The eastern road shimmered in the morning light, dust rising from the hooves of horses and the shuffle of boots. Kenzo stood just inside Velmira's newly expanded gates, flanked by Akina and Rina, watching the approaching caravan with quiet anticipation.
A flag bearing the sigil of Crescent Pass fluttered at the head but behind the uniformed escort were civilians, travelers, and wanderers alike.
"Twenty-seven," Rina counted, flipping through the register. "Mostly adults, a few teens… but what's interesting is the diversity. These aren't just villagers as a few of them are trained."
Akina nodded. "We're not just gathering people. We're building something real now."
The caravan rolled to a halt. One by one, the recruits stepped forward, introduced themselves, and gave their reasons for coming.
New Recruits, New Strength
Laeron, a former mercenary who retired after losing his comrades in a failed contract. "I'm done chasing coin. I want to build something that lasts."
Faye, an herbalist and alchemist who'd grown tired of city politics. "You've got clean water and good earth. That's rare."
Juno, a silent but stoic woman with a massive spear slung over her back. She didn't say much, but her eyes spoke of hardened experience.
Tavi and Moren, two teenage siblings who'd fled a corrupt barony. They offered to learn any trade that could help Velmira survive.
As each recruit pledged their skills and loyalty to the village, Kenzo welcomed them personally, shaking hands and assigning them housing with help from Marella and the building crew.
Once the greetings concluded, Kenzo stepped aside to open his system menu. His efforts in training, forming alliances, and growing the village had earned him enough Upgrade Points to spin for a Random Ability again.
[You have 1 Random Ability Token.]
[Would you like to summon a skill?]
Kenzo didn't hesitate. "Yes."
Summoning Random Ability…
New Skill Unlocked: Blade of the Harem King (Tier B)
– A unique weapon that scales with emotional and physical bonds. The more devoted lovers a user has, the stronger and faster the blade becomes.
– Passive: Boosts charisma when surrounded by those bonded to you.
– Active: Emits a pulse of charm energy once per day, momentarily disarming or pacifying hostile individuals.
Kenzo blinked at the title, jaw slack. "Seriously?"
A sudden laugh erupted from behind him.
Akina had been reading over his shoulder and was now doubled over, clutching her side. "Blade of the Harem King? That's so you."
Rina peered around with her usual quiet smile. "It's honestly kind of perfect. I mean… you're married, have a girlfriend, and your sword gets stronger the more we love you."
Akina nudged Kenzo with a teasing grin. "Guess we'll have to keep loving you real hard to keep our village safe."
Kenzo groaned. "I'm never going to hear the end of this."
"Nope," both girls said in unison, laughter ringing out over the campfires being lit behind them.
The Foundation of a Future
That evening, under starlight, Kenzo gathered the newcomers and veteran villagers alike in the town square.
With Juno already offering to begin spear training for the young recruits, Laeron proposing a regular patrol schedule, and Faye brewing stamina potions in her makeshift lab it meant Velmira was evolving from a hopeful sanctuary into a formidable beacon.
Kenzo raised his hand.
"This village isn't just my dream anymore it's ours. I will lead you, fight beside you, and rebuild this land with you."
A cheer erupted, and the bonfire lit up their faces. For the first time, Velmira didn't just feel like a refuge. It felt like home.
And in his heart, Kenzo knew…
[Harem King Title Acquired – Passive Buff: Leadership +10, Charisma +15]
[Velmira's Morale Greatly Increased]