For a solid month and a half, Xela had seamlessly blended into the community as a 'wannabe normal' individual. The villagers played along with his efforts to avoid any special treatment or privileges, respecting his desire for an ordinary life.

Those who had dared to challenge his behavior quickly regretted their actions, learning that taming a dragon—metaphorically or otherwise—was impossible. Similarly, those who attempted to make him their servant learned their lesson the hard way. Xela's demeanor and actions soon made it clear that he was not one to be trifled with.

Through these encounters, Xela had become well-acquainted with the adventurer lifestyle and found pleasure in its simplicity and the benefits it offered. He discovered that he could refuse to rank up, much to the frustration of the guild. Despite this, the entire village knew he was the strongest person to ever decide to live such a modest lifestyle. The local women learned he wasn't interested in romantic pursuits, and the men who were interested in him eventually gave up their efforts.

Xela was a free-spirited guy and independently minded young man, indifferent to societal expectations. His enigmatic presence made him a popular subject of gossip and the object of fantasy, but dating him was seen as an impossible endeavor. He became a fixture at bachelorette parties, though only as a poster boy for unattainable desire.

Nex, his wisp, was typically silent but on this particular day, she was actively trying to mingle with her fellow kin. The other wisps, however, outright refused to interact with her, adhering to some unknown code.

"Okay, Nex. Tell me. What is this awkward desperation to have the wisps accept you again?" Reyes asked privately during a party he had been invited to. Nex sighed, explaining that the other wisps shared a mother-hive mind, a sort of collective consciousness or online forum, which she no longer had access to.

"Why don't you just make one?" Reyes asked, his tone casual and unconcerned. He had always been popular in his past life and didn't crave fame or acceptance.

"Oh! You're right! We can do just that!" Nex exclaimed. Reyes looked confused as she began to explain, his eyes widening in surprise.

"So you're telling me, since you integrated with my system, this is the positive outcome that emerged from the process? That's good news. I know someone who hasn't had a wisp that we can ask to help with this experiment," Reyes said. He abruptly left the party, apologizing profusely as he explained he had something important to attend to.

The guests at the party assumed he was making an excuse to avoid further socializing, leading them to plan another event to try and draw him into favoring a particular political faction within the village.

Known to the villagers as Xela Reyes, they acknowledged he wasn't of noble birth but unquestionably possessed the qualities of nobility. He was skilled in dancing, fencing, writing, singing, painting, playing instruments, and even strategy games. His only flaw was his unconventional approach to social interaction; he wasn't keen on adhering to social hierarchies or ladders. This deviation from the norm was refreshing to many, including the village chief, though it irked the local nobles.

Meanwhile, the Queen had issued no actions, orders, statements, or apologies regarding the village. It was as if the events that transpired had never occurred. The village was left to fend for itself, without funds from the capital, and tax collectors were nowhere to be seen.

The village, unbeknownst to most, was becoming a beacon of change, and the capital was making plans regarding Xela Reyes. For now, they had decided to allow the village to continue its own development without any support from the capital, nor did they include it as a property tax collection point.

**

"Jareth, is your mother home?" Reyes asked as he saw the little boy sparring with his friends. Jareth stopped, rushing to find his mother. She emerged, tired from cooking but happy to see him.

"Reyes! What a pleasant surprise," she greeted, her face brightening as she wiped her hands on a towel. "Come inside. I've made some stew. You must be hungry."

Reyes hesitated, clearly eager to begin his experiment, but he couldn't resist the warmth of her hospitality. He followed her inside, where the aroma of the stew filled the small, cozy kitchen. The walls were adorned with simple, hand-painted decorations, and a wooden table set with mismatched chairs completed the homely atmosphere.

After a while, as the other villagers went about their business, Reyes noticed their curious glances. It was unusual for him not to be on his usual routine—he was known for his punctuality and structured free-style approach to life. Any deviation from his schedule meant something significant was happening.

"So, I want to ask you something. Is it okay if I grant your son a wisp?" Reyes asked directly. The mother looked at him, puzzled. Everyone knew the process of how wisps were distributed; no one had the ability to grant them to others.

"Sure," she said, though her confusion was evident. "If you want to take him on an expedition, just make sure you bring him home before dinner. If he gets a wisp, let me know so we can go to the church to confirm it." She waved him off, already turning back to the kitchen. Reyes had quickly eaten the meal without commenting on its taste, his focus clearly elsewhere.

"Thank you!" Reyes said, his excitement palpable. Jareth, already standing by the kitchen door, was eager for the adventure ahead.

They bantered and caught up as Reyes explained that they would try the experiment in the woods, away from prying eyes.

The journey to the forest was peaceful, though Reyes was keenly aware of the watchful eyes mentioned by the chief. These eyes were merely keeping tabs on him, as he had been told, so he chose to ignore them as they entered the forest.

Jareth was apprehensive about the woods but showed bravery around Reyes. This dynamic had become a habit between them. No formal training sessions had been held, as Reyes hadn't undergone the traditional rituals to gain his abilities; he was, in a sense, a fraudulent existence of sorts. He couldn't teach others how to do something that is inherited due to his body already knowing how.

"Alright, here's a good spot. Let's get started. Nex," Reyes said, his voice steady. He summoned his wisp, who remained invisible to Jareth, but the boy seemed to sense her presence. Reyes repeated the instructions Nex had given him, confirming Jareth's understanding before proceeding.

Reyes concentrated, and the familiar system interface appeared before him. It was reminiscent of a game interface but was more detailed and intricate. He saw his character stats, skills, and an unfamiliar tab labeled "Wisp Abilities."

"What's this?" he asked, pointing to the new tab.

Nex floated over and examined the interface. "So... these... are your... abilities... oh gosh... you're insane! Why didn't you say! You're definitely a Z-rank! You're on the level of the sovereignty, the world rulers!" She announced with palpable excitement. Reyes, however, was less enthused.

"Do not tell anyone what you said. Got it?" he said, his tone cold. Nex rolled her eyes and nodded.

"Ahem, so these abilities you can unlock through our bond. As you grow stronger, so will I, and together we can create new Wisps and infuse them into others."

"Okay, now create a new Wisp," Reyes replied, intrigued.

"Well, since we have enough extra essence, we can do it now. In the future, by gathering more essence from powerful sources or devouring other Wisps, we can perform this special ritual," Nex explained.

"I can't imagine it will be an easy journey, but with each Wisp we create, we can empower others and build a network of allies... I won't have to be an outcast anymore," Nex added, her tone tinged with sadness. Reyes, sensing her distress, offered a reassuring smile.

"Then what are we waiting for? Jareth here is watching us like we're crazy. Let's get him on our side." Reyes urged as Jareth nodded encouragingly.

Reyes stood before Jareth, his eyes closed in deep concentration. He took a deep breath and began the ritual. The system interface popped up for both of them, and Jareth accepted it. Reyes could feel the mana within Jareth as a link began to form between them.

Opening his eyes, he noted the link as if it were an inner mental GPS. Nex disappeared back into Reyes as he placed his right hand on Jareth's forehead, focusing his mana. He felt the raw energy coursing through Jareth's veins.

Extending his left hand toward Jareth, who instinctively moved his own hand to hover over Reyes's, both palms facing each other, a soft, blue light began to emanate from their palms. The entire scene started to glisten and shimmer with tiny lights converging between their hands.

The light grew brighter, swirling around their palms, slowly forming a sphere of pure energy. The sphere hovered between them, pulsating with a life of its own.

Reyes sensed the system prompting him to name the emerging being. Mentally preparing the name "Jarex," he awaited the system's confirmation. After cross-checking with the universal names of Wisps, the system accepted it.

The Wisp directed the surrounding energy into its sphere. The light intensified, and the sphere began to change shape, elongating and twisting into a small, ethereal form. The air crackled with energy as the Wisp took shape—a tiny, glowing creature with a translucent body and luminous eyes.

In mere seconds, the newly-formed wisp shifted from an innocent state to one of full consciousness, bearing the weight of adult with knowledge about the world's current state. Its expression was a mix of shock and awe at the situation unfolding before it.

Reyes extended a hand toward the wisp, his voice now a soft whisper. "You're now pledged to Jareth, and likewise, he is to you. Let it be acknowledged through the power invested from me to you."

Jareth, still in a daze, felt the connection between himself and the newly-formed wisp solidify. The wisp's eyes locked onto its new master, and for a moment, the room was bathed in blinding light. When the light faded, the wisp hovered obediently beside Jareth. However, it soon entered Jareth's body, causing him to faint. Reyes was quick to catch him.

〘 *Ding!* Significant Achievement Acknowledged [Class Level +1]! 〙

Ignoring the ping from the system as he felt his mana and strength increase in the mere moments, he had to continue to focus on the task as it wasn't full complete.

Nex appeared from Reyes with a snap, glowing briefly and showing a worn-out expression. She felt the new power coursing through her veins, as well as the knowledge and abilities she had transferred to the newly-formed wisp, which was now linked to a part of her.

The bond was complete, but Nex felt her powers diminish as the wisp's energy became integrated with the new one. She had temporarily lost her Tier Five status and found herself caught off guard as a Tier One.

"Now we know the consequences. I can also sense you're fatigued. How much mana did you put into this ritual to avoid erroneous conclusions?" she asked, her tone sharp yet curious. Reyes smirked.

Reyes had channeled more mana than usual to ensure the ritual's success. He had gone beyond the usual requirement to keep the success rate progression above 37 to 51%, but rather maintaining it at 100% throughout the entire process.

Nex smiled as she focused on her essence, feeling its connection to the new wisp. Through the spiritual network, she could sense the presence of other wisps, each linked to their hosts, forming a web of interconnected minds. The hive mind awakened—a collective consciousness binding them together.

She made contact with the new wisp and realized she had superior willpower over it. Although she couldn't harm it, she could instruct it on how to interact with her and ensure it expressed gratitude to Reyes when summoned. She relayed this to Reyes, who awaited Jareth's awakening.

While waiting, Reyes and Nex discussed their ideas and the future outlook, exploring the power of the hive mind. Through this network, they could communicate with any host, share knowledge, and coordinate their actions.

Reyes now understood why Nex had been afraid. The hive of current wisps already knew of them, and as outliers, they were on the brink of becoming enemies to nearly 50% of the world. The only reason no action had been taken yet was that Reyes was considered a world leader class. Their first attempt to take him down with the 'Church of Holy Wispy Faith' had failed, demonstrating that the wisps would need to enlist the help of world leaders rather than minor players.

As Jareth woke up, Reyes stood, now fully aware of his responsibility. He had to protect Jareth to ensure his survival and manage the curse he had imposed upon him without fully considering the consequences. "Hey, how do you feel?"

"I feel hungry and dizzy, but I'm fine," Jareth replied, noticing the wisp from Reyes. It was already out, expressing its thanks. Jareth felt a bit embarrassed as the wisp looked at him and huffed.

As Reyes lifted the child and moved out of the woods back towards the village, the eyes of the onlookers were filled with astonishment. They had witnessed a historical feat: Reyes had not only created a wisp but had also bonded it to another! In that moment, he seemed almost godlike, his gaze commanding and authoritative.

"None of you are to tell outsiders about this. I don't care if the village knows, but I won't tolerate it otherwise," Reyes declared firmly. The watchers, hiding in the woods, were confused, especially Jareth, who repeatedly asked who Reyes was talking to, only to receive a simple smile in response.

Reyes had discovered that the wisps had a hive mind connection, meaning the wisps he didn't create had likely already informed their leaders of this new development. This knowledge would cause complications in the future, but for now, neither side could take action without fully understanding the other's capabilities in a potential full-scale battle.

As Reyes approached the village gates, the guards awkwardly knelt before him. He was uncertain about the recent changes in their attitude but continued towards Jareth's home.

Jareth's mother welcomed them, taking her son to rest. Her wisp remained silent and frozen under Nex's intimidating gaze.

Before leaving, Reyes and Nex warned Jareth's mother to ensure Jareth never summoned his wisp when Reyes wasn't around and to avoid summoning it at the church, as the church could detect its presence without revealing it.

Returning to his inn, Reyes found a letter bearing the seals of the nobles and one from the village chief. He was summoned to a meeting. With a sigh, he removed his armor into his dimensional inventory, managed by Nex. Exhausted, he fell into a deep sleep, bringing an end to the eventful day.

**

As I sat in my garden chair, I signed approvals and glanced at the stumped letters. My clerk took the paperwork and left, allowing me a moment to sip my tea. The garden was a peaceful sanctuary, with blooming flowers and the gentle hum of bees.

I stared at the garden, contemplating the slow but steady growth of our village into a burgeoning city. Rebuilding efforts were underway, and the prospect of constructing a castle loomed on the horizon. The nobles who once dominated the upper grounds had left, but their influence lingered. The air felt different, and I hadn't received any royal messengers. It was as if we were no longer part of the kingdom. The Queen had withdrawn her resources and remained inactive. Was it all because of Xela? I wondered.

My thoughts were interrupted by an urgent knock on the backyard door. One of the Watchers, a young lady with rogue and assassin skills, stood there. She was a new generation of servicemen I had recently assembled to be my eyes and ears.

"Sir, here's a report that needs your immediate attention. Please open it," she said. This young woman, a B-rank talent at such a young age, was the cornerstone of the organization—and my daughter.

I moved towards the report and knelt to open it. My eyes widened as I read.

"Well, now it really makes sense why the Queen made no plans against us. We truly have no idea what he is capable of doing. I thought I knew everything about his extraordinarily rare race, but this is beyond even the wisps' knowledge," I said, my wisp nodding in agreement.

It seemed that the other wisps had never heard of such a feat. It was historic, and we had the source material here with us.

If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it's taken without the author's consent. Report it.

"Maybe this place will no longer be a simple village of old fame, but one of new horizons to come. I'll have to write to the Queen to see what she thinks of this report," I said, but my wisp advised against it, suggesting it might create more confusion.

"You're right," I acknowledged. Wisps were like colleague allies, never acting independently without their masters' intent. A bad relationship with one's wisp had consequences—they wouldn't alert you to danger or offer advice if the relationship was strained. I had complete trust in my wisp and never saw it betraying me.

In the following weeks, the mercenary named Xela made no unusual moves. He took quests honestly, couldn't be bribed, and stayed at an inn despite being offered a house. His love life was nonexistent, focused solely on himself.

A new rumor spread throughout the village: he was the Guardian of the City Layemount. Merchants and businessmen began flocking to the city, fueling its growth. New inns and restaurants opened, and word of Xela's wealth spread like wildfire. He deposited gold coins with no magical signature, hinting at a hidden treasure. He invested freely, circulating wealth throughout the village.

Tomorrow, I was to meet with him and a few upper management members. However, my interest lay more in the new report about the first boy bonded with a wisp. Like my wisp, I read the report from the church, obtained through a hefty bribe. I sat down to open the file packet, eager to uncover its contents.

〘Name: Jareth Kulde • Storia's Child 〙

〘Race: Human • Demiuidity 〙

〘 Class: Knight • Unique 〙

〘 HP: 1,450/1,450 〙

〘 MP: 15,450/ 15,450 〙

〘 SP: 1% 〙〘 AE: II Class 〙

〘Archetype: Heavenly 〙〘 Class: Lvl•15〙

〘 Age: 13 〙〘 Wisp: Jarex• T1〙

〘 Skills: 1/36 〙〘 Passive: 1/10 〙

〘 Armor: Headgear • N/a〙

〘 Armor: Chest • N/a〙

〘 Armor: Left Arm • N/a〙

〘 Armor: Right Arm • N/a〙

〘 Armor: Right Leg • N/a〙

〘 Armor: Left Leg • N/a〙

My eyes nearly fell out of my skull as I read the report. Another rare race had emerged, something even my wisp had never encountered. It was called 'Demiuidity', a race so new that only the kid's wisp knew its true nature. Despite our pressing, the kid refused to summon his wisp. When we pushed harder, he would drop Xela's name, which was enough to remind us to back down unless we were ready to face such a formidable being.

We decided to leave it alone and bring up the matter directly with Xela during the upcoming meeting. Many were eager to get close to him, but my main concern was ensuring he remained in the village. He was becoming an integral part of our community, even if he didn't realize it. The people had grown accustomed to seeing him as the village guardian.

The day of the meeting arrived, and we gathered in the church, the most spacious venue for such an important assembly. The topic was 'The founding of a new noble council and the future development of the village'. I took my seat among the upper floors of the church's chairs, overlooking the massive circular round table below. The invited guests of importance, those who had significantly impacted the village, were seated around the pillar beneath the table.

As the meeting commenced, I scanned the room, noting the anticipation on everyone's faces. The church's stained-glass windows cast colorful patterns on the stone floor, and the scent of incense hung in the air. Xela entered the room, his presence commanding immediate attention. Whispers filled the hall, but I focused on the task at hand.

"Thank you all for coming," I began, my voice echoing slightly in the grand space. "Today's agenda is crucial for our village's future. We will discuss the potential establishment of a new noble council and the development plans that will shape our community for generations to come."

I looked directly at Xela. "Xela, your unique position and abilities have brought about significant changes. We have questions that only you can answer."

Xela nodded, his expression unreadable. The room fell silent as he prepared to speak. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation, and I knew that this meeting could determine the future path of our village.

"Yes, I was told to be part of the village's development. I'd like to see where and how things run here as I think about the roots I may plant one day," Xela said, leaning forward in his seat. His answer was purposefully vague, leaving the rest of us eager to ensure he stayed. After all, as a traveler without firm ties to the village, he could leave at any moment. We all played our part to make sure our insurance against the sovereignty remained intact, given the wealth he brought that was starting to flow through our soon-to-be city.

Despite initially trying to avoid sitting at the table, Xela was eventually given a seat at the high table due to the insistence of many guests. He was a lone wolf among the various factions present but chose to sit next to me at my request.

The meeting proceeded with numerous questions raised by the round table members. I, along with a few others, managed the conversation clearly and orderly. Topics ranged from infrastructure and funding to societal issues and security.

"Is it true that you created a new wisp?" someone asked directly.

Xela answered confidently, "Yes, I did."

We discussed everything from rebuilding walls and sewers to funding the castle project, establishing a ruling class, and creating a new societal hierarchy. Other topics included health services, financial support, education, slave rights, weapons, women's rights, roads, monster hunting, low adventurer wages, adventurer taxes, merchant smuggling, prostitution, drug trafficking, garbage disposal, guardianship, guards, bribery, workers' rights, social security, loans, social mobility, landlords, opportunities for advancement, and immigration.

Xela only spoke when the council tried to divert the conversation away from challenging topics they had no clear plans to address. He posed hard questions and gave direct answers, causing the round table to regret having him involved in the final drafting of the parchment.

His intelligence was evident, and I, as a supporter, admired him. It seemed as if Xela had been a part of my faction from the very start.

Yet, I knew that wasn't entirely the case. I was more a fan of Xela's innovative approach to each issue. He took on challenges and tasks when the council questioned who would handle them. He committed wealth, manpower, improvement, enforceability, and even vowed to make himself more involved when called upon. Xela clearly hated being underestimated, a flaw that made me understand him more and eager to aid him.

The meeting lasted from morning to evening with breaks in between. At Xela's suggestion, we extended the period to ensure more people could be heard, despite the council members' annoyance. I reveled in the change of atmosphere that Xela brought to the village.

The coined name, 'Guardian of Layemount,' was solidifying without Xela even realizing it. He was gaining unchallenged power and authority by obliging himself into these circumstances.

The rest of the week went smoothly as things were ironed out. Many people wanted Xela to do the same for their kids, but he appeared unable to say no outright. So, I seized the opportunity to explain that it was a trial and that everyone would get their chance in the future.

My wisp wasn't happy about it, insisting it was against natural means. I also noticed that many people's wisps were rather quiet when Xela's wisp spoke or stared at them. Somehow, despite being noted as tier five, Xela's wisp was now tier two. He explained that it had been tempered by the ritual and that the reduction wasn't permanent. Until his wisp regained its original tier, he wouldn't be making a new one.

This vital information seemed to put my wisp and others at ease, making them more relaxed than one would expect. However, the glare from Xela's wisp towards the others was distinctly unfriendly. It appeared that creating wisps wasn't sanctioned by the wisps themselves, as it sparked conflict among them. They preferred to be born naturally from the world's environment, creating a rift between the new generation and the old.

When I spoke to Xela about it, he smiled and simply looked at my wisp, saying, "It's an internal matter for the wisps to deal with. As long as it doesn't endanger innocent lives, I'll take no further action."

His message was clearly aimed at my wisp, suggesting something deeper was at play. When I asked my wisp about it, I received no clear answer, only a vague explanation about natural versus unnatural origins. I decided to leave it at that, as it seemed to make no practical difference—the boy's naturally gained wisp and the one created through Xela's method appeared identical in every meaningful way.

The tension among the wisps simmered down, and the village continued to adapt to its new reality. The days were filled with activity and anticipation, with Xela's influence growing ever more significant. The future of our village seemed brighter, even as we navigated these complex dynamics.

**

[Year 525 C.A • Thursday Afternoon • April tenth]

The village, now evolving into a city, was thriving under a cloak of relative peace despite the turbulence outside its borders. The recent influx of people had spurred economic growth, with new jobs and opportunities flourishing. The village's port was a vital asset, facilitating trade and helping sustain the city independently of the sovereignty's support.

The church had adopted a passive stance towards the village's expansion, while the royal capital remained indifferent. Local residents began to see themselves as distinct from the kingdom, with the village's growing autonomy becoming increasingly apparent. Banditry and piracy outside the city were on the rise, but Xela's formidable presence acted as a deterrent. His reputation alone was enough to dissuade most threats, and any monster or adversary daring to challenge the city met a swift end.

Amidst these changes, the city was bustling with activity. The transformation from a village to a city was driven by the necessity to accommodate the growing population. Infrastructure projects were underway, reflecting the city's ambitious growth. The residents, now accustomed to the vibrant life of their expanding community, worked diligently to support and sustain their evolving home.

The city's evolution under Xela Reyes was nothing short of extraordinary. His vision for progress extended from the construction of new roads to the establishment of inns and fortified walls, each contributing to the city's rapid development. Xela's groundbreaking innovations elevated him to a near-divine status in the eyes of the public. His contributions ranged from revolutionary methods of paper production to advancements in toiletries and sweeping social reforms.

The noble class, once secure in their educational advantages, now found their dominance waning. Xela's introduction of scientific knowledge and advanced mathematics in public education eroded the old hierarchies. His pioneering work with driven carriages became a symbol of innovation, embodying his theory of creative problem-solving and practical application. The carriages, now a common sight on the roads, were a testament to his genius.

In recognition of his monumental impact, Xela was awarded a grand mansion, a symbol of his indispensable role in shaping the future of the city. The urban districts bore the marks of his innovations, each new development echoing his influence. When faced with challenges, Xela's solutions surpassed the capabilities of anyone else in the community, reinforcing his reputation as a visionary.

Xela had embraced the name Reyes, considering its importance for his future family. This decision led him to officially adopt the name Xela Reyes, a choice that seemed to be validated by the system, which adapted to this new identity as if acknowledging its significance.

Despite his accomplishments and high status, Xela maintained a deliberate distance from romantic entanglements. A past incident at a party—where he had woken up naked in a room filled with people, the aftermath of an apparent orgy—left him wary of social gatherings. This aversion was compounded by his unique condition as an eternal. When he inquired about his status, Nex explained that he could will his body to age if he desired, but otherwise, he remained perpetually youthful.

Though Xela was technically ageless, his self-perception had not adjusted to his true age. Despite being thirty-one in his previous life, he often felt like a young man. Recently, he had noticed subtle changes—such as a growing beard and increased height—that only enhanced his already remarkable appearance.

On a bright, sunny day, Xela oversaw his golems as they toiled on an ambitious project. They were hard at work constructing a pipeline system for the sewers and digging a waste pit deep into the forest ground. The golems moved with purpose and efficiency, handling the laborious tasks that were essential to maintaining the city's infrastructure. The sight of their relentless activity was a reminder of Xela's unyielding commitment to his vision of progress and innovation.

"Nex, what is Jareth's race type?" Reyes asked his wisp, noticing her usual expression of boredom when summoned for seemingly trivial reasons. It was lunchtime, and Reyes was seated under a tree, taking a brief respite from managing the sewerage issue. He was also planning to construct guard posts for the farmlands and had discussed reconstructing the village walls into a larger structure akin to the capital's fortifications.

Manpower was in short supply, but Reyes had special gimmicks that astounded the public. As a former pay-to-win player and a dedicated long-time gamer, he had a stash of summoning scrolls at his disposal. This revelation had shocked Nex, who was unfamiliar with such resources.

Reyes often used golems, giants, fae beasts, and other creatures summoned by these scrolls. The duration of each summon varied, but none were permanent, highlighting the transient nature of his assistance. Nex was beginning to understand his unique perspective on viewing others.

"Regarding Jareth," Nex began, her voice tinged with curiosity, "he is a Demiuidity. From my understanding, based on his wisp's knowledge, a Demiuidity is a rare and enigmatic race born from the union of fallen celestial and spiritual mortal bloodlines."

Reyes nodded, taking a bite of the hamburger he had instructed others to invent. Nex continued, "Often mistaken for demigods, they possess unique abilities that blend mortal resilience with divine influence. Demiuidities are known for their ethereal appearance, marked by glowing eyes and an aura of celestial energy."

"They inhabit hidden enclaves in remote regions, guarding ancient secrets and relics of immense power. Despite their divine heritage, they struggle with the expectations of both gods and mortals, often serving as intermediaries in conflicts between the two realms."

Nex concluded, "Their existence is a delicate balance, forever walking the line between divinity and mortality."

Reyes pondered her words, setting his half-eaten hamburger aside. "If only I knew his passive abilities and skills. Given that he told me he's a knight, I can assume his class isn't aligned to be a tanker type. We need to get him strong. I only hope it's not as hard as my race type," he mused, standing up and gazing at the forest, now significantly reduced.

"Nex, are you going to take that Nest Core for essence? What tier do you think you'll be?" he asked, turning to her with a smile.

Nex returned his smile, her ethereal form shimmering slightly. "I'm hoping for a higher tier this time. With the essence from the Nest Core, I should be able significantly close to evolution. Let's see what surprises await us," she replied with a twinkle in her eye.

The day was bright and filled with promise. As Reyes watched his golems toil away, constructing the pipeline system for the sewers and digging a waste pit deep into the forest ground, he felt a renewed sense of purpose.

"Just to add on, if I don't evolve still be tier five, and still close to evolving, but I'd have more than enough essence to make two or three more wisps," Nex replied, her voice carrying a hint of frustration but also determination.

Reyes nodded thoughtfully, taking in her words. "That's still impressive, Nex. Creating more wisps would be a huge advantage for us," he said, finishing his lunch and standing up.

Nex floated closer, her ethereal glow casting a soft light on Reyes's face. "You always see plan ahead to the side of things, Reyes. It's one of your strengths," she remarked, her tone softening.

Reyes smiled at her compliment. "Yeah-ha, Nex. We need to use every resource we have if we're going to rebuild and protect this city."

"(Giggling) You have to understand, I'm no longer the same type of wisp as those before me. When I integrated with your system, many changes occurred. My evolution could be very different. Technically, I'm a different species of the same species I once was," Nex explained, her tone light but with an undercurrent of seriousness.

Reyes appeared suspicious, his brow furrowing slightly. "You look like you think I'm not bound to you as my master. So, I don't understand why the secretive nature of worry," she said, her voice softening as she noticed his skepticism.

Reyes shrugged in defeat, a smirk tugging at his lips. "It's not that, Nex. It's just... things are changing so fast. It's hard to keep up sometimes."

Nex floated closer, her presence calming. "I understand, Reyes. But remember, we're in this together. Your success is my success."

Reyes glanced at his schedule, feeling a mix of frustration and satisfaction. He was still behind, but progress was being made. The council had assumed he'd given up, but they had underestimated him. His past life's game—now real-life items—were having more impact than he had expected, turning the tables against his naysayers.

"Let them underestimate us," Nex said, her voice filled with determination. "We're proving them wrong, step by step."

Nex nodded in agreement. "Exactly. And with the changes we're making, we'll show them the true potential of combining magic and modern thinking."

As he watched the golems diligently continue their work, Reyes's mind wandered to the many projects he had initiated. The city was transforming rapidly, and each new development brought them closer to his vision of a thriving, innovative community.

The scene around them was bustling with activity. Golems, giants, and various summoned creatures moved purposefully, their heavy footsteps echoing through the clearing. The construction of the pipeline system for the sewers and the excavation of the waste pit were progressing steadily, thanks to the tireless efforts of Reyes's summoned beings.

The air was filled with the sounds of construction: the clinking of metal tools, the rumbling of stone being moved, and the occasional directive shouted by one of Reyes's foremen. The forest, though significantly reduced, provided a serene backdrop to the industrious scene.

Reyes turned his attention back to Nex. "Speaking of resources, we are getting new information about other cities reaching out, and have you had any thoughts on how to improve our defenses?" he asked, his eyes scanning the horizon where the new guard posts were being erected.

Nex pondered for a moment before responding. "We could enhance the guard posts with ore magical cycle barriers. It would require a significant amount of mana, but with the essence from the Nest Core, it might be feasible," she suggested.

He'd stare out in a distance as he recalled his recent experience...

*

Reyes had recently delved into the magical studies of their world, at the library study halls, finding their magical technology astonishing yet puzzling. Despite their incredible advancements in magic, society remained stuck in the medieval era. This contradiction baffled him, especially since they lacked awareness of certain commodities and conveniences he had taken for granted in his past life.

One evening, Reyes sat in his study, poring over ancient texts and newly acquired manuscripts on magical theory. The room was filled with the warm glow of candlelight, casting flickering shadows on the walls lined with bookshelves. He marveled at the complexity and elegance of their magical constructs but couldn't help feeling frustrated at their technological stagnation.

Nex floated nearby, observing his intense focus. "You seem troubled, Reyes," she remarked, her voice gentle.

Reyes looked up from the pages, rubbing his temples. "It's just... their magical technology is so advanced, yet they haven't applied it to improve everyday life in ways that seem obvious to me. They're still using medieval ways and methods."

Nex tilted her head, curiosity piqued. "Like what, for example?"

Reyes leaned back in his chair, thinking. "Take sanitation, for instance. They have the magical capability to purify water and manage waste efficiently, yet they still rely on primitive methods. Or communication—they could use magical means to create instant messaging systems, but they don't. It's like they're stuck in a certain mindset."

Nex nodded thoughtfully. "Perhaps, but it's a matter of supply and demand coupled with traditional ways. Not enough people have such capacities."

She'd continue as she floated around him, "Change can be difficult, especially when the existing methods are deeply ingrained. You have to understand also, not many people reach high levels, and those that do aren't rare classes. Then there the situation of wealth and greed."

Reyes sighed, closing the book in front of him. "You're right, but I believe am going to be...no I can bridge that gap. We can combine their magical expertise with modern principles from my past life to create a better future."

*

Reyes's eyes lit up at the idea. "That's brilliant, Nex! Let's start planning that out. We'll need to gather more ore resources and perhaps find a way to sustain the mana flow for the barriers, but it's definitely worth pursuing."

Nex nodded in agreement. "I'll begin analyzing the mana requirements and see what we can do. In the meantime, you should check in with Jareth. Understanding his abilities and how he can contribute will be crucial. Given that he is race class that is equal to you."

Reyes agreed and began walking towards the edge of the construction site, where Jareth was training with a group of knights. The sight of the Demiuidity, with his glowing eyes and aura of celestial energy, was striking. He moved with a grace and power that marked him as something beyond ordinary.

"Jareth," Reyes called out as he approached. The knight turned, his ethereal eyes meeting Reyes's. Retuning his eyes to normal as he seal away his aura.

"Yes, Lord Reyes?" Jareth responded, his voice calm and composed.

"I wanted to talk to you about your abilities and how we can best utilize them for the city's defense and development," Reyes said, gesturing for Jareth to walk with him.

As they strolled through the bustling construction site, Jareth began to explain his unique skills and heritage. "As you already know, as a Demiuidity, I possess abilities that combine mortal resilience with divine influence. I can manipulate celestial energy to create powerful defensive and offensive spells, but my aura provides limited protection to those within its range."

Reyes listened intently, absorbing every detail. "That's incredible, Jareth. You're now, level 20 right? We need to find a way to integrate your abilities into our defense strategies. Maybe you can work with Nex on enhancing the guard posts with magical ore that seal one's aura. We can have you keep supplying them with it."

Jareth nodded. "I'd be honored to contribute. Together, I can ensure the city's safety and continue to build a future where everyone thrives. All thanks to you master."

Reyes felt a surge of eek. While Jareth laughed at the reaction he was Reyes displayed. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the bustling construction site, he knew they were on the right path.

However, his mood shifted as he caught sight of Thoran walking with several council members, their expressions sour as they strolled through the place. He recognized the signs of impending political turmoil.

The months of relative peace, free from disagreements and nagging complaints about his methods, were drawing to a close. A storm was brewing within the burgeoning city of Layemount. Every faction would soon vie for a piece of the emerging prosperity, even as it was still being shaped.

"Nex, their wisps will work against us. The real problems will be coming soon," Reyes said, his tone laced with concern. "Fighting me impossible for my adversaries, so now they will use the one thing I am weak against: innocent people; these scheming politicians. I became a lord of the northwest part of the land here as the nobles disappear, as you know."

Nex hovered beside him, her ethereal form shimmering in the twilight. She followed his gaze toward Thoran and the council members, sighing with resignation. "I see it too, Reyes. It's going to be a difficult year, especially once the sewerage system is complete. They'll use every political maneuver they can to undermine you."

Reyes nodded, his mind racing with strategies to counteract the impending political machinations. "We'll need to be prepared, Nex. Our progress must continue, but we also need to fortify our position against these schemers. Information and new alliances will be key."

The scene around them was still buzzing with activity. The golems and other summoned creatures moved purposefully, their heavy footsteps creating a rhythm that echoed through the clearing.

While Reyes was lost in thought, an older woman approached him. She was a respected merchant in the court, known for her reasonable influence within the council. Reyes noticed her wisp hovering nearby, but Nex seemed to be ignoring the other wisp, as if it held no importance.

The woman introduced herself, her voice warm and friendly. "I'm Madam Diosa," she said, extending a hand. "I've heard much about you, Lord Reyes. Your innovations have stirred quite the discussion."

Reyes shook her hand, offering a polite smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Madam Diosa. I appreciate your kind words."

She began sharing stories of her upbringing in Layemount, expressing her happiness that he had chosen to make his roots here and help them resist the sovereignty. Her tales painted a vivid picture of the city's past, filled with struggles and triumphs.

"Madam Diosa," Reyes said thoughtfully, "do you think I can leverage the new guard posts and the magical ore barriers to strengthen my political standing?"

Madam Diosa smiled knowingly, recognizing the underlying tension between factions within the council. She placed a hand on her lips, signaling a hush and a gesture of wisdom.

"What does your wisp think?" she asked, turning her gaze to Nex.

Nex considered the question carefully. "It's possible. If we demonstrate the tangible benefits of your innovations, especially in terms of security and infrastructure, it might sway some of the more pragmatic council members. But it will require careful planning and perhaps some strategic alliances."

Madam Diosa nodded in agreement. "Wise words, indeed. Building alliances will be crucial. Show them the value of your work, and they will be more likely to support you."

With a final smile, she bid farewell and walked away, leaving Reyes with a sense of encouragement.

As the meeting adjourned, Reyes felt a surge of optimism. He and Nex had taken the first steps toward securing their position and building a coalition of support. The path ahead would be challenging, but with determination and unity, they could overcome any obstacle.

Walking through the streets of Layemount that evening, Reyes saw the city in a new light. The people were beginning to believe in his vision, and with their support, he knew they could create something truly extraordinary.

"Nex," Reyes said quietly, "we're on the right path. Let's keep pushing forward."

Nex hovered beside him, her glow illuminating their way. "We've got this, Reyes. Together, we can achieve anything."

Reyes glanced back at Thoran and the council members, their figures now silhouetted against the setting sun. "We'll need to act swiftly and decisively. The completion of the sewerage system will mark a significant milestone. We should use that momentum to solidify our influence."

Nex nodded in agreement. "You'll have to start gathering intelligence on the council members and their affiliations. We need to understand their motivations and leverage points."

Reyes took a deep breath, steeling himself for the challenges ahead. "Of course, Nex. We've overcome many obstacles to get this far, and I won't let political scheming derail me."

The golden hues of the setting sun deepened into shades of orange and red, casting a warm glow over Layemount. As the first stars began to appear in the twilight sky, Reyes felt the familiar prickle of being watched again. It had been a while since he noticed the 'Watchers' on him, and although he usually ignored them, tonight felt different. The presence felt less like surveillance and more like a desire for conversation.

He sighed and decided to confront the shadowy figure. Slipping into a narrow alleyway, he moved silently, his senses heightened. "I can sense you. No need to run or hide. I'll keep our interactions discreet," he called out, already positioning himself behind her like a seasoned ninja.

The woman spun around, her eyes widening in awe. Though she was level 70, it felt like she was standing before a level 99. His nonchalant demeanor only added to his mystique.

"Please promise to keep this meeting secret," she said, her voice tinged with urgency.

Reyes nodded, his expression remaining impassive. "You have my word. Now, what do you want?"