Ian looked at the disheveled appearance of Miguel and added, "Up working at dawn again. I told you to get your rest when you need it."0

"I said that. But you know how stubborn Lucy can be. And the villagers don’t seem to sleep much either."0

"... Yeah, I figured," Ian muttered as if it was hardly surprising. 0

Over the past few days, the villagers had been up at the crack of dawn, working tirelessly without a moment's rest.0

"I thought the brazier would take a few more days, but they all rushed at it from dawn and finished it up. It’s a bit rough around the edges, but they met all of Lucy’s requirements. Considering the work hours, it’s impressive. Well, just look at your statue... ahem. Anyway."0

Miguel cleared his throat hastily under Ian’s gaze before continuing, "Lucy’s just putting on the finishing touches. If we head out now, it should be just about done."0

"... Alright." There was no reason not to go. Ian let out a small sigh as he put the scroll back into his pocket dimension and stood up. 0

Miguel’s eyes roved over Ian, who emerged from the tub with steam rising from his body, and a sly smile crossed his lips.0

"You've gained more scars. And you’ve built up more muscle than before."3

"You’re full of nonsense today," Ian said while drying his body with a cloth.0

Miguel looked away as he added, "I’m just stating the facts....0