As they sat in the guest room the servants bought some refreshments. The room's walls were made with glass and metal. Every corner seemed meticulously designed, the ceiling was made of glass and individual light panels. Almost all the furniture looks mechanical. If you compare this type of architecture with nexars then one is elegant and another is si-fi. Each style has its own charms to it.
"I would like you all to rest up," the prime minister continued, glancing between Robin and his companions. "We’ll talk over dinner. For now, please make yourselves comfortable.”
After exchanging pleasantries, the prime minister left them to settle in. As the doors closed, Robin relaxed himself .
Robin looked at his butler oliver, who was taking in the surroundings with an air of subtle appreciation. “Oliver,” he said quietly, nodding toward a robotic attendant who’d silently delivered a tray of refreshments, “ As far as i seen,I can’t help but notice most of the staff here are robot. They look almost human, but I can tell they’re not. Why doesn’t our family use robots like these? Seems like it would make things a lot simpler.”
Oliver paused, giving Robin a thoughtful smile. “Ah, great observation, sir.” He started talking . “The William family values tradition above all else, even in a planet as advanced as ours. Most of the people serving the family,myself included have been with the family for generations. It’s a way of preserving history, of keeping the family’s as it was.”
Robin nodded thoughtfully, taking a sip of the tea that the robot servant prepared. The taste was perfect, but it somehow lacked the warmth that a human touch might have imparted. “But what about the industrial side? Don’t we use robots there?”
“Absolutely,” Oliver replied. “In fact, Nexar’s industrial district which you didn’t get a chance to visit yet relies heavily on robotic labor. Most of the assembly lines are automated, and you’d find machines handling everything from manufacturing to logistics. Robots are integral to the modern industry, but in personal matters, especially within the William family, it’s different.”
Robin considered that, his eyes drawn to the smooth, seamless movements of a humanoid servant across the room. “It’s interesting. It almost feels… odd that they’re so lifelike, yet they’re not quite people.”
Oliver nodded, his expression growing a bit more serious. “Yes, and it’s for that very reason that we remain cautious. You see, there are planets across the galaxy that have fallen under the control of super intelligent robots or ai. They’ve either rebelled against their creators or evolved beyond them, taking over entire ecosystems. The Council and families or clan like ours keep strict rules in place to prevent similar situations. For that reason, in every planet we control, robots are only permitted for very specific tasks, and even then, they’re closely monitored. Here on Ignisara, the culture is different; they worship science. If it's not for the continuous check from the family they might have created a super advanced robot and destroyed the whole planet. Last time we let them run wild they changed a whole region.” with that Oliver let a small laugh.
Intrigued, Robin absorbed Oliver’s words. He hadn’t previously considered how his family’s traditions intersected with interplanetary concerns about artificial intelligence and the risks it posed. He imagined what it might be like on one of those robot-controlled planets a place where machines reigned supreme, leaving little room for human presence.
"Still,” Oliver added, his voice returning to its usual calm, “the galaxy is vast, and many worlds welcome robotic civilizations, council have one of this kind of civilizations under their wing and the grand codex which stored all the knowledge of the known universe is actually an ai. Robots play crucial roles, from exploration to safeguarding planetary borders. Yet, when it comes to the personal spaces within the William family, we prefer to keep things traditional.”
Robin gave a small nod, respecting the weight of his family’s choices. Their planet their rules.
As they conversed, a message arrived from the prime minister’s office, politely informing Robin that the dinner would be in an hour. Taking the hint, Robin excused himself to freshen up.
An hour later, after Robin and his companions had changed into fresh attire, another robotic attendant arrived to escort them to the dining room. Robin was dressed in a suit Oliver had chosen for him, a deep navy with fine silver threads woven subtly through the fabric. His family amulet hung around his pocket, a reminder of his heritage and responsibility. Oliver walked by his side, keeping a keen eye on their surroundings, while Andrew trailed just behind, a silent but vigilant.
As they reached the dining hall, the doors opened to reveal a room that was just as as the rest of the residence. A long glass table with mechanical legs was set with gleaming silverware and crystal glasses, each placed neatly arranged. The whole roof emits light, casting warm light over the room. The prime minister sat at the head of the table, already waiting for them, and rose as they entered.
As Robin sat down at the grand dining table, he took a moment to appreciate the room around him. The lighting was warm and golden, casting a glow over the glass table and fine crystal glasses that lined it.
The prime minister was a distinguished man with a calm but confident presence. He wore formal attire that suited his position, and he had a composed yet friendly smile. Robin came to know his name was victor something. His last name was so hard robin tried to pronounce it but he failed miserably. So if if needs to address him he thought he'd use prime ministers Insted of name.
Sitting around the table were several other guests whom Robin saw when he landed . Oliver, his , stood attentively at his side, while Andrew, waited outside, watching over the room’s security.
After a few moments of silence, the prime minister cleared his throat and began to speak, his tone welcoming and warm. “First of all, let me welcome you young master, to West Ignisara. It’s a true honor to have a member of the William family as our guest. Not to mention you are not just any William family member but the grandchildren of the legendary hero leo william. It's an honor for our country to revive you as a guest.”
Robin inclined his head politely, acknowledging the greeting. He could see how much respect his family name carried here; the prime minister’s expression held admiration, and he noticed that the others around the table seemed equally interested in him.
“I must say,” the prime minister continued, “your announcement to the family has caused quite a stir. I’ve personally been a big fan of your grandfather. He was my idol when i was a child, and his legacy lives on even here in Ignisara, kids want to be a legendary pilot like him and explore the universe.The news of his passing was a sad day for many of us.”
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Robin offered a small, respectful smile in thanks. He appreciated the prime minister’s respect for his grandfather, though he sensed there was more to this evening than polite conversation.
The prime minister chuckled softly, realizing he had spoken at length. “I tend to get carried away,” he admitted with a light laugh. “But please, allow me to introduce everyone here.”
He turned to the elegant woman seated beside him. “This is my wife, Elara,” he said with a warm smile. She inclined her head, her expression kind and graceful.
Sitting beside her was a young woman, who seemed to be in her early twenties, with striking features and a calm presence. “And here is my daughter, Seraphina,” he continued, a touch of pride in his voice. “She recently completed her studies in advanced cybernetics and has been involved in some of our more innovative projects. She'll join the council's research team after a few years.” His voice lingered on Seraphina’s achievements, and Robin couldn’t miss the hint just like others he’d encountered, the prime minister subtly seemed to be suggesting his daughter as a potential match. Robin smiled politely at her, noting the soft blush on her cheeks as she nodded in greeting.
The prime minister then gestured to a serious-looking man sitting a few seats away, with a thin, sharp face and glasses that reflected the room’s warm light. “This is Dr. Elias Cardon, our head scientist in AI research,” he introduced. “Dr. Cardon has been leading our advancements in artificial intelligence, making Ignisara a leader in AI across several industries.”
Dr. Cardon nodded politely, giving Robin a small but respectful smile. “It’s an honor to meet you, Mr. William. Your family has inspired many of us in the scientific community, especially with your grandfather’s contributions to space exploration.”
Robin returned the nod, acknowledging the doctor’s polite admiration.
Next, the prime minister introduced a woman with short hair and a sharp gaze. “This is Dr. Mira Voss, our chief engineer. She’s currently heading a project on new energy systems to power the next generation of our cities.”
Dr. Voss gave a nod of acknowledgment, her expression focused. “Its an honor to meet you.”
Robin smiled, appreciating the high praise for his family’s achievements.
Finally, the prime minister turned to a man who appeared slightly younger than the others, dressed in a dark suit with a badge that marked him as a government official. “And this is Minister Joran Vale, who oversees Ignisara’s technology and development sector. He’s responsible for many of our policies regarding robotics and AI.”
Minister Vale leaned forward, his eyes sharp with curiosity. “Mr. William,” he said in a respectful tone, “I’ve read extensively about your family’s ventures. It’s rare to meet someone from a line with such a profound influence on technology.”
Robin greeted each guest in turn, taking in their roles and the compliments they offered his family.
Once the introductions were done, the prime minister gestured for the servers to bring in the food. A series of beautifully arranged dishes appeared, each plate crafted with care and precision that reminded Robin of the advanced nature of Ignisara’s society. The meal was as much a display of artistic talent as it was a dining experience.
As they began to eat, the prime minister continued the conversation, touching on Ignisara’s impressive technological advances. He explained how the country had incorporated robots into almost every aspect of daily
As the meal progressed, the prime minister of Ignisara continued to speak, his voice filled with pride as he described his country’s progress. He spoke passionately about how science had transformed their land. “You know, Young master,” the prime minister began, “our ancestors weren’t always so fortunate. The land we now call home was once a barren desert. The only thing kipping us alive was just the small magic our ancestors knew But with the embrace of science, we were able to mix magic with science and turn it into the thriving oasis you see today.”
He leaned forward slightly, his eyes sparkling as he spoke of their achievements. “ To be honest It was the wisdom and foresight of your family’s ancestors that kickstarted these changes. They helped us understand the potential of technology and magic, and we’ve used that knowledge to rebuild our nation from the ground up.”
Robin listened quietly, feeling the PM is trying to butter him up. The family just let you run wild one time and you guys changed the whole eco system and wildlife. Robin thought.
The prime minister continued, “Now, Robin, you’re in the heart of Ignisara, a country that thrives on innovation. I hope you’ll take the time to explore our history, heritage, and the old archaeological sites. We’ve preserved many of the ancient structures that tell the story of our people, and you’re welcome to see them all.”
Robin nodded, intrigued by the invitation.
Then, the prime minister’s tone shifted slightly, and he spoke with a hint of caution. “But there is one place I must warn you about East Ignisara.” He paused, glancing around the table as if to make sure everyone was listening. “The people there are... well, let’s say they are more ‘barbaric.’ They have rejected science, and they continue to live in the past. They reject our advancements, and they are often suspicious of those who embrace progress.”
Robin raised an eyebrow, intrigued by this change in the conversation.
“The people in the east still use old-fashioned tools but they use cars and guns things that are made with the help of modern science and magic, but they refuse to accept the principles behind them. They live in a backward state, and as a result, they have held on to traditions that are detrimental to progress.”
He sighed and leaned back in his chair. “Although, technically, we control the whole of Ignisara, we’ve chosen not to force them into the fold. We allow them to exist as they wish because we don’t want to start a civil war. A war between the east and the west would only bring destruction, and no one benefits from that.But we do have some military based around that territory to keep them checked.”
Robin remained silent, processing the prime minister’s words. The tension between East and West Ignisara seemed to be a delicate issue as oliver said before, and the prime minister had made it clear that, for the sake of peace, they tolerated the backwardness of the east.
“I would advise you,” the prime minister added, “not to venture into East Ignisara. It is a dangerous place, and you will be met with suspicion and hostility. But, if you do decide to go, please be extra cautious.”
Robin gave a small nod, considering the warning. The political tensions between the two sides were something to keep in mind, but he wasn’t one to shy away from exploring new territories, especially when his curiosity was piqued.
The prime minister’s next words took Robin by surprise. “Now, for your time here , I have arranged a guide for you.” He gestured toward his daughter, Seraphina, who had been quietly listening. “Seraphina is very familiar with the history of our country. She knows the ins and outs of Ignisara and can show you the best of our heritage and cultures. I trust she’ll be a great companion for your journey.”
Robin glanced at Seraphina, who gave him a polite but slightly eager smile. She seemed to be waiting for his response.
However, Robin wasn’t entirely comfortable with the idea. He wasn’t sure if it was the prime minister’s directness or the fact that he wasn’t sure how well he could get along with Seraphina. Besides he has an amateur historian in his cohort. And Oliver knows most of the stuff. Regardless, he decided to politely decline. “I appreciate the offer, but I think I’ll explore the country on my own. Besides letting her venture with a group or stranger. I think she might feel uncomfortable around my crew.”
The prime minister didn’t seem to take the rejection well. He pressed on, his tone more insistent now. “But, young master, Seraphina has studied the history and culture of Ignisara in great depth. She is well-versed in all aspects of our country. There’s no one better suited to show you around.”
Robin hesitated, realizing the prime minister wasn’t simply offering this as a casual suggestion. The insistence made it clear that he wanted his daughter to be Robin’s guide, perhaps for reasons that went beyond just showing him the country. Robin could sense that it would be disrespectful to turn down the offer outright, especially with everyone at the table listening.
He glanced at Oliver, who was standing nearby. Oliver gave a subtle nod, signaling that this was not something to dismiss easily. Robin knew that, while he had every right to refuse, it would be better to accept the offer in a way that protected his own interests and dignity.
After a brief pause, Robin spoke. “I appreciate your offer, Prime Minister. But if we are to travel together, I would prefer to do so undercover. I’ve already attracted quite a bit of attention since arriving here, and she'll also attract more attention i think so I don’t want to make things more complicated.”
The prime minister raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Undercover?” he repeated.
“Yes,” Robin continued, he thought to himself In places like Athena, where most visitors are families or couples on vacation, no one notices. But Ignisara is a tech-savvy country, and suspect that he'll be recognized more easily. He’d prefer to avoid any unnecessary attention while exploring the country.
The prime minister thought for a moment, then nodded in agreement. “That’s reasonable. I understand your concern. We can arrange something discreet.”
With the matter settled, the rest of the dinner continued without further discussion on the subject. The meal came to an end, and the guests stood, exchanging pleasantries. Robin was shown to his guest room, which was luxurious and comfortable, with a beautiful view of the city outside.
Once inside, Robin took a moment to relax. He checked his social media accounts and chatted with his game buddies, discussing the latest updates in Arena Online. It was a small escape from the formalities of the evening. After a while, feeling the exhaustion of the day catch up with him, he decided to turn in for the night. As he lay in bed, the events of the evening replayed in his mind, and he wondered what the next few days in Ignisara would bring.
Eventually leaving him to dream of his adventures ahead.