Empyrean Citadel

Empyrean Citadel.

That was the name Charlie gave to the two-story house he bought from the Guild. Not only did he give it a name, but he also placed the Hera Familia logo on the wall near the gate entrance.

Thus, the Hera Familia headquarters stood once more in the Labyrinth City of Orario.

After returning home, Charlie didn't relax at all; instead, he kept himself very busy.

—First, he completed the Space-Time Cache ordered by Loki Familia, Goibniu Familia, and the Guild. Made with Goliath leather, the durability of these bags was undeniable, capable of withstanding attacks without damage.

Perhaps due to his Development Ability, Mystery, Charlie found it easier to carve the symbols functioning as pocket dimension catalysts onto the bags. Plus, with his Infinite Essence skill, he didn't run out of magic essence even with the high consumption required to produce the Space-Time Cache.

—Second, Charlie spent most of his time in the basement. For now, he had only finished two floors of the basement. On the First Floor, he built a central control room where several core devices channeled energy from magic stones to maintain various formations managed through Spirit Arts.

For the security of his home, Charlie didn't hesitate to invest his money and effort. After all, he and Aishia were the only ones occupying the house, so its security had to be guaranteed.

Thus, he installed three formations using Spirit Arts.

-Mystic Curtain: An illusion formation that shows a normal scene from outside, hiding what's actually behind the illusion.

-Eternal Nightmare: A mental formation that affects or attacks the minds of those who approach with hostile intent.

-Thousand Swords: A killing formation that triggers if someone comes with ill intentions, unleashing thousands of sword energies on the target simultaneously.

With these three formations active 24/7, Charlie decided to name the Hera Familia headquarters the Empyrean Citadel.

In terms of defense alone, he was confident that the Empyrean Citadel was stronger than both the Twilight Manor of the Loki Familia and Folkvangr of the Freya Familia.

Of course, maintaining these three formations consumed a large number of magic stones. So Charlie created a device that could recharge the magic stones' energy. With this revolutionary invention, he didn't need to replace the stones but simply transferred his magic essence into them occasionally via the device.

❀❀❀

"It has an effect somewhat similar to Gilgamesh's Gate of Babylon. But mine isn't golden; it's colorless."

Enjoying Aishia's lap pillow after a long day of work, Charlie carefully examined the silver bracelet on his right hand.

The bracelet was the latest version of his Space-Time Cache creation. While others bought Space-Time Cache as shoulder bags, he wore a more advanced version on his wrist.

In fact, the bracelet was made from the horn of the Black Rhino, a monster from the 51st Floor!

"Choosing Mystery in my Development Abilities was the right decision. Setting aside my inspiration from various works in my past life, relying solely on Spirit Arts would not have been enough to realize it."

Feeling grateful for his foresight, Charlie took an apple stored in the Space-Time Cache with just his thoughts.

In the next moment, the space in front of him rippled like water, and an apple appeared out of thin air.

"I'm amazing, aren't I, Aishia?"

"Mm, Charlie is indeed remarkable. You use Spirit Arts brilliantly."

"Remind me if my ego gets too big. I don't want to be blinded by arrogance."

"I understand."

Aishia gently stroked his head.

"Mhm~"

Only when they were alone did Charlie allow himself to relax, not needing to appear strong or tough, something he hadn't enjoyed in a long time.

In his previous life, after losing his wife, he had closed his heart to any woman who approached him. His only goal had been revenge on everyone involved in that tragedy.

Now that his vengeance was complete, and having chosen to start a new life in another world, Charlie didn't mind getting close to a woman. Especially since Aishia was a special existence who knew everything about him.

"Shouldn't you be getting ready to attend the Banquet of the Gods? Aphrodite might arrive soon."

"Oh no! I forgot! Thank you for reminding me, Aishia."

Reluctantly ending his peaceful moment with Aishia, Charlie hurried to his room to change into casual attire.

Men usually dress faster than women, who can take hours to get ready.

"No matter how many times I see him, Rio is truly handsome. No wonder in original work, he captivated so many women's hearts. Unfortunately, he never responded to their feelings, being solely focused on avenging the one who wronged his mother. We're alike in our determination for revenge."

Standing before the mirror, Charlie always felt a little conflicted seeing his reflection. After all, it wasn't his original body but that of his favorite anime protagonist.

Today, he wore a sleek and stylish formal outfit. He donned a classic black suit with blue accents along the edges. Beneath the suit, he wore a light brown vest with gold buttons, fitting him perfectly and accentuating his strong frame.

Charlie also wore a striking blue tie, adding a splash of color to his otherwise neutral outfit. A crisp white shirt was visible beneath the vest. To complete his look, he wore white gloves, which gave an aristocratic feel, adding an extra touch of formality to his classic style.

"Charlie, Aphrodite is waiting outside."

"Good timing, I'm ready. Alright, Aishia, I'm off to the Banquet of the Gods. You don't have to wait up—sleep if you get tired."

"Mm. Be safe and come back."

Aishia stood on her tiptoes to kiss Charlie on the cheek and she ushered him in the front door.

Outside, a horse-drawn carriage with luxurious carriages was waiting. Aphrodite wearing a white dress and high heels, stood beside the carriage.

"You look handsome in that formal suit. As expected of me, I have an unmatched taste in fashion."

Seeing him approach, Aphrodite nearly drooled. It had been too long since she had seen a man of Charlie's caliber.

"You look beautiful, Aphrodite."

"Of course, I look stunning! I am the Goddess of Beauty, the embodiment of beauty itself. Who else can match my charm?"

Aphrodite smirked confidently, looking at him with a proud expression, chin slightly raised, relishing each compliment.

"..."

Charlie gave a wry smile. Even though he knew how narcissistic Aphrodite could be, he couldn't deny the captivating allure of her confidence.

"Let's go, we don't want to be late."

He helped Aphrodite into the carriage.

Meanwhile, Aishia watched the carriage roll away, turning the corner before she went back inside.