Aldoursaea: A Journey Within

Chapter V: Nullbound Explorer Unit

After several days, the moment Arch had been waiting for arrived, his twin swords were finally ready.

'Kellan Lutt', the smith next door, personally handed the sleek, unembellished weapons to Arch. "Take a look at these," he said, he said with pride.

As Arch inspected the swords, Kellan explained, "I used 'silversteel'... Forged from Ironpeaks Province of the Starhaven continent. This steel is known for its durability and capacity to maintain sharpness, very sturdy yet very pricy. My smithing style made it look like ordinary steel, trade secret of course. Even the forgies of Starhaven don't know how to do that."

The blades had a simple, functional design, perfect for covert missions. No ornate engravings or lavish adornments. They were crafted for practicality and ease of use in stealthy situations. Kellen added, "The hilts can be opened to insert 'mana crystals', allowing you to imbue the blades with various properties. For instance, 'red crystals' add extra weight to your attacks, 'white crystals' for speed, and 'blue crystals' provide an advantage against mages by disrupting their mana circulation. But you have to make contact, of course."

Arch's eyes narrowed with interest as he absorbed the details. He now understands why this shop was commissioned by the Explorer Unit. "Additionally," Kellen continued, "the vibrations from striking are dampened, which means you'll feel less impact during combat. Thanks to the 'Muffleshard' properties, which can only by found at the Whispering Woods. Very rare ore. This is particularly advantageous against heavy weapons like broadswords, reapers, and axes, giving you a better chance to counter or evade their attacks."

Gripping the swords firmly, Arch felt the weight and balance. Excited to put it into use.

Arch bid farewell to the Lutt family, He is in way to the Arcanum Empire Military Head Command.

The complex loomed before him, a fortress of stone and steel that resonated with the echoes of duty and honor. Sunlight glinted off its polished surfaces, but the shadows that clung to its corners whispered of secrets long buried.

As he approached the grand entrance, he took a moment to collect himself, reminding himself of his cover delivering an urgent letter to the military diplomat's hall. The atmosphere shifted dramatically. The air was thick with the scent of parchment and ink, mingling with the musk of polished wood and fresh flowers. Arch presented his credentials to the guards at the complex gate, who regarded him with a mixture of respect and scrutiny. After confirming his clearance, they waved him through with a nod, but not without sharing wary glances that suggested an undercurrent of tension.

Arch navigated the bustling cobbled path, passing patrolling soldiers and seeing clerks though the building windows immersed in their duties. Just as he neared the military diplomat's hall, an unassuming soldier stepped from the shadows, his demeanor casual yet alert.

"How are you feeling today?" the soldier asked, his tone deceptively light, though there was an intensity behind his eyes.

"Light as a feather," Arch replied, instinctively producing his pendant. The soldier revealed a similar pendant, confirming their allegiance to the Explorer Unit.

With a knowing nod, the soldier motioned for Arch to follow him. They proceeded down a corridor adorned with faded banners of past military triumphs, their vibrant colors waned with age. As they approached a pair of heavily reinforced doors, Arch felt a thrill of anticipation mixed with apprehension.

The guards at the door scrutinized them, and after a brief exchange of silent communication, they stepped aside, allowing Arch and the soldier to pass. Arch's heart raced as they entered a narrow hallway leading to the comfort rooms. He was confused. The walls felt closer here, as if they were closing in, heightening the tension.