I held up my hand, trying to understand. "Okay. Back up a bit. So let me get this straight, and stop me if I'm getting this wrong.

  "Sometime after Lighthouse and before the Kerezim Empire, there had been this big, nasty thing called the Crystal Conflicts. Basically, a terrible time of chaos and war that had involved mass usage of crystals as weapons, which, yeah, I could see happening. It had been so thoroughly destructive though that a sect of the Ten Lights faith had adopted a tenant that declared crystals to be a forbidden fruit from the divines- a test of true evil, where only the blessed chosen could withstand. Fruits of evil or greatness, the ultimate blasphemies.

  "It was not helped by the rise of somebody named the Corpse Emperor, a former emperor who had decided death was overrated and utilized magic crystals to not just reanimate, but also power up an undead legion." I paused. "Yeah, I guess I could see that too. So this results in that sect of the faith becoming the present day controllers of the church in the empire and, with successful manipulation in the game of politics, managed to get multiple emperors to pass strict and harsh edicts regarding the utilizing of crystal deposits wherever they are found. Along with a standing arrest order on any unauthorized possession or usage.

  "All because people don't realize it's not the crystals are evil, it's the people using them that way!"

  "Access and usage is all but restricted to the great guilds of learning and requires the approval of the church as well," Vio told, looking slightly sympathetic to my crash out. "As an acolyte, I'm not even allowed yet to have anything besides the staff they gave me. For that as well, members of the faith had interrogated me for quite a while before giving their reluctant approval. They had to make sure, just in case I didn't look like the type to go rogue."

  I glanced her staff and noticed those were some pretty mediocre quality crystals embedded in there. Something that probably didn't boost her spellcasting abilities to what it could be. That annoyed me greatly.

  "It's likely not helped that from what I know, crystal mines are considered to be perilous places," Teodor grimly remarked. "Are you aware of the monsters that populate them?"

  "Of course, golems, colossi, titans, pretty much the result of crystals sometimes getting too unstable and becoming animate to just beat anybody they see." I closed my eyes and let out a haggard sigh. "Yet for you, I'm guessing they're very dangerous."

  "Correct. Any mining operation has to be led by a archmage, and it's pretty much like a small army expedition into the depths of a crystal mine to harvest them. Sometimes, they also just don't come back."

  "Which means, in the church's eyes, they had been judged unworthy by the Ten Lights. Meanwhile, those who not only repeatedly make such expeditions and then return with crystals they use? They are said to be saints," Petula mentioned. "Of course, the church would still like to keep a close eye on them, as the Corpse Emperor had been thought one when they were alive. So if you yearn to become a powerful spellcaster through the right channels, you need the approval of the church too."

  "I always had suspected that perhaps my lack of devotion might have held me back from gaining further approval," Vio confessed and made a face. "But then again, when the alternative is being labeled a 'heretic' and then being excommunicated…"

  Religion and magic, mixing to become one. I could feel the retching from all of the real Ten Light players. Sure, the fact that miracles and spells kinda blended together along with a lot other things under a single 'mana magic energy' label meant that I could see the confusion developing. I don't know if the developers had intended it that way, or just handwaved the fiction that was now my reality. But now we were in a scenario where the best spellcasters in the empire were likely some of the most pious believers of the Ten Lights.

  And also likely the ones who would take most offense to my casual blasphemies. So there went any hope to try and recruit a mage for so, so many things. Unless I decided to feed into their logic and go for one under the table, which definitely wasn't recommended.. I did not want to accidentally back somebody who had intent to make Crystal Conflict 2: Lighthouse edition.

  When I calmed down a little, I did realize that the church restricting these crystals did ensure the empire wasn't overtaken by power hungry spellcasters. For every sensible user of magic we had in Lighthouse like Joan and Ann-Li, we also had a Faust and Kai who did a little trolling. Scale that up over time and keeping a tight lid on the thing that could supercharge magic into either utopia or dystopia wasn't so terrible. Especially without adventurers to keep one another in check, because sometimes, fist can beat fireball.

  It was just annoying now that it was doctrine and there was no way I, a single puppet of suspect origin, wasn't going to be able to bypass it so easily. I guess this wasn't a good time either to mention that puppets used a crystal as their brain core.

  Hm. I was now starting to suspect where they had all gone or, at least made themselves publicly scarce.

  For now, I just accepted it was what it was with a groan, letting my face fall into my hands. "Right. There goes maybe half of my ideas to just speed a lot of things up." I peeked between my fingers at House Cordis. "Did you know that back in my day, we used crystals for so many things? Low quality crystals for quick little disposable things, high quality ones for reusable aids that could withstand the test of time."

  So much for my idea of already doing things like lighting up the streets with cheap light crystals. Or accelerating crop growth with nature crystals. No easy magical tools for the everyday use just yet; I'll need to work my way through just plain sweat and tears. Or at least until I started mining my own crystal deposit, which...wasn't impossible. Just that they'd be so far up north, it'd probably require messing with whoever lived up there. Maybe I'd get lucky and that abandoned mining town could uncover some loose ones around, which I guess would be nice.

  Until then, all I had to work with were the ones in my vault, the summary of which was one big wind crystal and several smaller ones.

  Gods, that was annoying. The empire was annoying. "Bah. Is it the same elsewhere in the world?"

  When there wasn't an immediate answer, I dared hope and glanced to see actually thoughtful looks about the gathered vampires. "I couldn't say, but I have heard rumors otherwise," Gregori finally stated. "However, regardless of if they do or do not, they likely wouldn't have the consolidated resources or learning that the imperial institutes have to make use of them in the same way."

  "Otherwise, we'd wouldn't be so shocked at whatever you're doing." Vio paused, then gave me a very long look. "Are you thinking of something?"

  "There are people, nomads further to the west. Does that match what you know of the far west kingdom?"

  "Not to the best of my knowledge, no. This is the first time I've even heard of such people," Teodor mentioned. "The landmass between the nations is vast though, so it's not impossible. Father, if there truly is another power close by-"

  "They have to be considered relevant actors regarding our expansion, lest we cross a border and cause an incident."

  "To be fair," I chimed in, pointing out the considerable distance between my sightings of them and the end of the forest. "They seem to be quite some ways away. So you wouldn't need to worry about them right away, unless you're me wondering if they've got just a little crystal to spare."

  "If they do and are willing to trade, then perhaps an arrangement could be made? But that is far future speculations. I would like to meet them one day regardless, if only to be aware of our possible new neighbors."

  "Ones who aren't as snoopy as I'd been, I hope."

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  Finally, the talks drew to a close when both sides ran out of topics to plan and discuss for. It was slightly exhausting and dense, covering a breadth of issues, yet necessary regarding the future to shape ahead. But not all were so far reaching already.

  House Cordis met once again in private to discuss their next steps. "It is time for me to return to Gabion," declared the duke. "My time here has been a pleasant break, but much work lies ahead of us. We need to start organizing already the founding expedition to set out once the snow melts and warm days return- the first days of spring would be the most ideal time to start our plans for expansion."

  Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

  "At the same time, we also have to take in and make sure that the refugees who would become these settlers don't starve or freeze during winter," cautioned his son. "At least we have some space within our walls now."

  "Meanwhile, it would also be remiss for us to not also mind our neighbors," warned his sister. "If one of them happens so stumble upon a streak of fortune that lets them rise above the rest, they may eye us. Better we keep an eye on what's going on."

  All of them were silent, then turned to the last member who hadn't spoke. Petula exhaled and recalled what had been discussed earlier, a proposal already accepted by the master of Puppet Atelier. "And we need somebody to also help continue answering whatever questions Noel might have the more they see with Kuch," she finished. "Since they are connected regardless of distance, I can immediately provide context for any questions if they relay them, all without needing Kuch to meet with anybody on the regular.

  "It's...it's also a chance for me to maybe figure out and learn how to unlock a skill," she added in a very small tone. "Even if it isn't [Blood Harvest]."

  Gregori exhaled noisily, feeling the hurt in her voice. But she had to come to terms sooner or later, and it wasn't the first time in history that a member of House Cordis happened to never meet the conditions for the skill. It was maybe cruel of him to ask Noel to do so.

  Yet at the same time, Noel could possibly be aware of things lost to time. So perhaps they could help in a way yet unforeseen. His sister had mentioned so and had even volunteered to be the one to stay instead, but as she was the only spellcaster of their line, she simply was too valuable to leave out. Plus, with Vio's curiosity about Lighthouse and forgotten knowledge, Noel might end up answering more questions than asking them, which would be quite rude. Perhaps when things were a bit more settled, she could take over instead.

  "Learn well from Master Noel, my daughter. You will be the voice and face of House Cordis out here- do us proud."

  "Yes, father."

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  When the time came for them to depart, I was of course there to see them off. Though their visit had been fairly brief, House Cordis had been wonderful guests that I knew Cordelia would be proud of. Her grave was just over there, allowing those departing to pay their respects one last time before setting out, likely not coming back for a while with how busy it'll be getting.

  Mordred and Kuch too were fully stocked up and going along with them, ready for their next adventure. The dragon herself finally looked well-rested and ready to go continue building her name out there. All until the day when she could avenge her mother.

  "Hans is going to be glad when we come back. He's a very capable captain of the guard and could manage the city himself a few days, but I'm sure he'll definitely hate it," Teodor mentioned to his father, who snorted with a small smile.

  "A dutiful man who knows all too wisely the burden of power. Smarter than either you or I then."

  "I wouldn't say that. Maybe just more fortunate? But I feel our luck is also turning around these days."

  "It's not everyday you get to meet somebody from an age of heroes, after all!" Vio added, climbing on one of the horses. "Ah, I just have to come back here one of these days for both that and the wonderful food. Maybe even with a few books to add to your library!"

  "I'd be quite grateful if you gifted me anything to help rebuild my collection. Ah, before you all go, I do have some gifts for you to take back." One of the bodyguards helpfully accepted the bulging bag I handed over. "I know it's not much, and maybe you'd have liked to receive quality arms and armor. Sadly, it slipped my mind until it was far too late, so all I could do was hastily sew together some attires for you to bring back. Perhaps you'd like to dress how we did in Lighthouse's time? I assure you, it's quite striking."

  "A heartfelt gift for your departing guest, regardless of its quality, is the mark of a truly generous host," Gregori reassured with a nod. "We accept in the spirit is is given. Perhaps if some nobles come to visit, I should don your gift to impress."

  "Oh, trust me. They'll be intrigued indeed," I promised knowingly with a grin. Clothes that never would have existed in this setting period would do that. "Let me know if my measurements by eye or off, I'll be happy to adjust. Or if you like something in what I've included, just make mention and I'll make more!"

  He nodded, then turned to his daughter standing at my side. Unlike the others, she wasn't readying to leave. "Petula, please take care of yourself. And should you need a break, feel free to come home for a visit."

  "Thank you, father. But I shall commit myself wholly to learning from Master Noel," she vowed. "When next you see me, I will be worthy."

  "You should not fret-"

  There were some steps and Frie emerged, in a completely different attire than any of House Cordis had seen them in during their visit. Instead of a sharp butler or elegant maid, they now were dressed in a proper flowing brawler attire, complete with those crimson sashes of mine tied around their wrists. They also had a travel pack. "Right. I should get going then. Ah, I'll be investigating something in the deep woods- don't fret, it's no danger, but an idle curiosity of mine!"

  "And since Petula is here to protect me all the while, I'll be in very safe hands," I said airily, giving a little wink to the surprised duke. "That's how much I trust you, see? Don't worry, it'll be like the days of me and Cordelia."

  "You...you do us a great honor," he told faintly before meeting his own daughter's shocked expression. He weakly grinned. "See? You already do us proud."

  "I-I see." She sucked in a deep breath, then clasped her arm over her chest. "On my honor, not harm shall befall Master Noel in my presence! May the Ten Lights guide you, father!"

  "May they watch over you too, daughter."

  "I'd settle for them sending a vision to whatever head pope's in charge of the church to give me crystals," I'd grumbled beneath my breath. But still I waved as their horses passed through the gates-

  Only for Mordred and Kuch to immediately draw their weapons and kill the wolves that suddenly emerged. "Already?!" the dragon complained loudly, looking back and forth. "Check your wards, are they even working!"

  "They should be!" I literally just checked, why are they attacking so close to my manor? What was attracting them, surely it wasn't the people?!

  It was then one of the steeds chose to neigh loudly and the pieces clicked. "Ah," all my selves realized at once. "They smell and hear the horses. Please don't bring horses the next time you come."

  "We'll be mindful to not do so."

  They finally departed and so did Frie, walking west towards the sky spruce. With a snap of my fingers, my illusion defenses activated and to the outside world, there was now just a grove of trees were my manor was. Now I was isolated once again, but this time, at least with a companion that wasn't just me in a near duplicate body.

  "Master Noel, I would like to not waste any time. Could you already begin instructing me?"

  "Hm? Oh, of course. But there is one thing that does need to be handled first!" I declared and gestured at her attire. "That's not the right sparring attire, is it?"

  She blinked, then looked down at her regular outfit. "It suffices for both daily work and battle-"

  "I said I had gifts for House Cordis, didn't I? That includes you." I think my smile must've taken on quite a sinister edge and suddenly, Petula looked quite afraid despite her resolve. "And unlike them, I get to take my time to make sure you're dressed for battle...stylishly."

  "I-is that truly so necessary?!"

  "The Ten Lights, my friends, would say so."

  She sucked in a deep breath, them seemed to steel herself. "T-th-then! My body...is prepared to undergo any sort of trial…" That came out a bit like a whimper. But it was too late for my fixated mind to notice or take pity. Already, I was trying to figure out what would be the best color scheme to match with her hair. "For House Cordis, I will endure-!"

  "Good. Now, time for a dress up session with you!"

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