Game Started

After breakfast, Leone went directly to his office, immersing himself in paperwork. The early morning sun shone through the wide windows, casting long golden streaks across the wooden desk. The room was silent except for the occasional rustling of pages and the scratching of his quill. After some time, a knock interrupted the quiet atmosphere.

"Yes, come in," Leone called without looking up.

The door opened, revealing Ashan. Leone raised his head, smiling at the sight of his son.

"Oh, it's you, son. What is the matter? Go ahead, speak."

Ashan stepped forward, standing firmly in front of his father.

"Father, I have a request. I need materials and workers for a small construction project. It's for my research."

Leone leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers on the table.

"Hmm... I see. What exactly do you plan to build? Is it even worth the effort?"

Ashan confidently placed a blueprint on the desk.

"I assure you, it is. And yes, I have a proper plan."

Ashan kept his blueprint on the table. Leone picked up the blueprint and examined it closely. His eyes widened slightly as he traced the carefully drawn lines and annotations.

"This... this is impressive, son. I never knew you had such skill in drafting. It's neat, detailed, and well-structured."

Ashan shrugged modestly. "I just followed the format of some blueprints I've seen before. And I have also prepared a list of required materials and construction guidelines. If you hand these to a builder, they can get started right away. I'd like it to be built in our garden, where the sunlight is ample."

Leone nodded approvingly. "Alright, I'll make arrangements. Construction will begin immediately. If any modifications are needed, inform me."

"Thank you, Father. Also, yesterday, you mentioned that when you attempted to plant Lunaris, you sought assistance from tree spirits?"

Leone sighed. "Yes, but as I said before, it was a failure. Their blessings did not work."

"What exactly is their 'blessing'?"

"Tree spirits can infuse plants with their mana, accelerating their growth and enhancing their properties. That is what we refer to as a blessing. However, when we tried it on Lunaris, the plants withered instead."

Ashan tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Are they taking mana from trees and redistributing it to other plants?"

"In a sense, yes. But instead of merely transferring mana, they refine and multiply it before bestowing it upon other flora."

Ashan's eyes gleamed with understanding. "That's promising. Could I request the assistance of some tree spirits for my research?"

Leone raised an eyebrow. "You want to try using their power again?"

"Not exactly in the same way. I have another method in mind."

"If you need them, I'll tell my elder spirits to gather some." 

"Father If you like, can I talk with him and ask direct help from them?" 

"That's way better. In that way you can do as you like. Should I call them now?"

"Yes, if you can." 

Leone closed his eyes briefly, summoning the spirits. Moments later, three shimmering black birds materialized above them, their feathers glistening with an ethereal glow. They circled the room before perching nearby.

"Why have you summoned us, Leone? Is there a matter requiring our aid?" The spirits spoke in unison, their voices resonating like a soft breeze through the trees.

Leone gestured toward Ashan. "My son has a request for you. Please hear him out and assist him if possible."

The spirits turned their glowing eyes toward Ashan.

"It is good to see you again, young one. What is it that you seek?"

Ashan smiled. "I appreciate your help. Could we continue this discussion outside? I have something to ask you, and I don't wish to disturb my father's work."

"As you wish."

As Ashan stepped onto the balcony, the spirits followed. Leone watched them leave, deep in thought.

What exactly is he planning? A house, the spirits... His actions are unpredictable. But whatever it is, I'll observe for now.

Once outside, the spirits flitted around Ashan.

"Now, tell us your request," one of them urged.

"I need fifteen tree spirits who specialize in mana absorption and multiplication."

"For what purpose?"

"For cultivation. I don't need their blessing in the usual way; rather, I have a different use for their abilities."

The spirits exchanged glances. "We understand. When do you require them?"

"For now, simply gather them. There's something I need to prepare before their arrival."

Just then, a distant sound of hooves drew Ashan's attention. A rider approached the mansion at full speed, carrying a sealed letter in hand. Ashan narrowed his eyes as the messenger dismounted.

"That's my only request for now. Thank you for your help," Ashan said to the spirits.

"It shall be done. We take our leave."

As the spirits vanished, Ashan descended to the living room, where Leone was already reading the letter with furrowed brows. A tense silence filled the room. He waved his hand and called the nearby servant. 

"Quickly inform the previous lord and my wife to come here immediately. Say it urgently." 

Seeing his expression, servant was quickly went to summon Boris and Maria. They arrived shortly, concern etched on their faces.

"What is it, son? Why did you summon us?" Boris asked as he settled beside Leone.

Leone handed him the letter. 

"This came from the Loyanal family. It was written by Hugo Loyanal himself. He claims to be in our territory on business and has requested a visit this evening."

Maria's eyebrows shot up. "The Loyanal family? They have never shown interest in us before. Why now?"

Boris crossed his arms, his face darkening. "This does not bode well. There's no doubt they have ulterior motives."

"I agree, Father. It's highly likely that this concerns the medicine trade."

"What else could it be?" Boris smirked.

"Shall I send a response accepting their visit?" Leone asked.

"Of course. We have no reason to refuse. We'll see what they're up to."

Maria stood. "I'll ensure preparations are made for their arrival."

"Have the kitchen prepare a meal fit for six guests," Leone instructed. "The entire main family is coming."

Ashan listened silently before stepping outside. The wind rustled the leaves, carrying an air of anticipation.

They aren't coming here for pleasantries. They want something. But they won't get what they desire—not while I'm here. Let's see how this game unfolds.

To be continued...