Wildflower’s eyes widened.

“I got a prompt!” she said.

“That’s great!” A thought occurred to Max. “You can read? Does paper even exist?”

“Paper? No idea. But prompts? Of course.”

“Huh. Interesting.” He studied Wildflower’s face, whose gaze was still locked onto the space where he’d expect a prompt to appear.

“So, are you going to accept?” A small part of him was still worried she’d back out at the last minute.

“What? Oh. Yes, yes of course. I—I just need a moment. This is a big decision.”

“No kidding.” When he’d gotten his own prompt in the simulated memory world dungeon place, it had said being a commander was a lifelong pledge. He wouldn’t be suprised if the prompt Wildflower had just received included similar warnings about becoming his follower.

Wildflower took a deep breath.

Then, Max received a prompt.

— Whoosh —

The being known as Wildflower is now your follower. Social menu has been updated.

Congratulations, Master Builder. You have taken on your first follower! A man dancing by himself is just a sad nut dancing alone. The first to join in makes them so much more! Without followers there can be no leaders. Honor those that put their trust in you, Master Builder, and they will repay you a thousand fold.

— Ding! —

Having become your follower, WildFlower is now eligible to become a commander. Do you wish to extend her this invitation as well?

[Yes] or [No]

Max grinned. “Hang onto yourself, my lovely nymph, because this train ain’t finished yet.” He hit [Yes]. Only then did it occured to Max that Wildflower wouldn’t have a clue what a train was.

Wildflower just moistened her lips with her tongue. “I got it.”

She didn’t hesitate this time.

— Trumpets! —

Rejoice, Master Builder! The Forest Nymph Wildflower has become a commander!

Social menu has been updated.

Commanders represent your inner circle in the Trial by Conquest, holding many special abilities usually unique to Master Builders. This makes them uniquely qualified to carry out many important missions.

As your first commander, Wildflower has received a minor boon — increased chance to discover minor treasures.

Max grinned from ear to ear. Coupled with her people’s affinity for being naturally good scouts, this boon could make for a potent combination.

Wildflower seemed to think so to, or at least was reveling in her new status. The smile on her face, if possible, was wider than his own.

“Are you ready to found our village?” Max asked.

“I never thought I would live to see such a wonder,” Wildflower said. “Do it.”

Max did it.