Chapter 308 - jgjk 3

CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC177: Vyavan Dukedom's Potential [3]

Chapter 177: Vyavan Dukedom's Potential [3]

Akamir's eyes narrowed slightly.

"...An untamed dungeon?" he repeated, leaning back into his chair.

Raden nodded.

"It was hidden beneath the estate of Baron Kellin. After his... accident, we began clearing the underground cellars."

He took out another document that he passed to him.

"That's when our men discovered a passage that leads to the dungeon."

Akamir took the document as he began to read it.

The first information about the Baron made him raise his brows.

"A wealth six times more than a Dukedom?"

He mumbled, looking up at the mimicker.

"Is this a mistake?"

Raden shook his head in response.

"There is none, my lord." He replied. "Since long before, Baron Kellin has been using the dungeon to make a fortune."

Akamir frowned as he kept on reading the document.

The more he read, the weirder his face would turn.

'How the fuck is he this rich?'

Most of the lands that Baron Kellin had were in different kingdoms.

His children and most of his concubines have lands in their name that are larger than towns.

Akamir flipped through the pages slowly, eyes narrowing with each line.

The numbers didn't make sense. For a man who held a baron's title, Kellin had moved like a king behind the curtains.

Dozens of trade routes. Mining operations in three regions. Merchant fleets.

Warehouses stuffed with rare goods and even a few black-market dealings cleverly hidden under fake aliases.

Akamir placed the papers down, tapping the table.

"How long has this been going on?"

"Decades," Raden replied calmly. "Possibly longer. He was smart. He never let his real wealth show inside the capital. Everything was moved through intermediaries."

Akamir leaned forward, brows furrowed.

"And no one found out?"

"Only a few suspected," Raden said. "But Kellin was careful. He kept his title low and didn't get involved in politics. That way, he stayed off the radar."

Akamir nodded slowly. It made sense.

Greedy nobles often sought power, but Kellin had chosen secrecy instead.

And now, with him gone, all of it was falling into someone else's hands.

His eyes went back to the paper.

"Who controls the estate now?"

"His eldest son, Roland Kellin, but we took his title and sealed the place as soon as we found out about this."

Akamir scoffed. "How old is Roland?"

"Twenty-four."

He tapped his finger on the table again.

"And the dungeon?"

"We sealed the entrance for now," Raden said. "But before we did, our scouts reported unusual mana pulses."

"Apart from the seven Core Dungeons...this is the only dungeon out there, right?"

Akamir asked, as he looked up at them.

Veres nodded in response. "And it's precisely why we are in a problem."

Akamir raised his brow. "Who is making a problem?"

"Your fiancée, my lord." Raden replied with a small smile. "Queen Inara asked us to 'donate' the dungeon to the royal family."

Akamir stared at Raden, his fingers pausing mid-tap.

"...She wants us to hand it over?" he asked flatly.

Raden nodded. "That's what her messenger implied."

Akamir let out a breath through his nose, leaning back in his chair again.

His gaze shifted to Veres, who simply crossed his arms and looked away, clearly irritated.

'...Hmm, if used correctly then the dungeon can be used as a training ground.'

It also provides items and minerals that, if monopolised, can bring a lot of profits.

'I still don't understand why the otherworlders decided to close all the dungeons.'

"What's the official reason she gave for it?" Akamir asked, looking back at Veres.

"The royal family sees it as a state asset," Veres said, tone dry. "Because technically, the Baron's land falls under the crown's domain."

Akamir ran a hand through his hair, silent for a moment.

"...If it's a state asset, then why didn't the crown investigate this sooner?" he said, voice low. "Why wait until now...until it's already been exposed and cleaned up by us?"

Neither Raden nor Veres answered immediately.

Because they already knew the answer.

'Hmm, I love how she is suppressing the nobles to keep herself on the throne...but why do it with my dukedom?'

Akamir rubbed his temples as he couldn't help but smile.

'A troublesome woman indeed.'

Still, he doesn't have any plans to pass it to her without making a profit himself.

'Maybe, I should talk with her before doing anything.'

But....

"We sent a team inside the dungeon," Akamir said. "I want a full report on what's down there. Maps. Cores. Relics. Anything."

Raden bowed down immediately. "It shall be done, my lord."

Veres quickly interjected. "But if the Queen finds out—"

"Don't worry about the Queen." Akamir said, shaking his head. "She would understand."

The old Steward nodded his head in response.

"Anyway, you guys can go now." Akamir said, stretching his body. "I would see all the other documents later on."

"Are you going somewhere, my Lord?" Veres asked, looking at him.

"Yeah, can you please ready the teleportation portal to the capital city?" Akamir asked with a soft smile. "I would like to visit my fiancée."

He bowed deeply. "It would be done, my lord."

Akamir gave him a quick nod as they walked out of the room.

Then, his gaze finally moved back to the woman floating in the air.

"Why did you guys close all the dungeons?" Akamir asked, rubbing his chin. "I don't understand, weren't they profitable for everyone?"

"Not all dungeons are just random magical holes full of monsters and loot," she said. "Some of them... were prisons."

"Prisons?"

"For things that should never wake up."

"And who made these prisons?"

Akamir asked, looking at her.

"The goddess of desire, Alista." Nayomi replied. "She made it as a way to imprison all those who were close to the Golden Sun."

Akamir frowned, his confusion even growing further. "Why would she do that?" He asked. "Can't she just kill them?"

"She can't." She replied. "Not all the things in this world can be killed."

"So, she sealed them in the dungeon." Akamir replied. "And you guys collapsed the dungeon to free them."

"More or less." She replied, appearing a little too unconcerned about it.

"Wait...what about the first elf?" He asked, looking at her. "Wasn't she one of Golden Sun's devotees?"

"What are you trying to ask?" Nayomi said, narrowing her eyes.

"Is she alive?" He replied, his tone flat.

Nayomi didn't say for a while before she looked away.

"....It's complicated."

'....What?'

Akamir stared at Nayomi for a moment.

Her gaze was suddenly distant—avoiding his.

He leaned forward, resting his forearms on the table. "Complicated how?"

Nayomi floated down, resting cross-legged mid-air above the chair opposite him.

"She wasn't just a follower of the Golden Sun," she said slowly. "She was the last chosen."

Akamir frowned. "I know that much."

"You know what made Ieril special?" Nayomi asked, with a smile.

"What?"

"Her blind trust in Golden Sun itself." She replied. "She was such a devotee that the outer god gave her the blessing of immortality."

"...."

Akamir finally got what she was trying to say.

Even though in a roundabout manner, her words were simple.

"She is alive even now." Akamir mumbled. "Sealed somewhere away from everyone's sight?"

Nayomi shook her head in response.

"Not away." She replied, smiling. "She is right in front of everyone, yet no one can see her."

"...."

Akamir leaned back on his chair, falling deep into his thoughts.

'...In front of everyone, huh?'

Akamir stayed silent for a long while, fingers gently tapping the table as the weight of Nayomi's words settled over him.

"She's hidden in plain sight..." he muttered, more to himself than anyone else.

Nayomi stretched her arms over her head, floating lazily again like nothing she just said had been important.

"You shouldn't worry about her." She replied. "She is none of your concern."

Akamir let out a sigh as he nodded his head in response.

"Yeah, you are right." He mumbled, standing up. "I should work on myself first."

The fight that he had with the Servants of Skinless made him realise he wasn't that strong.

Sure, he was one of the strongest humans right now but it still isn't enough.

'...They really mean it when they say humans are the weakest race out there.'

Nayomi watched him quietly, her expression unreadable.

"You've grown stronger," she said after a moment. "But you're still relying on talent and luck."

Akamir turned his head toward her. "I thought I was doing pretty well for someone who's technically still a teenager."

She scoffed. "And yet, the world doesn't care about your age. The Skinless ones didn't go easy on you, did they?"

He remembered the pressure of their presence.

One mistake and he would've died. No amount of clever words or noble blood would've saved him then.

"I need to get stronger," he said simply.

Nayomi floated down until she was eye-level with him.

"I would like to mentor you on this." She said, looking into his eyes. "The way to use the spirit energy."

Akamir gave her a nod before pushing her face aside. "But first I need to see Inara."

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CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC178: Vyavan Dukedom's Potential [4]

Chapter 178: Vyavan Dukedom's Potential [4]

The royal palace had changed a lot since Inara took over the place.

The courtyard that was once turned into a complete battlefield by her brother Lucien was now back to beautiful.

Flowers and small trees decorated the place as Akamir walked towards the main palace.

'This looks a lot better than it was before.'

Akamir remembered how Inara used to love the garden here.

He was sure she only made the place change because of it.

'Well, it does look better now.'

Apart from the garden, Inara had also changed the hanging pictures on the wall.

Most of those were pictures of previous King Aldirc, but now they were all gone.

Instead, now it was Inara's painting hanging on the wall.

But...

"..."

What embarrassed Akamir was that all her paintings were with him.

There was not a single painting on the wall that was of her alone.

He was in all of them.

'What is this girl thinking?'

Akamir rubbed his temples in annoyance as he walked down the hallway.

Akamir sighed as he passed another large portrait of Inara.

This time with her arm around his shoulder like they were childhood sweethearts.

In the next one, she had him standing behind her throne, his expression completely indifferent while she smiled like she had just won a crown.

"Does she seriously have nothing better to do than commission fake memories?" he muttered to himself.

A few passing maids bowed respectfully, clearly used to his presence here.

One of them even gave him a soft smile, as if she knew exactly what he was thinking.

Akamir quickly turned his head and kept walking.

He finally reached the main hall where two guards stood at attention.

One of them opened the doors without a word, and Akamir stepped in.

The hall hadn't changed much.

Still tall ceilings, still that same golden glow from the chandeliers.

But the giant crimson banner behind the throne now bore Inara's emblem — a silver sun wrapped in thorny vines.

And sitting on the throne, like she'd been waiting for him, was Inara herself.

Her silver hair was tied neatly back, and she wore a fitted royal robe that looked a little too dramatic for a normal day.

She smiled the moment she saw him.

"You're late," she said casually, resting her chin on her palm.

Akamir crossed his arms. "You filled the hallway with paintings of us."

Inara's eyes sparkled. "Did you like them?"

"No."

"Liar," she grinned, tapping her nails on the armrest. "You stared at each one for at least two seconds. I counted."

"How did you do that—."

His question was answered immediately as he saw a screen flicker in front of Inara.

Akamir walked closer as he looked at it curiously.

"Is this... showing my live reaction?" Akamir mumbled, narrowing his eyes. "Is this a camera?"

"It's called camera, huh?" Inara mumbled, putting the screen down. "So, they lied when they said it's called imaging device?"

"Inara?" Akamir said, looking at her. "Where did you get this from?"

She smiled as she stood up from her throne.

"There were assassins that tried to kill me," Inara said, grabbing his hand. "I captured them and found this with them."

Akamir's expression turned serious as he looked at her. "Who sent them?"

"The Aure Kingdom," Inara replied, dragging him towards the throne. "They tried to upsurge the kingdom and wage a war once I died."

Inara made Akamir sit on the throne before she sat down on his lap.

Akamir let out a sigh as he placed his hands around her waist, squeezing her closer.

"Inara," he said, trying to keep his voice level. "This is the royal throne."

She leaned her head back against his shoulder. "And you're royalty too. Sit properly."

"I'm not—"

"You are now," she interrupted, nudging his jaw lightly. "You helped me take back the palace. You're the only one I trust here."

Akamir sighed. "You're being careless."

"No," she said calmly. "I'm being strategic."

"In what world does sitting on me qualify as strategy?"

"In my world." She replied, placing her hands over his shoulder. "Anyway, it seems Aure Kingdom is getting a lot of help from the other side of the world."

"...Yeah." Akamir mumbled, looking at the screen placed on the side. "It seems they are gaining a lot of good stuff."

Inara tilted her head, following Akamir's gaze to the glowing screen beside the throne.

"Most of the weapons they carried weren't even forged here," she said, tracing small circles on his chest with her fingertip.

"The designs... the magic infused inside them. It's foreign."

Akamir reached over and picked up one of the captured weapons that had been leaning against the side of the throne.

It looked like a spear at first glance, but the moment he touched it, the surface changed, almost like liquid metal underneath.

"I've never seen this kind of craft before," he murmured. "It's not made by human hands."

"I can see that much." Inara replied, dragging her body over him. "They had a lot of weapons like this."

"...Hmm." Akamir kept on staring at the spear-like thing. "I guess, we should also try and contact that side of the world."

"It's not possible." Inara replied, shaking her head. "Like it or not... we have no way to reach them when there is a monster in the ocean."

Akamir nodded his head as he stared at the weapon.

He remembered how it's almost impossible to get to the other continent and only Aure Kingdom has a route to reach them.

"Well, who said we need to make our own route?" Akamir replied, smiling at her. "We can borrow theirs, can't we?"

Inara squinted her eyes. "What are you planning, Royal Consort?"

"We will talk about that later." He replied, placing the weapon down. "Mind explaining what you did with my dukedom?"

She blinked softly. "What did I do?"

"Don't play dumb." Akamir replied, flicking her forehead. "You tried to seize the dungeon we found for yourself."

Inara flinched, rubbing her forehead where he flicked her. "Ow. Rude."

Akamir just raised an eyebrow.

She sighed dramatically. "Fine. Yes, I may have... slightly redirected the dungeon's management rights to the royal treasury."

"Slightly?" Akamir asked, unimpressed.

She avoided his eyes, twisting a strand of her silver hair around her finger.

"I thought you weren't going to be around for a while, so I figured—why not let it be used properly? For the good of the kingdom."

Akamir narrowed his eyes. "The good of the kingdom, or your personal vault?"

"Same thing," she said without missing a beat.

Akamir pinched the bridge of his nose. "Inara..."

"I gave your name full credit, though!" she added quickly. "The official records say it was discovered by Duke Akamir himself. I just... manage the flow of resources."

"You mean you're skimming off the top."

"Details," she shrugged.

He sighed again and looked at her. "You could've just asked."

"I could?" she asked, poking his chest. "Would you give me if I asked?"

"No."

She glared at him at his direct refusal.

"I could use it far more efficiently than you." Akamir replied, pinching her nose. "It would be better if I have it."

"...Yeah, whatever." She replied, before smiling. "We are doing fifty-fifty."

"No—."

"How was your time in the Elven Kingdom?" Inara asked, changing the topic. "Did you have fun?"

"..."

The things that happened in the Elven continent flashed past his eyes.

Akamir chuckled softly. "....It was great."

Inara felt the strangeness in his voice but didn't ask about it.

Instead, she asked, "Did you meet with Lady Sephrina?"

Akamir remained silent for a while, debating if he should tell her about it.

Finally, he sighed. "Yes, I did."

Inara's eyes sparkled with happiness as she quickly got excited.

"Really?!" she beamed. "How was she?"

"Good."

"Was she beautiful?"

"I didn't see her."

"Was she cool?"

"....I guess so."

"How did you even meet?"

Akamir paused at that question as he cleared his throat.

"Well..." Akamir mumbled. "I kind of barged in when she was bathing."

Inara froze.

The excitement on her face turned to stone, her eyes narrowing as she leaned back just enough to glare at him properly.

"You what?"

Akamir coughed into his fist. "It wasn't intentional."

"You barged in on the most famous woman in the Elven continent while she was bathing," Inara repeated slowly, like she was trying to make sense of it. "And you're just saying it casually like you tripped over a rock?"

"I didn't know she was bathing!" he defended, raising his hands. "I just—."

Akamir blinked in surprise as Inara's lips pressed against his.

There was no hesitation, no warning—just the soft pressure of her mouth on his.

Her fingers gripping the front of his shirt like she was trying to claim him on the spot.

It lasted only a few seconds, but when she pulled back, her eyes were slightly narrowed and her voice was low.

"That's your punishment," she said, crossing her arms and turning her face away, though her cheeks were a little pink.

"For what, exactly?" Akamir asked, raising a brow.

"For accidentally seeing Lady Sephrina naked," she snapped, clearly not over it.

Akamir sighed. "I didn't see anything."

'There was nothing to see anyway.'

"Still happened."

"You're being unreasonable."

Inara shrugged with a smirk. "I'm queen. I can afford to be."

He couldn't argue with that.

Instead, he rested his head back against the throne and looked at her again, calmer now.

"You're acting a little possessive."

She glanced at him sideways. "You don't like it?"

She leaned in for another kiss as her hand sneaked towards his pants.

Akamir didn't stop her as he pulled her closer.

But—.

"You have a guest, Your Majesty."

The voice of the guard made them stop.

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CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC179: Approach [1]

Chapter 179: Approach [1]

"You have a guest, Your Majesty."

The voice of the guard made them stop.

Inara exhaled sharply, pulling herself off Akamir's lap with a muttered curse under her breath.

She straightened her robe with a flick of her wrist and waved toward the door without turning around.

"Let them in," she called, her tone switching back to queenly grace in an instant.

'What worse timing could they have?'

Akamir adjusted his coat as he stood up and stopped just behind her.

He let out a sigh as he looked at the door.

The large doors opened slowly, and one by one, several figures entered the throne room.

Among them were the current dukes and duchesses loyal to the crown.

At the front was Lyselle, the Duchess of Polama, followed closely by Duke Dain of Marson, and a few others who took their places around the chair set beneath the throne's raised platform.

Inara remained seated on her throne as she looked at them.

Her posture straight and expression composed.

Akamir remained standing behind her, arms crossed.

Inara spoke first. "What important matter do you guys have?" she asked, looking at them.

Everyone present in the room could tell she was in a foul mood.

Yet no one dared to point it out.

One of the elderly stood up as he bowed towards the queen.

"I would like to inform something to you, my queen."

Inara gave him a faint nod. "Speak."

"The previous king Aldric is in his last breath now," he replied softly. "We don't think he will survive the night."

"..."

There was a stunned silence within the room as all looked at Inara.

The queen didn't show much emotion, but she remained quiet for a while.

'Aldric is still not dead yet, huh?'

Akamir thought as he rubbed the back of his neck.

He had been out of the kingdom for a while and already expected King Aldric to die before he returned.

'Looks like Inara is taking care of the old man.'

Akamir thought, glancing at the queen who sat quietly.

"I will visit him today," she said, gesturing him to sit down. "Anything else?"

Lyselle stood up and bowed towards her.

Her gaze, though only for a second, shifted towards Akamir who stood behind her.

Akamir smiled at the girl who had come a long way.

'She is still green though,' he thought. 'Inara helped her take the dukedom, it's up to her to rule it.'

"Your Majesty," she said with a polite bow, her long blue cloak brushing the floor. "I wanted to inform you... The Aure Kingdom contacted me."

That made the room stir.

She continued before anyone could interrupt. "They offered me status, land, and a title under their crown if I agreed to betray you. They asked for Polama to be cut from the east and rejoined under their banner."

Inara didn't react visibly, only nodded once.

"I assume you said no," Akamir said quietly from behind.

Lyselle turned to him and nodded. "Of course. I owe everything I have to the queen. I would never betray her."

Duke Dain, a tall, broad-shouldered man with a deep scar running across his cheek, leaned forward slightly.

His voice was steady but cautious.

"And how do we know that's true?" he asked. "Words are easy. The Aure Kingdom has deep pockets. What if you're already playing both sides?"

Tension spiked in the room.

But before anyone else could speak, Inara raised her hand.

"She isn't," she said calmly.

Dain's eyes narrowed. "And how can you be so sure?"

"Because I know her," Inara replied, her gaze not wavering. "Lyselle has proven herself more than once. She has no reason to betray me now."

Lyselle lowered her head, visibly grateful. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I will not disappoint you."

Dain leaned back with a grunt, not fully satisfied but not willing to push further either.

Inara looked around the room. "The Aure Kingdom is trying to sow division. This won't be the last attempt. They will offer all of you something eventually."

"Then what should we do?" another noble asked.

"Stay united," Inara replied. "And make it clear that betraying this crown will have only one result."

Akamir tilted his head slightly as he glanced at Dain.

The Marson Duke didn't flinch but gave a faint nod.

Inara continued, "We'll need to strengthen our borders in the east. Lyselle, lead them. I will provide you with the funding for it."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"In the meantime," she said, leaning back on her throne, "I'll deal with the source of their confidence."

She stood up slowly, the flowing fabric of her robes cascading down the steps like shadows in motion.

She looked down at the gathered nobles—her voice calm, yet undeniable.

"I want reports," she ordered. "Every suspicious messenger, every trade shift along the eastern line, every whisper from traveling merchants. From this day on, we act before they move."

Lyselle nodded firmly. "I'll start collecting the information tonight."

"Good," Inara said. "The rest of you... send your banners east. Don't make noise, but let the towns know protection is near."

Dain gave a reluctant nod. "It will be done."

Inara waved a hand. "That's all for now. Wait for me in the main hall for the budget discussion."

The nobles began to leave one by one, murmuring softly to one another as they exited.

When the throne room was finally empty, Inara let out a breath and sat back down, her fingers massaging her temple.

Akamir stepped up beside her. "You handled that well."

She gave him a tired look. "It's not over yet," she mumbled. "They are really trying to trigger a war."

"Well, I can see that happening," Akamir replied, nodding his head seriously. "You have yet to prove yourself."

"If Aure gains more ground, even by words, the nobility will start to waver," Inara mumbled, rubbing her temples.

"And then they'll start selling pieces of this kingdom to whoever promises more."

Inara didn't reply. She just stared at the grand doors in silence.

Akamir studied her. "How long has Aldric been this bad?"

"Since you were gone," she said. "His mind's been gone for longer, but his body finally started giving up."

"...When he dies, you'll be the only one holding the old bloodline together," Akamir said quietly.

"I already am," she replied. "But yes. Once he's gone, the only legitimacy this crown has is what I make of it."

"What do you mean?" Akamir asked, tilting his head.

"Can't you understand?" she asked back, smiling a little. "I need kids for people to see the future of the kingdom."

Akamir looked at her weirdly before he let out a sigh.

"Inara."

"I know, you aren't ready for a child yet," she cut in his words. "Don't worry, I am not forcing you."

"You think they'll start doubting you if you don't have an heir?" he asked, more curious than judging.

"They already do," Inara replied, her voice calm. "They don't say it aloud, but I hear it in how they speak. 'The queen is strong,' they say. 'But who follows after?'"

Akamir leaned back, one arm draped over his knee. "And I suppose adopting a noble's child isn't an option?"

She let out a humorless laugh. "I would wait for you to give me your child instead of adopting one," she replied. "I can wait, don't worry too much."

Akamir ran a hand through his hair. "Politics is so messy."

Inara nodded slowly. "And necessary."

They sat there in silence for a moment longer.

Then Akamir asked, "Would you really want that? A child, I mean. Not just for power... but for you?"

Inara paused.

"I don't know," she admitted quietly. "Sometimes I imagine it. A little girl with your eyes and my temper. Or a boy who walks into rooms like he owns them."

A small, genuine smile touched her lips, the first in a while.

"But then I think of what kind of world they'd grow up in, and I wonder if it's cruel to even try."

Akamir didn't answer right away.

He just looked at her, his expression softer than usual.

"You're not cruel," he said after a moment. "You're just carrying too much."

She blinked at that.

Before she could reply, a soft knock came at the side door.

It creaked open slightly and a young servant peeked in.

"Forgive me, Your Majesty. The old king is... asking for you."

Inara stood up immediately, her shoulders straightening like armor sliding into place. "I'll come."

Akamir rose with her, stepping to her side.

She glanced at him. "You don't have to come."

Akamir looked at her. "But—"

"It's fine," she replied. "I will see you soon then."

Akamir gave her a short nod as she walked away from him.

Left alone, he was looking at the throne before he sat down on it.

Nayomi appeared suddenly in front of his eyes.

"She is doing her best, isn't she?" she said, smiling.

Akamir let out a sigh. "Yeah."

"So, when are you having babies?" she asked, a teasing smile on her face.

"Leave that aside," Akamir said, looking at her. "There is something I want to ask."

Nayomi blinked. "What?"

"What comes after White core?"

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CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC180: Spirit Core [1]

Chapter 180: Spirit Core [1]

[Near Old Court]

[Spirit World]

'Huff....'

Akamir let out a soft breath as he sat on the floor with his legs crossed.

His gaze moved around the place as he looked at the floating herbs and leaves.

'I should start supplying them out soon.'

Akamir thought as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

The herbs were all ready to be sold out now as they were all grown now.

They collided with the sphere dome and rebounded around the place.

Even though Akamir wanted to sell them, he still saw a glaring problem.

'What if the elves die out?'

From what Nayomi had told him, it was more or less confirmed that the elves would go close to extinction.

The thing with Kros, The Greater One and its curse would wipe out most of them from the continent.

'No matter how I see it, elves aren't the right choice to sell them.'

Akamir frowned as he looked at the fairies floating around the place.

He wasn't sure when, but they had also started caring and loving the herbs, making them grow even faster.

'I knew they had some strange abilities.'

Akamir had a hard time believing that once elves had full support of the fairy race.

Letting out a sigh, he stopped thinking about the elves.

But the doubt that was in his heart started making him think of alternatives.

'If elves die, then I would have to find new customers for the herbs.'

And Akamir had some in mind who would buy it at the price that he asked.

'The elves on the other side of the world.'

He thought, touching his necklace subconsciously.

With how things were going with Aure kingdom, Akamir now was planning to take over their sea routes.

If things went according to his plan, then he could start a trade with them as well.

'But it's still risky to go there.'

He thought as he rubbed the back of his neck.

Akamir knew his strength wasn't sufficient enough to keep things under control.

One mimicker got caught and things would turn to hell real quick.

'If I don't want that, then I have to get far stronger than I am now.'

Thinking so, Akamir looked up at the sky where Nayomi was floating.

"Hey, you still haven't told me yet." Akamir said, looking at her. "What comes after White core?"

Nayomi glanced at him. "Do I need to explain the entire power system to you?"

"Yeah."

She looked away. "I don't want to."

"Why?"

Nayomi crossed her arms as she hovered mid-air, her long hair drifting with the breeze of the spirit world.

"Because it's boring," she replied flatly, "and you're going to forget half of it anyway."

Akamir narrowed his eyes. "Then explain the other half."

Nayomi clicked her tongue. "Fine. But don't ask dumb questions halfway through."

She floated lower until she was sitting cross-legged midair in front of him, mirroring his posture.

"So, White Core... it's the final stage of basically reaching the peak of Mortal limit. After that, you step into Transcendent Realms."

"Sounds fancy," Akamir muttered.

"It's not," Nayomi said with a shrug.

"Most people don't even make it to White Core, but once you do, you unlock a path to Essence Core."

Akamir nodded slowly, trying to keep up. "So, what's an Essence Core?"

Nayomi stretched out her legs, floating just a bit closer.

"Essence Core is when your soul starts shaping your power directly," she said.

"Instead of your body storing power like it does now, your essence does. It's like... you become your own artifact."

Akamir blinked. "That sounds—wait, what?"

"You heard me," Nayomi smirked, liking the look on his face.

"You don't just have strength anymore... you are strength. That's why most people who reach Essence Core are basically walking disasters."

Akamir frowned, resting his chin on his palm. "How many stages are there after that?"

Nayomi tilted her head, thinking for a moment.

"After Essence Core, there's the Essence Crown, then Essence Wreath... and then comes something people call Sovereign Path. But by then, you're not even counted as human or elf or whatever."

Akamir frowned as he looked at her. "Are you saying my race will lose its meaning?"

"Yeah." She nodded her head in response. "You will become something far more than that."

Akamir nodded softly as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

'A Sovereign Path, huh?'

Akamir had a basic idea of how the power system works in this world.

But it was the first time he heard of this term.

'If what Nayomi said is true, most of the true powerhouses are always hiding from the main world.'

Still, Akamir had more questions to ask.

"Is Essence Core also divided further?"

"Yeah." She nodded her head. "Low, middle, high, and peak Core."

"...I see."

Akamir nodded as his eyes narrowed. "How powerful were you—"

"Enough about that." She said, cutting him off. "You still have a long way to go."

Akamir frowned, noticing how she was changing the topic, but he didn't say anything.

Instead, he looked at her who floated even closer.

"I think it's time for you to form a spirit core."

Akamir nodded as he sat straight, staring at her face.

'I always do notice it but, she really is one of the most beautiful women I ever saw.'

Nayomi didn't notice his gaze as she looked past him. "Saia, come here!"

From behind him, the fairy queen zapped as she arrived toward them.

"Place your hand on his body," Nayomi instructed. "Then pour your spirit energy inside of him."

Saia looked confused, but she nodded her head nonetheless. "Okay."

Akamir, though confused, didn't stop her.

Nayomi also placed her hand over his abdomen, close to his core.

"I will outline the spirit path in your body and guide them." She said, looking into his eyes. "Remember the path and form your own spirit core."

Akamir drew in a deep breath as he nodded. "Alright."

Just as he closed his eyes, Saia poured spirit energy and Nayomi guided it.

"Ugh—!"

In an instant, Akamir felt a sudden pain all over his body.

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CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC181: Spirit Core [2]

Chapter 181: Spirit Core [2]

"Ugh—!"

In an instant, Akamir felt a sudden pain all over his body.

"Endure it." Nayomi's voice echoed in his ears. "The pain will go away in a few minutes."

Akamir gritted his teeth, sweat forming on his brow as the spirit energy surged through him like lightning caught in his veins.

It wasn't just painful for him, it was blinding.

Every nerve screamed, every breath burned like fire.

But Nayomi didn't even stop for a second.

Her voice was steady, calm, like a distant anchor in a storm.

"Keep your focus. Trace the path. Don't fight the energy, let me guide it."

Akamir forced his mind to still, focusing on the flow.

He could feel it—thin streams of glowing energy weaving through his body, curving along invisible paths like glowing vines.

They passed through his arms, his spine, his heart... and finally began to spiral toward beside his mana core.

'Huff, they have a different pathway than my Chi veins.'

Akamir thought to keep his mind off the pain.

'I have a mana core that flows mana in my body, Chi Veins that strengthen my entire body.'

He kept on thinking about all the things that could help him.

Nayomi's hand never moved from his abdomen, her expression focused.

Saia hovered above him, her small hands still glowing faintly with spirit energy, brows furrowed in concentration.

But slowly, very slowly, it started to change.

The fire that once raged in his veins began to settle into a simmer.

The violent pulses of energy started flowing with a rhythm, syncing with his heartbeat.

'Huff...'

His breath, which had been ragged and shallow, evened out.

"There it is," Nayomi whispered, a trace of satisfaction in her voice. "You're syncing."

Akamir couldn't reply, even though he could now hear her loud and clear.

His mind was entirely focused inward now, tracing the paths of the glowing strands inside him.

The spirit energy was gentler now, flowing along the outline Nayomi had created.

Each time it looped around his mana core, it deposited a faint wisp of light beside it—like laying down threads to form a nest.

It was building something, and Akamir could feel it.

'That's the core...'

He concentrated harder.

The forming structure beside his mana core wasn't solid yet—it pulsed like a heartbeat, barely held together.

A spirit core.

"Good," Nayomi said, her voice quieter now. "You've started the formation. Don't rush it. Let it grow naturally."

With a final pulse of warmth, Saia pulled her hand away. Nayomi followed a moment later.

Akamir's body slumped slightly as the intensity passed.

His breathing was deep and steady now, and though he was drenched in sweat, he didn't feel weak.

He felt... lighter.

As if a whole new reservoir had been opened up inside him.

Time passed as Akamir kept on focusing on the core.

Slowly, he took in the spirit energy from the atmosphere and refined it.

He kept on doing it, slowly strengthening his core.

Finally, after an hour of refining, his core was now stable.

Akamir opened his eyes and looked at Nayomi, who gave him a small nod.

"Congratulations," she said. "You've taken your first step into spirit mastery."

Saia clapped gently in the air, her wings fluttering excitedly. "You did it!"

Akamir smiled faintly, wiping the sweat from his forehead. "That... was worse than dying."

Nayomi smirked. "No, dying's worse. Trust me."

He let out a breath, still feeling the residual hum of spirit energy inside him.

"So, what now?" he asked. "Apart from controlling spirit, what else—"

"Stand up." Nayomi said, floating in front of him.

Akamir tilted his head in confusion but did as she told him.

"Try using spirit body." She instructed him, folding her hands.

Akamir frowned. "I can?"

"Try it."

"Huff..."

As Akamir exhaled, he focused on the core of spirit energy gently pulsing beside his mana core.

'Spirit body, huh...'

He closed his eyes.

Almost instinctively, he reached out to that core.

It surged through his veins, not like the storm it had been before, but like a breeze moving through open doors.

A soft glow began to form over his skin, faint at first... then brighter.

His body shimmered with a faint silver light, his form becoming slightly translucent.

When he opened his eyes again, they were glowing faintly with the same silver hue.

"Whoa..." Saia whispered, her tiny eyes wide with excitement.

Nayomi, however, didn't react much. Instead, she picked a stick and slammed it into his heart.

"Huh?"

Akamir looked down as the stick just moved past as his body turned foggy.

"What the fuck?"

"That's what spirit body is." Nayomi said, smiling brightly. "A state in which your body is not physical."

Akamir looked at her, his lips still parted. "Am I immortal now?"

"No."

As soon as she said, his body began to feel pain and Akamir immediately cancelled spirit body.

"What was that?"

"In your current condition, you can only use it for at most seven seconds." Nayomi explained, her voice soft. "After that, your body will begin to revolt."

Akamir sat back down on the grass, rubbing his chest where the stick had passed through just moments ago.

"Seven seconds, huh..." he muttered under his breath, still processing what had just happened. "What will happen if I do more than that?"

"You will die." She replied simply. "Changing your body to a different state isn't something that the laws of the world will like."

"..."

Akamir gave her a soft nod as he let out a sigh. "Still, seven seconds is still a lot."

"It is." She nodded her head. "Don't worry, you can extend the time period if you grow more."

Akamir narrowed his eyes at her. "How do you know so much?"

Nayomi turned silent as she turned towards the fairy queen.

"I made the contract with the previous fairy queen." She said, gently touching her face. "I know all about it."

"..."

Akamir didn't say anything even though he felt sadness in her voice.

He let out a sigh as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Nayom—"

"Anyway," she cut in his words. "I think it would be better if you start training with it."

She leaned closer, looking into his eyes. "Integrate spirit body into your fighting style and you will be invincible."

"It's not that easy as you say." Akamir replied, leaning back. "I can't do—"

"I was able to do so." She cut in his words. "I am sure you can do much better than me."

Akamir blinked.

That was the first time she had ever said something like that.

Nayomi floated just a few inches away from him.

"...Did you just compliment me?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

She looked away instantly. "No."

"You did."

"I didn't."

"You did," he said again, this time with a teasing grin.

Nayomi scoffed and crossed her arms. "Don't get ahead of yourself, stupid mortal."

"Yeah, like I care about your opinion, stupid goddess."

Nayomi sharply looked at him. "Take that back."

"No."

"I said—"

"Um."

Saia's awkward voice made them both look towards her.

"Akamir." She said, her voice low. "Lili wants to contact with you."

Akamir blinked in confusion. "What?"

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CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC182: Spirit Core [3]

Chapter 182: Spirit Core [3]

[Capital City, Krivos Kingdom.]

[Vyavan family mansion]

Akamir leaned on his chair as he stared at the fairy the size of a hand sitting opposite to him.

The previous wariness that Lili had for him was nowhere to be found as she looked around the place curiously.

Saia sat close to Lili as they both were sitting on the same chair.

"So, this is where you live, huh?" Lili said, turning to fully look at him. "It's nice."

"How did you contact Saia?" Akamir asked, looking at her suspiciously. "And I don't think I ever told you where I live."

Lili blinked innocently as she looked at him and then at Saia.

"Oh, us Fairies have unique connections," she replied, smiling. "We can locate and talk with our queen telepathically no matter the distance."

Akamir narrowed his eyes even further as he kept on staring at her.

"She isn't lying," Nayomi said, floating beside him. "Fairies can't lie anyway."

Akamir frowned as he slowly nodded his head.

'There is no need to be rude to her now.'

Taking in a deep breath, he let himself smile.

"So, what brings you here?" Akamir asked, looking at her. "It hasn't been long since we last saw each other."

Lili blinked as her expression slowly turned serious.

"Before we talk, I would like to inform you of something," Lili said, her voice serious unlike her size. "You know, Sephrina and I have a really deep connection."

Akamir gave her a small nod as she pointed towards her own eyes.

"Right now," she said, her voice soft. "What I see, feel, and hear can all be experienced by Sephrina herself."

Akamir leaned forward slightly, his brows knitting together.

"So she's listening in right now?" he asked.

Lili gave a quiet nod, folding her hands on her lap.

"Then I should probably watch what I say," Akamir muttered, glancing away for a moment.

Saia chuckled softly, her tiny arms crossed as she leaned against the back of the chair. "Don't worry, she won't bite. Well... not unless you give her a reason to."

Akamir gave her a look, unamused. "Whose side are you on?"

Saia's smile immediately faded as her wings lowered down. "...Sorry."

"Don't worry," Akamir said, smiling. "I am not mad."

Lili fluttered her wings once, shifting her posture a bit. "I'm here to deliver a message. From Sephrina."

Akamir tilted his head. "Did something happen?"

Lili hesitated, then nodded. "We checked the town you mentioned." She drew in a deep breath. "....You were right, things were not good there."

Akamir didn't say anything as he placed his chin on his palm.

"The people are dying there," Lili said, her body trembling violently. "I saw things that I could never forget."

A tear fell from her eyes that landed on her lap.

Lili quickly began to clear her face, leaving Akamir in confusion.

"Fairies are really sensitive to life," Nayomi informed him softly. "They always feel sad when they see the malice of mortal beings."

Akamir nodded softly as he let Lili get a hold of herself.

Lili sniffled softly and wiped her cheeks again, trying her best to smile despite the shake in her hands.

"Sorry... I didn't mean to cry."

"It's fine," Akamir said, his voice calm. "You don't need to force yourself."

Saia reached over and gently placed a hand on Lili's tiny back, rubbing it in slow circles. "You did good."

Lili gave her a thankful look before taking a deep breath and continuing.

"We tried to ask Lewin and other guards about the situation," Lili said softly. "They all lied, telling us everything is alright."

"..."

Akamir nodded as he had already expected something like this beforehand.

'Sure enough they are using Sephrina as a puppet ruler.'

"Right now, in the entire elven kingdom, there is no one we can trust," Lili said, her voice sounding hurtful now.

Akamir leaned forward as he looked dead into her eyes.

He made sure that she wasn't looking away before he asked, "Why tell me all this?"

Lili drew in a deep breath, her tiny body floated up in the air.

She bowed slightly towards him. "The Empress of the Elven Kingdom would like to hire you as a mercenary."

Akamir blinked, caught off guard for a moment.

Then, he leaned back in his chair, arms folded as he looked at the tiny fairy floating before him.

"Mercenary, huh?" he muttered. "You mean Sephrina wants to officially involve me?"

Lili nodded. "Yes. She doesn't want this to be a favor. She will pay an appropriate price for your service."

Akamir gave her a curious look. "What can the Elven Empress give me that I already don't have?"

Lili looked at him with a smile.

"Don't you humans only have low-level Artifacts?" she asked. "We can provide higher-grade ones."

"..."

Akamir didn't say anything for a while. Then he smiled. "That's too low," he said. "I won't risk my life for only a few Artifacts."

Lili tilted her head. "Then do you want lands?"

Akamir shook his head. "Nope."

Lili blinked, clearly confused. "Then... what do you want?"

Akamir leaned back in his chair again, his eyes half-closed, as if he were thinking deeply.

'What do I want, huh....?'

Akamir remained still like that for a long while.

Finally, he let out a sigh as he stood up.

"Can you give me some time?" Akamir said, looking at her. "I will tell you before sunset."

Lili blinked and shook her head. "I can't maintain my body till then," she informed. "I don't have enough spirit energy—."

"I can provide you with it," Saia interrupted her. "You can stay here as long as you want."

"Well, I believe your problem is solved then," Akamir said, looking at Lili. "Then, Saia and you can go roam around the human kingdom."

Saia beamed at his words. "Really?"

"Sure," Akamir said, smiling.

She nodded as she grabbed Lili's hands. "Let's go!"

"But—."

Lili's words halted abruptly as she looked in a trance.

'It seems she is talking with Sephrina.'

Akamir keenly noticed as Lili sighed.

She looked at him. "Tell me your answer before nightfall."

Akamir nodded and immediately both the fairies rushed out from the window.

He glanced at Nayomi who floated beside him. "How come Saia can see you but Lili can't?"

"Only those can see me whom I allow to," Nayomi replied, her voice arrogant. "Lili is special but not special enough."

Akamir rolled his eyes as he walked out of the room.

Zia was standing right in the main hall waiting for him.

His maid smiled brightly as she bowed slightly. "Would you like something, my Lord?"

Her way of addressing him also has changed since he took over the dukedom.

"Nothing," Akamir replied, shaking his head. "How did things go without me?"

Zia straightened, her hands folded neatly in front of her.

"Surprisingly smooth, Master," she said with a gentle smile. "There were no major disturbances. Your stand-in handled things well."

Akamir raised an eyebrow. "Raden didn't mess anything up?"

Zia shook her head. "Not at all. In fact, some of the senior staff say he's... scarily efficient."

Akamir chuckled.

'Well, he is a mimicker. They're good at adapting.'

He started walking through the hall, and Zia followed a step behind.

"But still," she continued softly, "not everyone was happy with you leaving the dukedom."

"Let them be," Akamir replied, shrugging his shoulders. "I can't please everyone."

Zia nodded with a warm smile. "You don't have to."

Nayomi hovered beside him, arms crossed as she glanced back at Zia.

"She's sweet," she muttered. "But she's also watching you closely."

Akamir looked at her.

"What, did you forget how strong she is?" Nayomi said. "I would never believe she is taking care of you without any reason."

Akamir sighed as he didn't respond to her.

'Still, she isn't wrong...I know almost nothing about Zia.'

Akamir walked out of the house as he looked at the afternoon sky. 'Hmm, I still have a lot of time, huh?'

Zia stood by his side as he looked at one of the soldiers. "Call a carriage."

The soldier bowed as he rushed to call one.

"Is there something you want to say?" Akamir asked, looking at the conflicted face of Zia.

"Well, when you weren't here, someone always came looking for you every day."

Zia informed him with an awkward smile.

Akamir frowned. "Who?"

"Your second fiancée."

Akamir blinked twice.

'...Zaina.'

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CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC183: New Shop [1]

Chapter 183: New Shop [1]

[Capital City, Krivos Kingdom.]

Akamir leaned back on his carrgie as he closed his eyes.

Despite a somewhat comfortable ride, Akamir was having different thoughts.

'I really need to make a better way of transport.'

He thought, rubbing the back of his neck in frustration.

Akamir did have a plan to make a simple shock absorber and be done with it but now he was thinking otherwise.

'I am sure that the other side of the World at least has a car or something.'

As far as he knows, that world on that side was influenced a lot more than here.

The otherworlders did all they could to make their culture much more known to people here.

'I bet they did it so they could live a better life.'

He let out a sigh as he opened his eyes and looked at Nayomi.

The woman sat opposite to him, looking out at the streets.

"Why is this side of the World not that advanced?" Akamir asked, looking at her. "You once told me it was because of one man, mind telling me more?"

Nayomi slowly turned to look at him.

Her sky blue eyes met with his but it wasn't long before she sighed.

"Do you really want to know?" she asked, rubbing her face.

"Well, we still have a few minutes before we reach our destination." Akamir replied, leaning forward.

She sat back properly, crossing one leg over the other. Her expression turned a bit more serious.

"Back when there were no elves, humans used to rule the world," she said, looking into his eyes. "It was a whole different civilization where science was given more priority."

Akamir frowned. "That's like more than six thousand years ago?"

"Yep." She nodded her head. "But they didn't do it with strength. The gods humans worshipped suppressed every other race and made them on top—"

Unexpectedly, Nayomi stopped her words as her face blanked out.

Akamir blinked in confusion. "Nayomi?"

She didn't respond as she was in a state of trance.

Akamir tried to touch her but she suddenly jerked.

Nayomi's body jerked as if someone had splashed cold water on her.

She blinked, her hands trembling slightly before she quickly looked out the window again, avoiding Akamir's eyes.

Akamir narrowed his gaze. "What was that?"

"I—" She paused, her voice quieter now. "Something pulled me back. A memory... or maybe a warning."

"A warning?"

Nayomi finally turned to look at him. Her usual sharpness was gone, replaced by unease. "Some things aren't meant to be remembered."

"That's vague," Akamir said, leaning in again. "You said humans were on top because of the gods they worshipped. What happened after that?"

Nayomi shook her head. "I'll tell you later. Just... not now."

Akamir didn't press further. He could tell she wasn't faking it. Whatever she saw had shaken her.

The carriage bumped over a small pothole, making the two of them sway slightly.

The carriage came to a slow stop.

A knight opened the door from outside. "We've arrived, my lord."

Akamir stepped down, stretching his arms.

In front of them stood an old yet well-maintained estate surrounded by large pine trees and covered in ivy.

Hundreds of merchants' carrgies and items were going in and out of the place.

Akamir adjusted his coat as he looked around the estate.

The place was busier than he expected.

Merchants shouted, workers carried crates on their backs, and guards kept a close eye on everything.

There was an odd mixture of noise and order, like a market inside a noble's courtyard.

'Looks like things are going much better than I had expected.'

Akamir did have a way of running business and Imoyan company's branch was now everywhere.

A steward approached them. "Welcome, Lord Asher. The Master is waiting inside."

Akamir nodded. "Lead the way."

They followed the steward through the estate's stone path, passing under hanging lanterns and banners bearing a green fox emblem.

The walls of the estate were thick with ivy, and the windows had iron bars — not decorative ones either.

"Are they expecting a siege?" Nayomi muttered.

"More like preparing for theft," Akamir replied. "This place deals in rare materials. Some of the things they trade aren't even legal in certain kingdoms."

"You do know a lot of things, my lord," the steward replied, smiling. "Things are really bad here at night."

Akamir gave him a soft nod as he wasn't in the mood to talk.

They were guided up a staircase, down a corridor, and finally into a quieter chamber.

It was a meeting room, with a long oval table and a single man sitting at the head of it.

He stood up when they entered.

He was tall, dressed in green and black robes, with silver hair tied neatly behind his back.

His face was lined with age, but his eyes were sharp and calculating.

He looked back at the steward. "You can go now."

The steward bowed deeply before he moved out of the room.

"My lord!"

As soon as the steward was gone, the man fell to his knees.

Akamir gave him a quick nod as he moved and sat on his chair.

"I believe it was the Judge of Apathy who assigned you here, right?" Akamir asked, placing his hand under his cheek.

"Yes, my Lord," he replied, his head still lowered. "She was the one who gave me the task of maintaining the company's branch."

'Thought so.'

Akamir leaned back on the chair. "So, how are things going?"

The man raised his head slightly, just enough to meet Akamir's eyes.

"Everything is running smoothly on the surface, my lord," he began, voice steady but cautious.

"The main branch here in Krivos has seen a thirty-two percent profit increase over the last month."

Akamir tilted his head, interested. "That's higher than projected."

"Yes," the man nodded quickly. "It's because of the weapon trade. Demand has risen in the southern regions—rumors of war have made people nervous."

Akamir narrowed his eyes slightly. 'Hmm, isn't the Aure kingdom situated there?'

He thought, tapping gently on the chair.

'Looks like I would need to keep an eye on the situation.'

"And the rare minerals?" Akamir asked after a pause.

The Edevane family that Akamir had taken over was much more fruitful than he had expected.

Things brought out of the mines were much better than those already present.

'Pretty sure it was because we dug a lot deeper than humans.'

One of the perks of having a race of Mimickers who can go inside any hole.

The man's expression shifted slightly. Just a flicker of hesitation.

"We've had... minor issues," he said carefully. "Some shipments have gone missing. Small ones, but it's becoming frequent."

"How frequent?" Akamir's tone dropped a little.

"Three in the last two weeks."

Nayomi, who was lounging by the side of the room now, gave a low whistle. "That's not 'minor,' that's someone testing your defenses."

Akamir nodded slightly, still watching the man. "Suspects?"

"None solid," he replied quickly. "But... I have suspicions. A few smaller merchant families have been growing too fast. Too bold."

Akamir leaned forward, his fingers now laced together.

"List them," he said. "And start keeping eyes on their movements."

The man bowed his head deeply. "Yes, my lord."

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CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC184: New Shop [2]

Chapter 184: New Shop [2]

Akamir leaned forward, his fingers now laced together.

"List them," he said. "And start keeping eyes on their movements."

The man bowed his head deeply. "Yes, my lord."

"Also," Akamir added. "I have a task for you."

The man bowed his head deeply. "Tell me what you want, my lord."

"Wait, what's your name again?" Akamir asked, as he wasn't sure what to call him.

"It's Dax, my lord."

'What type of stupid name is that?'

Akamir thought, but he didn't let it show on his face.

"Alright, Dax, stand up."

The man stood up immediately.

"Right now, I am giving you an important task," Akamir said, looking at him. "Very important."

The man gulped down as he nodded. "I am listening."

"I want you to issue a notice," he said, looking dead into his eyes. "The Imoyan company is looking for Alchemists."

Dax blinked.

"Alchemists, my lord?" he repeated, just to be sure.

Akamir gave a small nod. "Yes. All kinds. From certified masters to freelance potion-brewers. I want every one of them that's not a total fraud."

Dax looked a bit confused. "May I ask... why?"

Akamir leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table.

"We are holding a competition," Akamir replied, looking at him. "A competition which has the prize money of ten thousand gold coins."

Dax's eyes widened in astonishment. "That much, my lord??"

"Yes," Akamir nodded once. "I want to lure as many of them as possible."

"And why would you do that?" Nayomi asked, folding her hands.

"You know, I haven't seen any Alchemists since I came here," Akamir said, looking at her. "I know they make potions and all, but I want to know how."

"You won't hold a grand competition for that," Nayomi replied, looking at him suspiciously. "Tell me, what are you thinking?"

"Nothing much," he replied, smiling. "I plan to use them for my advantage."

Nayomi remained silent before her eyes widened. "Wait, the spirit herbs!"

"Exactly!" Akamir replied, clapping his hand. "I want to see what they can make with the spirit herbs."

"And when they do, you will copy them, finding a way to make more profit," she added, smiling softly.

"Even if that doesn't work, you can leave mimickers in their shadows and make them steal their lifelong researches."

Akamir's smile faded as he looked away. "I don't like how accurate you are with your judgement."

Nayomi smiled as she bumped into him. "Don't be like that," she said. "I have seen something like that back in my old world."

"Yeah, whatever," Akamir replied, shaking her away. "Dax!"

Dax straightened up like he'd been struck by lightning. "Yes, my lord!"

"Put out the notice in every city connected to our trade routes," Akamir ordered.

"I want it in taverns, adventurer guilds, and even magic schools if possible. Make the reward sound tempting. Use words like 'fame,' 'fortune,' and 'royal opportunity.' That usually makes fools come running."

Dax nodded quickly, already reaching for a small notebook at his side. "It will be done within the day."

"Oh, and one more thing," Akamir added, tapping the table thoughtfully. "Once they're here, house them in the company district. I want a place prepared — something that looks luxurious enough to make them feel important, but still keeps them contained."

"Like a golden cage," Nayomi murmured, amused.

"Exactly," Akamir said, not bothering to deny it.

Dax scribbled furiously, then looked back up. "Should I inform the royal guilds?"

"No. Not yet," Akamir said, leaning back in his chair. "Inara would bug me if she knows about it."

"But you already hinted her you own the company," Nayomi replied, shaking her head. "She would definitely come for your ass."

"Shut up!" he rebuked, standing up from his seat. "We will see about that later on."

Akamir adjusted the cuffs of his coat and turned toward the window, watching the hustle of the estate courtyard below.

Nayomi strolled up beside him, her arms folded. "So what's the real plan?"

Akamir glanced at her. "Didn't we just talk about this?"

She narrowed her eyes. "I know you long enough to say it isn't all," she said. "You are someone who has multi-layers of planning."

Akamir shrugged. "Well, you will know about it when the time is right."

Dax bowed one final time and left the room, his steps hurried and nervous as he mumbled to himself, already calculating the logistics in his head.

Once he was gone, silence settled in the chamber.

Nayomi leaned against the edge of the table now, arms crossed and her expression thoughtful.

"You really think they'll come?" she asked. "Alchemists aren't exactly the most trusting crowd. They hide their recipes tighter than nobles hide their scandals."

Akamir gave a slight smirk. "They'll come."

"And why's that?"

"Because I'm not asking them to give me their secrets," he said calmly. "I'm asking them to show off."

Nayomi blinked, then gave a slow, knowing smile. "Ah... ego bait."

"Exactly." Akamir stepped away from the window. "What I want is to know what they can make with spirit herbs."

Nayomi didn't say anything else as Akamir began to walk out of the room.

He was still in the mood to look around the place, as it was the first time being here.

Akamir stepped out into the upper hallway of the estate, hands tucked into his coat pockets.

The warm buzz of the place hadn't died down.

Even from inside, he could still hear the muffled shouts of merchants haggling.

He walked slowly, glancing around.

"I like this place," Akamir muttered to himself. "Not too flashy, but strong where it counts."

Nayomi followed a step behind, now floating casually again, her feet just above the floor.

Akamir stretched his body as he reached the outside of the place once again.

'Well, when I get the Alchemist of my liking I can make them join the company.'

Akamir had a lot of things that he already planned in his mind.

If things go as he wanted them to be, then he might find a way to make more profit.

'Man, I am acting like an old fat money-hungry person.'

Still, Akamir had to do something as he can't put all his eggs in one basket.

'If things go south with the elves, I can definitely use this as a chance to make use of spirit herbs.'

"Hmm?"

But just as he reached out, he found someone stepping down from a carriage.

She was a girl, same age as him, with long wavy lavender hair.

"Zaina?"

Akamir mumbled, walking towards her.

'What is she doing here?'

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CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC185: Unexpected Date [1]

Chapter 185: Unexpected Date [1]

"Zaina?"

Akamir mumbled, walking towards her.

'What is she doing here?'

Zaina turned her head as she heard her name, her eyes locking onto Akamir.

A smile bloomed on her face as soon as she noticed him.

She quickly walked towards him and Akamir also walked closer.

But—.

Someone grabbed Zaina's hand and made her halt her step.

'Hmm?'

Akamir looked at the tall woman who stood behind Zaina.

The woman behind Zaina was dressed in a black robe, plain but elegant.

Her black hair was tied neatly at the back, and her eyes were sharp, like she was used to being obeyed without question.

She didn't say anything at first and just looked at Akamir.

Zaina glanced back at the woman holding her wrist.

"It's okay," she whispered, trying to pull her hand free. "He's a friend."

But the woman didn't let go, she kept on staring at Akamir.

Akamir walked closer until he stood in front of them.

He looked at the woman. "Who might you be?"

The woman tilted her head slightly, then looked down at Zaina.

"Go wait by the gate," she said calmly. "I'll speak with him."

Zaina hesitated. "But—"

"I said go."

There was no anger in her voice, no threat, but the way she said it left no room for arguing.

Zaina looked torn. Her eyes flicked to Akamir, as if asking him what to do.

"It's fine," Akamir said, nodding. "Go ahead. I'll be there in a minute."

Still unsure, Zaina slowly stepped back. The woman released her wrist, and without another word, Zaina walked off.

Now, it was just the two of them.

Akamir folded his arms. "Now, explain who you are."

The woman didn't flinch. "You're Akamir, aren't you?"

He raised an eyebrow. "That depends. Who's asking?"

She studied him for a moment before giving a small nod.

"My name is Helen."

Akamir blinked. 'An unfamiliar name.'

"I serve the Church," she said, as if reading his confusion. "I have been assigned as the guardian of Lady Zaina."

Akamir narrowed his eyes as he nodded once. "...I see."

She looked up and made sure he could hear her properly.

"I am well aware of your relationship with her," she said, "and I don't plan to interfere, but..."

'Yeah, there is always a but.'

Akamir thought as he waited for her to continue.

"I will not allow you to touch her," she continued, "she is way too precious for a mortal to touch."

Akamir rubbed the back of his neck as he looked at her. "So, I need the Church's permission to touch her now?"

"You cannot touch her," she replied, staring dead into his eyes. "And don't worry, the Church will give you—hey!"

Akamir ignored her as he walked towards Zaina, who stood by the side of the mansion.

Zaina turned quickly as Akamir approached her, a worried look still lingering in her eyes.

"Did she say something weird again?" she asked quietly, glancing back over his shoulder.

Akamir shrugged. "Depends on what you count as weird," he replied as he began to walk. "She told me not to touch you."

Zaina's cheeks turned a light shade of pink. "She's always like that. Ever since the Church assigned her to me, she's been overprotective."

Akamir tilted his head. "You didn't ask for a guardian?"

Zaina shook her head. "No. They said it was for my safety. Too many people know about my lineage now."

Akamir shrugged as he knew things aren't going too well for her.

'But compared to her novel counterpart, she is doing a lot better now.'

"Why are you here anyway?" Akamir asked, as he noticed her closeness. "You need something?"

"Uh, yeah," Zaina said, her fingers intertwined with his own. "Well, the Church provided me with a home and I needed some decoration so...."

"...I see," Akamir nodded as he felt two glaring eyes on his back.

Glancing back, he found Helen, her sharp eyes watching from a distance.

She didn't follow, but her presence could still be felt.

"By the way, when did you come back?" Zaina asked, her voice curious now. "And are you coming back to the academy?"

"I came back just a few days ago to my dukedom," Akamir replied, "and no...I would probably not go to the academy now."

Zaina lowered her gaze, disappointment clear in her voice. "...That's too bad."

"What about you?" Akamir asked, as they both walked into the shop. "Have the Church already given you any task?"

Zaina nodded as they stepped into the shop, the scent of polished wood and dried flowers greeting them.

The place was quiet, filled with rows of handcrafted ornaments, magical lamps, and crystal charms that glowed faintly with enchantments.

"I've been given some small duties," she said, brushing her fingers along a carved glass vase. "Nothing too serious."

Akamir watched her carefully. "They're training you slowly."

Zaina smiled faintly. "You think so?"

"Hmm." He hummed softly. "When are they calling you back to the main Church?"

"In two-three months?" she replied, unsure about it herself. "I don't know, they say a big ceremony is being held for my arrival and it will take time."

Akamir gave her a short nod as he already knew about it.

'It's most probably about the competition to find her husband,' Akamir thought to himself. 'Which is already decided...well, not really.'

Even if the Pope has decided it, Akamir wasn't really going to let it happen.

'Anyway, looks like she isn't aware of the whole thing.'

He thought, glancing at the girl, who seems to be oblivious of her fate.

Akamir stayed close beside her as she admired a row of wind chimes made of glowing crystal feathers.

Each one rang softly without wind, humming with a light enchantment.

Zaina reached out and gently touched one, her expression softening. "These are pretty... don't you think?"

"They're overpriced," Akamir replied flatly, picking up a small one and flipping the tag.

Zaina let out a quiet laugh. "Well, you aren't wrong."

Akamir let out a sigh as he rubbed his chin.

"Just buy whatever you want," Akamir said, looking at her. "I will pay for it."

"What, no! The Church already gave me enough money—"

"I am your fiancé, Zaina," Akamir cut in her words. "Let me spoil you once in a while."

Zaina blinked, her cheeks warming again.

"You can't just say things like that out loud," she whispered, looking around like someone might be eavesdropping.

Akamir raised an eyebrow. "We're alone."

"Still..." she mumbled, turning away to hide her face. "You don't act like a fiancé most of the time."

"I'm making up for it now," he replied, "not that it matters now."

Zaina didn't say anything as she looked away.

She started choosing the items from the shelves.

"By the way," she finally said after a while. "Father was asking about you."

Akamir blinked. "Why?"

"I don't know," she shook her head. "He said it was related to the mines."

"...I see," Akamir mumbled, nodding his head. "I will meet him, soon enough."

Zaina's eyes lit up. "Are you going to visit my home again?"

"Uh, yeah," Akamir replied, nodding his head.

She slowly walked closer, her breath now felt on his cheek. "Will you stay the night?"

Akamir looked at the girl confusedly. "Why do you ask?"

Zaina opened her lips to reply but quickly blushed away.

"Ahem," she let out a fake cough before quickly walking away. "I..I was just asking."

Akamir rubbed his temples as he clearly knew why she was asking it.

'Did someone flip a switch in her or something?'

He wasn't sure but what he was sure of was that someone was really glaring at him.

He let out a sigh as he didn't even look at Helen, who was close by.

'What a pain.'

Zaina, on the other hand, had found a glowing sunstone lamp shaped like a flower.

It pulsed gently with warmth and a faint golden glow.

"This one's cute," she said, turning it toward him. "Don't you think it'll look good on the windowsill?"

"It'll attract mana bugs," Akamir replied flatly.

Zaina pouted. "Can't you just say 'yes'? You're such a killjoy."

He glanced at her sideways. "Fine. It's cute. Buy it."

Her smile returned instantly, and she turned back to the shelf with a satisfied hum.

Akamir walked up beside her. "You're acting strangely sweet today."

Zaina paused, her fingers still brushing the sunstone lamp. "You don't like it?"

"It's not that," he muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. "It's just... unusual."

Zaina tilted her head slightly. "Well, maybe I missed you."

"Sure you did," he said with a soft chuckle. "Anyway, how long are we going to spend here?"

"Why?" Zaina asked, looking back at him. "Do you have to be somewhere?"

"Not really," Akamir replied, shrugging. "Well, I guess I can be with you for a few more hours."

She smiled brightly at his words. "Sweet, then it's a date."

"Not really—"

"Let's go!" Zaina said, once again grabbing his hand. "We will spend the whole day goofing around."

Akamir sighed as he looked at the ceiling.

'Maybe I shouldn't have said that.'

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CROWNLESS REINCARNATION: NEW WORLD? NAH I'D WINC186: Unexpected Date [2]

'Spending time with Zaina wasn't the worst thing.'

Akamir thought, walking along with the girl who kept on looking around the place.

'Well, she did start opening up with me only now…'

"Why are you thinking?" Zaina asked, nudging his shoulder.

Akamir shook his head in response.

"Nothing too important." He replied. "But do we really have to walk on foot?"

As Akamir said, he glanced around the place as they were walking on the road.

On both sides of them was nothing but long trees and plants.

It was her idea to go back to the academy without the carriage as to spend more time together.

Zaina kicked a small stone on the path and let out a sigh. "Come on, it's not that bad."

'Yeah, it wouldn't have if there wasn't someone thinking of killing me right now.'

Akamir let out a sigh as he glanced back where Helen walked just a few metres behind them.

When their eyes met, she glared at him even more furiously.

'Yeah, she definitely doesn't like me at all.'

The dirt path stretched on, winding gently through the forest.

A few birds chirped in the distance, and every now and then, the sound of a squirrel darting across a branch reached their ears.

It was peaceful to say the least and Akamir was enjoying the peace.

Zaina stepped ahead and turned around to walk backward, facing him.

"You know, when I used to live here, I used to sneak out and explore all the time."

"Yeah, I remember you told me about it." Akamir replied, nodding his head. "Not a girly thing to do but who am I to say?"

Zaina puffed her cheeks and turned away dramatically. "What's wrong with that, I just like exploring places."

Akamir shrugged in response. "It's nothing wrong and I am not saying you shouldn't do that."

"Yeah, yeah." She replied, waving her hand. "Sometimes you act more like my father…."

Zaina's words died down as she slowly realised what she was saying.

Her cheeks turned slightly pink as she rubbed her face to hide it.

Akamir raised his brow. "You alright?"

"Y..Yeah." she mumbled without looking at him. "I..I am fine."

Akamir didn't press her about it.

He just gave a small nod and kept walking, pretending not to notice how flustered she looked.

Zaina stayed quiet too, this time walking beside him with her eyes down on the road.

She kicked another pebble, slower this time, as if trying to focus on something else.

"So…" she finally said, breaking the silence, "what did you use to do when you were younger? Before all this."

"Uh, me?" Akamir said, pointing at himself to which she nodded. "Well, I don't remember much about my childhood."

As far as Akamir remembered, his childhood was much worse than hers.

Most of the time, Akamir used to live in his room just to be safe from assassins and other threats.

His mother wasn't a good one as she saw him as nothing but a tool to rule the kingdom.

'….Well, I can't tell her all that.'

Akamir thought as he smiled bitterly, shaking his head.

Zaina noticed it immediately and a concerned look formed on her face. "Was it really that bad?"

"Not really." Akamir replied, shaking his head. "But…yeah. Not a good experience I must say."

Zaina didn't say anything for a while after that.

She just walked beside him, glancing at his face from time to time.

"…I'm sorry," Zaina finally said, her voice quiet. "I didn't mean to bring up something painful."

"It's fine," Akamir replied calmly. "It's not like I think about it all the time."

He shoved his hands into his pockets, letting out a soft sigh. "Besides, it's in the past now."

Zaina gave a small nod. "….Do you need a hug?"

Akamir gave her a look before he shook his head. "No, I am fine."

"Take the hint dumbass." Nayomi said, floating closely beside him. "How can you reject a lady like that."

"Can you shut up?" Akamir mumbled, glaring at her. "And I am not interested in a child."

Zaina blinked and tilted her head. "Did you say something?"

Akamir coughed and looked away. "Nothing. Just… thinking out loud."

She narrowed her eyes at him suspiciously but let it slide.

They walked a few more steps in silence before Zaina suddenly said, "You know, I'm not a child."

Akamir let out a sigh. "Zaina—."

"Oh, we are close to the academy." Zaina said, changing the topic. "Time sure flies fast."

"...."

Akamir looked at her as she didn't meet his eyes.

"By the way, can you please fix an appointment with Queen Inara for me?" Zaina said, looking at him. "I am trying to contact her but she always refuses."

Akamir frowned. "Why do you want to talk with her?"

"That's something between us." She replied, shaking her head. "Well, can you?"

'Bruh, why is she doing this?'

Akamir sighed as he nodded once. "I will see what I can do."

Zaina smiled softly. "Thanks. That means a lot."

Akamir gave a small nod, but he couldn't help the uneasiness settling in his chest.

'I will talk with Inara before informing her.'

"Oh, the mask you gave me." Akamir said, as they continued to walk. "It was really helpful. It even saved my life."

A genuine smile formed on her lips as she nodded. "Glad something of me can save your life."

Akamir gave her a short nod as they both came to a halt.

"The academy is only a few minutes ahead." Akamir said, looking at her.

Zaina kept on looking at his eyes. "I know."

"Well, I will talk with Inara about your request." He continued. "She would most probably accept—."

"Can you close your eyes?" Zaina cut in his words.

Akamir blinked twice. "Pardon?"

"Eyes?" She replied, tilting her head. "Can you?"

He let out a sigh knowing full well what she plans to do.

"Fine."

Akamir closed his eyes and immediately felt her moving closer.

Grabbing his collar, she made him lean in as he felt her lips on his.

Zaina's lips were soft, warm, and trembling just slightly.

It wasn't a long kiss but it wasn't short, either.

When she finally pulled away, Akamir opened his eyes slowly, blinking once.

Zaina had stepped back already, her face flushed deep red, and her hands clutched the hem of her sleeve tightly.

Zaina quickly turned around. "W..well, I will see you in my home then. Bye!"

She ran away before he could even reply, leaving him alone.

"Aren't you hypocritical?" Nayomi mumbled, floating closely. "Once you said, you don't like her but closed—."

"Urgh, leave me alone." Akamir said, pushing her face away.

Just then Helen walked past him, giving him the most threatening glare possible.

'The fuck are you staring at?' Akamir thought, looking away. 'It was her who kissed me not the other way around.'

Well, maybe that's why she isn't just attacking him right now.

Akamir let out a sigh as he rubbed the back of his neck.

He walked back to his house which was still a few minutes away.

'What a pain.'

---

---

When Akamir reached his home, it was already evening and the sun was close to the horizon.

The light shone over the entire place as he walked inside his house.

Zia quickly got close to him. "Welcome back young master."

Akamir smiled as she helped him take off his coat. "I am home."

Zia gently folded Akamir's coat over her arm and tilted her head. "Would you like coffee? Or something to eat?"

Akamir stretched his arms a little before answering. "Coffee would be nice with some cookies."

Zia gave a polite nod and walked toward the kitchen with light footsteps.

Akamir sat down on the couch in the main room, leaning back with a sigh.

'Hmm?'

Just as he sat down the air around him trembled and something walked out of it.

"Kyu~."

A purple fox let out a soft voice as she jumped at him.

Akamir smiled as he caught her with open arms. "Look who decided to wake up!"

He grabbed her and placed her on his lap and gently touched her belly.

"She is growing fast." Nayomi mumbled, observing the fox. "She might awaken again soon enough."

The little purple fox, now comfortably settled on Akamir's lap, stretched her body like a lazy cat, letting out another soft "Kyu~" before curling into a ball.

Akamir gently scratched behind her ears, earning a satisfied tail flick.

"I wonder how you'll become," he whispered.

"She's not an ordinary creature, that's for sure," Nayomi replied, floating lazily above the couch, watching the fox with half-lidded eyes.

"Adult void foxes are big enough to fill a continent."

Akamir raised a brow at that as he looked down at the fox. "Damn, that would be kinda nice."

"It won't be, you stupid boy." Nayomi replied, shaking her head. "Once she gets too big people will come to hunt her."

"They can try." Akamir replied, looking up at her. "I can take care of most of them."

Nayomi didn't reply; instead, she looked away without any words.

Akamir on the other hand kept on playing with the void fox until she suddenly stood up on his lap.

Akamir frowned as he looked at the fox. "What happened?"

"Kyu~."

She let out a soft cry before she extended her forehead towards him.

Akamir tilted his head as he somewhat understood what she wanted. "Do you want me to touch your forehead?"

"Kyu~."

'With my own forehead?'

He looked at her confusingly but didn't question her.

Akamir picked up the fox and brought her forehead close to his own.

When their foreheads touched—

'Huh?'

Akamir immediately lost his consciousness.

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