Just as all rivers will eventually flow into the sea, the prestige and influence of 'Narcissus' among the Vanir followed an irresistible trajectory, constantly and steadily growing.
His dwelling in the forest became the de facto temple of wisdom and knowledge in Vanaheimr, with a constant stream of Vanir coming daily to seek advice, discuss, or even simply bask in the soothing radiance of his wisdom.
The younger generation saw in him a beacon guiding the path forward, while the elders grew accustomed to listening to his always pertinent thoughts before making important decisions.
Njörðr, the leader of the Vanir, saw all of this with his own eyes.
He was not a narrow-minded person. As a god governing the ocean, wind, waves, and abundance, he possessed a broad nature and valued the prosperity and harmony of his people.
The wisdom and managerial skills displayed by 'Narcissus' were, in his view, a rare treasure for Vanaheimr.
Initial appreciation and respect, over time, turned into a deeper reliance.
Njörðr summoned 'Narcissus' to his seaside palace.
The sea breeze blew the temple's curtains with a salty breath, and Njörðr's voice was soft yet carried undeniable authority:
"Narcissus, your wisdom is like an inexhaustible spring, nourishing our people. I am deeply pleased to see the prosperity and order around your dwelling. Vanaheimr needs more of this kind of energy."
He paused, his eyes sincere.
"The 'Lake-folk' tribe has lacked strong leadership for a long time. I hope you will become their leader and spread your wisdom and order throughout the land."
This was both a temptation and an opportunity.
Handing over a small tribe to 'Narcissus' could not only test his actual administrative abilities but also not shake Njörðr's fundamental rule.
'Narcissus' bowed slightly and accepted the appointment, with just the right amount of humility and responsibility on his face: "As you wish, Njörðr. I will strive to live up to your expectations."
As a result, just as all the Vanir who followed the matter expected, the 'Lake-folk' tribe under 'Narcissus's' administration took on a new life at an astonishing speed.
He did not use any force or coercion. Instead, he deeply explored every corner of the tribe, listening to their needs and difficulties.
He introduced a work schedule based on natural rhythms and actual needs, replacing the relatively free habits of the past.
He replanned the layout of farmland and residential areas, significantly improving energy efficiency, increasing yields, and enhancing the health conditions of the inhabitants.
He organized small learning points within the tribe, teaching basic and practical knowledge about nature, magic, and life to all people, young and old, in an understandable form.
This greatly raised the average magical literacy and understanding of nature among the entire tribe.
He created a simple and effective arbitration mechanism to resolve disputes within the tribe based on facts and logic.
His judgments were always impartial and well-reasoned, convincing both sides of the dispute and significantly reducing internal strife.
These systems, composed of activated vines, sensitive moss, and psychedelic fungi, not only provided early warning of external threats but also caught or expelled uninvited guests when necessary, perfectly blending with the environment.
Soon, the 'Lake-folk' tribe became a model for Vanaheimr.
Order prevailed, the inhabitants were prosperous and healthy, full of life energy, and they further supported their leader 'Narcissus'.
The news reached Njörðr's ears, and the sea god felt relieved and made a decision.
If a small tribe could undergo such astonishing changes under 'Narcissus's' guidance, could the larger tribes, and even the entire kingdom of Vanaheimr, also benefit from his administration?
As a result, Njörðr delegated more responsibilities and authority to 'Narcissus'.
First, the scope of administration covered several small and medium-sized settlement 'forest territories' similar to the 'Lake-folk'.
Then, he was responsible for coordinating relations between clans throughout Vanaheimr.
Later, even the collection and editing of some magical texts, as well as the planning for the younger generation of Vanir gods, were gradually incorporated into 'Narcissus's' jurisdiction.
'Narcissus' did not refuse.
He managed all affairs with high efficiency, arranging everything in order and achieving remarkable results.
He seemed to have endless energy and insight, always understanding the core of the problem and solving it in the most optimal way.
Under his governance, these tribes and territories under his administration took on a unique appearance.
They did not display power through military conquest or oppressive authority, but demonstrated a quiet and lasting sense of power through internal order, the popularization of knowledge, efficient resource use, and profound harmony with nature.
The Vanir witnessed all of this, and their admiration for 'Narcissus' grew daily.
They began to grow accustomed to following his advice, relying on his wisdom.
Njörðr also felt increasingly confident, trusting him with more and more affairs, and became more focused on the power of the sea, wind, and waves, enjoying unprecedented harmony and vitality within the tribe.
He even did not hesitate to praise 'Narcissus' as a 'treasure of Vanaheimr' and an 'embodiment of natural wisdom' on some public occasions.
However, amidst this thriving scene, the will of Hades and Metis remained absolutely clear.
"The transfer of power lies in forming habits," Metis's consciousness calmly analyzed.
"When they become accustomed to relying on your decisions and obeying your orders, your authority is quietly established."
"Njörðr's trust is our most effective cover for now," Hades's will responded.
"Through these scattered clans and duties, we weave a web that covers Vanaheimr. When the web is formed, the so-called 'leader' is merely a natural form."
They were not trying to overthrow Njörðr immediately—that would cause unnecessary chaos.
They wanted substantive control, so that the Vanir could unconsciously regard the will of 'Narcissus' as the direction of their race's progress.
At this time, Odin had just emerged from the Iron Wood and had not yet set his sights on this area, which was quietly changing.
'Narcissus' stood tall in his dwelling, looking at the prosperous territory below.
His dark green hair swayed slightly in the wind, and those deep eyes reflected not only the vitality of Vanaheimr, but also a magnificent blueprint.