Discussion

Casimir and Adeline entered Aric's office, a dimly lit space adorned with relics from a bygone era no different from Varen's office Casimir noted. The scent of aged parchment and the muted glow of ancient crystals created an atmosphere that hung heavy with the weight of history. Varen and Aric were already engrossed in conversation, their eyes meeting the newcomers with a sense of anticipation.

"Ah, Casimir, Adeline, please have a seat," Aric gestured toward the intricately carved chairs positioned in front of his expansive desk. The wood, worn by time and etched with symbols long forgotten, seemed to tell tales of the countless meetings that had transpired in this room.

Taking their seats, Casimir noted the exchanged glances between Varen and Aric, sensing an undercurrent of discussion that had preceded their arrival.

Varen leaned forward, his eyes piercing with curiosity. "Casimir, we've been discussing the challenge and your unique circumstances. Being a Tier One in a place filled with Tier Two and Three creatures is undoubtedly risky."

Casimir nodded, acknowledging the challenges that loomed ahead. Adeline, ever assertive, interjected, "We need to find a solution. Casimir, you being a Tier One might put you in unnecessary danger. We're considering advancing you to Tier Two to enhance your survivability."

Varen concurred, "Indeed. It would be in everyone's interest. However, Aric, our esteemed leader, has reservations about using our limited resources."

Aric, the silent observer until now, leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "Resources are scarce, especially those that can elevate one's soul core. We need to weigh the benefits and potential risks."

Adeline, her determination unwavering, suggested, "Casimir could prove invaluable in the long run. A Tier Two ascender has better chances of facing the challenges within the temple, and especially someone like him... the old man approved of Casimir." Casimir saw surprise painted on Aric's face which then turned into a small frown before finally regaining the passive look it wore when the conversations began. His estimation of Evander's influence had to undergo revision it seemed.

Aric, after a contemplative pause, offered an alternative. "How about this? Instead of directly providing him with crystals and cores, we send him with one of our attack squads. They are on standby for situations like this, and he can hunt abyssal creatures for their cores."

Varen nodded in agreement, appreciating Aric's pragmatic approach. His approval was reserved but it was an approval nonetheless. "It's a reasonable compromise. He earns his advancement while contributing to our resources."

Casimir, understanding the rationale but feeling a mixture of anticipation and apprehension, spoke up, "I appreciate your willingness to help but wouldn't it benefit you more for me to be strong enough to participate in territory subjugation?." 

"It would boy but who's to say you'll ascend to tier two? what if you fail your trial to ascend? That would be quite costly for us so we cannot waste resources needlessly and take unnecessary risks," Aric retorted. His logic was sound, so Casimir could not refute it. He had almost forgotten he would undergo a test to ascend.

'Will I see the Last fragment again?' Casimir pondered briefly before returning to reality

As the meeting unfolded, the leaders delved into the logistics of Casimir's upcoming expeditions. Adeline, maintaining a stern exterior, couldn't entirely conceal the worry in her eyes. Casimir, preparing for the challenges ahead, felt a surge of gratitude toward the settlement that had welcomed him. He wasn't really used to warm welcomes, which put him on edge but perhaps he was being irrational.

'Officer Evelyn used to say don't look a gift horse in the mouth or whatever, maybe I should relax a little, wonder how she is doing,' suddenly feeling forlorn he redirected his thought elsewhere. He didn't expect to miss his charismatic commander and his comrades so suddenly.

After the decision was made, Adeline, with a reluctant frown, conceded, "Very well, Aric. If it ensures Casimir's safety and benefits the settlement, we'll proceed with your plan."

Casimir, sensing the weight of their decision and of course wanting to be polite, expressed his gratitude, "I won't forget this. I'll make the most of the opportunity you've given me."

With the meeting concluded, the settlement leaders continued their discussions, mapping out the details of Casimir's upcoming venture and other matters that weren't for his ears because from time to time the two gentlemen would maintain eye contact that went beyond just looking at each other. Adeline, with her mind clearly preoccupied, exchanged a few words with Varen and Aric before excusing herself, leaving Casimir in the room with the settlement's decision-makers.

As the atmosphere settled into a more informal setting, Varen leaned back in his chair, offering Casimir a reassuring smile. "You're embarking on a journey that will shape your destiny, Casimir. Embrace it, and you may find more than just a heritage within the temple's depths. I've been here long enough so trust me when I say this Temple changes people"

Casimir nodded, appreciating the wisdom in Varen's words. Adeline's departure left a void in the room, but the weight of responsibility hung in the air.

Aric, the mastermind behind the compromise, spoke up, "Casimir, consider this an opportunity to not only advance your soul core but to prove your worth to the settlement. The challenge is unforgiving, but so are those who seek to conquer it."

With that, the discussion shifted to practicalities. They discussed the attack squad, the territories to explore, and the potential dangers Casimir might encounter. As the conversation flowed, Casimir couldn't shake the feeling that his journey within the ruins was entering a new, more perilous chapter—one that would test not only his abilities but also his resilience and determination.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows within the room, Casimir couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation mixed with trepidation. Little did he know that the echoes of the Conqueror's legacy were calling him, urging him to unravel the mysteries hidden within the temple's depths.