Burgeoning Bladesmith Ch. 4 (Unedited)

Burgeoning Bladesmith

By: Bubbajack

Editors/Co-Authors: IcySnowSage, First Hassan

Special Consultant: Heliosion

Special Thanks go out to my Super Donors on Patreon: Apostle_of_Darkness, Ben wanless, Bobby Glass, CrazymanDK, Jareth as well as all my other patrons.

Ch.1.4: Crucible.

Greg did his best to ignore the heat of the forge. As he hammered away on his latest project. But even more importantly, he ignored the titillating sight of Shigure in nothing but a fundoshi and breast wraps. Sweat, Glistening on her skin, as she watched over his latest creation.

The Swords mistress of Ryozanpaku, for her part, was amazed at the fact that her apprentice was such a natural blacksmith. He took to the forge like a fish did water. Also noted that he didn't seem to be bothered by the heat like she was. The blistering haze in this room was even getting to her, and yet he didn't seem to be sweating at all. She watched with keen eyes as he hammered a long katana into shape. Occasionally he would throw esoteric items on it and watch as they burnt on the heated metal. Swallow feathers would occasionally be burnt along the length of the metal as he hammered it into shape. She had half a mind to ask him why he was doing that, but decided not to break his concentration and figured it had something to do with his tinkering ability. So in the end, she abstained and quietly watched him work. The hammer struck with a force and knowledge of a man several times his age and experience. And then, when it was just right, he picked it up with a set of tongs and quenched it in a trough full of water. Then heated up again, this time covering the edge in clay, and let it cool down naturally. Once he was done, he said. “All that's left to do now is the fittings.”

“You did well… Greg… Good job.” I said, smiling at her apprentice as she wiped some sweat off her brow.

“Thanks Shigure-sensei, I think Monohoshi Zao is going to turn out well,” He said, sounding hopeful. Next though, I want to work on something that can actually be mass produced. I wouldn't be much of a Rogue if I didn't have something I could sell to the public,”

Shigure nodded,”What would you… like to work on… next? Do you… have something…. in mind?”

After thinking for a moment, Greg replied, “I do actually, Add me that Bible or there, some iron, and some gold would you?”

Curious as to what her little apprentice could be making this time with such an esoteric set of items, she handed them over to him and watched him work.

‘I’d better not let Parian see me making these. She might kill me,’ Greg thought to himself as he got to work. First thing he did was send out a small prayer hoping this wasn't going to incur negative karma or blasphemy, Divine Judgment, or something of that nature, before he tore apart the Bible and separated the pages from the binding. Next, he headed up the iron.Until it was a cherry red billet of metal. He paused for a moment, thinking to himself, ‘There has to be a faster way to produce multiple items at the same time,’

As if an answer, his power told him What he needed to do. Turning to his teacher, he asked, “Shigure-sensei, could you show me how to prepare a crucible? Done this before, So I'll need some guidance.”

The Swords mistress of Ryuzanpaku nodded, “Of course, Greg. But before that… Prepare the molds…”

“Right. Good idea.” He agreed, having forgotten a very important step. He proceeded to carve out of slabs of stone molds that he would use to make his multipurpose weapons. They were simple to carve. Especially since his power was providing the outlines he needed. He carved a simple cross shape, in slabs of stone. Once he had done six of them, Over to pay attention to Shigure’s explanation of how to set up a crucible.

“A Crucible is… very simple. You just put… the required metals… Inside. Then heated up… till everything is… liquid. Then just pour… Into a mold.”

Greg nodded at the explanation. It seemed simple enough. “Right. I'm going to give it a shot. Here we go. Fingers crossed,” Greg said. Hoping that Lady Luck or some other entity was on their side.

“Knock on wood.” Shigure replied before she did just that, knocking on a nearby wooden shelf.

Taking a pinch of salt from a nearby container and throwing it over his shoulder for good luck, Greg proceeded to pour iron, Gold dust, and peat moss into the crucible. He then proceeded to mix it with a tungsten rod, To make sure it all got mixed together thoroughly. He then poured them into the molds, forming the cross shaped handles. Taking a single page from the Bible he destroyed, he dropped them on the still cooling metal, Before taking a barrel full of holy water and dousing the metal, quenching it.

Working one of The Black Keys out of the mold, Greg held it up.It fit in his hand rather well.But he decided to finish it before testing it by wrapping it in brown leather, “Now to see if it works… Please work,” He silently prayed to no one in particular. Giving the handle a bit of a squeeze, He felt a bulge near the.Topmost point and giving it a bit of a mental push, A three foot long rapier blade materialized.

“Ha, it worked. Shigure-sensei!” And her excitedly.Holding up the functioning black key, “Did you see that? It popped out of nowhere, just like I wanted it to!”

“I did. Well done, Greg… What is that… weapon… Supposed to do?” She asked, impressed by his latest creation, Cocking her head to the side in amusement and curiosity.

“They're called Black Keys. They're holy weapons that are. Used for purification, but can also be used to paralyze someone if you stab them into their shadow like this,” He demonstrated by tossing the blade with his hand and impaling the Sword Mistress’ Shadow.

Shigure suddenly found herself unable to move. It was as if she had been paralyzed or bound with ropes and chains. ‘What a devious weapon he's created, and he can create multiples of these because they are meant to be carried and mass,’ She thought to herself. Her second thought was, ‘I want a set,’

Seeing the greedy look in her eyes, Greg said, “I'll make you a set, security sensei, but I need to put some stock on my shelves first, all right?”

The weapon mistress of Reuse and Paku nodded its best she could with her stunned state.

“Oh, right. Sorry. Here, let me just,” Greg said awkwardly before he went and pulled the rapier weapon out of her shadow, allowing her to move freely again.

Shakira smiled appreciatively, “A very… Useful weapon… For some…one who wants… to capture… And not kill… Good job. Greg.”

Greg bowed towards his teacher, feeling fulfilled by the praise, “Thank you, sensei. I did my best.”

“How many of these Black Keys… Do you intend on… making for your store?” Shigaraki asked conversationally.

“At least a hundred,” Greg replied easily. “I'll probably need a whole lot more though if they take off like I think they will.”

“Best to make six hundred just in case, then sell them by the dozen,” Shigure advised.

Greg found himself agreeing with her thought process, and ended up saying, “Well, if that's the case, we're going to need to find another Bible. Because I'm going to have to produce extras if I want to create you and everyone else their own personal set of their own Black Keys.”

Adding him on the shoulder reassuringly, The eldest of his girlfriends told him, “Greg, we have an entire box full of Bibles back here.”

“Oh, OK then. Well, let's get to work. I'll do the molds. You Fill up the Crucible all right? It’ll go faster if we split the work that way,”

“Agreed… But will your… power… work properly if you… aren't working on some… thing from start… to finish?”

Greg opened his mouth, then closed it, Before saying, “I don't know. Let's test this,” He decided. “That was a very good point to bring up Shigure-sensei. I don't know if a project of mine will function properly if I'm not the only one working on it from start to end. Do I have to be the sole person working on it from beginning to end on every little piece, or do I just have to come in at the end and do the important bits?”

“Test.” Shigure agreed, nodding.

So that's what the duo did. They tested this new theory of Greg's. In the end they found out that no, he did not have to work on every little bit of his projects by himself. He just had to add the important elements to the project at the proper times. In the case of the Black Keys. It was the burning of the Bible pages and the adding of the holy water during the quenching process that mattered for this particular weapon. For Greg, learning this changed everything.That meant he could actually hire assistants, should he manage to make enough money to do so. “Hey, Shigure-sensei. If the shop ends up working out, do you want to work for me?.. Uhh, with me?” Greg hurriedly corrected.

“I'd love to, Greg. Be nice to have some… Dependable pay… coming into… the Dojo… For once.” She said as she gave him a winning smile full of love and adoration.

Greg swallowed hard as he replied, “Well, don't get your hopes up too high. We don't even know if this shop will take off or not.”

Shigure, putting her hands on his shoulders. locked her amethyst eyes with his cerulean ones, Shigure replied, “Believe in yourself, like I do. Like Sabah, Taylor, Renka, and everyone else does. You can do this Greg, you just need to believe you can.”

Linking for a minute, the only thing Greg could find to say was, “You… Didn't stutter.”

“Idiot,” Shigure huffed before she kissed him on the lips. It was already sweltering hot in the forge, but her lips felt even hotter on his own. When she pulled away, Greg felt as if he'd been scalded, “You worry… too much.” She leaned in again, this time kissing him on the tip of his nose.

“Yeah, I guess I do,” Greg replied with a goofy smile plastered in place. You really couldn't help it. Shakira was a gorgeous woman after all, and she was showing it all off wearing nothing but a fundoshi and breast wraps.

“And here I thought you were busy forging weapons, Greg, not busy trying to make a baby.”

Dancing over Greg found Parian, aka Sabah, Wearing nothing but her blonde wig, porcelain mask, and a pair of black bra and panties.

It took Greg a moment for his brain to reboot before he finally said, “Par, what are you doing in here and what are you wearing or aren't you wearing?”

Looking down, she shrugged, “What? I thought this was required attire for being in the forge? It makes sense considering how hot it is in here. Of course, you two were making your own kind of heat just now before I walked in, weren't you?” she teased.

“Ruined the mood, Parian,” Shigure huffed in mild annoyance.

“Well, excuse me for letting you both know lunch was ready,” The cloth manipulator replied a bit snippily as she put her hands on her hips.

“You're fine, Par. We'll be right out.” Greg promised her.

“All right, don't take too long or lunch’s gonna get cold while you two are getting all hot and bothered.” She left the forge with a sashay in her hips, causing Greg to stare.

“Men,” Shigure sighed.

Greg said weakly in his own defense, “I'm sorry, but to be fair, she did that on purpose,”

The Forge mistress nodded, “She did, but you also… fell for it far too… easily. If she was… an assassin… you'd already be…dead,” She helpfully pointed out.

“True. Anyways, we should probably go take a quick shower before lunch. We smell like we just hit the gym.”

Upon hearing this, Shigure gave him a sideways glance and a cat-like grin.“Shower play? Kinky Greg.”

Greg just shook his head, hiding his smile, “That's not what I meant, and you know it. You go first. I'll wait on you.”

But Greg… we couldn’t we… save more water…. If we showered together?” Shigure said innocently.

Sighing painfully, Greg replied, “Just go clean up sensei.”

Clicking her tongue, the Sword Mistress replied, “No fun,”

“These women are going to be the death of me.” Greg muttered to himself, as he thought, ‘And I'm loving every minute of it. I wonder if that makes me a sadist or a masochist,’

So, thinking, he moved into the major part of the Dollhouse that had recently been renamed to Dollhouse Steelworks, to finish cleaning up and getting ready for dinner.

(...)

Lunch today consisted of lo main courtesy of Renka Ma. As Greg slurped on noodles, And bits of chicken, beef and shrimp. He still wondered about how he got into such an amazing situation. ‘I mean, here I am dating five women and they all seem to be fine with it.’ He thought to himself. ‘I'm still waiting for the cameras to show up and for Ashton Kutcher to say you're being Punked, But it's been a week and it hasn't happened yet.’

“Yen for your thoughts, Greg?” Asked Renka who was wearing an apron over her usual garb upon seeing him looking contemplative as he slipped on his food.

After chewing and swallowing his food, Greg bluntly replied, “I'm just wondering when I'll wake up from this dream, or when Ashton Kutcher will show up and say I'm being punked. Because me dating all of you amazingly gorgeous women, and you all being OK with it just doesn't seem physically possible. So I'm either dreaming or I'm being pranked.”

Upon hearing such great praise coming in their direction, all the girls preened. Taylor went so far as to almost choke on her food. As she still didn't know what Greg saw on her, despite his assurances to the contrary.

“You really think I'm… Beautiful?” She choked out through the food, only managing to get it down by hastily taking a gulp of her tea and nearly scalding her throat in the process..

Greg nodded empathically. “Well, yeah, obviously. You've got this whole sexy librarian thing going on… Wait, forget I said that.” He said hastily before focusing on his food.

“Oh, do go on, Greg. If Taylor-san is a sexy librarian. What does that make the rest of us?” Renka said, leaning forward and teasing him by putting her bosom right in his face.

Refusing to let her get his goat, Greg said, “Well Renka your, at the risk of sounding cliche here, The sexy Chinese martial artist, and Shigure’s sexy ninja girl. I mean, come on…”

“Oh… So we're just ticking off all your fetish boxes, aren't we?” Renka replied, grinning like a Cheshire cat.

“Yes, and I hate myself for it.” Greg replied flatly.

Sabah asked innocently, “What about me?”

Greg pursed his lips and shook his head, “Nope, not going there.”

Sabah poked him in the cheek playfully.“Greg come on, I promise I won't get offended or anything, what little fetish of yours, do I tick?”

“Grafi rariirkan.” He replied while stuffing his mouth with food.

Taylor wrinkled her nose in disgust and said, “Greg, don't talk with your mouthful. That's gross. Also, don't think you could avoid the question by talking with your mouth full. We can wait until you swallow, and you can't chew long enough to avoid the answer.”

Sighing through his nose, Greg swallowed and then said, “Don't think less of me, but it was seeing you in your Gothic-like attire that kind of did it for me.”

“Ohh… So you like Gothic Lolita fashion?” Parian said, perking up upon hearing that. “I can work with that.” She muttered to herself.

“Please don't. I feel terrible already. That, combined with the fact that you're a shortstack, is really… Oh fuck me.” He said after he realized what he just uttered.

All the girls sans Taylor, beamed, “So Greg likes his girls short and busty does he?”

Taylor, for her part, looked defeated, “Well, I'm none of those things.”

“You're beautiful, just as you are, Taylor. You just have a very athletic build.” Greg told her with absolute confidence.

In response, Taylor looked between herself, Renka, Shigure, and Sabah, before replying in a tone despondently, “For some reason, Greg, I have a hard time believing that.”

Growling in annoyance at Taylor's constant put downs of herself, Greg reached over and took hold of her over the table and then kissed her right there in front of everyone. He didn't stop at a chaste kiss, either, but pulled her in, and licked her bottom lip before all but forcing his tongue into her mouth. After a few minutes of tongue wrestling with her, he finally pulled away when he needed air.

Taylor was a disheveled, blushing mess. Her glasses were askew, Her cheeks were rosy, she was panting slightly, and she had a bit of drool hanging from her lips. There and then in Greg's mind she'd never looked hotter than she did at just that moment. After a minute of catching her breath and putting her head back on straight, which included fixing her askew glasses, she asked. “Why? D-Did you do that?”

“Nobody, and I mean nobody, talks bad about my girlfriends, not even my girlfriends. In fact, especially not my girlfriends talk bad about themselves in front of me.” Greg said resolutely, crossing his arms and daring her or anyone else to contradict him.

“So what? Every time Taylor talks bad about herself, you're going to kiss her senseless?” Renka asks, sounding amused and a tinged jealous about the fact that Taylor got extra kisses from their shared boyfriend.

The blonde nodded, “If that's what it takes to get her to stop doing it, yes,” Then, as if picking up on the jealousy in her tone, he kissed Runka just as deeply as he did Taylor a moment ago. “Thanks for lunch Renka.”

The Kenpo Mistress beamed happily. “If I get that for lunch, where do you see what I’ve got planned for our anniversary.”

“Down girl,” Shiguri said, even as she smirked along with her, Only for her to pause when she suddenly got her own lip lock.  “What for?” She asked. “Not… complaining though… Not at all.”

“For helping me out in the forge earlier,” Greg replied easily.

Putting her hands on her hips? Parian asked playfully. “Well then, what do I get for being your boss for the last year?”

Greg was quick to respond with, “I can't hold my breath for that long, Par and besides, your panties are in the way.“

All the girls wolf-whistled as Parian blushed, “OK, you win this round, Greg. Might have to close down the shop early one of these days just to get the reward you promised me… One of these days,” She muttered to herself as she picked up her plate and moved it to the sink.

(...)

Greg was back in the forge, working on the next piece of his personal collection when Shigure suddenly spoke up. “Greg?”

“Yeah, what is it, Shigure-sensei?” Greg replied half distractedly as he hammered away at hot metal.

“Something has been… bugging me lately… and I felt the need… to bring it… up.” Shigure said, speaking her mind.

Taking his eyes off the white hot metal, Greg locked eyes with her for the first time since they started talking and, in a tone filled with concern, asked, “Is everything alright Shigure-chan?”

Feeling a thrill run up and down her spin at the use of the ‘chan’ suffix, but Shigure couldn’t allow herself to be distracted. She knew this would be a difficult conversation to have with Greg but she hoped her current attire, or rather, lack thereof, as she’d stripped back down to her breast bindings and fundoshi upon reentering the forge, would be enough to sway him to her way of thinking. She took a breath, sent out a silent prayer, and made her pitch, “Greg, as you know… I’m already thirty-three… that said, I don’t…  think I … can wait… another decade to have… children,” She began holding up a hand when the young blonde tried to protest and then continuing when he fell silent, “Menopause… can start as early… as forty-two, and women’s… fertility tends to… decline eight years… before it hits,” Shigure paused before she reiterated, “I am thirty-three… meaning I have… one year before… my fertility starts to… decline. I would like to have one child before then and at least one more child before menopause hits.”

Greg held up a finger, his mouth opening and closing as he did a rather accurate fish impression, before he finally said, “I’d be only sixteen Shigure, a teenage father.”

The Swords Mistress nodded looking down in shame as she held one arm at the elbow, “I know. I know I’m… being selfish… but I… feel my clock ticking… as the saying goes…” She looked up at him with unshed tears in her amethyst eyes saying, “I want to have… children… with the man I love! I have been… many things in life… a swordsmith… a ninja’s disciple…then a sensei twice over! I… I don’t want to… miss out on my last chance to be a woman… and mother.”

Greg felt his arguments die on his lips by the time Shigure finished her speech. All he could bring himself to do was wrap her in the tightest hug he could despite his rational mind yelling at him otherwise and promise her, “We’ll figure it out, I promise somehow, someway, we’ll figure it out. We should probably talk this over with the others though,” He looked down at her from where she was snuggled up under his chin and joked, “Besides, if we got started trying to make kids right now, we could get hurt. A forge isn’t a good place to try making kids. Too hot, and too many pointy objects.”

After a moment, Shigure nodded, “Agreed.”

“About talking to the others or not getting busy in the forge?” he asked bemused.

She returned his grin with a cheeky one of her own,“Yes,”

Greg looked back at the sword he had waiting in the forge longingly, “Can it wait till I finish this blade?”

“Of course honey.” Seeing the look she was being given, she cocked her head to the side and asked, “No good?”

Greg shook his head, “No it's fine, just unexpected is all.” he replied before he got back to work, picking up a wolf pelt, he tossed it into the forge along with the fangs of a vampire bat… Greg thought not for the first time that his powers had odd requirements and were weird, but were also strangely effective.

(...)

Once his latest creation was finished, Greg called a group meeting, and explained Shigure’s desires. Once he was done he asked the group, “Is it feasible?” He quickly added, “And by that I mean can we build up enough of a nest egg to bring a child into the world within a year's time?”

“Well,” Sabah began, “We’re doing fine business-wise on my end.”

“Sabah you can’t pay for everyone’s kids. No one is that good of a fashionista… well Gucchi, Fursatschi, and Chenille maybe but you're not them yet,” He amended. “And you shouldn’t have to either.”

Sabah beamed when Greg said she wasn’t on the level of great designers yet. It showed just how much faith he had in her. “Thank you Greg, but I am the one with the most job experience. Hiring the others in the end wouldn't help, it would just cut into our bottomline.”

Greg nodded, “True…” He snapped his fingers having a Eureka moment. Pointing at Renka, he said, “Renka-chan you can read and write chinese right?”

Renka nodded, “Yes, why?”

The swordsmith grinned a scheme forming in his mind, “Then would you like to take over some of my mahua translating duties for me? It pays five dollars a page, and I work on multiple manhua a month. You’d be looking at about $1,570 a week if you can keep up with my manhua schedule.”

“Greg…” Taylor said into stunned silence, while blinking owlishly, “You make $1,570 a week translating Manhua?

“That is for Manhua chapters I translate alone. Add the manhwa and manga with four chapters of each publication. Yeah, I make $18,840 a month doing it. Five dollars a page, four  Manga, Manwha, and Manhwa a week with one of each of those being a monthly release which pays more. And gives an extra 525 bucks. ”

“If you make so much money, then why the heck did you start working for me?!” Parian asked, clearly shocked.

“Well, there’s no way my parents would believe my hobby would pay that much. So I got a job with you to make the money I was making seem more… legit?”

“You… you used me to launder money?” Parian asked, sounding more impressed than hurt.

“I’m sorry?” He said feeling a little bit bad. Not too much since he enjoyed helping and hanging out with Parian after all but still, he did lie. “If it helps a more than fifty percent of my money went to Ryuzanpaku for training fees,”

“What about taxes?” Taylor asked. She knew a little bit about economics due to her dad’s job.

Greg was quick to reply, “It’s taken out of my annual income in the form of the gift tax in Massachusetts which is sixteen percent.”

“Bullshit… your hobby is such bullshit…” Parian muttered with Taylor nodding along with her. It really was unfair how much money he was making with having to pay so little on it.

“Wait… if you make $18,840 a month, that means you make $226,040 a year!” Taylor said after doing some quick mental math.

“$189,913.60 after taxes actually.” Greg replied. “Most of which goes to Ryozanpaku every month.” He finished with a sigh.

Shigure was confused, “Greg… our lessons only cost $250 a month.”

“What… but the other masters kept telling me about other fees?” Greg asked, just as confused as Shigure was.

“What other fees?” Renka asked, narrowing her eyes in suspicion.

Greg ticked off on his fingers, “Fees for medicinal healing, increased food intake due to training, marble for Akisame-sensei’s training statues, Tractor tires used in training exercies, something about appreciation of art from the Elder. Though I’m not sure what that has to do with martial arts though.”

“Greg,” Shigure said in controlled anger, “How much… have you… been paying… the other masters?”

“Ten-thousand dollars a month for the last three years. I wasn’t kidding when I said most of my money went to fees. Why?”

Renka cracked her knuckles menacingly before sharing a look with the weapon mistress who gave a silent nod. The two then stood up and Renka said, “Excuse us, but we need to go speak to our fellow masters about a sudden urgent matter.”

“What just happened?” Greg asked after the two left.

“Greg,” Sabah explained patiently,  “The masters were ripping you off. Overcharging you for lessons.”

“Oh…” Greg frowned a bit before shrugging, “Well it’s fine. I mean it’s not like they left me broke. I still have almost a hundred and fifty grand in the bank.”

“How are you worried about money when you already have so much?” Taylor asked, confused.

“Taylor, bringing a child into the world is an eighteen year commitment,” Greg replied. “You need to factor in food, baby formula, clothes; they'll rapidly outgrow within months and that’s just at first. Then you need to factor in that you have another mouth to feed, and put money away for a college fund or trade school too. It all adds up.”

It was then that the girls realized Greg was a long term planner. Someone who planned for the very, very long term.

‘No wonder he was a bit miffed we decided this whole harem thing without him,’ Sabah thought to herself, ‘He was probably trying to figure out how it would all work long term and if it was even feasible for both him and all of us.’

‘He’s gonna be such a great dad,’ All the girls thought simultaneously. Their collective respect and admiration for the blonde boy rising.

Greg meanwhile was having thoughts of his own, ‘I hope Renka and Shigure don’t cause too much of a ruckus at Ryozanpaku. I’d hate for Miyu-nee to have to clean up the mess.’

(...)

Miyu could feel the palatable killing intent that both Shigure and Renka were giving off as they entered the grounds of Ryozanpaku. Seeing the jaded look on their faces, she asked worriedly, “What’s wrong? Should I put the kettle on?”

“Don’t bother… you’ll just get angry.” Shigure said in a huff.

Is your grandfather, my Papa, or any of the other masters around at the moment?” Renka asked in barely restrained calm.

Miyu shook her head, “No they are all out at the moment. Akisame and Ma-sensei at their clinics, Sakaki is out drinking, and Grandpa and my father are out at the moment with Shizuha.”

“Then let’s take this inside,” Renka said as she kept an eye out for the return of the other masters.

Once the trio had gotten situated, Miyu asked, “Will you both explain what all this is about?”

“We just found out the Masters have been stiffing Greg for lessons,” Renka said, tearing the Band-Aid off.

Muse eyes widened in shock and surprise, “What? That can't be right? Can it? The Masters wouldn't do that to Greg. He's practically family.”

They've been charging him… $10,000 a month… for the past three years. Citing extra fees…” Shigure said, with heat in her tone.

“$10,000? But how does Greg even make that kind of money?” Miyu wondered aloud.

“Manga translation,” Renka replied, “Apparently the pay is quite lucrative and he does quite a lot of it. He actually offered to let me take some of the load off him because he’s starting up that business with Parian. Which is how we learned about all of this.”

“I assumed all the extra money was coming from Akisame and Ma Senseis businesses… Have they actually been fleecing Greg this entire time? Do you think Kenichi knew?”

Shigure shook her head in the negative, “I doubt… Kenichi or Apachai would… take advantage… of Greg… Too pure… Both of them.”

We didn't even know about it till Greg brought it up.” Renka replied. Absconding them of all guilt.

Miyu, for her part, looked down in shame. “If this is true, then everything we have, everything that Shizuku has always had throughout her childhood, can be attributed to Greg,” The blonde former martial artist buried her head in her hands, “I don't know how I can never live this down or even begin to pay him back! I'll have to get a job, several jobs, possibly even sell my body on the street…”

“Let's not… go that… Far Miyu.” Shigure chided gently. “I don't think Greg… holds you person…ally respon…sible.”

“That's right!” Renka said as she threw a fist in the air. “It's those dirty old men's fault with all their drinking, gambling, fighting, and buying art pieces they can't afford. We need to find a way to make them pay!”

Upon hearing this Miyu smiled. But there was not a hint of warmth to it at all. In fact, a blood lust filled the air. “You leave that part to me.You two just take care of Greg for now. You can handle that right?”

The Weapon Mistress and the Sub-mistress of Chinese Kenpo both nodded, “Greg’s plenty distracted at the moment, but we'd be more than happy to distract him further,” Renka said with a lewd leer.

“Head out of the… Gutter, Renka.” Shigure huffed.

Renka just rolled her eyes, “As if you weren't thinking it yourself, Shigure.”

The ninja just gave a noncommittal hum before she stood up and said, “We should probably… get back to…Greg. Before he either… burns the… building down… or blows something up.”

“Yes, I've heard tinkers can be quite destructive if only on accident?” Miyu said diplomatically.

This time, both Renka and Shigure rolled their eyes, “You have no idea.” They said at the same time, before standing up and preparing to make their departure.

Stopping at the door, Renka couldn't help but turn and ask, “What are you planning to do to them anyway?”

“Nothing too terrible,” Miyu said with an ice cold smile. That would fit a Yuki-Onna better than it would a person. “I'm just going to put Ryozanpaku on a very, very strict budget until we manage to pay Greg back.”

“I get the feeling… that we should… tighten our belts, because the food… is going to… become very…  sparse around here,” spoke Shigure while thinking about possible fasting martial techniques.

“The pantries will be a little bare for awhile I’m afraid,” Miyu apologized in advance with a slight bow. Rising, she waved a hand dismissively. “ Oh, but wouldn't you know? You two don't really have to worry about that. You both have a nice boyfriend who can take you out on dinner dates.”

The two grinned. Miyu truly had it all figured out. Shigure frowned and questioned “What about Shizuha… though? She doesn't… deserve to suffer… because of the… actions of her… elders.”

The blonde sighed in contemplation before she said.“Well, I did promise to start training Shizuha soon, and the first thing she needs to learn is how to survive with little resources,” Miyu sadly. “It was the first and harshest lesson I had to learn,”

“Remember Miyu,” Shigure said warningly, “There's a difference… between self-sufficiency… and torture. Don't cross the… line between… the two. Or you'll…make her have… just as terrible… a childhood as you had.”

Miyu bowed, taking the warning for what it was, “I know. Thank you, Shigure-nee,” She then showed the duo off. “Go on, get back to Greg before he destroys something important by accident. I’ll dole out the necessary punishments here.” She took a final moment to say, oh, and you might want to have dinner out with Greg tonight. Food on our end is going to be rather lackluster.”

The two women nodded and understanding before they took off in a burst of speed, and it was only after the two had left that Miyu finally let a look of fury briefly cross her face. “Those masters are in so much trouble,” She mumbled under her breath before she stomped to the kitchen intent on cooking her worst, most sparse meal for dinner. They had come to deserve no less, from her, after all.

(...)

After a spontaneous date involving Shigure and Renka the previous night involving going to see an Aelph movie called Jet LI’s: Fearless, and a dinner for three, Greg was ready to open his section of Dollhouse Steelworks today. His plan, if it could be called that, was simple. Put out a sign that says Grand Opening and see who shows up. Greg already had an outfit prepared to mask his identity. The previous night he had created a new item, The Robe of the Fire Rat. It was a red garment that was harder than steel, nearly indestructible, and if it did get damaged, it would regenerate over time. It was also completely immune to fire. On top of his head, he wore a European helmet that bore the concept of completely concealing his identity. Its name was For Someone's Honor, and it was worn by the Knight Lancelot of Britannian fame, and of the Arthurian Round Table. His identity so concealed, Greg was prepared for it to hopefully be a good grand opening. He had even been practicing his sales pitch.

“Come one, come all to Dollhouse Steelworks, your one stop shop for all your Cape needs! We've got arms, we've got armor, we've got clothes, We even do puppet shows! On the weekends, 12:00 to 7:00 PM! Come one come all we take special requests and custom orders. Some things can even be bought in bulk.”

His charismatic shout quickly drew a crowd and, much to his surprise, even members of the Wards and local Protectorate branch. Vista and Miss Militia specifically were out on patrol. Seeing them looking at the Spears he had lined up along the Side of the building,he quickly caught their attention, “Hello. Hello ladies, how may I help you today? I doubt Miss Militia herself is looking for a weapon, but Vista, our resident Mover and Shaker, could do quite well with a spear. Maybe a bow? Do you see anything you like? Feel free to ask questions.”

Vista made a confused face, her frown showing under her half-helmet, “A bow? Me, Really? You think so?”

Greg nodded empathically. “Why certainly, with your ability you can't miss, right? Why wouldn't you use a ranged weapon of some kind? I bet your teammate Shadow Stalker would kill to have your ability. Don't tell me you've never thought of actually using your ability at a range. Why? That's actually where it would be the most useful.”

Vista's mouth worked up and down, but no words came out for a moment, And then she said, “I usually use it to box people in and keep them from escaping,”

Greg laughed behind his helmet, For once, Vista was showing her age and immaturity, “Well, now you can use it to box them in and keep them from dodging.” Greg replied easily, “It doesn't hurt to have options now does it?”

From behind her handkerchief mask, Miss Militia replied, “He makes a good point Vista. It wouldn't hurt you to carry a ranged weapon for backup, non-lethal of course,” She added quickly looking at the charismatic salesman questioningly.

“Of course, Miss Militia, of course, we serve all kinds here,” Greg replied, letting his inner showman fly. “A non-lethal bow? I think I have just the thing… Right here…” He replied as he showed Vista a long black harp of all things.

Upon seeing the weapon, he picked out the Ward flatly stated, “That is a musical instrument, not a bow.”

“It's both,” The salesman replied easily. “This is Failnaught, bow of Sir Tristan, From Arthurian legend. It is both a harp and a bow. One that needs no ammunition, and that’s because it's arrows are sounds and vacuums of air. Observe.”

He aimed Failnaught at a pair of straw stuffed dummies nearby and plucked a few strings. They were pummeled by invisible forces of air. Both Vista and Miss Militia were pretty sure If that was a normal person, they'd be down and have at least a couple broken bones.

The salesman continued, “And should you be facing someone with a brute rating and need to pack a bigger punch,” A few more strings, a little bit harder, And even stronger forces struck The dummies. But this time they were torn asunder by voids of air. He turned back to the two members of the Wards and Protectorate perspectively and said see, it's a very useful weapon and doesn't need to be used lethally if it doesn't have to be. What do you think, Vista? Are you interested?”

“Heck yes I am!” Exuberantly before she looked at her mentor, who hummed in silence for a moment before nodding.

Turning back to the salesman, she asked, “How much?” Vista was prepared to pay any price for this particular weapon. She had plenty of cash saved up, so money wasn't really an object for her.

“Normally I wouldn't let a weapon like this go for anything less than… $10,000,000.”

Upon hearing the asking price, Vista visibly paled. The Wards were paid well, but not that well. “I don't have that kind of money.”

“I did say normally I have something else in mind. I will sell it to you for $10,000, but in return I need you to come into my shop, on your next day off.”

“Why?” Vista couldn't help but ask. “Not that I don't appreciate the fact that you're giving me a 90% discount. But why do you need me to come to your shop?”

The salesman was quick to explain, “One of my abilities lets me create new weapons if I have a parahuman with an ability nearby,” Taking a breath, he continued, “So if you were to come to my shop for a few hours while I worked on a weapon, I would be able to make something spectacular, based upon your space warping ability.”

So basically what you want is a trade. My ability to warp space in order for this weapon… You're not going to do anything dangerous with the weapon you make, right?” Vista asked worriedly.

Letting out a little laugh, the salesman replied, “Oh goodness no! Nothing dangerous at all.” He said, waving away her worries. “I just need somewhere to keep my excess stock, And since I don't know of someone who can create portals on hand, I figured you would be the best person to ask for help with my little side project.”

That doesn't sound too bad. You've got yourself a deal, Mister.”

The salesman clapped his hands together happily. “Excellent! That makes you my first sale of the day. My first sale ever, actually. I should probably have my first dollar I’ve made framed or something,” He said idily to himself.

“Sounds like a good memory.” Miss Militia agreed before she asked, “You said you also did bulk orders? Were you considering selling some of your work to the PRT?”

“I was wondering when you were going to bring that up.” He said a clear grin in his tone before motioning the duo over to a pair of boxes. Opening one he revealed an empty metal handle picking it up, a rapier blade materialized, prompting him to explain. “This is a black key. Its primary use is in restraining enemies,” He flicked the blade at Miss Militia and it impaled the ground between her feet. The veteran cape quickly found herself unable to move. ‘A Master power? Striker?’ She wondered as he picked the weapon back up. “So long as you impale an opponents shadow they are rendered immoble.”

“Sweet! With something like that even PRT agents could take on the gangs.” Vista said.

“It could be quite useful.” Miss Militia agreed more professionally.

“I also have this,” the cape continued as he pulled a black bow-knuckle trench knife with a triangle point blade that was long enough to almost be a shortsword out of the box, “Its effect is simple but potent. Stab it into the ground, call out its name, and then all powers, outside interference, and even luck are rendered null in a fight. The only thing that matters is the skill of both combatants.”

From the shifting of Miss Militia’s bandana, he could see this time her jaw had dropped. Vista had done the same, making no attempt to hide her shock and amazement. He basked in her awe for a moment before breaking the silence and saying, “I take it you are interested?”

“I will be taking it to my superiors and pressing the fact that it would be a very good idea to add this to the budget. Provided they pass inspection with HR of course.” Miss Militia promised him.

He nodded, a smile coming through in his tone, “I appreciate that, I’ve got six-hundred Black Keys up for sale, and a baker's dozen of the combat knives ready to go.”

“I'd like to take A sample of each back to the rig with me. For testing of course,” Miss Militia politely asked.

“Of course,” The salesman said, “Take them with my compliments.”

“I have just a few more questions before we go. How long have you been working with Parian?”

“Been working with her for about a year now, but this is my debut as a Cape,” He easily replied, “Also, you can call me Inari.”

A familiar voice quickly called out, “Honey, how are the sales going?”

Parian herself strolled up to him and wrapped him in a tight hug before kissing him on the cheek. Well. She pressed her porcelain mask up to the cheek of his helmet.

“I take it you two are more than just work associates then?” Miss Militia teased just a little bit Though she was happy for the young couple.

“We're dating,” Parian said simply Before she turned to her view and asked "How have the sales been going, dear?”

Quite well, I think. I've already sold one piece to Vista and I might have a business contract with the PRT if all goes well with Miss Militia here.”

Parian and clapped her hands together and then gave Inaria a hug. “That's great Inari, I knew you could do it. Oh, we should do something to celebrate!”

Inari returned the hug, saying amusedly, “After business hours, of course. Right dear?”

Yes, you're right. Of course. I suppose we can't close down the shop early on your opening day, can we?

Inari gave a chuckle before saying, “No Par, that would be bad for business. Thanks for being so happy for me though.”

“Of course I'm happy for you. My boyfriend's business is successful. We’re gonna live it up after the shop closes today.” Seeing someone enter her half of the shop, Parrian skipped off. “Back to work for both of us, it seems. Keep it up, dear. You're doing great.” She encouraged him before she left.

Sighing, Inari said, as he watched her leave, “I love that woman,” Giving his attention back to his customers, he said. Will that be all, or do you want anything else?”

“This should do it for now, and if it goes the way I think I will, we'll probably have more work for you in the future.I don't suppose I could interest you in joining the PRT directly, could I?”

“No, sorry. I like my chances on my own,” Inari replied with a shake of his head. “But feel free to come on back any time. I'm always ready and willing to take custom orders. Oh and one more thing before you go. Do you let your bosses know that under no circumstances that they just slip a clause into their contract should they make one with me that I am forbidden from making any pieces for any of the other Gangs. As far as I'm concerned, money is money and a commission is a commission.”

“You're serious? You're willing to provide weapons for the gangs?” Miss Militia was a bit disappointed to hear that, And even Vista was frowning at the thought of gangs having access to tinker weaponry that could do all the things he'd shown off so far.

“Yes, at the end of the day I'm a blacksmith and all I want is for my crafts to be used and I don't like anyone dictating who and how they can be used. So long as they're properly paid for, I don't care what they're particularly used for. I'm a blacksmith after all.”

But they're evil. They're racists, killers, and-” Vista began only to be cut off by Inari who raised his hand and said,

“One man's hero is always another man's villain. There is no objective white and black morality. You are only considered right because you are the ones who are upholding the current law and order. One day you may be considered wrong because the current order you uphold is overthrown and replaced with a new order. For example, the Tokugawa shogunate never thought they could or would be overthrown, but they did and were replaced by the Meiji Era. The point I'm trying to make is, right and wrong are subjective. It always has been and it always will be. It doesn't matter to me however because I'm a simple blacksmith. All I want to do is work in my forge for whoever needs my services. Be it the people who uphold the current law and order, or the ones who seek to overthrow it.”

After his short speech, Miss Militia believed she understood Inari's mentality. He didn't care about good or evil, law and order. He simply created for the sake of creating, and what came from his creations being used was up to the people who used them. He was simply a bystander.  She nodded at him, replying. I'll let my superiors know, though, they probably won't be happy with this,”

“If everyone could obtain happiness then the world would be a place without suffering,” The blacksmith replied earnestly with sagacious wisdom. “I hope you have a good rest of your day. Stay safe out there.”

‘We will, but for how long?’ Vista thought to herself at the fact that a Cape was going to supply the gangs with what were essentially mystical super weapons of myth, legend, and possibly even video games.

“Come on,” Miss Militia said as the duo walked off. “We need to report this back to the bosses immediately.”

As the two heroes made a hasty exit. Another interesting character made his way forward. He was tall, brawny, shirtless, covered in chest hair and was wearing a simple metal mask in the shape of a wolf over his face. Inari knew who he was and greeted him immediately. “Hookwolf, how may I help you today?”

“Did I just hear you tell those heroes that you take commissions and you're willing to take them even from the gangs?” The Empire Cape asked gruffly.

“That is correct, yes.” Inari said nodding once, “I will be willing to craft whatever anyone needs for the right price, or in barter or trade If monetary value is not sufficient.”

Hookwolf stared him for a moment before crossing his arms and nodding, “Alright, then I've got a job for you. A  commission. Do a good enough job and I can get you work for the entire Empire. Maybe even Kaisar himself.”

The rogue nodded before adding his own two cents, “I am listening. But I want to make one thing perfectly clear before we start. If I make weapons for you and anyone else in the Empire, I want to make it perfectly clear that this store is off limits from tagging, heckling, or anything else from the Empire from now on. Manage that.Because if not, we can't do business with each other.”

“Do a good job and don't screw this up, and the Empire will have your back through anything.” Hookwolf promised him.

“All right, then. What's the job?” In re asked, eager to get started and wondering what the request could be.

“I want you to forge me a spear,” Hookwolf said simply. “One worthy of being wielded by a warrior who sticks to the principles of old.”

Slowly, Inari nodded, “Yes, I see. I think I believe I know what you desire. And I am allowed free rein on this project?”

Hook Wolf grunted in response, “Do whatever the fuck you want. I don't care. Just make it good. Money ain't a problem, I can promise you that.”

Again, the blacksmith nodded before asking, “Is this spear for you or another? Like say. Storm Tiger or Cricket? That will determine what abilities I give it.”

“Me. Lots of people think I don't need a weapon because I am one, but it'd be nice to have something extra just in case.”

“I understand I can get to work on it after hours tomorrow. It should be ready in about three to five weekdays from then. Will this be acceptable?”

Hookwolf gave a stern nod, “Faster than I thought it'd be.”

Inarii clapped his hands together, “Excellent. The only thing I need you to do is leave some of your metal mass behind for me to work with if you want this weapon to be keyed to you specifically. I'll even cut down on the price since you're providing materials.”

“Where do you want it?” Hookwolf asked.

“If you could just go around back near the forge, I would appreciate that. No need to startle the other patrons.”

The Empire Cape silently moved around to the back of the building, and all Greg could think was, ‘Today was turning out to be a good first day.’

Although he was enjoying selling his wares, he also couldn't wait for it to be over. So he could celebrate with Parian and the others. He was looking forward to the celebration that would come later on tonight. He was sure it was going to be eventful. But more than anything, he was looking forward to what he could create once he had Vista near his forge. He had plans forming in his mind's eye. ‘One step at a time, Greg. One step at a time.’ He mentally chided himself as he moved to help another customer.

(...)

“Kampai!” Everyone cheered as they clanged glasses together for the first successful day of Greg's shop opening. All those who were underage were drinking soft drinks, While Shigure and Renka were having craft beers. A smorgasbord of food had been laid out on the table and featured everything from Chinese lo Mein, pot stickers, to meat kebabs and rice, and shawarma. As everyone dug in Greg complimented the cooking. “The food is great ladies, my compliments to the chefs.” He finished by raising his glass in toast to both Renka and Sabah respectively.

“We’re glad you like it darling,” Renka purred his pet name. “Dig in, eat as much as you like.”

“Thanks ladies, everything is delicious,” Greg complimented once again causing them both to preen at the praise. “So Taylor, what did you do with your day?”

Taking a moment to swallow her food, the entomancer replied, “Not much got caught up on homework.” She replied easily. “I was thinking about maybe taking some self defense lessons at Ryozanpaku but I’m not sure what type of martial art would fit me best.”

“Stand up for a moment,” Renka said in a voice of authority. Doing as asked, Renka gave taylor a once over before saying, “Hmm, you're tall and lanky for your age which could be advantageous. Plus, with your bug swarms the most useful martial arts for you to learn would probably be Jujitsu from Akisame, to keep your enemies away from you long enough to let your bugs to their thing, or learning Kosaka style ninjutsu from Shigure as its all about misdirection which could also be useful with your power.”

Swallowing nervously, Taylor looked at Shigure and asked, “Would you be willing to take me on?”

“Sure.” Shigure said easily. “I’d be happy to… take on a new… student.”

Taylor smiled. Things had started looking up since she’d started dating Greg. Her and Emma’s relationship was on the mend, she had more friends than ever before in Renka, Sabah, and Shigure, and Greg was awesome for helping her self-esteem. She hoped they’d be able to get Emma away from Sophia soon, but they hadn’t heard back from Emma yet so all she could do was wait and hope as her mothers favorite line from the Count of Monte Cristo went. Seeing Greg getting up from the table and carrying his plate to the sink, Taylor called, “Where are you going Greg?”

“Going to stretch my legs a bit, burn off some of the calories I just consumed.” He replied as he reached for the Robe of the Fire Rat and For Someone’s Glory that he left on a coat rack near the door before leaving.

Taylor was silent for a moment before she said, “He’s up to something.”

Sabah hummed for a moment before saying, “He’s probably going out on a patrol,”

“What?!” Taylor said, alarmed, “But he’s a Rogue, not a fighter.”

“Taylor,” Sabah said calmly, “Greg is more than capable of handling himself,”

“This is Brockton Bay, though…” Taylor said, staring at the door where Greg had departed with a frown on her face, “People like Lung and Kaisar are out there.” Coming to a decision, Taylor went to her bag and pulled out a black and gray costume, “I’m going after him, if only to provide backup. Just in case he needs it.”

“So you finished your costume then?” Sabah said, instantly intrigued by the design and materials incorporated into it. She drew in a surprised gasp and squealed, “Is that suit made out of silk?!”

“Bug manipulation does have a few benefits I guess.” Taylor said distractedly as she moved towards the bathroom to change, only for Sabah to grab her wrist and say, “I would very much like to add silk to my inventory. How much would you want for a bolt?”

“Sabah, I don’t even know what that is, I’d need to look up prices, and right now I’m more concerned about Greg. Can we talk about this later?”

“Yes, of course, sorry.” She said sheepishly, “It’s just not everyday you meet someone who can mass produce silk.”

Closing the door behind her Taylor quickly got changed while calling every bug she could towards her. By the time she was finished, a decent sized swarm was gathered outside the Dollhouse Steelworks. Opening the door, she fixed her mask on her face, her eyes covered by prescription tinted lenses. “I’ll be back,” She called out as she left her swarm covering her like a living shroud as she ran into the night after their shared boyfriend.

Renka looked between the door and Shigure for a moment before questioning, “We’re going after them right?”

“Let’s give them… a ten… head start…” Shigure replied. “Besides… we should help… clean up.”

“I’m coming too.” Sabah said stubbornly. “If we’re going to do this we should do it together.”

“Fair,” Shigure agreed. “Let’s clean up… and then we’ll… depart.”

And thus, did everyone go out for a very enthusiastic walk.

(...)

Word Count: 9.789   Number of Pages: 21   Date Completed: 1/10/2024

(...)

AN: Thank God it’s done! I’m legit considering doing shorter chapters from now on. It may be better for my health overall. We’ll see. I hope you liked the chapter everyone. I don’t have much to say honestly. I’m just sorry it took so long to finish. There’s just one more chapter to go and then we’ll have an interlude and we’ll be moving into the second arc. I’ll see you all next time. Now here’s Snowy and Hassan to finish up.

Snowy:

Hassan:

Thanks again for reading! This has been an Inkblot Bros Production! Peace!