Cherreads

Chapter 8 - chapter 5: part of past that I can’t forget(1)

The IT, known as Imertia Tomura, is a formidable beast with the potential to ascend to ranks 10 to 12, just like Golden Sun Phoenix beast. Presently, it stands at rank 4, on the verge of reaching rank 5.

My knowledge of this beast stems from a previous timeline where I encountered it at my peak rank of 2. At that time, I was insufficiently powerful to engage, as rank 2 marks the beginning of the ascension process. Currently, I am at rank 3, a with my guidance my rank reached formidable level that allows me to rival the standard rank 4 monsters and beasts. However, this is contingent upon possessing my soul, which, unfortunately, is not the case. Nevertheless, I have made the necessary preparations for this already.

The Severiat metal, which I initially intended for a different purpose, has proven to be quite satisfactory due to the availability of purchasing an additional kilogram. My original plan was to refine the Severiat metal into Severiat steel, which would then be used to craft a special sword. This sword was intended to address my ongoing issue of wasting mage energy. By possessing this sword, I believed it would enable me to conserve my magic energy more effectively, preventing its useless dissipation and ensuring its utilization at maximum efficiency. Each time I cast magic, a portion of my magic energy is wasted into the surroundings, leading to depletion when used consistently for as little as 10 minutes. 

The memories, a memories that flows with the memories of seven long years in previous timeline. In the land of martial arts in the 7th region, where the clash of steel and the dance of shadows reveal one's true prowess, I have walked a path both challenging and rewarding. With the Severiat metal, the only companion I brought from the realm of monsterkind, I have forged a journey of strength and resilience. This material, unmatched in its might, is wielded alongside the offensive Severiat technique—a method I had the honor of creating in a timeline now past.

In those days, when I had just ascended to rank 8, I discovered a technique that revolutionized my fighting style. It allowed me to engage my opponents with unprecedented precision and combat prowess. The offensive Severiat technique grants its practitioner the ability to inflict immense physical damage, providing a significant advantage even against stronger and more formidable adversaries. It is particularly effective against the IT, a foe that can only be defeated by inflicting enough physical damage. 

Perhaps if it were a fighter-type monster, it would be a reasonable opponent, but this beast specifically hunts rank 3 mage monsters, leaving the rank 3 fighter monster as a truly cunning adversary. But what can I say? Survival is more important than fairness, especially for beasts who know nothing about it. All they have learned is "strong devour weak," and weak creatures must use everything they can to get stronger. 

The mastery of this technique was already analyzed in my mind, ready to be wielded. With figure, I can replace the immense usage of magic energy with the control. The technique that is built on on offensive offense and offensive defensive, it demands a fast-paced fighting style, incredible reaction speed, and the necessity to learn from every encounter. Adaptability to keeping up with this method. Through the strength of the Severiat metal and the power of the Severiat technique, I shall be guided to victory and enlightenment in my martial endeavors once more. 

Boom 

Phew 

Thung 

In the Frost Zone's icy embrace, a titanic clash unfolded, where four rank 5 beasts waged their battle, their roars echoing like thunder across the frozen expanse. The air trembled with the ferocity of their struggle, a symphony of chaos and power. My gaze, unwavering, was drawn to this grand spectacle, as the wind, a wild dancer, whipped around me, weaving swirling patterns of tempestuous fury.

However, the focal point of attention was not on those four beasts, but rather on Imertia Tomura. Despite being aware of its presence, I am unable to perceive this beast. It is likely concealed in some undisclosed location, observing the ongoing battle with the same interest I am. This observation suggests that it is planning as assault those four. But that is what I want as soon as it launches its attack, I shall fight with relentless determination against this beast. My plan is straightforward yet possesses a significantly higher probability of achieving success. 

So only thing I need do it wait and observe 

"Have you ever taken a moment to truly consider why this creature never attacked you during those times when you were at your weakest and most vulnerable? It's a thought that lingers in my mind, a question that gently refuses to fade. Despite your frailty and the apparent invitation you presented, it never targeted you. It's as if it had an uncanny awareness, a deep understanding that something unseen was at work, something powerful enough to hold it back. Perhaps feelings played a role, or maybe there was an invisible force protecting you. This thought is both comforting and puzzling, wrapping me in a whirlwind of assumptions." I find myself giving the figure's words my full attention, as they seem both right and logical. It was strange that the creature attacked my group but spared me. However, what truly matters now is reaching the creature's nest and ensuring it never threatens the 12th squad again while reaching peak rank 3 stage. 

Bum 

Boom 

Boom 

Boom

Ice trees, I was standing with countless others, trembled along with them. It seemed that four of them had broken ice trees, causing a multiple explosion. However, these were rank 5 beasts, ice trees, capable of one shot rank 3 beasts. Their physical properties of explosion might have affected them, but it was the land devastator crocodile beast that absorbed the explosions. So, I suppose the fight will continue. 

And just as expected, the battle continues. It's been half an hour, yet they are still fighting as if they are not tired. 

I don't know why, but IT must be here, even if it's not so. What that means is, there's a nest of IT not in this frost zone, just… 

Bzing 

And once again, countless ice trees trembled from the impact of the attack used by the Death Descender Eagle Beast with its incredible flying speed. It gained enough momentum to throw the Shadow Hunter Wolf Beast like a ball. However, in mid-air, it balanced itself and continued to fight. 

Those rank 5 beasts are truly something different 

whoosh 

My eyes tremble as I traces of IT traveling this time I was able see its body 

Its overall body was small, slender bipedal creature with a bright white, bioluminescent glow. And its Head they have large, expressive solid black eyes and long, mobile ears similar to a hare or caracal. Two small, blunt horns or crests sit between the ears. And most observably parts was long, thin arms with three-fingered hands and powerful digitigrade legs look like cat's, ending in small hooves or paws. It has tails it was a long, flexible, and slightly tufted tail that helps with balance during their acrobatic movements. And all of its body was covered in fur that radiates light

The urge to pursue it arises in my mind, but it's swiftly dismissed because I know that even if I were fast enough, it would be capable of fighting me, even killing me, unless I bring it to this area filled with my traps. 

So once again only thing I can do is wait

Soon, my focus shifts back to the battle, just as it had commenced. The conflict was still ongoing, but its intensity was escalating as they began harnessing their magic, much like us. The sole distinction lies in our monsters' superior control over magical energy, enabling us to cast continuous spells and magic that they are unable to. However, it became evident that they were growing fatigued, and injuries were beginning to take their toll. The power tanker bear beast, which had been shielded by its armor composed of magic energy, had now lost this protection and was taking direct hits. 

This could be said of others as well. I can see that the eagle beast was gradually losing speed but stubbornly refused to surrender. Meanwhile, the crocodile beast began to strategize, directing its attention towards the eagle beast. The other two beasts engaged in a cautious and deliberate battle. 

Then, my mind skipped a thought as I saw IT move once again. This time, it was not concealing itself, no longer hiding in the shadows. It was fully visible in my vision, and a curiosity ran down me. I watched in calm and thinking as it leaped high into the sky, soaring with a grace that seemed almost otherworldly. It stayed aloft for what felt like an eternity, covering an astonishing distance with each bound. From what I could see, it was driven by an intentions, searching tirelessly for the perfect moment to strike at those four unsuspecting souls. More I saw it more I believe my time of action was coming, and I couldn't shake the feeling of memories resurfacing over me. 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

"Dude, so it was true that the motherland doesn't have ice cream," Lucky said, shocked, as he held two ice creams in his arms.

I looked at him for a moment before nodding, confirming his understanding was correct, as we entered the coffee shop on the right divide of Moltier City.

"Dude, I thought… ah, I guess I will be paying a visit to the motherland after I find the Land of Kall," Lucky whined again.

A sigh escaped my lips as we reached one of the tables. Ever since our last expedition, our squad decided to embark on a more systematic search, utilizing records provided by the noble house of Laperdo. Our objective is to locate the elusive Land of Kall. Despite our efforts, even after half a year of continuous expeditions, we have yet to cover a quarter of the land on the western side of Frostland, which is, despite being the second smallest continent, remains largely unexplored.

"What is your order, sir?"

"Two coffee and two legendary heroes," Lucky ordered before I could even see the menu to decide.

This dude is really infuriating sometimes.

"I see," then the waiter went back, leaving Lucky and me. Although Lucky's physical body has a messy shock of snow-white hair that stuck out in every direction, nearly swallowing up two thick, curved black horns that sprouted from his head. His eyes were strikingly inverted solid black sclera with tiny, pin-prick white pupils that gave him a permanent look of mild surprise. He wore a stiff black suit and a heavy overcoat, but the most prominent part of his outfit was a massive, fluffy black collar made of feathers that puffed out around his shoulders like a giant dark cloud, making his pale face look even smaller by comparison.

Most monsters have animalistic or tool-like appearances, or they have a completely different, neither animalistic nor tool-like, appearance known as Phantom monsters. However, the tool-like monsters are the most intricately crafter I've ever encountered. Lucky, a Phantom monster just like me, although he has a menacing appearance, he's surprisingly soft and cute. Despite his optimism, it often gets the better of him. 

"So what are you planning to do while we rest I mean I think you have nothing to do" lucky asked me the question that I can easily answer 

"I'll do my utmost to assist the guild manager and leader in finding Land of Kall. That is the my plan" I answered with wasting seconds 

"… dude is there anything like hobbies for you I mean every time I look at you you either meditate or do job I mean like how should I say it uhh"

His words kinda irritates me for seconds but it disappears I know he is right

"A monster devoid of life, solely dedicated to his job as if it were his wife, that's the description you were seeking. Isn't it"

"Exactly! wait no I mean yeah but not that extreme, no it make it more like it" lucky instantly cover his mouth with ice scream as he lost control of his speaking and think it is better to be silent 

"…" (Am I being too extreme, right?…right?) Lucky always manages to hit me in some vulnerable spot without even trying. I don't know when I should be offended or accept it as fact. 

Bing bing bing 

The runes on my wristbone pulsed constantly, so I examined the source of this vibration. Upon closer inspection, I discovered it was a device given to me by the guild it was a receiver glass. This device is designed as a one-way conduit for a specific type of magic energy weave. These weaves transform into the spoken words of the speaker, enabling silent communication across this vast city.

The it resembled a bracelet but was elongated, allowing it to serve as a mirror. Crafted entirely from special glass, it featured a smooth, reflective surface that could capture and display images.

I pressed my finger against the glass, infused with magic energy, and it slowly absorbed the energy from my finger to strengthen the magic energy weave and play the message. 

"This is Homellka guild manager speaking Sans Wing Ding and Lucky come to headquarter quickly"

As my bracelet releases sound of someone speaking if I want to it hear loud I just need to give it more magic energy to make louder

"*sigh* Let's go, Lucky," I muttered, taking off my gaze from receiver glass to Lucky but since before me taken me by surprise as I jolted back 

My gaze watching him devour his legendary hero like it was a race against time. I mean, who knew a he who has so small mouth could have the appetite of a titan class beast? And then, the unthinkable happened

he turned his sights on my legendary hero. It wasn't that I minded sharing; it was the sheer physics of it all. Watching his tiny mouth attempt to swallow something three times its size was like witnessing a magic trick. I half expected him to unhinge his jaw like a snake or maybe just spit it out and say, "Nah, I'm good." 

This send shiver down my spine if not careful he might accidentally eat me 

So, without uttering a word, I went out and directly headed toward the headquarters of the guild. However, just as I was to walking, Lucky ran up behind me. Despite the him trying to talk, I remained silent and continued walking. Lucky tried to explain everything to me with so much emotionally that I was getting uncomfortable.

When I walk through the city of monsters, I can't help but feel a calmness wash over me as I walk, well Lucky is still talking even though I'm not replying. The streets are paved with luminous stones that glow softly under my feet, guiding me through winding paths between the most complex and mechanical buildings that I've never seen in my city. Some buildings were completely changing its shape as mechanical parts are changing design of itself, catching the light in their curves; others burrow deep into the sky like tower, and some had entrances that hum quietly with magic. Here and there, I even pass by floating houses high into sky, tethered to the ground by glowing threads that sway gently in the breeze.

As I look at them while I also saw monsters of all shapes and sizes move freely around me, sharing the streets in a harmony that seems almost impossible as it was quite populated than my entire city. Winged monster drifting in air, it was almost populated as streets. Massive Moltier guardians robots and accompanying robots were flooding street yet not chaotically it very peaceful and nice vibe and it was in only one divide each divide is developed in different way so design of each divide is different. The life of peace.

The air is rich with scents—moss from shaded corners, crisp water from distant fountains, and the faint sweetness of nectar from bioluminescent flowers that pulse with light along the streets and soft yet non cold snowstorm still happening. Wind-chimes made of crystal, blending with the occasional growl or laugh of the city's residents. It feels alive, yet tranquil.

When I reach the border of this divide and gate to enter another divide, I pause to take in the sight of the great fountain carved from a single block of moonstone. Water arcs and dances, forming fleeting illusions of fish and birds before they burst into glittering droplets. I watch other monsters gather around it—some chatting, some resting, some simply watching the play of light on the water. 

As I stand there, breathing in the stillness of it all, I can't help but felt great sense of belonging that made me attach to this city.

With a smile, Lucky and I walked through the gate to reach another divide. Unlike the previous one, which was mostly half technology-based, this one was entirely based on technology and mechanics, featuring a steampunk engine. To be fair, the previous divide was purely focused on trading and festivals. 

To me this city divide was most impressive thing I ever seen this divide alone can considered high tier 5 engine 

There is long and long list of what was impressive to point where I lost my count 

As we enter this divide temperature rise higher but not that high and air was wet yet relaxing as we walk through this cite divide I can see why it is named Moltier steampunk divide the purest form of engineering and crafting all poured into this divide 

I started to list all those that were impressive to me instinctively 

First Structural Engineering

The Moltier Steampunk Divide is a fully integrated, self-sustaining mechanical metropolis composed of multi-tiered infrastructure. The city is segmented into vertical layers:

And even this has things that astonish me the Lower Industrial Strata Ground-level streets of reinforced steel and titanium inlay, designed to withstand continuous traffic from heavy clockwork transports and megafauna. then Mid-Tier Transit and Residential Decks Elevated walkways and bridges supported by retractable piston columns, optimized for medium-weight mechanical and hybrid inhabitants. 

Highest place in this divide the Sky Platforms and Railways Suspended transport systems and floating terraces maintained by gyro-stabilizers and magnetic field generators. Foundations are secured with interlocking gear-columns extending into the bedrock, each continuously rotated to counteract tectonic vibrations. This dynamic stabilization ensures zero structural fatigue over millennia of operation.

Just this alone taken me two week to learn and I didn't get to complex parts just overviews

Then comes second impressive thing Energy and Power Systems. This city divide operates on a closed-loop mechanical energy network, combining steam, hydraulic pressure, and magnetic induction.

There is Primary Energy Conduit: A network of brass and copper pipelines circulates compressed steam for kinetic movement and magic energy as coolant for thermal regulation. And Grand Mechanism Core Centralized kinetic accumulator and regulator, converting wind, water, and thermal energy into mechanical motion. Counterweights and flywheels ensure uninterrupted operation during low-input periods. most interestingly Magnetic Transmission Lattice: Conducts rotational energy to elevated structures, allowing airborne and suspended systems to function without traditional power lines. Redundant caloric boilers and steam chambers are embedded beneath each district to maintain system integrity under peak load.

Third is Transportation Systems. it is my favorite. each city divide is vast as my city or it might be even bigger Moltier city features a multi-layered transit system engineered for maximum efficiency 

The Ground-Level Cargo Transports A clockwork quadrupeds and mechanized carriers traverse metal grids reinforced with vibration-dampening pads. and there is Elevated Railways and Magnetic rails and cog-driven tracklines connect all major towers. Carriages incorporate auto-leveling gyroscopes and steam thrusters for rapid directional adjustment. in quite unfamiliar with it but I saw overview of it the Aerial Carriers & Platforms a Floating decks utilize counter-rotating gyro engines and magnetic stabilizers, tethered to the city's core grid via energy filaments for both power and navigation.

At first when came here my imagination of what is like to live here quite bad but after living here for months I find it amusing Living Systems and Environmental Regulation and The city self-regulates its ecosystem using mechanical resonance and minimal magic augmentation:

There is Airflow Management A multi-directional turbines and vented exhaust towers maintain breathable air while circulating steam and dispersing heat.

Temperature Control which is Liquid-coolant channels beneath streets absorb excess heat and feed it into thermal turbines for energy recycling.

Light and Aesthetics this very good a crystal lenses and mirror arrays track solar movement, redirecting light into dark alleys and residential decks. Bioluminescent flora is cultivated in recessed planters, synchronized with the city's harmonic frequency pulses.

This divide is basically scientist monsters dreamland in way I understand them but there is a thing that I'm still learning about that being Automation and Maintenance this is a maintenance is performed by a hierarchy of autonomous constructs which being

Tier-1 Service Crawlers which is Spiderlike automatons responsible for gear lubrication, pipe inspection, and minor repairs.

Tier-2 Sentinel Machines are multi-limbed custodians equipped with hydraulic manipulators, capable of refurbishing large turbines and moving structural components.

Tier-3 Internal Operators this is Serpentine bots able to traverse inner conduits, clearing blockages and realigning pressure valves.

All systems report directly to the great Machine will, which distributes assignments and maintains absolute synchronization across the city.

But there is one thing I want learn that being Grand Mechanism Core the core is the city's central brain and heart

Those are consist of a multi-tiered gear cathedral with rotating platforms and retractable bridges. Houses the Orrery Dome, a kinetic celestial calculator aligning the city's systems with astronomical cycles. Emits harmonic pulses every six hours to recalibrate all moving systems and stabilize the magnetic lattice.

From all of this anyone can see how much of mechanical is this divide from others but I learn that it is still require usage of magic although Integration of Minimal Magic is not learned deeply I can understand that this city divide is primarily mechanical, magic is used sparingly for Micro-resonance runes embedded in bridges and towers for vibration dampening. Floating signal lanterns powered by low-level mana cores. Defensive wards integrated into water and energy conduits to protect against external disruption.

So overall this city divide of Moltier operates as a fully closed, self-repairing mechanical ecosystem optimized for eternal function. Its design reflects the pinnacle of inhuman engineering—where gears, steam, and harmonic precision create a living, breathing city of monsters and machines. The engineering at its most peak level 

"Sans are you okay did something happen" Lucky's confused voice pulled from my thoughts I have unknowingly spaced out for 5 minutes 

With sigh both lucky and I continue to walk going through streets of this city divide it was a cathedral of engineering, a city that defied the limits of mortal craft. Every street thrummed with the deep resonance of its mechanical heart, a symphony composed of countless pistons, gears, and pressure valves working in perfect harmony. Brass arteries ran through the avenues, carrying compressed steam and magic coolants to the towering structures that pierced the sky. This place was not merely a city divide it was an organism of metal and motion, alive in ways that even its monsters can't comprehend all of it.

Soon we get in Cargo Transports to travel across this city divide as fast as possible while waiting I look through windows and In my vision countless towers were monumental, forged from blackened steel and burnished bronze, studded with rotating rings, retractable decks, and telescopic bridges connecting one to another. Some had moving facades entire building faces that shifted and rotated with the sun's path, redirecting beams of light through arrays of mirrors and lenses to power the city's inner mechanisms. Enormous rotating turbines crowned the highest spires, harvesting wind currents to feed the grid of mechanical energy that pulsed throughout the metropolis. 

Overhead, a web of magnetic railways and cog-driven transport lines stretched like the veins of a celestial machine. Suspended carriages slid along their tracks, some on articulated limbs that crawled across the undersides of bridges, others soaring along invisible currents powered by anti-gravity gyro engines and counterweight systems. At night, the sky glowed with the silhouettes of these transports, each adorned with luminous filigree and rotating signal lanterns, painting a ballet of light across the city.

Soon we reached our destination and needed to walk little to reach border of this city divide the streets were layered in three dimensions broad lower boulevards where massive clockwork beasts lumbered with cargo, mid-tier walkways for smaller automatons and their handlers, and high, slender bridges that connected the air-level terraces. The ground itself was a fusion of polished metal and crystal inlays; luminous conduits ran through the plates like veins of liquid light, pulsing with energy that coordinated the entire city grid. Occasionally, runic etchings flashed faintly—not casting spells in the traditional sense, but triggering mechanical resonances that adjusted air pressure, stabilized temperature, and diverted power as needed.

The inhabitants were as varied as the machinery. Towering, multi-limbed constructs with glass torsos containing visible rotating cores walked beside sleek reptilian monsters clad in biomechanical armor. Some young monsters had crafted extra limbs with complex prosthetics articulated claws, rotating gear driven wings, or flexible prehensile tails tipped with tools. Phantom creatures of vapor and light flitted through the air, tracing the paths of steam vents and exhaust plumes. Even the labor machines were works of inhuman artistry: spiderlike cranes scaled the sides of buildings to polish their shifting plates, and serpentine service automatons slithered into vents to maintain the city from within.

As we reaches border of city divide I hear fireworks 

"So new noble monster born huh I wonder which noble house is this I will likely find it soon" gaze fixed at the heart of the divide lay the Grand Mechanism a colossal, tiered structure like a turning palace. Its foundation was a labyrinth of spinning rings and counterweights, its walls alive with hundreds of interlocking gears the size of houses, and its peak crowned by an orrery-like dome that rotated to track celestial movements. This structure did not just rule the city it was the city's mind. Signals from the Grand Mechanism pulsed through luminous copper conduits, ensuring that every tower, bridge, and railway remained synchronized with inhuman precision.

Then just like previous border of city divide I saw fountains but those fountains here were not simple waterworks but kinetic marvels the jets of liquid metal and luminous water spiraled upward, forming floating geometric shapes sustained by magnetic fields, only to collapse into free-flowing streams that powered turbines below. Markets bustled along terraces where robotic vendors sold gearflowers that bloomed into tiny machines, and clockwork insects with wings of stained glass flitted around stalls, carrying letters or parcels to their destinations.

Even sound was part of the city's design. The constant hum of its engines blended with periodic chimes emitted by resonance towers, calibrated to keep the city's population calm and alert. Windchimes of crystal and titanium hung across the avenues, tuned to vibrate in harmonic sympathy with the Core's energy pulses. Every note and hiss was purposeful, part of a living mechanical symphony.

Here, magic was a whisper, seen only in the flicker of hovering lanterns or the invisible currents that let certain platforms drift unaided. The true power was engineering with layers of design so advanced they bordered on the divine. Walking through Moltier's steampunk divide was like stepping into the mind of a god forged of iron and steam, a place where monsters and machines coexisted as loving creators and obedient and caring creations.

It was complex. It was eternal. And it was beautiful.

So not long after we goes through gate reaching next city divide 

The moment Lucky and I stepped into the trading divide, the silence to transform into a chattering of countless leaving no room for silence. The air hit me with a swirl of chattering and negotiations, the scent of alchemical herbs, and the faint metallic tang of freshly forged weapons. This place was alive in every sense, and it demanded to be felt, seen, and heard in layers. 

Markings here is main way of development of this city divide this divide was first and foremost a market, a vibrant heart that pulsed with life. Merchants had set up their stalls in a careful, almost organic pattern along the wide avenues and narrow alleys. Stalls draped in colors of every hue displayed wares that glimmered in the soft sunlight—glowing crystals, enchanted tools, and rare beast materials from distant frost zones. The air throbbed with the rhythm of commerce: the calls of vendors, the laughter of children, the shuffle of footsteps, and the clink of coins passing from claw to paw. 

I watched Lucky dart from stall to stall, his snow-white hair bristling with excitement. He pressed his face against jars of Ember Wisps, leaving clouds of fog on the glass. At another stall, a birdlike merchant flipped skewers of plant-based delicacies, the warm, earthy aroma curling in the air. The markets were a symphony of scents, colors, and sounds—each stall adding its own note to the melody of the divide. 

"Whoa, Sans! Look at that!" Lucky's snow-white hair bristled as he darted to a stall where glass jars glowed with fluttering motes of light.

The merchant, a squat figure with bronze skin and a single gleaming eye, leaned forward. "Not fireflies, young one! These are Ember Wisps—perfect for lanterns or low-grade magic tools. Buy two, and I'll give you a deal."

Lucky practically pressed his face to the jars. "Can I pet one?"

I stayed a step back, letting the scene wash over me. The plaza was alive with subtle patterns: merchants calling out, guards scanning the crowd, customers drifting where the brightest colors and loudest voices pulled them. I could see opportunity stitched into every corner, quiet stories beneath the noise.

Lucky tore off toward the next stall without waiting for an answer. A tall, birdlike merchant with shining metal feathers turned sizzling skewers on an iron grill, filling the air with warm, earthy aromas.

"Two skewers, please!" Lucky said, slapping down a coin.

The avian trilled in amusement. "For you, little hornling, I'll make it three. Eat well and trade often!"

Lucky devoured one instantly, half-smiling through a mouthful of meat. I let my eyes drift to the heart of the plaza. Guild banners rippled in the breeze, adventurers haggled with dramatic gestures, and mechanical beasts clanked past with crates that glowed faintly from within. The trading divide was more than a market—it was a living engine of the city.

"Sans, look!" Lucky almost tripped over himself sprinting to a table where a merchant held up a pulsing crystal. "Rare beast metals, straight from frost zone!" the merchant bellowed. "Guaranteed to strengthen your weapon!"

I didn't move immediately. Instead, I watched the flow of people, the rhythm of exchange, and the quiet hum of the city's heart. Lucky saw the world as a set of wonders to chase. I saw it as a river a sometimes swift, sometimes calm, where timing was everything.

And in my vision architecture of this city divide wasn't impressive but beautiful and organized buildings surrounding the market were a marvel of design. Spires of polished stone and burnished metal rose like the fingers of a colossal machine, and their surfaces shifted subtly as they caught the light. Sunbeams danced along brass pipes and glowing conduits, illuminating enchanted glass panes that pulsed in time with the city's heartbeat. Floating platforms drifted between tiers of the divide, ferrying crates of alchemical herbs and barrels of preserved nectar. Overhead, aerial carriages and cog-driven rails traced luminous arcs in the sky, while mechanical bridges shifted and locked like moving puzzle pieces to accommodate the flow of traffic. 

Even the fountains were kinetic marvels—liquid streams of water and alchemical energy that formed fleeting shapes of fish and birds before cascading into the streets below. Beneath every step, I felt the hum of energy inlaid in the luminous stone streets, as though the divide itself breathed beneath my boots. 

I tilted my head back and watched floating platforms drift between the divide's upper tiers, ferrying crates of alchemical herbs, barrels of preserved nectar, and glass cases filled with shimmering crystals. Down below, massive mechanical carriages trudged along—brass-bodied constructs shaped like oxen and tortoises, their piston-driven legs clanking in steady, soothing rhythms. They reminded me of myself: steady, reliable, never rushing. This is what kind of monster I am but miss being comedian but time and depression already dulled me beyond saving.

I inhaled slowly, letting the layered scents wash over me: the earthy warmth of roasted grains, the sweet perfume of nectar fruit, the tang of metal and oil, and the subtle spice of freshly brewed alchemical stews. No meat, no blood—monsterkind is gentle, vegetarian by nature, and in this divide, that peace became tangible. I thought to myself that maybe this was why I felt… liked being here. In some quiet way, this city made space for monsters like me.

But of course my teammates lucky can't stay stoic for a moment but continue our Walk Through this Divide

Sometimes I wondered if I lived too quietly. Lucky often teased me about having no hobbies, about living like my only purpose was work and meditation. Maybe he was right. Yet here, in the heart of the city divide based on trading, I felt that my quiet observation had a place. Life rushed around me, and I could feel it, like I was part of the current even if I didn't splash through it. Lucky was the spark, and I was the steady flame. And together, I thought, we mirrored this city motion and stillness, joy and patience, trading.

"Dude did you hear that winner of tournament Noble monster Asok Monderia reached rank 6"

"Yeah, I heard that it's quite surprising that a 16-year-old kid reached rank 6. This alone can showcase his talent. It's the first time a monster has reached rank 6 in the history of Frostland at the age of 16." 

As me and Lucky go I hear other monsters talk about tournament that happened in central divide

In every year every noble house in Moltier participate in tournament sending their eldest children by doing this they create hierarchy although I haven't gone to see tournament lucky goes there as guild representative since he is extreme rank 5 stage it is kinda hard to think such guy would be this powerful 

"Sans look at this"

"This is tasty"

"I'm broke"

Yep if I didn't see his powers and I would never have thought he was rank 5 at all but one thing I like about him is that he really is talented individual guild manager agree that he will reach rank 6 in no time and become new guild manager but thing is he just meditate when he was bored and how often is he get bored

"Let's go I have many things to see"

Almost none yet he reached level power I guess there is truly talented individuals everywhere and Lucky is straight up one of top talented individuals only if he meditates like me he would have reach rank 9 by now 

Sigh escape my mouth as I can't help but feel jealous then suddenly laugher came soon it was become genuine laughter made from my emotions 

So what if he was talented he is individual of his own and I'm individual of mine I will reach my goal in my own way whenever slow or fast I will reach it that is all, yes he is talented that's true but that doesn't mean I can't do it I maybe will do it slower but it is okay 

"Are you okay Sans why are you laughing like that it is giving me creep you know" Lucky's voice made me look at him but I also saw myself in mirror behind Lucky on my skull smile was present but my eyes were same as before and with this expression I really looked creepy 

So it is better to not smile I guess, so not long after we continue to walk 

The this divide aka trading divide is quite populated as other but inhabitants were as diverse as its wares. Towering reptilian monsters in mechanical armor strode past delicate phantom creatures of light and vapor that floated lazily through the air. Multi-limbed constructs with glass torsos revealing whirring gears carried crates for merchants, while young monsters who created improvised prosthetics and gear-driven wings dashed through narrow alleys. Even the visitors were a sight to behold: adventurers in frost armor haggled beside noble monsters cloaked in flowing fabrics that shimmered like starlight. 

Lucky, a bundle of energy and chaos, fit right into this living stream of motion. He moved like a spark, igniting laughter and curiosity wherever he went, while I lingered in the background, letting the subtle harmony of life and labor wash over me. 

Beneath all the sound and color, the true lifeblood of the trading divide was Tana. Silver coins, each filled with the essence of fallen monsters, passed from hand to hand like pulses through an artery. I could feel their faint vibration even from afar. Vendors conducted their trades with reverence, for Tana was not just wealth—it was memory, spirit, and duty combined. 

There is even poem about Tana and what is meant its purpose of Tana because Tana is

Not just currency, but heart's embrace, 

Every coin a pulse, a vital trace. 

Monsters' essence, spirits remain, 

In Tana, their echoes sustain. 

Wealth Tana gives, but more it shows, 

Respect for the fallen, it bestows. 

Using the dead, they linger near, 

Tana's currency, a symbol so dear. 

Almost alive, they stay around, 

In Tana, the dead are unbound. 

A heartbeat, a pulse, memory's thread, 

In this moment, Tana's spirit is spread. 

This poem was about Tana, but I don't think it was a particularly good poem. However, it was sufficient to convey the significance of Tana.

At the heart of the plaza, a massive gear-driven clock tower displayed not only the hour but the ebb and flow of the city's lifeforce. Tiny automaton birds carried slips of parchment from stall to stall, updating prices or signaling market surges. Every transaction, every passing of Tana, fed the city's mechanical and magical ecosystem, keeping the divide alive. 

As I watched a pouch of coins exchange hands, I felt a twinge of awareness deep within me. One day, my own essence could become this—a pulse in a silver coin, a memory passed along the market's veins. Perhaps mortality isn't an ending here, but a continuation, a way to keep flowing with the city long after the body rests. In that moment, I felt both small and at peace, as my quiet existence already contributed to a greater rhythm.

With those thoughts walking through the trading divide, I felt as if the city itself acknowledged my existence. Each hum of Tana beneath my feet and every soft flicker of bioluminescent light whispered of belonging. In this place where life pulsed like a great river, I was no longer just a quiet observer; I was a part of its current. 

Lucky's laughter and chaotic energy bounced off the metal and stone, and somehow, my steady quietness became its complement. Here, in the heart of Moltier, our bond felt clearer than ever: he was the spark that brought color to the moment, and I was the flame that kept it warm. Together, we were two small drops in an endless river, and yet, the city made even small drops feel significant. 

By the time we reached the Grand Trading Spire, I felt the city's pulse intensify all around me. Outside was vibrant chaos; inside was controlled, deliberate motion, like the mind of Moltier itself. Sunlight streamed through massive crystal windows, scattering into beams that danced across polished glass and stone floors. My footsteps echoed softly, and I imagined the city could feel them, as if my weight on its surface was part of its heartbeat.

At the front yard of mansion stood the circular council table, engraved with a living map of the Frost Zone and the western wilderness. Mechanical constructs scuttled across it, adjusting caravan routes and updating weather glyphs. I watched the tiny metal legs move and thought, this is how the city thinks.

The guild leaders stood around the table, their voices steady and precise:

"Squad Twelve's Frozen Cavern expedition is approved," said the silver-horned leader, sliding a pouch of silver coin across the smooth surface. Those coin I can feel it it was filled immense amounts of Tana around 20 Tana in each silver coins, and I swore I could feel the vibration in the floor. Then one of them said "Frost armor, mana lanterns, and two crates of Ember Wisps. Departure at first light."

Another leader, his metallic feathers glinting, leaned forward. "The Land of Kall may be closer than expected. Allocate 600 Tana to a reconnaissance team. They'll need climbing gear, frost kits, and two long-range signal crystals."

A deep rumble answered. "Seven hundred. The storms will take them if we underfund this."

I observed the Tana pass being passed from hand to hand, each coin gently pulsating. This act nourished the magical ledgers and the city's lifeblood. In that moment.

I observed a team of adventurers meticulously preparing for their journey. Spider-like constructs efficiently delivered crates, while hydraulic lifts lowered frost armor, which was securely sealed in glass cases. Magic energy-powered skimmers were strapped to their backs, enchanted ropes coiled at their belts, and crates of alchemical potions emitted a faint glow as they underwent thorough inspections and double-checks. Every transaction was accompanied by the gentle hum of Tana being counted, collected, and stamped into contracts that were instantly sealed in magical light.

I witnessed a mechanical transport device awaken—a magnificent brass titan with glowing core gears. A clerk inserted a Tana-powered crystal into its chest, and the floor vibrated as the beast exhaled steam, poised to embark on a journey into the unknown with the adventurers. As I savored a peaceful moment with my legendary hero and ice cream, Lucky tugged at my sleeve, attempting to engage me in an unexpected conversation. "Job materialized before me. Yes, Job. He didn't knock, didn't text; he simply strolled in with an air of authority, exclaiming, Here I am!"

I attempted to play along, exclaiming, "Oh great, Job's here! My day is saved… said nobody ever." However, it appears that my joke lost its charm as he laughed in disappointment, expressing his frustration that I couldn't even participate in the joke. 

He suddenly fell down when the list of tasks appeared in the hologram before us. In a blink, he took out his notes and started writing furiously. This was one thing I liked about him. He was usually a runaway from jobs, like a cat running away from water. But when there was a job assigned to him, he took it very seriously and responsibly.

But still, Lucky casually whispered, "Dude, Job's colder than the Frost Zone." I found it funny because I accidentally chuckled, but Lucky saw it and looked at me surprised.

Before he could utter a word, the Spire's colossal gate swung open, flooding the Trading Divide with sunlight. For a brief moment, the market seemed to halt, as if acknowledging the adventurers and the vibrant energy of Tana that coursed through them. Then, motion resumed, the current flowing once more, carrying life along its endless paths.

It wasn't long before we left the city and entered a snowstorm. I was hit by snow falling here when I was hit. I felt like I was hit by a hammer. However, I've gotten used to it and don't feel much about it anymore. 

More Chapters