Gacha Kingdom Building

---This Chapter is written using Raella's POV---

There is an immense tower inside the dimension known as the Nameless Kingdom.

Inside it, a beautiful doll sits on a chair, flipping through book pages before two silhouettes outside catch her attention.

The first silhouette in question was Lily, the cute and oblivious farmer who sometimes comes and asks for children's fables.

For her to read to the livestock, she awkwardly says, her face red as a tomato from shame, only returning to normal after I pretend to fall for the blatant lie.

The second was Miwen, the ruler of this land, the man who freed my soul and offered me a new body and home.

A man I once targeted, believing him to play with the hearts of young maidens, who was now my benefactor.

The two happily walked through the crop fields as Lily showed him the results of her efforts.

Few citizens were awake this early, and fewer still had left their warm homes.

Although facing the cold morning breeze, the two seemed to enjoy each other's company.

As did I, as Agatha and Beatrice accompanied me in my quiet reading.

The scent of books and freshly brewed coffee filled the room, and quietly, we members of the literature club shared a small moment in the morning.

In Agatha's hands was a research journal from Miwen's world, Earth.

Apparently, the subject in question was biology, one of Agatha's most researched topics alongside botany and herbalism.

While fond of all types of stories, my favorites are romances.

Yet, I also have a soft spot for botany, which thankfully allowed me to share many conversations with Agatha in the past.

As for Beatrice's pick, it was, of course, a spellbook.

It seemed to focus on barriers, specifically, ways to bypass them.

She reads it attentively, to the point that I find it hard to strike up a conversation.

However, this day, I had an uncontrollable desire to talk.

Normally, I share romance recommendations with Liefdis, the youngest of the Valkyries, and Angelica, who, although a new reader and often more focused on [Light Magic] theories, is incredibly enthusiastic about all sorts of stories.

I've seen Beatrice read all types of books before, but since she was always busy, I rarely had the opportunity to speak to her.

And I've wanted so bad to know more about the woman who calls herself an evil witch.

[I've heard rumors yesterday... Would you mind telling me about them?]

Thankfully, there was one hot topic making its way through the Kingdom since yesterday.

Well, I say thankfully because it allows me to talk with Beatrice, who was present, but the subject matter is rather awful.

Beatrice: "You mean Miwen's home destruction? Unfortunately... It's true."

[Oh, I'm sorry to hear this. I know you and the others had a strong connection to the place...]

Beatrice: "...I'm probably the one who values memories the least, but... I do feel... Bothered. It was a relaxing place."

[I see... What about Miwen? Since it was his home, he must be the one affected the most...]

In the dining hall yesterday, everyone wore heavy expressions...

They didn't eat with their usual joy, and after they were done, they all returned to the newly-built castle, not to be seen again until today.

Strangely, Miwen didn't seem as down as the rest.

Conversely, he was the most silent.

I was hesitant to ask at the time what I overheard from Claire and Anna's conversation, and only thanks to my desire to learn more about Beatrice did I push myself to do it.

Beatrice: "Haha... Well, that man is hard to read... I think he's a little hurt, but he joked it away, saying that thankfully the house was rented."

That man has a big heart.

Even though there was no need, he spared no effort to help me.

From what I know about him, he is the type to value others and the experiences he shares with them.

Thus, it's hard to imagine he doesn't feel anything about losing the place where those memories took place.

Agatha: "I'm not as well-versed in magic as a witch, so forgive me for speaking out of place here, but... Hadn't Elizabeth erected a barrier to protect his home in their absence? Even to someone like me, it's obvious how powerful she is. I struggle to believe someone could destroy her barrier, even more so without her noticing."

Elizabeth, the Demon Queen...

Magic-wise, Beatrice is one in a million, whereas that woman is one in a billion.

Born a demon, she already had a huge advantage, yet she excels even compared to the best of her race.

As a Saint, her existence makes me glad I didn't have to face any demons.

Beatrice: "Powerful doesn't begin to describe her. She's a perfectionist... But otherwise, you're not wrong. I hate to say it, but this is an interesting case..."

Before beginning her explanation, Beatrice closed her book.

The way her posture changed reminded me of the lectures Agatha gives me when I ask too many questions.

I couldn't contain my curiosity and leaned in to listen.

Beatrice: "I checked for gaps in her barrier. There were none. It's impossible for anyone aside from the few people she registered to have entered without her knowing, too. And if even a single crack had formed, she would be aware."

[...Strange. You said you checked for gaps, and that there were none, but... Did you do it after the fact? Does the barrier still stand?]

Beatrice: "Yes... Strange indeed, isn't it?"

Absolutely.

Barriers are a [Light Magic] user's most common resource, and as a Saint, I've studied and learned a few myself.

Simply put, there's no such thing as an indestructible barrier.

Even if the caster is more powerful or resourceful, as long as you have time, you can bring it down.

It all comes down to stopping the system from working, and to do that, all you need is to understand said system.

As such, the more intricate a barrier is, the harder it is to break.

I had no questions about how intricate Elizabeth must've made her barrier.

However, for someone to completely ignore all of her systems...

[Perhaps it was the effect of a Gift?]

Beatrice: "We haven't discarded this possibility. But that's the problem... We have plenty of theories, but without a clue, they'll remain just that."

With the house in ruins, there wasn't much to go off.

The only thing we could ascertain was that Elizabeth's barrier was working as intended, but that only made the case more complicated...

[Thankfully, we have two of the best magic detectives on the case. I'm sure it's just a matter of time before you crack it.]

Beatrice: "Hahah! Aren't you the cutest doll in the world? Oh, but don't think you'll be free from maintenance just because of this case or your praises. I'll see you tonight, Missy."

[Yes, ma'am...]

Unfortunately, one of the perks of this body is that it requires constant care and attention, for it wears out on its own... Rather quickly at that.

While there are spares in place, something like this is new territory for everyone involved, so during maintenance, I'm often subjected to tests.

Some are fun, others not so much...

Still, this was to be my second ever maintenance, so I tried to keep my hopes up.

[Hm... Unfortunately, I must be going now... As always, you are free to use the library however you see fit!]

While I often help by cleaning the tower and organizing the books, my official job in the Kingdom is, unfortunately, not that of a librarian.

In fact, until today, I was only running errands to help Miwen and the others...

But due to a new building, I now have an official job.

Although I still offered to run more errands.

Agatha: "You're going to the Guild Office?"

[Yes! I need to retrieve some documents from Olivia, and she also asked me for this...]

In my hands, I had two books.

The first was on economics, while the second was a fairy tale depicting a princess.

Ever since she arrived, Olivia found herself helping with documentation and working in the Guild, taking care of the rewards and posting jobs to be completed.

I'm not entirely sure why Miwen wants to establish such a system when he can create almost anything from thin air, but I'm sure he has his reasons.

It's a shame that it keeps Olivia so occupied, though.

She's a serious woman, but given her taste in literature, there's a cute girly side to her as well that I'd love to know more about.

Agatha: "...You're surprisingly compassionate for a witch."

Beatrice: "Oh, don't let your guard down. That's when I'll attack~"

Agatha: "I wouldn't dare. But I also wouldn't be able to stop you, so... Please have mercy on me, oh great witch."

Beatrice: "Ehehe... I'll think about it..."

Since it didn't seem like there would be any new visitors in the library tower today, the three of us closed it before leaving.

The two also accompanied me a section of the way, up until our paths diverged.

It didn't take long for me to reach the Guild Office, and inside, I found Agatha, organizing documents and separating some rewards.

[Hello! I've come to bother you once again!]

Olivia: "A quiet girl like you is hardly an inconvenience..."

Hehe...

Even though she's always busy, whenever I come, she welcomes me with a hug before spinning me in the air.

I think she really liked playing with dolls when she was a child.

It's a little shameful to do it as an adult, but I am the perfect excuse.

At least, I believe this is why such a hardworking woman always asks me to run errands for her.

[Oh... A prediction of the Kingdom's food supply consumption?]

Olivia is not a fighter, yet, because of her workaholic ways, Miwen calls her the Kingdom's secret weapon.

The document I read was proof of this.

Among the multiple pages, most were detailed explanations of how and when each number was registered.

Even someone like me, who had no idea of the inner workings or earlier drafts, was able to catch up rather quickly thanks to her.

Every document that goes through her hands is copied, stored, and organized.

It's impressive work.

But in my opinion, it's a little too much, considering the size of the Kingdom at this point.

I can't criticize, though, since when she's working, she looks to be at peace.

Since I had a little time left before my first day at the job, I helped her organize a little.

Then, I brought the documents and her requests to Miwen.

On the way, I saw many familiar faces and almost got run over by Mia, but that's just par for the course.

Raella: "Welcome... Today, we have been blessed with a blue sky... As such, may we offer our prayers to Caelion..."

Only seven Snow White Wolves appeared for the church's opening.

After Gabriella finished singing the Song of Caelion, only six remained.

And when I, the headpriest, told the tales of Caelion, less than half of the initial number were still with us.

I couldn't help but feel a little bad for Gabriella.

She was looking forward to this church the most, yet Miwen insisted that I should be the head priest.

And this was the result...

Even though barely anyone showed up, I couldn't keep the attention of the ones who did.

I could barely form a sentence without my voice starting to fade, too...

Raella: "You may now offer your prayers to... Your God of choosing... You may also visit the confessionals... Sister Gabriella and I will listen... No matter what you wish to confess..."

I waited a few minutes inside the confessional booth, but it didn't seem like anyone was coming...

Right before I stood up to leave, though, I heard the rustling noise of the curtain.

Someone had taken a seat.

Raella: "Ah... Hello..."

Gabriella: "You can use the book, it's me."

Oh...

[I'm sorry. I only held a few ceremonies before...]

It wasn't easy back then either.

I used to get all nervous and bothered.

Yet, compared to now, when I was alive, I think I did a much better job...

Gabriella: "Caelion doesn't have many followers. I'm surprised you know about him."

[Ah, well... I've studied a lot...]

As Saints should.

Most of our miracles are just the result of channeling the Gods' powers, so we need to know about them and their personalities.

Gabriella: "Say... Do you also hear their voices?"

[I used to. But now, it only happens when I pray...]

Gabriella: "I see, I see. Did you hear Caelion's voice today?"

[Only whispers...]

Miwen said I should be careful around Gabriella.

And that if she said or did anything strange, I shouldn't think twice before calling him.

However, I was interested in seeing how a Saint, other than myself, acts.

It's a shame that today was a bit of a failure, but...

From the little I saw, I could tell she had a strong connection to the Gods.

The Song of Caelion was impromptu, and I planned to help her by writing the lyrics in the book, but I didn't even need to, as she knew every line.

[I doubt anyone will come...]

Gabriella: "Oh, it's already empty. They only prayed to the Winter Beast God and went home."

[Fenrir?]

Gabriella: "Yes, him."

I suppose that makes sense for the Snow White Wolves Tribe.

Although he's often said to be an aggressive God...

It's a little scary to have people praying for him in a church.

I can only imagine what they ask him in a peaceful place like the Kingdom.

Perhaps it was just an old habit, or they were just thanking him for their victories...

Right, that's way better.

I'll believe this from now on.

[Well, since no one will come, I have a task for you, if you're willing.]

Gabriella: "Is it from Miwen?"

[Yes. He wants you to bring food for the prisoners.

Gabriella: "The Hero and the other Saint, huh? Sure."

I can't read Miwen's thoughts.

If Gabriella is dangerous, isn't it risky to let her mingle with Sabrina, another dangerous Saint?

I kept these thoughts in my head until I saw Gabriella off, after giving her a basket with fruits and another with dishes for the prisoners.

Once she was gone, my job was truly over, so I spent the rest of my free time in the library.

After nightfall, I headed to Elizabeth's workshop, where my maintenance session began.

Beatrice is the golem master behind my body.

Most of my systems are adaptations of other projects she had worked on.

Miwen is responsible for the technology that goes into my body, things like the speakers I use to speak and the camera I use to see.

Elizabeth developed the bridges to make both systems communicate correctly with each other.

Kind of.

Truth is, the three of them constantly work hard in every aspect, offering as many solutions and alternatives as they can think of.

The three have worked on my entire body, even if they contributed more to certain aspects of it.

Raella: "Aw..."

Miwen: "Hm..."

I'm incredibly grateful to them.

To all the others who helped with the small details, too.

However, these tests...

[Why are you so interested in making me feel pain? Did I perhaps do something you find disagreeable? If so, I apologize.]

Miwen: "...Currently, throughout your entire body, there are several small strands connected to a single core. Your mana envelops these strands, and when it receives stimulation, the core reacts, strengthening it and giving the strands the corresponding sensation. This works to simulate smell and touch to a certain degree, but you've failed temperature and taste tests."

Saying I failed the tests is not very nice.

It wasn't my fault, you know?

I can't help it...

[...And that means you need to hit my knees?]

Miwen: "This model uses two minor cores alongside the main one. We hope it can reinforce the signal's strength and response time, so that the sensations remain long enough for you to feel them. I need to test your reflex to make sure."

[I'm fine not eating, though...]

Beatrice: "Don't say that. You haven't experienced life until you taste Agatha's coffee."

That's unfair...

The smell alone is enough for me to know it's delicious.

Miwen: "She actually roasts her own beans."

Beatrice: "They are homegrown, too."

[You two... Won't it be a problem if I start eating?]

Miwen: "Well... Digestion might be difficult to replicate, but making things go down a pipe should be pretty easy. For now, I only want you to experience taste. We'll worry about what happens to the food later. If there's anything else you want, make sure to tell us."

Hm...

I didn't want to impose more than I already did, but after today, there was something I'd like.

Normally, I'd keep it to myself since I had already received too much, but seeing how obstinate these three were, I thought they wouldn't mind a small request or two.

[Well, I... I would like stronger speakers. I want to form longer sentences without my voice failing. Also... The ability to control my voice's pitch would be nice since I can only control the volume so far.]

Miwen: "...Sure, I'll have something prepared for your next maintenance session."

Eh?

Just... like that?

...I couldn't believe it.

His kindness truly knew no bounds.

Miwen: "...Something wrong? You stopped responding."

[Sorry, I got a little emotional.]

[I'm just... Thankful to you.]

[I don't know how I'll ever be able to repay what you've done for me.]

Miwen: "How about you repay me by focusing on the tests?"

[Alright...]

To think this is all he'd ask.

[Thank you.]

Miwen: "Don't worry."

Raella: "...Aw."

Miwen: "Good. Now, temperature test."

It took two hours for the tests to end.

I did my best at all of them, but I still failed most.

However, I got a new body.

It's better at feeling pain, which, according to them, should help me prevent serious damage to it.

I also became capable of channeling more of my strength, so now I can carry more stuff during my errands.

Raella: "Thanks..."

Miwen: "You already thanked us."

[Yet, I feel like even a million times won't be enough...]

Miwen: "It was enough the first time. Make sure to move around as much as you can the next few days, alright? We need more data."

[Leave it to me.]

And just like that, I returned to the tower.

Through the window, I watched various silhouettes returning home.

I thought to myself that perhaps I was wasting Miwen and the others' hard work by staying in the library, like I used to do when I was a ghost, but...

After experiencing both joy and sorrow today...

I felt truly alive.