Lord of Avalon : Lost in Another World

After a day of teasing and warm company, Ardi—wearing his Zenith Garb in grey kimono form—headed out for dinner with Yui. The cool evening air and flickering lanterns set the mood as they walked through the village. Just before reaching the dining area, a group of five shinobi led by Ren blocked their path.

The five warriors performed a quick, graceful salute—a silent, respectful greeting—to both Yui and Ardi. Their smooth, disciplined movements showed years of training.

"Good evening, My Lord, My Lady," Ren said, his eyes steady behind his mask.

Before Ren could report further, Ardi raised his hand and smiled gently. "Thank you, Ren. For now, please go bathe and have your meal. We'll meet in the Lord's Office in one hour for your full report."

Ren bowed respectfully. "Understood, My Lord." Then the shinobi dispersed.

Later, as twilight deepened, Ardi and Yui joined the villagers for a simple, hearty dinner. The clinking of wooden bowls, soft laughter, and warm chatter filled the air. Villagers whispered words like, "My Lord, your leadership gives us hope," and "My Lady, your guidance lightens our burdens."

After dinner, Ardi excused himself and Yui from the dining area. "Let's meet in the Lord's Office," he said with calm authority, though his excitement was evident inside.

Inside the stately Lord's Office—with rich woodwork, sliding shoji screens, and soft ambient light—Ardi sank into a carved chair behind a long lacquered desk. Yui settled beside him, her presence comforting and familiar.

Ardi's tone turned reflective. "Yui, now that our community is thriving, I must decide which world to explore next. Our earlier [Dimension Search] showed us five interesting options, and I need your insight on each."

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[Worlds Record Panel]

Warcraft Series (Warcraft III)

 - Strengths: Abundant resources, powerful magic, diverse units.

 - Weaknesses: Political instability and fierce internal conflicts.

 - Threats: The Burning Legion and the undead Scourge.

Resident Evil Series (RE 2 & 3)

 - Strengths: Advanced technology, urban settings ripe for scavenging.

 - Weaknesses: Constant viral outbreaks and zombie hordes.

 - Threats: The T-Virus and overwhelming mutated creatures.

Attack on Titan Series (Season 1)

 - Strengths: Vertical mobility with maneuver gear and a disciplined military.

 - Weaknesses: Scarce resources and a society on the brink.

 - Threats: The colossal, nearly unstoppable Titans.

Konosuba (Season 1)

 - Strengths: A light-hearted, humorous world full of quirky adventures.

 - Weaknesses: Less strategic depth and unpredictable dangers.

 - Threats: Comedic yet dangerous monsters and mishaps.

Fate Series (Fate Zero)

 - Strengths: Deep lore, heroic spirit summoning, potent magical forces.

 - Weaknesses: Intricate political intrigue and chaotic magical duels.

 - Threats: Overwhelming heroic spirits and high-stakes magical battles.

Ardi leaned back, studying the panel. "Yui, what do you think? Considering my current strength—with physical ability a bit above average, well-equipped with firearms, and my new trait, Ultimate Adaptation—which world suits me best?"

Yui's eyes softened as she thought through the options. "Master, let's go through them one by one."

She began, "Warcraft Series—this world is full of magical energy and resources. You could command huge armies and use powerful spells, but the internal strife and brutal conflicts might be dangerous. You'd have to handle a lot of political intrigue, Master."

Her hand brushed lightly against Ardi's as she continued, "Resident Evil—the urban setting and advanced tech would work well with your firearms and survival instincts. Even though it's overrun with viruses and zombies, your Ultimate Adaptation might give you an edge. Still, it's a very dangerous world."

Ardi nodded thoughtfully as she went on, "Attack on Titan—this world is harsh. Its disciplined military and vertical mobility could help, but those gigantic Titans would test your limits. Your combat skills might hold up, but it would be a real challenge."

With a playful smile, Yui added, "Then there's Konosuba—a fun, light world full of unexpected adventures. It might be great for unwinding, but it won't push your strategic skills as much, Master."

Finally, her tone grew serious. "Fate Series—a realm where legends walk among mortals. The magic and heroic spirits offer both wonder and danger. With your unique trait and combat skills, you could make a legendary mark, but the magical duels might be overwhelming if you're not fully prepared."

Ardi sighed, absorbing every word. "These are heavy choices," he murmured, glancing into Yui's kind eyes. "I want to pick a world where I can grow stronger without putting my people at risk."

Ardi leaned back in his chair, enjoying the warmth of having Yui by his side. They had just shared some lighthearted banter, and their bond felt more natural with every moment. But their quiet time was soon interrupted by a gentle knock on the door.

"Knock, knock."

"Come in," Ardi called.

The door opened, and Ren stepped in, letting Megumi go ahead. Megumi carried a tray with a few snacks and two cups of hot tea. She set the tray down on the table and bowed.

"My Lord, My Lady, please enjoy," she said with a soft smile before leaving.

Ardi looked at Yui curiously. "Did you ask Megumi to bring this?"

Yui shook her head with an amused smile. "No, Master. But it seems someone is taking care of you."

Ren chuckled quietly from behind his mask. "It was my decision, My Lord. You and My Lady have been working hard today. I thought you deserved a little break before our discussion continues."

Ardi laughed softly and shook his head. "You're too kind, Ren. But remember, looking after the village and its people is part of my duty. Don't feel bad about it." He picked up the warm tea, taking a sip and enjoying its soothing aroma. "Still, I appreciate it. Thank you."

Ren bowed slightly, relaxing a bit at Ardi's words.

Ardi set his cup down and looked at Ren. "You and the other shinobi are my closest allies. A lord and his shinobi share a special bond—not just duty, but trust. More than samurai, a shinobi and his lord are connected in ways most people don't understand."

Ren was silent for a moment before bowing his head. "My Lord... I've never served someone like you. Most lords treat shinobi as disposable tools."

Ardi frowned. "That's not how I see it. You are people first. I won't treat you as mere weapons. You're free to live your own lives—fall in love, get married, enjoy the little things, just like everyone else."

Ren's eyes widened slightly behind his mask. For the first time, Ardi saw genuine respect in his expression. Then, unexpectedly, Ren dropped to one knee and pressed his fist to his chest.

"My Lord, I swear my loyalty to you—not out of duty, but out of respect. My life and my blade are yours to command."

Ardi quickly stood, pulling Ren up by the arm. "There's no need to kneel. Your loyalty is more than enough." He gave Ren a rare, genuine smile. "Instead, I want you and the other shinobi to enjoy life off duty. Use the manor's facilities, wear casual clothes when you're not on assignments, and don't shut yourselves off from the village. You're part of this community."

Ren hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Understood, My Lord."

After that, Ren cleared his throat and began his report. "As requested, we have finished the initial survey of Avalon Island. There are twelve distinct ecosystems teeming with creatures, resources, and unique environments."

Ardi listened carefully as Ren described lush grasslands full of wild game, dense bamboo forests hiding small villages, volcanic areas rich in minerals, and even coastal waters where merfolk and nagas roam. Each ecosystem brought its own opportunities and challenges.

When Ren finished, Ardi nodded. "Well done. You and the others should rest now. You've earned it."

Ren bowed once more and quietly left the room.

Just as Ardi was about to sip his tea again, a notification icon blinked on his HUD. He frowned and opened it.

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[Notification]

Congratulations! You have successfully explored all regions of Avalon Island. As a reward, the Population System has been upgraded to Avalonian Biodiversity, now tracking every creature, resource, and individual on the island, including Minori Village.

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Ardi smiled. "Interesting..." He quickly navigated to the new [Avalonian Biodiversity] panel, scanning the detailed breakdown of the island's population and ecosystems. Every creature, from the tiniest insect to the largest beast, was now recorded. The refined resource listings helped him gauge the village's growth potential.

Lost in thought, Ardi noticed Yui, who had been unusually quiet, shift beside him. He looked at her, noticing her pensive look.

"What's wrong?" he asked gently, playfully ruffling her silvery-white hair.

Yui huffed and swatted his hand away. "You're way too relaxed after such an important upgrade."

Ardi chuckled. "What can I do? Worrying won't change anything."

Yui pouted. "I thought you'd be more excited."

"Oh, I am," he admitted. "But right now, I'm more interested in teasing my adorable assistant."

Yui's cheeks turned a faint pink as she crossed her arms. "Master."

Ardi laughed, leaning back in his chair. "You should know that by now."

After finishing their tea and snacks, Ardi stretched and sighed contentedly. "That's enough excitement for one day. Time for sleep."

Yui floated beside him as he headed to his room, her expression softening. "Master," she murmured as they reached the door.

"Hm?" Ardi turned to her.

Yui hesitated, then stepped closer and adjusted the collar of his kimono. "Good night," she said softly.

Ardi smiled, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Good night, Yui."

Once in his room, as he lay down, Ardi felt a deep sense of peace. Despite all the uncertainty ahead, for the first time since arriving in this world, he truly feeling Alive.