The Golden Knight of Valtheria

The Expansion of Their Legacy

With The Crimson Forge thriving, Ryusei and Leon dedicated themselves to expanding their influence in the capital. Their weapons and armor were becoming highly sought after, not just by adventurers but by noble families looking for finely crafted, enchanted gear. The forge became a well-known establishment, its reputation spreading across the city.

Leon enjoyed the business but also indulged in the city's nightlife. He was frequently seen at bars, brothels, and exclusive gambling halls, making connections with some of the capital's more influential figures. His experience as a warrior, combined with his charismatic yet rough personality, made him a favorite among mercenaries and seasoned fighters.

Meanwhile, Ryusei focused more on perfecting the craft of weapon-making. Having learned blacksmithing during his Makai training, he applied that knowledge to forging swords infused with fire and lightning magic, along with specialized armor designed for both offense and defense.

Their shop's success meant they could afford to hire skilled workers, allowing them more freedom to take on adventurer quests and Makai Order missions.

A Chance Meeting at The Crimson Forge

One afternoon, as Ryusei inspected a newly crafted obsidian dagger with intricate silver etchings, the bell at the entrance rang, signaling a new customer.

Looking up, he saw Mirajane Strauss walking in.

She carried herself with the grace of a noble, yet she wasn't dressed in elegant finery like most aristocrats. Instead, she wore practical adventuring gear—a fitted black tunic, reinforced leather pants, and boots sturdy enough for battle. Her silver-white hair cascaded down her back, and her piercing blue eyes surveyed the weapons on display.

Leon, who had been lounging behind the counter, whistled. "Well, well. A noble lady gracing our humble forge. What brings you here, Miss Strauss?"

Mirajane smirked. "I heard your shop was the best in the city for custom weaponry. I need a sword that can handle high-magic output."

Ryusei raised an eyebrow. "A custom request? What's the magic you're channeling?"

She met his gaze, her confidence unwavering. "Take-Over Magic. My strength varies depending on my form. I need a weapon that won't break under pressure."

Ryusei's interest was piqued. Take-Over Magic was powerful, and few weapons could endure its constant fluctuations in magical output.

"We can craft something for you," he said, setting the dagger down. "But it won't be cheap."

Mirajane chuckled. "Money isn't an issue."

Leon leaned forward with a grin. "A noble who fights and isn't afraid to spend? I like you already."

Ryusei ignored his uncle's antics and gestured for Mirajane to follow him to the back workshop. "Come with me. Let's discuss the design."

The Forge and the First Connection

Inside the workshop, the heat from the forge bathed the room in an orange glow. Mirajane examined the different materials laid out—dragon scales, enchanted metals, reinforced leather.

"Impressive," she murmured, running a finger over a sword hilt crafted from Abyssal Iron.

Ryusei nodded. "Tell me about your forms. The sword's flexibility depends on how much force it'll need to withstand."

Mirajane took a seat at the nearby workbench. "My primary combat form is my Hellcat Form. It enhances my speed and strength while generating high-temperature flames."

Ryusei scribbled down notes, considering potential enchantments. "Then you'll need something resistant to extreme heat and sturdy enough to endure high-impact strikes. I can forge a blade using Eldric Steel infused with dragon fire. It'll retain its sharpness, no matter how much power you channel."

Mirajane watched him work, intrigued by how precise and focused he was. "You're serious about this craft."

Ryusei glanced up. "You don't half-ass weapons. If you do, they fail you when you need them most."

Mirajane smiled. "I respect that."

A Visit to the Estate

A few days after placing her order, Mirajane visited The Crimson Forge again, this time dressed more casually. Leon, seeing the opportunity for Ryusei to socialize, smirked and suggested Mirajane visit their estate while her weapon was being forged.

To Ryusei's surprise, she agreed.

When she arrived, she took in the grandeur of the estate with a raised eyebrow. "You live well for a blacksmith and an adventurer."

Ryusei shrugged. "We don't just make weapons. We hunt beasts, take on dangerous missions, and sell high-quality gear. It pays well."

She followed him to the backyard, where the luxurious pool sparkled under the sun. She smirked. "Didn't take you for someone who indulged in leisure."

Ryusei chuckled. "Even warriors need a break."

She kicked off her boots and dipped her foot in the water. "Warm. Is this enchanted?"

"Yeah. It's temperature-controlled."

After some convincing, Mirajane took the plunge and swam for a while. Ryusei eventually joined her, and the two spent the afternoon talking—about their experiences, their families, and their reasons for becoming adventurers.

She leaned against the pool's edge, watching him with curiosity. "You're different from most men I've met."

Ryusei smirked. "Good different?"

Mirajane laughed. "So far."

The two continued talking as the sun set, slowly laying the foundation for something neither had anticipated.

The Beginning of Something More

As Mirajane dried off and prepared to leave, she looked at Ryusei. "I'll be back when my sword is ready."

Ryusei nodded. "I'll make sure it's perfect."

Leon, who had been eavesdropping from a distance, grinned as she left. "I like her. You should keep her around."

Ryusei rolled his eyes. "It's not like that."

Leon chuckled. "Not yet."

And with that, the next chapter of Ryusei's life began—not just as a warrior or blacksmith, but as someone forging connections beyond battle.