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Chapter 551: Lanchi and Sigure's Familiarity
Chapter 551: Lanchi and Sigure's Familiarity
In the temple, beneath the statue of the God of Rocks and Protection.
"You are a true divine craftsman; we don't know how to thank you enough!"
Archduke Algom eagerly shook Lanchi's hands, filled with gratitude.
"How did you manage to not only restore the ancient divine script but also imbue it with new magical effects? We've consulted scholars from various races, and none mentioned the possibility of repairing these ancient texts."
Algom was baffled, still amazed by the seemingly impossible feat Lanchi had accomplished.
"Some craftsmen excel in painting, others in sculpting, and there are those who dedicate themselves to academic research. A bit of knowledge in ancient artifact studies can go a long way in preserving such artifacts."
Lanchi humbly explained, downplaying his extraordinary skills.
"Then, which area is your specialty?"
Archduke Algom's gaze shifted back to the statue, trying to discern Lanchi's area of expertise.
"I have a little knowledge of everything."
Lanchi replied with a smile, his tone light and cheerful.
"Haha, as expected of you."
Archduke Algom's respect for Lanchi was evident in his voice.
The bear-like beasts filled the temple with their applause and cheers, and amidst this festive atmosphere, Archduke Algom expressed their sincere gratitude to Lanchi repeatedly.
He asked the temple guards and priests to temporarily disperse and attend to the crowd within the temple, choosing to spend time alone with this extraordinary craftsman, engaging in conversation.
"Mr. Loche, your skill and dedication have touched us all. You have not only restored our statue but also mended our trust in human craftsmen. I shall personally write to the other archdukes, requesting that they extend their best hospitality to you."
Archduke Algom's voice was deep and earnest, his eyes reflecting the sincerity of his words.
"What you have accomplished here is not just art but a sacred contribution. We are forever grateful, Mr. Loche. Remember, wherever you go, should you ever need assistance, we will not hesitate to lend our support."
He added, feeling that mere words of gratitude were not enough to repay Lanchi's service.
Having a craftsman with such skills willing to help them for a meager sum was an act of pure goodwill.
"Please don't feel obligated, Mr. Algom. I only wish to make friends with you, so there's no pressure. Even without any compensation or in the face of danger, I would still do my best to repair the statue here in the Land of Eternal Night. If there are any other items related to the God of Rocks and Protection that need repair in the future, feel free to send someone to find me in Hersham or contact Queen Kechia."
Lanchi waved his hand dismissively, his smile relaxed and his gaze steady as he looked into Algom's eyes.
"…Is that so?"
Archduke Algom and Lanchi held each other's gaze for a long moment before the archduke finally smiled, his expression one of relief.
He had never seen such clear and honest eyes.
He believed that this craftsman's heart was pure and that his actions were driven by a strong sense of responsibility.
"Don't you find it troublesome? After all, from my perspective, you don't seem to be particularly religious."
Archduke Algom commented as he walked alongside Lanchi, leading him away from the noisy crowd.
They strolled along the inner side of the temple, engaging in casual conversation.
At that moment, he was deeply intrigued by this exceptional human craftsman.
He had encountered many humans, their souls vibrant and brilliant, capable of standing firm without relying on any religious faith. But the human before him now exuded this quality even more strongly.
"No, not at all."
Lanchi shook his head and waved his hand, a gentle smile playing on his lips.
He paused, his smile growing as a thought came to mind.
"The thoughts that float in my mind are like a lover standing before me. I admire your spirit—your faith in the gods, your dedication to protecting the land, and your discipline. In this world, it's truly commendable to have such a strong and positive belief system."
Lanchi's reply was heartfelt and sincere.
He humbly shared his thoughts and experiences in maintaining statues, discussing with Algom his interpretation of the Chapter of Rocks and Protection in the Book of Creation. His words revealed a deep love for craftsmanship and a respect for cultural diversity, and he offered suggestions on how Algom could ensure regular cleaning and maintenance of the statue.
Archduke Algom listened intently, nodding in agreement from time to time, completely engrossed in Lanchi's words.
As the sky gradually lightened, the temple in Little Stone City seemed even more pristine in the dawn's light.
"Mr. Algom, I must depart for the next city-state. We will surely have many more opportunities to meet if you wish."
The time for farewells had come, and Lanchi, mindful of the time, apologized for having overstayed his welcome with Algom's enthusiastic hospitality.
"Of course, I look forward to our next meeting."
Archduke Algom clasped Lanchi's hand tightly, reluctant to part, wishing him a safe journey ahead and presenting him with a commemorative badge as a token of their newfound friendship.
Soon after bidding farewell, Lanchi left the temple through a less conspicuous rear exit.
At the end of the passage, he paused to change his attire. He removed his craftsman's attire and placed it into his briefcase, donning once more the formal attire of the Protoss Empire.
As he exited the temple, Lanchi looked up at the sky, noticing the dawn's light beginning to spread across the horizon. The air carried the freshness of a new day, along with the unique chill and crispness of Little Stone City.
Lanchi took a deep breath, savoring the scent of this land.
"Hmm, I thought Sigure had left earlier," he mused, scanning the entrance of the temple but failing to spot Sigure's figure.
He walked alone across the stone square, past the neatly arranged stalls. Glancing around, he finally spotted Sigure in a corner just outside the temple.
She was seated beneath a protruding stone pillar, surrounded by a group of young beastman delinquents. They were engaged in a game of cards, with some money on the ground, creating a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere.
Sigure's expression was focused as she sat on the ground, joining the delinquents in their gambling. And from the money in her hand, it seemed that she had won a small sum.
Most likely, their current bet was on whether Lanchi would successfully complete the restoration work.
Lanchi slowly walked over and stood beside Sigure. He didn't rush her, but his furrowed brows betrayed his slight displeasure.
Sigure glanced up at Lanchi, and the silence between them made her feel a little uncomfortable.
It felt like being picked up from school by her parents.
"It's fine, finish this round," Lanchi said.
The surrounding beastmen delinquents stared at Sigure in surprise. They couldn't believe that this dirty-looking girl had a well-dressed, wealthy companion waiting for her.
"No, it's boring now," Sigure said as she stood up, dusting off her pants. She gestured for Lanchi to walk with her.
The two strolled through the streets of Little Stone City, heading toward the post station to retrieve the Snowfield Dark Stag.
For a long while, Lanchi remained silent.
"I didn't waste any time, did I? Why do you look unhappy?" Sigure asked bluntly, glancing at Lanchi.
"I'm not unhappy," Lanchi replied naturally.
"When you say you're not angry, that means you're angry. And when you say you're not unhappy, that means you're a little unhappy," Sigure countered, spreading her hands.
That's what the nuns at the orphanage would say when the priest made them angry.
"…."
Lanchi fell silent for a moment before continuing, "While I won't tell you what hobbies are good or bad for someone your age, or what a girl your age should or shouldn't do—after all, my best friend enjoys a little gambling now and then—I do think it's necessary to say a few words."
Lanchi's gaze was calm, as if to say—you asked for my opinion, so don't get angry with what I have to say.
"Go on," Sigure nodded.
She had been lectured by this man for drinking before, and now she was caught gambling. She knew he would start lecturing her again.
"Good people don't go to bad places, but bad people will come to good places. You need to understand how to draw the line," Lanchi said, turning his head slightly to look at Sigure with concern.
Sigure was stunned for a long moment.
No one had ever lectured her like this before.
"Tsk, you actually look down on me, don't you?" Sigure stuck out her tongue, expressing her thoughts.
"...."
Lanchi didn't respond, only looking ahead as he walked, "Earlier, you could have entered the hall of nobility with me, but you chose to stay outside."
Lanchi continued walking toward the city gate, "Sometimes, the choice is actually in your hands."
Everyone has the chance to improve themselves, but without a reminder, they may not realize it.
He stated a fact matter-of-factly, also implying that she had the potential to be a king, but she might choose to wallow in mediocrity.
Perhaps Lanchi quickened his pace slightly, or perhaps Sigure hesitated for a moment.
Sigure remained silent for a while before hurrying to catch up with him.
"Oh," she replied.
The little black cat sat on Lanchi's shoulder, watching Sigure's small figure.
It was surprised at how smoothly these two were getting along.
Although Sigure appeared carefree and rebellious, she surprisingly listened to Lanchi's admonishments.
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PS: The next chapter will jump directly to several city-states later, nearing the endpoint of the Demon Realm. As I mentioned before, I won't write about each city-state individually. The six city-states are only to correspond to the six-day time frame, making it easier to understand and remember.
(End of Chapter)
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