Chapter 78: Draft of a Legacy
The soft glow of the candle flickered against the walls of Volundr's study, casting shadows across a room filled with neatly organized papers and books.
The scent of ink and parchment filled the air, an ambiance he had long since grown accustomed to. But tonight, his focus was sharper than ever as he sat in front of his open War Journal, a thick, leather-bound tome filled with meticulous notes, calculations, and plans.
Volundr's quill hovered above the page, the tip of the pen quivering slightly as he considered the words he was about to write.
The pages before him were filled with the current state of affairs, but tonight would mark a significant addition to the record—plans for the future.
With a slow breath, he began writing.
War Journal - Entry #227
Subject: Knight Piece - Jeanne d'Arc
Classification: High Mobility, Holy Sword Synergy, Strong Leadership
Jeanne d'Arc, a woman of exceptional ability and ironclad faith, stands as a prime candidate for the Knight piece. Her swordsmanship is unparalleled, enhanced by the unique synergy she shares with her Sacred Gear, the Holy Sword.
Her leadership abilities, while untapped in their full potential, are present in the way she commands the battlefield, directing others with confidence and clarity.
Her mobility is another key asset, allowing her to outmaneuver most foes with ease. The high speed at which she can operate is a perfect fit for the Knight class, and her potential to grow within the role is vast.
I suspect that with the right guidance, she could exceed even the current Knight-class devils in terms of sheer versatility and speed.
Psychological Profile: Jeanne is a woman driven by an unwavering belief in her cause, but recent reports suggest a growing disillusionment with the Church.
Should she continue on this path, her faith in the institution could be fractured. It is my assessment that she seeks a new purpose—one that does not tie her to a corrupt organization.
She is not the type to fall into bitterness or vengeance, though, which may make her ideal for the role I wish to offer. She must be approached carefully, with patience and understanding.
Risk Factors: Her deep-rooted loyalty to the Church could be a significant obstacle. Should she see my offer as a betrayal to her ideals, she may become an enemy.
But if I can offer her a new cause—one worth fighting for—she will undoubtedly become a powerful ally.
Volundr's quill scratched against the page, continuing with the next entry.
War Journal - Entry #228
Subject: Knight/Pawn Hybrid Potential - Siegfried
Classification: Multi-Sword Style, Dragon-Slaying Potential
Siegfried, a warrior of great repute, possesses a unique combat style centered around his mastery of multiple swords. His adaptability in battle is noteworthy, and his capacity to wield several blades simultaneously gives him a flexibility rarely seen in a single warrior.
His potential as a Knight-class piece is evident, but his skills in combat could also lend themselves to a more specialized role, perhaps as a hybrid between Knight and Pawn.
The most interesting aspect of Siegfried's profile is his history with dragon-slaying. His prowess in this field could be invaluable should the need arise to face any formidable draconic opponents.
His combat style has proven effective in a variety of scenarios, and his resilience in battle marks him as a candidate with incredible long-term potential.
Psychological Profile: Siegfried is a man who has built his identity around his swordsmanship and his duty to the Church.
However, much like Jeanne, there is a growing tension within him—an increasing awareness of the Church's failings and corruption. His reluctance to fully trust the Church's leadership could serve as a weakness if left unchecked, but it also represents an opportunity for someone to guide him onto a different path. Siegfried's sense of honor is strong, and he would be a valuable asset should he come to see me as someone who offers a cause worth fighting for.
Risk Factors: Siegfried's commitment to his duty and his current allegiances may prevent him from easily accepting any offers of recruitment.
He would require a significant amount of time and effort to sway, especially considering his pride and sense of honor. But the potential benefits of adding him to my peerage far outweigh the risks. The key will be patience.
Volundr leaned back in his chair, reading over the entries once more, letting the words settle in his mind.
As the candle flickered once again, he closed the journal, securing it with a quiet snap. His fingers brushed against the cover for a moment, considering the paths ahead.
The door to his study creaked open, and Sairaorg entered, a silent figure in the doorway. His eyes quickly scanned the room before settling on Volundr, who was deep in thought.
"You've been busy," Sairaorg remarked, his voice low but curious. "What are you planning now?"
Volundr looked up, meeting Sairaorg's gaze with an unreadable expression. "Just laying the groundwork for what's to come."
Sairaorg crossed the room with his usual commanding presence, his broad shoulders cutting through the space like a looming shadow.
"What exactly is this, Volundr? This is more than just idle planning. It looks like you're preparing for war."
Volundr allowed himself a small smile, though it lacked any real humor.
"Planning is mercy before chaos. You'll understand, Sairaorg, that without preparation, the storm can consume you before you even realize it's arrived."
Sairaorg's brow furrowed, but he said nothing at first. He stood beside Volundr, his eyes lingering on the open War Journal, scanning the pages with a careful eye.
He pointed to the names of Siegfried and Jeanne. "You're already planning them into your war?"
Volundr nodded slowly, his gaze drifting to the horizon outside the window.
"I'm not just recruiting them, Sairaorg. They are... part of a larger vision. A vision that can only come to fruition if they are given the chance to grow, to find a purpose beyond the walls of the Church or any other faction. A chance to make their own destiny."
Sairaorg's gaze softened slightly as he looked at Volundr, a silent understanding passing between them.
"And if they choose not to join you?"
Volundr's expression hardened, his eyes narrowing.
"Then they will have to stand against me. And that will be their choice, not mine."
The room fell into silence for a moment before Sairaorg nodded, his gaze shifting back to the journal. "You're building something big, aren't you?"
Volundr's eyes remained focused on the horizon, but his mind was already far ahead. "I'm not just building power, Sairaorg. I'm building a legacy."
The rain had stopped outside, and the quiet of the night settled in. Volundr's plans were laid out—carefully, methodically, as always.
And while the path ahead was uncertain, one thing was clear: the pieces were moving. And soon, the board would be set for a game none of them could escape.
End of Chapter 78.