Ophelia pinched the bridge of her nose as she stared at the sheets in front of her. It had been over a month since the heroes arrived at Fort Cadarn, and things weren’t looking well. The heroes had reached level twenty about two weeks into their training, but now, it looked like the first breaker level had stalled the heroes. All except Shizuka and Nathaniel.
“Any ideas on how we can fix this?” Debin said from across the desk. He rubbed his face in frustration.
“There’s nothing that we can do about the Champion,” Ophelia said grinding her teeth, “He won’t study any martial talent other than [Two-Handed]. Therefore, we can expect him to level slower than the others.”
“That’s unacceptable, Lady Oracle,” Debin said, “We need to find some way to get him to learn other talents. There must be something we can use.”
Ophelia pursed her lips. There was something that could convince Duncan to learn other talents, but she didn’t want to make that sacrifice.
“He’s as stubborn as a mule,” Ophelia said, “The only thing I can see changing his mind is shame. And that will only happen when the others pass him by.”
“Fine, but what about the Saint.” Debin looked down at his notes, “According to the priests, she seems constantly distracted, not to mention that heavy cloak she wears.”
“She’s still adjusting to our world,” Ophelia said with a polite smile.
Debin sighed heavily, “It’s been over a month, surely she should be used to our world.”
“I’m afraid I can’t speak on this anymore,” Ophelia smiled politely, “But rest assured, I’ll take care of it.”
“Lady Ophelia, please take this seriously.”
“I am,” she said while pulling out several sheets of paper, “The Champion, Ranger, and Saint are falling behind. While the Inventor and Archmage are still growing at a reasonable rate. To deal with this issue, I’m having the four heroes go on a scouting party, while the Inventor will stay here to better fortify the base.”
“Has the Prince approved of this?” Debin looked over the notes.
“He has,” Ophelia said, hiding her smile behind her hands, “He’s even agreed to allow the Inventor to make any improvements he sees fit.” Debin scrunched his nose, “Do you still not approve of the Inventor?” Ophelia glared at the elderly man.
“My impressions of him have increased,” Debin said, “He created that anesthetic paste,”
“Which you always keep on hand,”
Debin cleared his throat, “It has helped me greatly,” he said, “Then there was that rock solution he made. It was called cement?” Ophelia nodded, “Repairs to the wall are quicker because of it. Then there was that dark iron he created.”
“It’s called steel,” Ophelia said with a proud smile, “The weapons made from it are stronger and more durable than their iron counterparts.”
“I know,” Debin said putting the papers down.
“Then why are you still hesitant on him?”
“Because he isn’t a hero,” Debin said with a sigh, “Yes, he’s made great strides in helping us towards defeating our enemies, I’ll admit that, but he isn’t going to be the one on the battlefield. That honor goes to the other heroes. And frankly, I think you are giving him too much attention.”
“Absurd!” Ophelia said, “I spend the same amount of time with each hero.”
“Yes, but you spend more time praising the Inventor,” Debin stared her down, “Even the staff knows of your favor for him.”
“Don’t they have anything better to do than gossip!”
Debin smiled, “The staff is easily amused,” he said standing up, “I look forward to hearing about the excursion.”
Ophelia glared at the elderly man as he left. When the door shut, she laid her head onto the desk. She stayed that way for a few minutes until another knock came at the door.
Ophelia straightened herself up, “Come in,”
A maid stepped into the room with a stack of papers in her hands, “I have messages for the heroes my lady,’ she said handing them over, “They look to be more visitation requests.”
Ophelia flipped through the papers, “Looks like most of them are for the Champion and Ranger,” she said, “Looks like they’ll be busy.” She chuckled as she sorted out the requests.
Almost every noble had sent a request to have the heroes visit their estates. Duncan and Shawn had the most requests, their introduction left the impression that the two would bed any woman they saw. Maria had a few requests for more honorable dates, and poor Shizuka mostly had requests from wrinkled, old codgers hoping to impress her with magic. This was a normal occurrence according to the records. The only one not to have any requests was Nathaniel, not that she minded. Ophelia filed the requests for each hero, but the last request caused her to stare.
“This…is for Nathaniel,” Ophelia said with wide eyes, “And it’s from the VuRant family.”
“What would they want with the Inventor?” the maid said, “He wouldn’t be of much use to them, not like the Champion or Ranger.” She shut her mouth when Ophelia glared at her.
She opened the letter and found another sealed inside.
Dear Lady Ophelia,
I humbly request you deliver this to Nathaniel Light, the esteemed Inventor Hero, intact and unread. The words written are for his eyes only.
Sincerely,
Marquess Ermon VuRant,
Ophelia scoffed at the Marquess’ unwritten insinuation, but she opened the second letter. She was hit with a heavy scent of sweet perfume.
My dear Nathaniel Light,
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m glad to have met you during the introduction ceremony. Now, more than ever, I believe you will be the greatest asset to our kingdom, and I so deeply wanted you to know that. I say this because your exploits at Fort Cadarn have made their way to our estates, but it seems that there are those that wish to deny you the recognition you so rightly deserve. So, I wish to offer you my full support. Anything you need, truly anything, please ask of it and I shall in due haste make it so. I so eagerly await your response.
Sincerely yours,
Gabriella VuRant,
Ophelia stared at the letter in shock. Her eyes fell on lip marks pressed at the top of the letter next to Nathaniel’s name. Though it wasn’t stated, the undertones of the letter were loud and clear. This wasn’t a visitation request, but a love letter.
“Is something the matter my lady?” Ophelia snapped out of her stupor.
“No, everything’s fine,” Ophelia cleared her throat, “Would you mind letting Nat-the Inventor know I wish to see him.”
“Of course,” the maid curtsied and left the room.
Ophelia rose from her seat and walked around the room. She reread the note again and again. She remembered the sight of Lady Gabriella grabbing Nathaniel during the banquet. A tightness appeared in her chest that made her jaw tighten, and that same feeling returned. The memory of Gabriella kissing his cheek caused Ophelia to tighten her grip on the note. Then, she tore it. She shredded the note into tiny pieces and then threw the pieces into the cold fireplace.
She watched the pieces fall in between the logs. Shame suddenly came over her, and she hid her face in her hands. How could she have done this? If the VuRant family found out about this, it would make things more difficult for Nathaniel, and more importantly, give the Prince a reason to separate them. Ophelia sat back down and closed her eyes. How could she salvage this?
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Nathaniel stood outside Ophelia’s office. He wiped his hands on his pants before knocking on the door.
“Come in,” Nathaniel pushed open the door and saw Ophelia sitting behind her desk writing down on piece of paper. She looked up and gave him a bright smile, “Thank you for coming Nathaniel,” she came around and gestured to the sofa, “Sit with me for a minute.” [Distressed] appeared over her head.
The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.
Nathaniel spent the last month mastering to control his [Intuition], and now he no longer needed to turn it off. “Are you alright?” he said sitting down.
Ophelia sat next to him, their knees nearly touching, “I’ve been a bit stressed,” she said twirling her hair, “Prince Ollimier and Debin are disappointed with the heroes training, Duncan in particular.”
“Is there anything I can do?”
“Well,” Ophelia cleared her throat, “I could use a massage,” she said turning her back to him, “My shoulders are a little tense.”
“Sure,” Nathaniel tried to keep his voice from cracking.
He stood up and walked to the back of the sofa, then began kneading his hands into Ophelia’s shoulders. Ophelia let out a slight moan as she leaned into his touch. Nathaniel couldn’t help his eyes from peaking down at her cleavage.
“You really are tense,” Nathaniel said with a slight chuckle, “Is this all from work, or is there something else you want to get off your chest.”
“Nathaniel!” Ophelia said turning deep red with a slight smile, “It’s quite rude to make a comment about a woman’s chest, you scoundrel.”
“I’m sorry,” Nathaniel said, “But I am a man.”
Ophelia laughed, “I know,” Her shoulders relaxed, “That feels much better, thank you.”
“Glad to help. Is there anything else you need?”
Her face turned a deep red, “There is,” she waited for him to sit down, “I’ve been speaking with Maria…and there was something from your world that I’m interested in,” Nathaniel nodded waiting for her to continue, “She said that there is a…particular undergarment that your women wear for their bosoms…and I was wondering if you could make some for me.”
Nathaniel gave her a blank stare, and the meaning of her words came through, “You want me to make you a bra?”
“Yes,” she said clearing her throat, “All we have are woolen shirts and corsets, and I could use something that keeps them…in check.”
Nathaniel tried not to look down as he took a deep breath, “Fashion isn’t my strong suit, but I could give it a try,” he said, “I need to get some levels in tailoring first.”
Ophelia took his hands and gave him a bright smile, “Thank you.”
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Nathaniel stood in the hot forge giving the blacksmiths a cold glare. Gordon and his sons were laughing up a storm after he told them about Ophelia’s commission. Ramsey was close to burning himself on the glowing sword sitting on the anvil.
“Are you done?” Nathaniel said.
“So, are you here for some sewing needles?” Ramsey said putting the blade back in the fire, “Because I think you’re in the wrong place!”
“I think we can have ma send some of her lace,” Moses said, “She’s got some colors that you would adore.”
“Funny, but you know what’s really funny?” Nathaniel said getting their attention. “Getting to see Ophelia in her undergarments.” This shut them up.
“Do you need any help?” Ramsey said.
“Back to work you two,” Gordon said ushering them away before turning back to Nathaniel, “So, I take it you won’t be joining us today?”
“Pretty much,” Nathaniel said, “I’m going to spend this week leveling up my tailoring and sewing skills.”
“Good luck son,” Gordon clapped his shoulder, “Let me know if you need any help.”
“Thanks,” Nathaniel said leaving the shop.
Nathaniel left the fort and headed into the surrounding village. He followed the instructions that Ophelia gave him and stopped in front of a small store with a dress and suit in the front window. Nathaniel pushed into the homely store.
“Good morning,” a middle-aged woman greeted him while sewing lace onto a dress, “Is there anything I can do for you?”
“I’m Nathaniel Light,” he said, “I’m here to train my sewing and tailoring skills. There should have been a letter sent yesterday from the fort.”
“So, you’re the Inventor Hero,” she said putting down her work, “It’s such an honor to meet you.” she turned to the back, “Maelon, the Inventor Hero is here. I’m Nadia. My husband and I will gladly teach you the trade.”
A middle-aged man with grey hair stepped out of the back, “Welcome hero,” Maelon said, “I have everything set up back here if you’ll follow me.”
Nathaniel followed Maelon into the back room. Two workstations were set up on one side of the room, and on the other was a rack with rolls of fabrics. A spinning wheel sat in the corner next to the loom.
“I’ve set you up here,” Maelon gestured to the station next to the loom. A thick sheet of wool laid on the table. Sewing needles, shears, and charcoal sticks populated the small shelves hanging on the walls. “Normally you would start by taking the measurements but will skip that for now. We’re start with making a shirt.”
Maelon led Nathaniel through the steps. First, he drew outlines for the shirt and sleeves using charcoal and used a thin rope with evenly spaced knots for measurements. Second, Nathaniel cut the fabric and then sewed the parts together. The result was a decent, but cheap, looking shirt.
[New skill acquired: Sewing Lv. 2.]
“Not bad for your first attempt,” Maelon said looking it over, “The stitching is a bit loose, but you’ll get better in time.”
“Well, I have all week to get better,” Nathaniel said, “With my talents, it shouldn’t take me too long to get better.”
“What level are you now, Inventor?” Nadia said while working the weavers loom.
“Just Nathaniel, please,” he said, “I’m level twenty-four, but I wasn’t expecting to have such troubles after level twenty.”
“That first breaker level comes as a shock for everyone,” Nadia said with a comforting smile, “Poor Maelon here nearly tore out his hair when he couldn’t get to level twenty-one.”
“And you were ornery for an entire month,” Maelon said with snicker, “I had to sleep in the kids room because of her bad temper.”
“And you’re going to sleep in there tonight,” her cold smile made Maelon sweat. After a few minutes, Nadia gave Nathaniel a sly smile, “So, is it true that you and the Lady Oracle are lovers?”
Nathaniel laughed nervously, “What gave you that idea?”
“Our children work at the fort,” Nadia said, her smile growing, “They mention that you two spend nearly every evening together.”
The heat started getting to him, “We do, but I’m giving her a report on my progress, nothing more.”
“Truly,” she said, “Because the gossip is that she spends the most time with you than any of the other heroes.”
“I guess that’s true,” Nathaniel said staring down at the floor.
“Cheer up son,” Nadia said, “You’re doing this for Lady Ophelia, right?”
“Right,”
“Then remember, you’ll need to get her measurements.”
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Nathaniel stood outside of Ophelia’s office with his fist hovering over the dark wood. The last several days were stressful to say the least. Nadia kept reminding him to get her measurements for their little project, and now, here he was. With a deep breath, he knocked on the door.
“Come in.” Ophelia smiled brightly as he walked in, “Nathaniel, to what do I owe this pleasure?”
Nathaniel cleared his throat, “I…need to get your measurements,” he said.
Ophelia’s face turned deep red, “I see,” She said standing up, “Please lock the door,” she closed the curtains behind her. Nathaniel quickly did as he was told and turned to see Ophelia standing in the center of the room hugging herself, “This is a little embarrassing,” she said, “Could…you turn around, please.”
“You don’t need to undress,” Nathaniel said tugging at his collar, “My [Intuition] is more accurate than any measuring tool,” Ophelia stared in shock, “If you could stand up straight with your arms out.”
“Like this?” She posed for him with a nervous smile.
“Perfect,”
Nathaniel started writing down the measurements that appeared in his vision. Perfect was the only way to describe what he was seeing. Nathaniel tried to keep his eyes from lingering, but he could help it. From her large bust leading to a slender waist and wide hips, everything about her was perfect. Nathaniel noticed the blush on Ophelia’s face grow, and he quickly lowered his gaze to his notebook.
“That should be everything,” Nathaniel said closing his notebook, “Sorry if that made you uncomfortable.”
“No, it’s fine,” Ophelia said twirling her hair, “It was…exhilarating.”
Nathaniel laughed, “I’m glad to be of service,” he said turning back to the door, “I’ll let you know when it’s ready.”
“I look forward to it.”
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Nathaniel checked over the materials. On one side sat a roll of thick hemp yarn along with a pile of hard leather strips. In the center of the workstation sat a plaster bust that matched Ophelia’s size. It had taken two days to make it, and some serious heckling from Gordon and his son. With a deep breath, Nathaniel started working. [Innovation] appeared in his top right of his vision
The plan today was to make two different versions, a standard bra, and a support bra. Nathaniel took the hemp yarn and looped it around the circumference of one bust. Then, he started creating a mesh pattern with the yarn which he replicated on the second bust. He sewed wool fabric around each cup and stuffed it with cotton before shaping it. Finally, he sewed on a leather strap for the back and shoulders. For ease, the bra would be secured in the front by a metal button.
[Item created: Bra (standard)]
The second bra took a little bit longer since the leather straps were weaved through each other. The hard leather was meant to provide extra support and hopefully ease some of the burden. It also allowed it to retain its shape. Nathaniel finished sewing the last strap together.
[Item created: Bra (support)]
The bell to the front door rang, and Nadia stepped into the back with a large smile.
“She’s here!”
Nathaniel chuckled as he stepped out of the back, but his eyes widened at the sight in front of him. Ophelia gave him a nervous smile. It was probably due to the two women on either side of her, each giving Nathaniel dirty looks.
“I’m disappointed in you Nate,” Maria said tapping her foot.
“Same,” Shizuka said staring daggers at him.
Nathaniel set the prototype bras on the counter, “Why are you disappointed?”
Maria slammed her hands onto the counter, “Because I can’t take it anymore!” she said, “I’m tired of running around with this heavy cloak.”
“And I want people to stop looking at me like a child,” Shizuka said with a pout.
“But you are a child,” Nathaniel said.
“Focus Nate!” Maria said holding up the newly made bras, “I want you to make me a matching set. And dammit make them cute. These are just appalling.”
“Fine!” Nathaniel said grabbing the prototypes, “You pick out the colors and I’ll have them ready by tomorrow. Happy?”
Maria gave him a charming smile, “Yes,”
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Nathaniel slouched in the plush chair sitting in the tailors front room. He rubbed at the dark circles under his eyes as he released a large yawn. He could hear the girls giggling in the back as Nadia finished fitting the undergarments.
“Here,” Maelon said holding out a cup of tea.
“Thanks,”
“Women are definitely a handful,” Maelon said with a warm smile, “But you just found that out didn’t you.”
“I was up all night,” Nathaniel said wincing as Maria let out a loud laugh, “I didn’t realize the damn woman could be so pushy.”
“And you don’t even get to see the fruits of you labors,” Maelon gave Nathaniel a sly smile, “What a shame.” Nathaniel let out a chuckle.
The women stepped out of the fitting room with large smiles, Maria especially. Shizuka ran over and gave Nathaniel a hug. Her specially made bra accentuated her slight curves.
“Thank you,” Shizuka said, “Now people will stop seeing me as a kid.”
“Agreed,” Maria said, “It was getting hot in that cloak. But I’m surprised at how good this feel, much better than the ones from our world.”
Nathaniel looked to Ophelia, “How about you?”
“You have exceeded my expectations,” Ophelia said with a bright smile, “The status effect on this support bra will make life much easier.”
“Status effects? But I didn’t inscribe any runes on them.”
“You don’t need runes to imbue status effects,” Ophelia said, “Sometimes effects will be naturally applied depending on the intent of the items.” She blushed heavily, “Since this bra was made to support the bust, the [Weight Reduction] effect was applied.”
Shizuka eyes went distant, “Mine has [Charisma +10],”
“[Thermal Control]” Maria stated with wide eyes, “Your class is pretty amazing Nate.” She gave him a sweet smile, “Can you make me a few more pairs?”
Nathaniel slumped deeper into the chair, “Give me a few days to recover.”