When It Comes to Scheming, You're the One, Lord of Infinity

Murphy made a few simple arrangements for Crimson Castle, then set off with Triss for Fort Valor, ready to embark on the "Astral Voyage" package Mannis had prepared for him.

But there wasn't much for him to arrange in the first place.

The front line had now advanced to the Filthy Swamp. Although Huggerson was busy with his "Great Purge" and hadn't launched an attack yet, the final battle between Transia and the Black Calamity had effectively been placed on the agenda.

Both sides knew they would have to throw all their strength into the coming fight. Under the circumstances, there were very few outside maneuvers left to make.

Murphy was a man who knew his own limits. He knew he had no talent for military deployments, so he generally didn't take part in drawing up war plans.

After the two great battles at Blackflame Pass and Barren Mountain, the once-green Maxim had matured at astonishing speed. Kudell was holding down the Maginot Line, and there was no need for Murphy to offer him military advice. As for the territory's domestic affairs, Mirian and her administrative team were doing a fine job. Sitting in his office, Murphy felt just like a rubber stamp.

With the position in Baphomet Canyon lost as well, all that remained for Murphy, the main-quest NPC, was to show his face here and there to reassure the people and raise morale, while handing out a few daily quests to his adorable little players.

It sounded a little sad, but at this critical juncture, even if "Transia's mascot," Lord Murphy, really did disappear for a few days, it wouldn't affect the war at all. The situation was already clear. That gave Murphy plenty of freedom to go enjoy himself for a few days.

And on a grander