Bofuri (The Strongest Shield Of Tensura)

Two weeks later, the city bustled with activity as the integration of the elven refugees began in earnest. True to her word, Kaede had allocated a section of the city near the outskirts for the elves to settle. The area was quickly transformed into a hybrid of the elves' naturalistic architecture and the Antari's more utilitarian designs, with treehouses blending seamlessly with solid, well-crafted foundations.

Kaede found herself in one of the larger workshops, standing beside an elven woman named Sylra. Her auburn hair was tied back with a delicate vine, and her green eyes sparkled with a mixture of curiosity and determination. Before them stood a simple loom, one of the few Kaede had managed to piece together with the help of her colony's rudimentary knowledge of weaving.

"This is incredible," Sylra murmured, running her fingers over the wooden frame of the loom. "I've heard about such tools, but we never had the means to construct one ourselves."

Kaede smiled, adjusting the tension on the warp threads. "It's not as advanced as what I'd like to build eventually, but it's a start. With this, you can produce fabric faster and with more consistency than by hand."

Sylra nodded, her brows furrowing in concentration as she watched Kaede work. The steady rhythm of the loom filled the workshop as Kaede demonstrated the basics, her movements fluid and precise. Sylra observed every motion intently, her natural grace evident even as she hesitated to take her turn.

"Here," Kaede said, stepping aside. "Try it yourself."

Sylra hesitated, her hands hovering over the threads. "I don't want to break it."

Kaede chuckled softly. "It's sturdier than it looks. Besides, even if you do, we can fix it. Learning by doing is the best way."

With a deep breath, Sylra positioned herself before the loom. Her first few attempts were clumsy, the shuttle snagging on the threads and the tension uneven. But Kaede guided her patiently, adjusting her grip and showing her how to keep a steady rhythm. Bit by bit, Sylra's movements grew more confident, and soon the first rows of fabric began to take shape.

"This is… oddly satisfying," Sylra admitted, a small smile playing at her lips as she worked.

Kaede nodded. "It is, isn't it? There's something calming about the repetition. And once you've mastered the basics, you can experiment with patterns and designs. Your people's skill with intricate embroidery could translate beautifully to weaving."

Sylra smiled, her hands moving steadily now as she wove. "Well, you've convinced me. I'll teach my people what I learn here. And if you ever need help with anything, you can count on me."

"Thank you, Sylra," Kaede said sincerely. "I'll hold you to that."

The two continued working in companionable silence, the rhythmic clatter of the loom blending with the distant hum of activity outside.

Leaving Sylra to her work, Kaede made her way to the garrison. Yes, she had created a garrison. With the addition of the elven warriors, the Antari had begun their training in earnest, sharpening their skills and discipline.

Kaede smiled as she approached, noting that the Antari warriors were finally clothed, many of them wearing sturdy brown leather jackets and dark lpants.

Establishing a leather production system had been no small feat. Kaede had to design and build dozens of leather processing machines from scratch, all while teaching both the elves and the Antari how to use them. But seeing the results, the warriors clad in proper attire, made all the effort worthwhile.

Kaede herself was dressed in a striking black leather jacket, its edges lined with vibrant red fur. She had agonized over whether to pair it with leather pants or a skirt but ultimately chose the pants for practicality.

The ensemble gave her an air of authority, even more intimidating than her usual armor. Not that Kaede particularly cared about how others perceived her, she simply enjoyed the comfort and utility of her new attire.

Today was a particularly busy day, as Shifu was expected to return from the nation of Brumund.

Kaede appeared in the alcove, making her way toward the meeting chamber with purposeful strides. Ari followed closely behind her, accompanied by Aurina. Crimara, meanwhile, was still leading a hunt for monsters around the growing city, ensuring its safety and securing valuable resources.

Hachi and Acer were occupied in Hachi's former colony, working alongside the elves to advance the farming efforts. The collaboration had been fruitful, with steady progress being made to support the city's growing population.

The production of hipocute herbs was progressing smoothly. By utilizing Devour and Artificia, Kaede had analyzed the properties of the herb and subsequently designed multiple ultrasonic extractors. According to Artificia, these advanced machines employed ultrasonic waves to break down the cell walls of the herbs, enabling rapid and efficient extraction of their active compounds.

With a steady supply of hipocute herbs, Kaede now had the means to mass-produce their extracts, or health potions in game terms. 'If only they could work on Kirara and wake her up,' she thought wistfully.

Kirara remained unconscious in the infirmary. Her body emitted a faint glow every so often, though Artificia had assured Kaede that there was nothing physically wrong with the otherworlder. All Kaede could do now was wait.

The last person to enter the chamber, was Eryn, the elven elder. Kaede found it strange that after coming under her, he looked far younger as if the stress of old age had gone from his body.

With him seated, as if on cue the chamber doors opened, and a familiar Kijin walked in followed by four Antari.

Shifu paused, his gaze briefly resting on each person in the room before turning to Kaede. "Lady Kaede, I have returned."

"Welcome back, Shifu." Kaede smiled warmly, genuinely glad to see her second companion. "How was the trip?"

Shifu took a seat before replying. "Uneventful, my lady. It only took a few hours to return from the kingdom of Brumund."

Kaede noticed Eryn raising an eyebrow at the remark and quickly clarified. "Ah, yes. Eryn, this is Shifu, my first subordinate and a trusted friend."

Shifu gave the elven elder a polite nod, which Eryn returned with a measured one of his own.

Kaede continued, "A few weeks ago, I tasked Shifu with escorting a group of humans to Brumund. As you know, most humans can't withstand the excess influx of magicules in the Great Forest of Jura. It was for their safety."

She turned her attention back to the Kijin. "Is there anything to report, Shifu?"

Shifu glanced at the others in the room briefly before focusing on her. "The capital of Falmuth is in disarray. The story varies depending on who you ask, but the consistent thread is this: demons clad in black armor, led by a witch of terrifying power, attacked the city. They say the Holy Church and Falmuth's strongest sorcerer barely repelled the invaders, and slayed the witch."

Kaede's lips pressed into a thin line, her fingers drumming lightly against the table. She could feel Ari's antennae twitch with restrained irritation behind her, though the young Antari remained silent.

"I assume the rumors didn't cause you any trouble?" Kaede asked, resting her hands under her chin.

"Not at all," Shifu replied. "By all accounts, Falmuth believes we're all dead. I was able to secure fertile land, and the supplies I purchased should sustain them until their first harvest." He paused, his gaze lingering on her briefly before continuing. "They spoke of you, you know, of your kindness. It left a strong impression."

Kaede smiled, a warm feeling blooming in her chest. "I'm just glad they can live better lives now."

"Now, Shifu, this is Eryn. He's the representative of the elven settlement that just came under us." Kaede gestured at Eryn.

Shifu turned his attention to the elven elder, giving him a polite nod. "A pleasure to meet you, Eryn. I trust your people are settling in well?"

Eryn offered a small smile, his tone calm but measured. "They are. Lady Kaede has been most accommodating. Your assistance in helping us establish a safe haven here is greatly appreciated."

Kaede allowed the exchange to play out before interjecting. "Shifu's return marks an important step forward for us." Her gaze swept across the room. "But there are still matters that require everyone's input, and unfortunately, we're not all present yet."

Eryn raised an eyebrow but said nothing, while Shifu seemed to take her words in stride, his calm demeanor unwavering. Ari, ever the sharp observer, leaned slightly closer to Kaede, her voice a quiet murmur. "Shall I summon the others, my lady?"

Kaede shook her head. "No need. Edward is still in Dwargon, and Hachi remains at the farm site. As for Crimara, she's busy keeping the perimeter secure. We'll proceed when they've all returned."

Shifu gave a thoughtful nod, his arms resting on the table. "In the meantime, is there anything pressing we can address, my lady?"

Kaede considered his question for a moment, then gestured toward a detailed map spread across the table. "We've made significant progress in fortifying the city and improving resource management. The production of health potions will soon stabilize, and the collaboration with the elves on leatherworking has exceeded expectations." She paused, her gaze shifting to Eryn. "Your people's craftsmanship has been invaluable in refining these systems."

Eryn inclined his head, the faintest hint of pride in his expression. "We aim to contribute wherever we can. Our skills are but a small token of thanks for the sanctuary you've provided."

Kaede smiled faintly before turning back to Shifu. "While we wait for the others, I'd like you to focus on training the Antari and the elves. Their progress has been impressive, but discipline and strategy are areas that still need work. Your experience will be crucial."

"As you wish, my lady," Shifu replied, his tone steady. "I'll begin immediately."

"Good," Kaede said, a hint of relief in her voice. "And if you notice anything amiss, report it to me directly."

The meeting continued in a quieter vein, with discussions centering on smaller, immediate tasks. Kaede took note of everyone's contributions, her mind already calculating the steps needed to bring their plans to fruition.

Eventually, the meeting wound down, leaving Kaede to her thoughts as the others filed out of the chamber. Shifu lingered a moment longer, his gaze steady.

"You've done well, Lady Kaede," Shifu said softly, his voice carrying a rare warmth. "This might just be the start of something incredible." Yet, there was a trace of something unspoken, almost painful, lingering in his gaze.

"Incredible or not," Kaede replied, her tone quiet but resolute, "I just want a place in this world for me and… my family. That includes you too." She glanced up at the ceiling, her eyes following the subtle play of light and shadow as she let the words settle.

Shifu chuckled lightly, a rare sound that softened his usual stoic demeanor. "I'll make sure they're well-trained and combat-ready. After all, I learned from the best myself." He bowed slightly before straightening. "If you'll excuse me, Lady Kaede."

Kaede watched the Kijin as he exited the chamber, his steps purposeful yet calm. Once he was out of sight, she sighed softly, a faint smile playing on her lips.