And so, time flew by in the blink of an eye. His daughters blossomed, each developing their own unique personality, and they were now twelve years old.

By the age of twelve, it was the age when they could begin to pursue their respective career paths.

Darius was also that age when he once admired a magical blacksmith and became an apprentice in their workshop.

That's why Darius decided to ask the three of them about their future dreams.

"...So, that's the situation. What do the three of you want to do from here?"

"I'm going to become the kingdom's greatest knight... no, the knight commander! And I want to be strong enough to help others, just like Darius-sensei...!"

With a direct gaze, Aria declared firmly. There wasn't a trace of hesitation in her words.

Next, Luna opened her mouth quietly, but with a firm determination.

"Darius-san, I want to become the kingdom's greatest magic item crafter. I want to create magic items that make people all over the world more convenient and happier."

Her eyes, which held an intelligent light, were fixed on Darius.

And finally, Sofia said in a relaxed voice.

"Darius, I will become the kingdom's greatest healer."

Those small hands were clenched tightly, perhaps from tension.

Three different dreams, each powerful and kind. Darius felt his heart swell with emotion as he watched his daughters grow and looked into their honest eyes. After a moment of silence, gazing at each of their faces, he nodded slowly.

"I see... yeah, they're all great dreams."

Darius ruffled each person's head with his large hands one by one.

"A knight commander, a magic tool maker, and a healer... Then you definitely have to go to the royal capital... It's the best place to learn the best techniques and meet the best companions."

At those words, the faces of the three people lit up instantly. However, Aria immediately asked with a slightly lonely expression.

"But... Darius-sensei can't go with us, right?"

"Hmm, yeah, I guess so. I'm an illegal magic blacksmith who isn't allowed to forge inside the barrier. According to guild rules, I'm not supposed to open a workshop like this on my own. Of course, I'd like to go with you... No, maybe I should go with you after all, I'm still worried."

He has endured not being able to forge for several years, and now he's overflowing with a desire to watch them grow.

As he was thinking that, it was Luna who grimaced.

"...If Darius-san is okay with that, then it's fine... but if you're going to suffer because you can't forge, then I'm against it."

"I'm against it, too."

Sofia agreed with Luna's opinion. Then, Aria exclaimed in surprise.

"Oh, me too! Darius-sensei looks happiest when you're blacksmithing, so I don't want to take that away from you. That's why I hope Darius-sensei will continue to enjoy blacksmithing here..."

"Really...? But being with the three of you is just as fun now."

"I-is that...?"

When Aria smiled happily, Luna also averted her gaze, looking a little embarrassed.

"R-really... Darius-san is..."

Luna was looking away, but her ears were bright red, so she couldn't hide her embarrassment. It was rare for the intelligent Luna, but her words were a little rough, which showed how flustered she was inside.

"I'm happy... I also enjoy being with Darius."

Sofia gently clasped her hands in front of her chest, and with a shy but meltingly sweet smile, she turned towards Darius. Her pure gaze spoke more eloquently than any words could.

Feeling that they were happy, Darius once again understood how precious this time was.

For a while, only the crackling sound of the firewood in the irori echoed through the workshop, but eventually, Aria raised her head as if renewing her determination. In her eyes, there was no longer the shy embarrassment of a girl, but the light of a strong will.

"Then... I'll become super famous, and I'll work hard to make sure Darius-san can forge freely within the kingdom!"

As Aria declared so loudly, Luna, who had been deep in thought until then, also clapped her hands.

"That's a good idea, Aria."

"Yeah, that's a good idea."

Sofia also nodded vigorously. Darius smiled, even though he was filled with doubt about whether such a thing was possible.

"No, no. Everyone should work hard for their own dreams, right? I'm the one breaking the rules and doing things here on my own... I'm the one in the wrong!?"

"Okay, I won't push myself! But please wait for us!"

"Yes, that's right. Please wait."

"I'll do my best, too."

Darius smiled back at his three beloved daughters.

"I see... then, everyone, do your best so you can all achieve your dreams, okay?"

"..."

The three of them nodded firmly, their faces breaking into smiles.

Chapter 3