeriel’s user information while she and Emmanuel continued to bicker with each other.

1. Name & Rank: Yeriel Lilly Dula Mariaju (☆☆☆)

2. Sex & Age: Female & 21

3. Height & Weight: 160.2 cm & 46.7kg

4. Denomination: Mamiya of ‘Harmony’, who sings of adventure and courage

5. Tier: Gold II

6. Class: Technician -> Engineer -> Beginner Professional Engineer -> [Intermediate Professional Engineer]

7. Heavenly Title: The Midpoint of a Master at the Pinnacle of Their Field

8. Disposition: True Neutral

[Strength D]

[Durability D]

[Agility D]

[Stamina D]

[Mental Fortitude B]

[Mana A]

1. [Mariaju’s Magic Engineering B] - A new type of engineering unique to the Mariaju family that combines Clair’s magic and industrial theory. Extremely advanced technology is no different from magic.

2. [Brilliant Dexterity A+] - A talent for making or performing any tasks well with hands. At this point, the user can make objects in her own way without following the standard format.

1. [Forging Technique A] - The ability to make anything with fire by hands alone. With the proper materials and environment, the user can embody imagination into reality. Among things that exist in the human realm, there is nothing that the user cannot make other than divine objects. It’s just a matter of time and budget.

After checking her user information, Chi-Woo’s expression brightened because he could now understand why his brother had specifically pointed out Yeriel among all the other heroes. Yeriel’s ability followed a completely different trajectory than normal heroes. Rather than a combat class, it was more accurate to call her an artisan. Or in other words, she was a hero who specialized in supporting and assisting others from behind the scenes rather than going out on the bloody battlefield. Moreover, Seven Stars wasn’t the only one Yeriel would be helpful to. If they used her abilities properly, they could further boost the strength of humanity and even the Cassiubia League overall.

[Yeriel Lilly Dula Mariaju - Page (1/1)]

1. ‘7 Ways to Become a Great and Respected Parent’: Reach at least 75% in trust (Incomplete)

2. Become acknowledged by the ‘buhguhbu’ tribe and gain their cooperation (Incomplete)

3. Construct a specialized workshop centered around ‘tohari’ (Incomplete)

4. Be promoted to ‘Platinum’ Tier and obtain ‘Advanced Professional Engineer’ (Incomplete)

5. Use at least 4 and at most 6 points of ‘Blessed Luck’ (Incomplete)

Chi-Woo became more assured of this after seeing the conditions provided by Power to Rule the World. Yeriel’s ability wasn’t able to shine because of the current environment, but she was already a talent. Chi-Woo didn’t know if she had the potential to become a star, but she was at least worth investing his Blessed Luck in.

“So what are you going to do?” Yeriel sat still prettily, and her eyes sparkled. She was delighted to gain a strong and trustworthy patron. Chi-Woo read the conditions of Power to Rule the World again. The first was something they needed to solve together, and it seemed as if it would be most efficient for Yeriel to accomplish the fourth task herself. Since the fifth one needed to be considered after the whole process was complete, the only ones that he could help immediately were the second and third one—although he didn’t know what a tohari was.

Chi-Woo said, “However, there are conditions.”

“Conditions? What, you need a condition on top of this? If you just solve all the things I told you before, I already told you that my body and heart are all yours?”

“…Please raise your tier to platinum and accept Advanced Professional Engineer as your class.”

“Advanced Professional Engineer? Well, I would have…” Yeriel, who had been smiling brightly, trailed off. Knowing her tier was somewhat understandable, but how did he know her class? Although Yeriel suddenly became suspicious, she came to her own answer after thinking of Chi-Woo’s last name. He was the legend’s younger brother; he must have greater insights than normal heroes.

“And let’s go talk to the buhguhbus.”

“Right now? Hmm… Well, it doesn’t matter to me, but it’ll be hard.” Yeriel showed her blatant dislike because she remembered how she was completely ignored the last time she went to visit them.

“I’ll be going with you. Then it’ll be hard for them to ignore you. I have a connection with them, and they have something to request from me as well.”

“Hmm. This is the best timing then.” Yeriel nodded reluctantly. “All right. I wanted to talk to them at least once. I’m all for it if you set up a meeting.”

* * *

When they visited the buhguhbus’ area, a buhguhbu ran barefoot and welcomed Chi-Woo.

“Oh my! What honor for the leader of Seven Stars to come see me in person!” Mangil held Chi-Woo’s hands tightly, looking like he was moved. Witnessing this scene, Yeriel snorted loud enough that Mangil would hear her; his reaction was completely different when she had visited.

From Chi-Woo’s point of view, Mangil’s attitude had also changed significantly compared to their first meeting. This was evidence that Seven Star’s reputation had grown significantly among the Cassiubia League.

“Now, now, let’s go in, sir. It’s so noisy here, but it’ll be quieter inside. Come to think of it, you’ve been here before, right, sir?”

“Yes, and you can speak to me comfortably.”

“Ah, is that ok? I’ve actually been waiting for you to say that. I sound awkward even to myself. Anyway, I’m glad you’re the same as ever!” Mangil chuckled and led Chi-Woo inside. After sitting him down and asking how he was doing, Mangil immediately got to the point, “Have you ever heard of tohari?”

Chi-Woo had his doubts, but Mangil was the one to bring up this topic first. Chi-Woo leaned forward. “No, I don’t really know. Is it perhaps a secret method passed down among the buhguhbus?” This was his guess after hearing Eval Sevaru say that the buhguhbus had been showing great interest in the Kobalos’ recovery of their magic fire pit.

“No, not a secret method or anything like that. It’s just something good to have, but it’s not really necessary.” Mangil scratched and shook his head. Then he sighed and continued, “Yeah, it’s supposed to be like that…but recently, an occasion arose in which we really need it. Hmmm, I received a call from Cassiubia Mountain Range the other day.”

The Cassiubia Mountain Range was considered the League’s headquarters. If he got a call directly from there, it should be regarded as the opinion of the central figure of the Cassiubia League, the Last Dragon. “They told me to improve the quality of the equipment we supply.” Mangil smacked his lips. “Even though the current situation doesn’t call for it. Since they’re telling us to do it without question, I can’t help but feel flustered.”

Chi-Woo’s eyes narrowed. In addition to his brother’s behavior, it seems like something was also going on in the Cassiubia League. This could be useful information.

“Of course, I’m not very satisfied with the items we are currently producing, either. At best, it’s only a little better than basic supplies that are given out.”

“All members of Seven Stars, including me, are using them well though.”

“Haha, thanks for your kind words, but it’s okay. I’m not a fool who covers their ears and turns a blind eye to the fact that our products have significantly worsened compared to before.” Mangil let out a deep sigh once again. “The Cassiubia Mountain Range isn’t just playing hardball either. They said they’ll pay more attention to the supply of materials. But…”

Mangil didn’t finish his sentence, and Chi-Woo finished it for him, “The problem is with that tohari.”

“Yeah, it’s a problem now. Or to be exact, we’re at the point where it has become necessary.”

“What is tohari that you’re…”

“Well, do you happen to know what a blacksmith’s friend and enemy is?”

Chi-Woo shook his head slowly at Mangil’s sudden question.

“It’s fire. Those who call themselves blacksmiths must fight with fire and continue to hammer in a hot environment. For the rest of their life. So isn’t it only right to call fire a lifelong friend and enemy?” Mangil laughed with an artisan’s pride deeply imbued in his voice. “Fire is the most important thing for blacksmiths as well. Tools, skills, and materials are all important, but! How should I describe fire? It’s like the foundation that allows me to deal with everything I just mentioned.”

Yeriel nodded as if she could relate to his words. After listening to Mangil continuously laud fire, Chi-Woo showed signs of realization.

“Yes, you’re right. Tohari is none other than fire.” Mangil grinned and revealed his teeth. “Of course, it’s not just any fire. It’s a living, moving fire with its own will!”

Yeriel took a sharp breath. She didn’t show it, but it seemed she was quite surprised inside.

“If we can just get tohari, we will be able to communicate directly with the fire and do a finer process. There’s nothing as good as tohari in a job that treats fire like life.”

Yeriel’s expression looked dazed as she listened; it seemed as if just imagining it made her mouth water. It was an emotion difficult for Chi-Woo to understand; he just accepted it as fact.

“I would have requested for the workshop we used in our hometown to be moved here if it were possible. With those facilities, we would have been able to supply good quality equipment without tohari. However, our workshop has already fallen into the hands of enemy forces, and everything has been destroyed.” Mangil sounded a bit bitter. “There was nothing I could do, so I eventually went to the Kobalos and asked them for a favor in the hope that we would be able to get tohari using the fire pit. But when I went there, I only found a useless tin pot rolling around instead of a magic fire pit. The Kobalos’ leader grabbed me and lamented nonstop.”

Chi-Woo flinched, recalling what Yunael had told him.

“So while we were trying to figure out what to do, your name came up. I was wondering if we could get your help again this time. Of course, I’m not asking for free. As long as you get tohari for us, I assure you that the rewards will be well worth it.” Currently, there were limitations to the quality of equipment that could be manufactured with their facilities. Thus, they were trying to improve the quality by leaps and bounds by taking other measures.

“I’ll accept the request,” Chi-Woo answered immediately. He needed to get tohari anyway, and there was no harm in accepting a request in the process, especially since he needed to get the buhguhbus to cooperate with them. “I also have a favor to ask, so it’s perfect timing.”

“Yeah, tell me. I’ll do my best to fulfill it.”

After hearing Chi-Woo’s explanation, Mangil showed a positive reaction for the first time. “A professional workshop? Of course, we’ll set it up. Since tohari is a special fire, you need to have special facilities to handle it properly. Cooperation? Sounds good! It’ll probably be done if Dalgil comes and says a few words.” However, Mangil showed slight reluctance when Chi-Woo pointed at Yeriel.

“Hmm….she’s a bit…what? You look familiar?”

Chi-Woo became nervous. Fortunately, Mangil didn’t seem to remember that Mariaju had spat at them in anger.

“Anyway, even if it’s your request, this is a bit too much. Letting her inside the workshop is one thing, but you’re asking us to work together… It’s unimaginable for us.

“Is there a problem?”

“Yeah, there is. It might sound unexpected, but we don’t pursue money. Instead, we have an uncompromising pride in creating objects rather than money. That’s our pride as a working artisan. You can say it’s our last stronghold to not forget our duty even in a situation like this.”

‘Then why did your hands shake when you were paying the advance payment during your last request?’ Chi-Woo suppressed his urge to say that. “I understand what you mean, but I don’t think there will be any problem in that regard. Of course, compared to the many master artisans in the buhguhbus, she’s still very young, but she has the skills to be called a professional.”

Yeriel looked moved by Chi-Woo’s backing.

“Haha, master artisans. You praise us too much.” Mangil also grinned at Chi-Woo’s subtle flattery, but his expression soon stiffened. “I’m not saying that I don’t believe you, but there is a more fundamental problem.”

“A fundamental problem?”

“I can sense a strong magical scent from her.” Mangil pointed at Yeriel.

At that moment, there was a sudden low laugh. Yeriel was chuckling with her hand covering her mouth.

Mangil’s brows furrowed slightly. “Why are you laughing?”

“Ah, I’m sorry.” Yeriel, who soon stopped laughing, smiled and tilted her chin. “It felt like I’m looking at what my family used to be.”

Mangil glared at Yeriel’s seemingly dismissive tone. “Are you looking down on me—us, the buhguhbus?”

“Not at all. Rather, I sympathize with and understand your tribe’s perspective more than anyone else.”

“But your words and actions don’t seem to match,” Mangil said in a sarcastic tone; he was asking if this was the case, why was the scent of magic so strong from her then.

“Of course, I think a little differently from your tribe because I recognize the utility of magic and accept a part of it.” Yeriel shrugged.

“I knew it! I knew that was the case! Wait. Now that I look carefully, last time you…!”

“But!” Before Mangil could continue, Yeriel quickly cut him off and continued, “Before that, as a proud engineer, I don’t feel too good being treated like a mere spell caster.”

“…Aha.” Mangil’s expression eased a little at her following words. “As a proud engineer. You know how to get my attention.” Mangil looked at her with new eyes, his nose twitching. “On second thought, I can also smell the scent of fire from you as well. A deep scent of fire mixed with iron and steel.”

“Fire is a friend and enemy. It was a rather impressive remark.”

“Hmph. Anyone can talk. As I said before, the scent of magic is also quite strong on you. That’s why I find it even more difficult to understand. If you’re really a proud engineer, why do you smell like magic?”

Although Mangil sounded like he was dealing with a traitor, Yeriel was calm. She waggled her index finger and clicked her tongue. “There’s an old saying that advanced science is no different from magic.”

“That’s a statement I find difficult to agree with.” Mangil immediately denied it. “It’s not that I’m denying the utility of magic. I’m sure it has its uses as well, but not here at least.”

“Science is science and magic is magic. I also agree with you completely on this. But.” Yeriel continued, “Have you ever heard this proposition before—that advanced magic is no different from science?”

“That’s…” Mangil couldn’t answer. Chi-Woo had never heard this theory flipped before, either.

“Although it should be true in theory, it has not been established.” Advanced science is no different from magic, but advanced magic could not be science. “So what does this mean!”? Yeriel hit the table with her hand. “Science can include magic, but the reverse is impossible!” In other words, science could be science and magic, but magic could only be magic. “It’s no wonder! How can mere magic that comes out with a snap of your finger and an utterance from your mouth ever encompass science! Science, a systematic study of the structure and behavior of the natural world and human social phenomena through observation! And plays a critical part in discovering and developing universal laws and principles! It’s simply absurd!”

Pushed by the strange pressure coming from her whole body, Mangil nodded unconsciously. “That…that’s right! The depth of science is in a completely different league! Yes! Absolutely!”

“In the end, magic is just part of science!” It was a declaration that would have made Apoline throw a fit.

𝒇𝓻𝓮𝓮𝙬𝙚𝒃𝒏𝓸𝙫𝒆𝙡.𝓬𝓸𝒎

However, the one in front of her was Mangil, and he easily sympathized and agreed with Yeriel’s argument.

“Magic is just a convenient intermediate tool like a blacksmith’s hammer that can prove the excellence of science! It’s nothing more and nothing less than that!”

“Wow…wowwwwww!” Then Mangil stood up and applauded like crazy, giving her his enthusiastic cheer and support. “Pass! You passsss!” Tears streamed down his face, and he even asked for a handshake. “It was a wonderful speech indeed! I don’t agree with everything, but you’re making this old, cold heart beat with fire again!”

“Haha. You’re making me embarrassed.”

“No, Seven Star’s leader is right. Age has nothing to do with learning! Also, isn’t there a saying that what a child says is the truth? Magic is just a tool of science. I’m deeply ashamed that I never thought of it like that.” Mangil shook hands with Yeriel, and while wiping his eyes, he couldn’t suppress his amazement. “As expected! It is indeed a master’s hand! How beautiful!”

“Haha. I think your hands are not bad either.”

The two looked at each other’s hands and praised each other.

And Chi-Woo was just staring at them. “…” He didn’t know what exactly to say. He had felt this before, but their way of bonding was hard for a normal person to follow. The two talked for a long while and concluded their conversation by making an oath to become sworn brother and sister.

“Good! If you can obtain tohari, I will fully cooperate with my sister with my name on the line!”

‘Hmm, she’s already his sister,’ Chi-Woo thought. “…Ah, yes. Then I’ll try to get tohari for you.” Chi-Woo decided to accept the situation as it was without thinking further; that would be easier than trying to understand them.