Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix

Furthermore, the vessel's maintenance and its ability to float relied on the availability of mana. Rain was aware that the vessel couldn't simply absorb mana from the surroundings instantly. While he could modify the vessel to collect energy from the environment, this process was time-consuming and didn't align with the urgency of the situation.

Moreover, the vessel's structure could only sustain a single energy source at a time. The environment, or those inside it.

"Shouldn't we move it to out of the planet to let it grow?" Esmeralda asked. "It will be able to expand, and we can use it as a weapon agaisnt the enemies if we do that, right?"

Esmeralda's suggestion regarding moving the vessel out of the planet's atmosphere showcased a level of insight and forward thinking that caught Rain by surprise. Her perspective and foresight were significantly beyond what he anticipated, especially given the complexity of the situation.

Rain found himself acknowledging her visionary approach, recognizing that her viewpoint was far more advanced and forward-looking than the average person's.

From the context of the world's technological and conceptual framework, the idea of doing that was like moving from the Middle Ages' environment to space exploration was akin to an astronomical leap. The average person might struggle to grasp such a radical shift in thinking, often constrained by their existing knowledge and societal norms.

However, Esmeralda exhibited a rare ability to perceive possibilities that extended far beyond conventional limitations.

"We can probably use other methods to come from it to this planet and search for the relics, right?" Esmeralda asked.

"... You sure look excited about this," Rain said. "I can't deny that you have a point."

"Well, this kind of exploration really intrigues me," Esmeralda said. "When I was a kid, I always dreamt of exploring unknown lands in a ship, but since I was a girl and a princess, I never thought that I would have the chance to do so. The conditions of the human kingdom at the time didn't help either."

Rain nodded and recalled that for ten or so years, the royal family remained reclused thanks to the orders of Esmeralda's father… he came from the seclusion feeling pretty greedy, and that was the start of a situation that lasted even to that day.

"I will help some people learn how to make the ice chamber, or one mixed with glass to avoid accidents," Rain said. "I was planning to leave the administration of the vessel to you, but I guess you will prefer to do the exploration as well."

"Of course," Esmeralda smiled. "Administrative work can also be done on the frontlines. I had a slow start compared to you guys, but I didn't waste the last one hundred years."

Rain was aware of that, and even though her position before didn't demand Esmeralda to be physically strong, she learned most of the techniques that Rain taught his family and friends despite having little combat experience.

As Rain was thinking about the exploration with Esmeralda, he noticed a troubled expression on Branden's face when he turned around. Branden seemed visibly distressed, which wasn't surprising considering he must have overheard their conversation and was clearly uneasy about it.

The issues of their plan meant increased danger and risk, as it would involve initiating the exploration to strategically choose their battlegrounds rather than allowing the enemies to dictate their encounters. Naturally, Esmeralda would be at risk as well…

For Branden, this shift in strategy and the potential risks it entailed might not have been something he was prepared for or comfortable with. The realization that things were about to become more dangerous didn't sit well with him, as evident from the troubled demeanor he wore since his whole family could end up in danger… Rain understood that kind of worry very well…

However, Rain didn't see this as his immediate problem. His focus was on the broader strategy, maximizing their advantages, and exploring possibilities to counter the adversaries more effectively. He understood that while the decision might be disconcerting for some, it was a necessary step toward taking control of their fate rather than letting their enemies dictate them.

In any case, the wait on the demi-humans island didn't take long… once more, Regis returned with his bodyguards and was accompanied by Isa and Van. Everyone reunited in the commanders' tent of the demi-humans.

"It seems that the feelings among the masses are favorable to us, but the other elders didn't like the fact that we lost half of our forces so fast," Regis said. "I assume that the more we stay here, the more they will exert their influence.

Our warriors are also worried that they would have to face such difficult battles once more and they will change their minds over time about looking for the enemies instead of waiting for them."

"There is also the issue that the exploration isn't something that we have under our complete control and they dislike that," Isa said. "Still, they aren't against the idea of making sure that the dragons won't become the rule species of this world anymore."

"Would it help if either of you two were to be declared the commander of the operation?" Sealyn asked.

"I guess it would, but I don't feel like lying to anyone. Besides, I don't like to give orders," Isa replied after a long sigh. "I just like to focus on doing my own thing."

"Are you fine with that, Regis?" Seadrei asked.

"I don't mind being the leader just in name," Regis said. "As long as we keep making discovering, learning more, and sharing the relics, everything else will be fine. Those things will be necessary if we want to keep people believing in us."

Everyone looked at Rain since it looked like he had something to say, but he just shrugged. He had lost interesting in getting famous and leading anyone a long time ago. Still, he had some thoughts that he decided to keep to himself for now."