Growth, Government Response

A week after Puppet absorbed the heart of the world tree, through continuous training and the use of many resources, Puppet's level had risen at a speed that even made Aura impressed.

[Leafy Marionette - Aura]

Type: Wood/Mystical

Level: 15

Health: 76/76 (+7) (Healthy)

Constitution: 27 (+3)

Strength: 15 (+1)

Agility: 11 (+1)

Defense: 11 (+1)

Mana: 122/122 (+11)

[Skills]

Leafy Costume...

Puppet Strings...

Puppet Sprout...

Lydian and Ariel's monsters also leveled up during this period of time, being at level 13 and 10 respectively. Ariel's Cleansing Bubblefish also learned a new skill at level 10.

Refreshing Spirit - Cleansing Bubblefish has a calming effect on allies, increasing the rate at which they recover mana and increasing their negative status resistance

"Now that all our monsters are fairly strong, we can practice our teamwork. There are some gathering spots of wild monsters nearby, we will be able to return later today," suggested Aura.

"Sure, sounds fun!" said Lydian.

The three monster trainers left their home for the nearest location with groups of comparatively higher level monsters. While defeating them wouldn't be a challenge, the purpose was to build up cooperation between the team. They did well, improving their teamwork slowly. After a while, Aura pointed out their weakness. "We lack a source of ranged damage. While Puppet Strings and Shatter can be used as ranged attacks, their lethality is limited."

Ariel agreed. "What do you suggest?"

"I already have a plan for my second contracted monster. It would be better for you to focus on the supporting aspect, so Lydian should get a ranged attacker as her second monster," Aura said and looked at Lydian. "If you agree, I can send you a list of monsters that you might like."

"I think it's a good idea," replied Lydian. Aura nodded and sent her a list. Lydian stopped and looked through it, considering how much she liked it and how well it would fit in the team. "The Shard Feathered Serpent looks suitable for me."

"The place where that is located is quite far away and both Ariel and I don't have that much time to spare. Going to contract it by yourself is a good chance to experience exploring areas on your own and build up some independence."

"Ok, I can set off tomorrow!"

The group continued on their training.

In a large conference room, an assembly of serious looking individuals were seated around a long rectangular table. The windows taking up the entire wall overlooked the capital city from far above. These individuals made up the vast majority of those holding power in the Dragon Empire.

"Prime Minister, the Immortal Republic has already implemented many policies to support monster trainers and are raising monster trainers as part of their army and law enforcement. The Phoenix Empire is about to do the same. If we don't follow suit, we will fall behind."

"Don't worry, Mr. Alexander. I am considering many factors right now. If things go well, we will soon be holding a vast amount of monster training materials. Grand General Kavox, everything in on track, right?"

"Yes. Many of our troops have already been stationed in the new small worlds that have appeared. A steady stream of supplies is already on its way. There was a small issue in one of them though."

"Oh? What happened?"

"There was a report of three masked individuals, one male and two female, who arrived before us. They incapacitated our troops when we tried to detain them, and we are still trying to survey what they could have taken."

"No clue of their identities?"

"No."

"We can ignore them for now. As for implementing new policies, we can begin our meeting discussing them now." Every one in the room assented.

Aura, Lydian, and Ariel returned to their home from a tiring training session.

"That was great, Lyn enjoyed working together with everyone!" exclaimed Lydian.

"Yes, training with other people is always more fun," said Aura.

"Oh, look! The government made some reforms!"

"So the reforms are starting," thought Aura. "They should be beneficial to us."

"What are they?" asked Aura out loud.

Lydian looked through the notice the government posted. "There will be various services related to monster training available to the public. There will be a new department overseeing civilian monster trainers and all contracted monsters have to be registered. A class teaching about the basics of monster training will be added to school curriculums, and scholarships will be awarded to excellent monster trainers. Students with poorer families will also receive some basic resources as welfare. The army is also recruiting monster trainers."

"Isn't this too much?" asked Ariel.

"If our country doesn't support its monster trainers, others will overtake us. By building up an environment where monster training is valued, our society as a whole will progress faster. High level combat strength will eventually grow to a point sufficient to win entire wars, and the government wants to facilitate this growth."

The two girls nodded.

"Let's continue working hard! Only this way can become a part of this new era!"