Hacking the Game Didn't Go as Intended [Part Two]

CHAPTER 207: Whispers to the Furnace - The Blacksmith's Sacred Ritual

Leopold's breath came harsh and ragged, but before he could storm away, he caught movement at the edge of his vision. He turned sharply and noted that Prince Reneal stood at the far end of the hall, stiff and uncertain, clearly having witnessed the tail end of their conversation.

Leopold let out a snarl and closed the distance in heavy, purposeful strides. His armor rattled like a storm rolling in, and Reneal instinctively flinched, stumbling back a step.

"You were listening," Leopold stated, gripping the boy's shoulders. His fingers were firm, desperate, as he stared into the prince's wide, nervous eyes. "When you ascend the throne, seek justice for Lord Alaric and his family. Swear it."

Reneal opened his mouth, but no words came—just a hesitant stammer, his confidence crumbling under the man's intense gaze. He swallowed hard, looking away, shame and doubt warring in his expression.

Leopold's heart sank. His grip loosened, and he exhaled sharply. "Damn it all..." he muttered, stepping away, his frustration palpable. Without another word, he turned and strode off, his fists clenched at his sides.

As he moved to exit the corridor, he passed a silver-haired woman dressed in a fine yet unassuming gown. She was walking with a slow and poised elegance, but something about her presence nagged at him. He slowed, glanced over his shoulder and called out, "My Lady... have we met before?"

The woman—Sophia—paused, tilting her head in apparent confusion. "I don't believe so, sir."

Leopold studied her a moment longer, then shook his head, dismissing the thought before continuing down the hall.

Daisuke, still in disguise, watched him go before turning his attention to the prince.

Reneal stood there, shoulders hunched, his gaze downcast, the weight of his own inadequacy pressing upon him. When he finally noticed Sophia, his expression flickered between admiration and chagrin. He cleared his throat and straightened, forcing a nervous smile.

"Lady Sophia," he greeted awkwardly.

Daisuke arched a brow, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "You look like a man who's just had his spine removed, Your Highness."

Reneal winced. "...It's been a difficult morning."

Daisuke chuckled. "I imagine so," he said, his butterscotch eyes narrowing.

He watched as the boy wrestled with his thoughts. The prince had a long way to go before he could ever be the king his people needed. But perhaps, with time... he might grow into it. For now, though, perhaps it was best to give him a little nudge in the right direction.

"Reneal," Daisuke began.

"Yes? What is—"

The moment he lifted his head, Daisuke flicked his finger against his forehead, the sharp motion sending his head snapping back.

"Ow, that hurt! S-Sophia!" Reneal stammered, clutching the steaming bump. "What are you—"

Daisuke took a step forward, closing the distance between them. And whatever protest had been forming in his throat died as his breath caught, his face flushing.

"While you indulge in fleeting pleasures and seek the warmth of a family you were mostly denied," Daisuke said, his tone stern but kind. "Lumielle remains grounded in reality, facing the burdens you refuse to acknowledge.

She, too, is alone. She, too, is afraid. Yet she endures—not just for herself, but for the sake of her people, for the future, for you and those you have come to cherish. And still, you run."