Chapter 79: Riveria's Thoughts
Chapter 79 - Riveria's Thoughts
Riveria understood the magnitude of the situation.
If other elves discovered Orsted's soothing aura, and if he chose to embrace it, he could rally the elven race with a single call, igniting a tidal wave of loyalty.
The upheaval might be chaotic, but it could crown him the new elven royal, supplanting the current lineage.
Yet Orsted rejected that path.
As the former elven royalty, Riveria knew the royal family's sway.
In the elven capital, a single decree could mobilize 90% of elves worldwide, their obedience unwavering.
During Orario's darker days, when the Loki Familia battled the Evilus, Riveria, as the exiled princess, had commanded countless elves from various Familias.
Their unquestioning allegiance underscored the royal family's unparalleled influence.
Orsted's sacrifice was immense, a truth only Riveria could fully grasp.
He accepted her gratitude with calm composure.
Orsted knew the natural breath would still draw nearby elves, much like Riveria's own influence in the canon.
A single request could sway them—without the burdens of royalty.
Ryuu, for instance, had already pledged her aid after their second sparring session, offering help so long as it didn't cross her moral lines or harm those she cared for.
"By the way, Riveria-san," Orsted said, sipping his tea, "you didn't come just to confirm my aura, did you?"
Riveria paused, taking a sip of her tea before responding.
"I heard you bought blank books from the old bookstore."
"Are you crafting grimoires?"
Orsted's eyes widened. "Wait—those blank books were yours?"
He'd wondered how such tomes ended up in Orario's market.
Riveria's involvement explained it.
"So, you're making grimoires too?" he asked, surprise tinged with curiosity.
His knowledge of Riveria suggested she has the Mage but lacked Mystery.
Was she researching to trigger Mystery upon her next rank up?
Adventurers could influence Development Abilities through dedicated effort before rank up.
By immersing themselves in related tasks—Falna might register the aptitude, unlocking the ability upon the next level.
If Riveria was studying grimoires, her Mage prowess could indeed pave the way for Mystery.
It was a plausible theory, but Orsted wasn't sure.
"I suspected you were studying grimoires," Riveria said, a knowing look in her eyes.
"If so, we could collaborate when time allows."
"Your Mystery and my Mage could complement each other."
Orsted's face froze, caught in a dilemma.
Should he admit he didn't need to study—that he'd already crafted multiple grimoires, with a fourth completed just hours ago?
"What's wrong?"
Riveria asked, noting his complex expression, her brow furrowing in confusion.
Was discussing grimoire crafting a sensitive topic?
"Ahem," Orsted cleared his throat.
"Actually, I've already made grimoires."
Riveria's calm facade shattered.
Her eyes contracted, disbelief flooding her features as a storm churned within.
A Level 2 adventurer like Orsted shouldn't have the qualifications for grimoire crafting, which demanded both Mystery and Mage—two Development Abilities.
She'd assumed Orsted was researching, like her, aiming to trigger complementary abilities.
Her plan was clear: combine her Mage with his Mystery, study together, and unlock new potential upon their next rank ups.
But Orsted had already succeeded.
Her first instinct was that he was exaggerating.
Yet, his earnest gaze dispelled the thought—he had no reason to deceive her.
How could a Level 2 craft grimoires?
Riveria's mind raced.
She'd spent over a decade researching Mystery without success, her efforts yielding no breakthrough.
The realization hit hard, her breathing quickening.
"Are you alright?" Orsted asked, concern lacing his voice.
"Phew," Riveria exhaled, shaking her head.
"I'm fine. Sorry for that display."
"No need to apologize," Orsted said, waving it off.
"By the way, I was about to start my second grimoire of the day. Want to observe?"
As a fellow elf, he saw no harm in offering a gesture of goodwill.
Watching his process might not grant Riveria Mystery, but it could inspire her research—and earning the favor of a beautiful girl like her was no small gain.
Riveria's eyes widened, startled.
"Truly?"
"Absolutely," Orsted replied.
"If you're interested, follow me to the workshop."
Her heart leaped at the opportunity.
Observing a grimoire's creation could unlock insights she'd chased for years.
She stood, her tea forgotten, ready to witness Orsted's craft.
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