"It's no trouble, Village Chief Tiezhen. This world is vast, and the Otherworld has countless crafting techniques. As the Empire's rule expands, we'll only take in more and more!"
"For example, magical enchantment, the Dwarves' Rune Technology, the Holy Iron Forging Method, and Blade Blacksmith-the Thousand Arms Advanced Forging Ritual."
"What a brilliant, wonderful future..." Everyone listened, utterly entranced. From the names alone, they could picture those dazzling scenes of forging and exquisite techniques.
The more they heard, the more eager they became, their faces flushed with excitement and their breathing growing heavy.
"The technologies of the five worlds I currently rule are enough to keep you busy researching. Of course, learning from one another is how we improve. Your techniques still have plenty of merit. It's just a shame..."
"You rule five worlds?!"
"A shame about what?" Tiezhen hurriedly asked.
Tetsuhiro said, "You've lost far too much of your heritage. Your ancestors could once build a mechanical doll that reproduced some of Yoriichi's strength. And now? You can only perform basic maintenance! You haven't made any progress at all."
"Ah..." Tiezhen's expression immediately dimmed. He bowed his head in remorse. "Please, say no more. My talent is lacking. I've failed my ancestors."
"No! Chief, I'm the one who should repent!" A child in the crowd sobbed bitterly as he knocked his forehead hard against the floor.
"Kotetsu, we're all in this together. You're a member of the Swordsmith Village. As chief, I failed in my duty to nurture you all."
"Chief! It's our fault!" The swordsmiths immediately burst into tears.
Everyone stared speechlessly at the group of burly men bawling their eyes out.
Why were they just like a certain thick-browed, bowl-cut frog?
They silently looked over at Might Duy, only to find him moved by his own emotions,