What We Must Do.
Roswall, with his serene yet arrogantly laden smile, observes me closely as I broach the matter of the elections. We have toiled side by side, and I have deployed all my skills in managing the mansion's finances, optimizing processes, and seeking efficiency in every nook.
Fortunately, one cannot underestimate the power and influence of Roswall, for his vast wealth and extensive connections have granted us access to privileged information.
"Until the fifth candidate emerges, the movements will be scarce," Roswall replies, elegantly producing a card from his sleeve. "However, rumors are circulating that they have finally found the fifth candidate. "
Felt, is clear that is her.
The commencement of the elections coincides in time with that of the cult, which gives me some leeway to act. Moreover, it is crucial to prepare Emilia for her speech, as it will mark the beginning of her ascent and must be eloquent and coherent."
"When it is confirmed, inform me immediately. We need to get to work on Emilia's speech," I say as I leaf through the letter in my hands, trying to decipher its contents.
I feel myself venturing into a completely different world, beyond what the original novel carried. I have experienced a multitude of diverse events and situations, the depth of which is challenging to fully comprehend.
Roswall and Ram withdraw, leaving me alone with Rem. It is nothing extraordinary, as Ram remains Roswall's exclusive servant, while Rem stays by my side to offer her assistance. Personally, I would have preferred Frederica to take on the role of secretary, or failing that, anyone with basic skills in the field.
The problem lies in the shortage of trustworthy individuals, and although it pains me to admit it, Rem has earned my trust.
However, I still cannot forgive her completely, so I have maintained a certain distance in our relationship, while acknowledging her value in the tasks she performs by my side.
I feel guilty, for it was I who encouraged Rem to move forward, but at the same time, she must understand the gravity of her actions. Dwelling in daily bitterness does me no good, but despite my efforts, I cannot find an adequate solution to deal with her.
Perhaps I should have left her trapped in her own despair. Although irresponsible, I believe it is worse not to offer her help. I gaze at the sky, seeking an answer on how to forgive someone who tried to end my life.
Could it be that she is now a different person? I was once blinded by anger and doubted everything. However, I now question that perspective.
Rem has not fundamentally changed; she has only altered her attitude towards me and others. I am certain she would act the same way if she saw someone affected by the miasma. But, of course, things are no longer the same with me.
"Come on, we need to go to the blacksmith," I say, breaking the silence that envelops us.
"Yes, Mr. Marco," Rem responds, walking beside me without exchanging another word.
We advance together as I contemplate the steps ahead. With the construction of the steam engine looming on the horizon, I must ensure its completion before Crusch's arrival.
Given that her property houses several mines, it is crucial to sell her the steam engine. This way, we can secure extraction rights or, in the worst case, financial compensation. I must expand the industry at all costs, as it is the key to generating income.
There are so many tasks at hand: continuing the novel, delving into the library's books, practicing magic, creating the steam engine, managing the accounts, initiating the design of new technologies. At times, I wish to falter to avoid having to do all this.
Nevertheless, thanks to healing magic, I have managed to survive on little sleep.
Before reaching our destination, I observe Rem, who maintains her characteristic smile.
"Rem, regarding working on the tailoring of the garments, are you willing to take it on?" I inquire, with no intention of compelling her to undertake additional tasks beyond her current responsibilities.
If she is not interested, I can hire specialized individuals. I simply present the option for her to cease acting as my secretary for a while and focus on something she genuinely enjoys.
Rem looks at me with the same smile and an enthusiastic tone.
"Yes! I saw your designs, and I believe I can do it," Rem exclaims, clenching her fists with determination. "I've been waiting for an opportunity to work on this."
I observe how Rem has been exploring different clothing styles lately. Like me, she decided to acquire several garments during our small trip to the capital. Personally, I bought more conventional items, not overly ostentatious, mainly formal attire, and some casual wear. Some of the noble clothing isn't particularly beautiful, but I selected a few nonetheless.
I would love for Rem to develop her talent in garment making so she can take charge of it. Additionally, with the steam engine, there is another field I can delve into. If I create a mechanical loom, I can produce fabrics for wholesale without the need for much labor.
"Perfect, then, when phase three begins, you'll have to work diligently," I tell Rem, who nods as she gazes ahead, where the blacksmith's shop is now visible.
Just as with the workers, we have hired a group of blacksmiths recommended by Clind, Roswall's servant.
We pay them triple their usual wage due to their significance. These individuals are clearly the start of the industrial revolution, and I have high hopes for them in the future. However, entrusting them with such crucial tasks also carries risks.
If they were to leak information, we would be in trouble.
That's why I had to take precautions. I used Puck to assess the kind of people they were and thus avoid major issues. The initial group consisted of forty-three individuals, but it was reduced to twenty-two after the selection process.
Initially, some complained, but I managed to make them understand my plans.
I don't need people who can't keep secrets, who aren't serious, or who mix their personal lives with work. We selected them all and retained the best.
"Rem," I look in her direction, my emotions swirling beneath the surface.
Rem understands and proceeds to knock on the door.
She has been in charge of the accounting with them, while I have taken it upon myself to train them in mold creation. My knowledge of metallurgy is limited, so it's a weakness we've had to overcome.
The blacksmith's shop was not rebuilt, as that area was designated for residential use. We moved to a secluded area, where there's no cultivation, and only a few houses dot the landscape. This will be where our industrial zone begins.
We purchased the houses in the area, which were about four in number, as they were remote and owned by individuals engaged in logging and selling timber.
We offered them the opportunity to work alongside the carpenters and also provided them with the possibility of acquiring new homes at a reasonable price. We rented rooms for them in the mansion, and they are currently working on it.
Once the residential areas are completed, we will demolish everything and construct the first factories. However, space is limited, so we had to seek Roswall's assistance to expand the area. I don't want to rely on him indefinitely, but at the outset, it's what we have to do.
Furthermore, we are surrounded by mabeasts, so each expansion entails killing a large number of them and placing pyroxene crystals around the perimeter.
Gradually, the appearance of the area will transform into a more organized town. I also plan to demolish and remodel the right side, adding more residential areas and distributing land for agriculture.
I am reaching out to the nearby villages to encourage them to move to Irlam and cede their territory to us. This way, as we expand, we can unite all the villages and form a city.
As I think big, I realize that I had become lost in my thoughts.
"Mr. Marco?" says Rem, looking at me with concern.
Reacting calmly, I return a reassuring gaze and say, "I'm sorry, I'm fine."
In front of me stands the chief blacksmith, Baltazar. He is a short and sturdy man, the most cliché image you could imagine of a blacksmith. At first, I found him a bit comical, but after witnessing his skills, I was amazed.
"Baltazar, it's a pleasure to see you today," I smile warmly.
"You finally deigned to appear, I was waiting like a damsel in distress! Hahaha," Baltazar laughs for a moment before inviting us inside. "Come in, time is of the essence."
We both enter with awkward smiles. Although his demeanor pleases me, I have had to make an effort to learn the customs of this place. I learned to speak like a noble and to act like someone who commands respect.
Obviously, I am not ruthless and know when it's necessary to act that way, but I also have to separate my work from the social aspect. That's why seeing someone like him makes me feel comfortable.
All the blacksmiths work diligently. We have adapted the house to resemble a blacksmith's shop as closely as possible, but we have added more ventilation to avoid issues of lung contamination and other risks.
Thanks to Roswall, the blacksmiths seldom employ coal; instead, they utilize fiery lamicta crystals, which heat the entire place. While this is a boon, it has significantly inflated our costs, prompting us to reserve it solely for substantial undertakings, with coal being our default choice for others.
"It's been nearly a month since I last forged a sword; it feels as though my skills are slipping away," laments Baltazar as he leads us toward the delivery area.
For my part, I have no need for swords. The blacksmiths have been divided to work on projects according to their skills. Some focus on crafting rods for construction, maces, and other rudimentary items, while others tackle the creation of gears, bars, and more intricate tools.
"I had to fashion clay molds just to make those tiny screws," Baltazar complains with vexation.
"Screws are paramount, and it brings me solace to know you made them," I reply.
For the screws, lacking a guide notch, Beatrice and I had to alter the design and carve several wooden sticks until we obtained one that functioned properly. It took hours of effort, but it was worth it if Baltazar could put them to use.
"This would be so much easier if we had a lathe," I sigh inwardly.
"So, are the materials for the steam engine ready?" I inquire of Baltazar.
Baltazar smiles arrogantly, proud of all the work they've accomplished.
"Who do you take me for?" Baltazar gestures toward himself with his thumb, assuming a pose of self-sufficiency and pride. "It was a simple task. With the payment you've given us, I'll have to spend it on a good drink soon."
Baltazar begins to laugh, and the other workers seem to agree with him, as they all smile at his words.
I inspect several of the pieces that will form the steam engine, from the boiler design to the gears and the piston that will serve as a guide.
Clearly, the steam engine has many applications, and we will have to adapt it to each one. Its creation implies that in the future, hundreds of applications will arise. I plan to sell it for use in the mine, but I also intend to monopolize the industry in other fields.
Who would complain about a good monopoly in this world?
Fatigued by the heat, I exit the premises with Rem. With my arms crossed, I alter my expression when facing Baltazar, replacing affability with a penetrating seriousness.
"So, how far along are you with the simplified version of the steam engine?"
Yes, I have decided to create two versions: I will sell the conventional steam engine while keeping the enhanced version, developed by both Beatrice and me, capable of integrating magic for its operation.
Baltazar has the blueprints and knows precisely which pieces must be placed and where. As a blacksmith, he understands the importance of precision in construction.
"If all goes well, we should have the materials ready by next week, so it will be completed in two weeks," Baltazar looks at me with concern and asks, "Are you sure you want to take the materials and construct it yourself?"
I comprehend your concern, but it is a commitment that Beatrice and I have made to ourselves. The first improved steam engine shall be constructed and used by us. We shall leave it as a tribute in the mansion, encased in glass for preservation.
It will serve as a reminder of the inception of it all.
"Yes, worry not about that. I have built similar machines before," I smile with a touch of arrogance.
Vague recollections come to my mind, of the days when I undertook projects at university. Building a lathe, machinery more intricate than a mere steam engine.
"By the way..." I cast a piercing glance at Baltazar. "Do not forget the contract."
Baltazar's content expression shifts to a more serious one. After all I mentioned, it's not a trivial matter.
"Of course, I have no intention of risking my life."
I suppose he has a point. The contract with the blacksmiths was more stringent than that with the builders. For the blacksmiths, I added more conditions to the contract, excluding the clause of having to swear monthly that they have not betrayed anyone, but including a clause stating that if any of them do so, we will take action against their lives.
While it would be illegal in my world, here it is legal, but only because we are not forcing them. Despite the existence of slavery, I don't want to become a monster like Roswall.
It is a warning, as they are the heart of the industry.
"The only thing I don't understand is why the women must also sign the same contract."
Baltazar has been collaborating with the next production, which has been gradually taking shape.
"You've seen what gunpowder can do. If they were to disclose the production method, none of this would function."
Initially, I wanted to create gunpowder myself, as I didn't want to share the production with anyone. However, it became too overwhelming in terms of time, so I had to hire unemployed women willing to receive a generous payment to produce gunpowder.
I have been meticulous in all aspects related to gunpowder production. The women in charge of this task are not aware of the materials used or the exact proportions required.
To ensure the required precision and delicacy, I have chosen to place my trust in the manual dexterity of women, renowned for their multitasking prowess and meticulousness in various aspects.
This reflection conjures memories of bygone times.
—***—
Emilia, Roswall, Rem, Ram, and I stand before a group of sixteen women. Their gazes brim with joy, as the time they spent in the mansion has been entirely wasted until now. But finally, the opportunity to work has arrived, and all of them are excited.
I am, too, for this project will open doors for us to attain our own strength, our own power.
"Good morning, ladies present," I incline in a gesture of respect. "As you may know, you have been summoned due to your strong sense of responsibility, a sense we have taken note of," I place my hand over my chest.
"Today, we present you with an opportunity that fills us with pride, an immensely significant opportunity in which each of you will play a crucial role in the development of our community," I retrieve a small cloth bag from my pocket. "Today, we are going to build the future of this community, and it will be your responsibility to create a fundamental material to achieve this purpose."
I sprinkle a bit of gunpowder on the ground and, atop it, an iron ball. With Beatrice's assistance, I have crafted a small sample of gunpowder using molds that maintain the exact proportions of each material.
"This is called gunpowder, a new material created by our people, developed here, and will be exclusively produced in Irlam."
A tiny spark triggers a reaction, causing the gunpowder to emit sparks in all directions, generating a small explosion that leaves a mark on the stone floor. Quickly, an iron ball shoots toward the ceiling at an incredible speed, leaving a mark in its path before falling to the ground.
The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as we observe the result of this experiment. The women marvel at what they have just witnessed, aware that they have witnessed a revolutionary advancement in our community's history.
The future appears promising, full of possibilities and achievements that can only materialize through the effort and dedication of each one of them.
The impact of what they have just witnessed leaves Roswall and the rest of the people in a state of amazement. Only Rem seems accustomed to such events, as she was aware of what was coming.
"With this, we will defend our community, faster and deadlier than an arrow. It is the beginning of a new era that will protect us from future dangers," I raise my fist, displaying my determination and conviction.
I turn my gaze to Rem, who immediately begins distributing the contract to all present. These individuals are trustworthy, individuals who have been part of our community for a long time and were affected by the recent attack.
We have taken all necessary precautions, and now it is up to them.
As the women peruse the contents of the contract, their faces turn pallid, revealing their concern. They begin to whisper among themselves, uneasy about what they find within its pages. After all, it includes a clause regarding "endangering their lives.",
"I know you are worried, but that clause only applies to those traitors who abandoned their people for personal gain," I place my hand over my chest. "I, Marco Luz, promise you a fair and humane deal. I swear by the dragon that protects these lands that none of you will suffer harm as long as you remain loyal. We will protect and reward you as you deserve. Your current salary is temporary, but once we improve our situation, we will increase your income so that you can pursue your dreams and work according to your desires. "
Of course, this is only until I can replace everything with steam machines, so I need to compensate you generously so that you can start your own businesses and retire quickly."
The women seem more convinced by these words.
"You have sacrificed your life to protect us, so I trust that you will act honestly," says Petra's mother, who was the first person I offered this opportunity to.
In a domino effect, all the women begin to accept and line up to sign the contract. The next step will be to teach them the tasks they need to perform and the necessary precautions to carry out their work.
The first step to bring weaponry to this world is complete.
—***—
"It was only fair; your salary is nearly the same as theirs. Besides, I have been personally inquiring about your well-being and taking care of you along with Miss Emilia," I comment as I look toward the factory, which consists of two houses joined and adapted for that purpose.
"A tough man, isn't he, girl?" Baltazar lets out another hearty laugh.
I turn my gaze to Rem, who has finished taking note of all the collected information.
"Rem, I entrust you to send the materials to the mansion. If possible, place them at the rear," I instruct.
"Yes, Sir Marco," Rem responds, bowing before heading to the forge with Baltazar.
Now that everything is in motion, I feel my body relax for a few moments, swaying weakly. I've been without sleep for three days, as I've been revising weapon plans and coordinating everything that will happen today.
Although administrative paperwork can be cumbersome, I suppose it's necessary.
Beginning my walk back to the mansion, we have two carriages constantly shuttling between the village and the mansion since the people there need to travel to the village and vice versa. I prefer to walk to clear my mind a bit.
As I make my way through the forest, pondering all the tasks awaiting me, I encounter Emilia, who has also chosen to walk to the village today for some reason.
Emilia tries to stop me when I bow, embarrassed by my gesture, but then relents. It's awkward for me too, but as long as we're in public, I can't allow informality.
It's something I have to do.
"I still haven't gotten used to it," Emilia pouts at me, "and besides, there's no one here."
"The carriages pass through here. I told you how important it is to maintain our status. You're someone important and you should receive the respect that comes with it. There are things I can't change overnight; I must act in accordance with the customs of this place," I explain.
"Hmpf!" Emilia crosses her arms, dismissing my words.
"Are you going to the village to help?" I ask, changing the subject.
Emilia has been going to the village constantly to offer her services and heal people's fatigue. At first, everyone felt uneasy, but now they line up for her to cure them. Emilia has worked hard and exceeded herself.
"Yes!" Emilia responds with a happy smile. "I'm also going to do the task you gave me."
I asked Emilia to ask each person about the problems that have arisen due to the changes in the village's system. Normally, I would have assigned that task to Rem, but since she has been busy, I took the opportunity for Emilia to do it.
I want to know, from their perspectives, what things can be improved, especially in the field of agriculture, about which I don't have much information.
"I'm glad to see you. I'll have a bit freer time now. I think I'll come to be with you and Puck in the afternoon."
At that moment, Puck emerges from Emilia's body.
"Good morning, Marco!" Puck approaches me with his typical smile. "I thought you had forgotten about me."
"I've been working like never before. When I had a free moment, it was already night," I apologize, as I enjoyed the moments of magic practice.
"I have a lot of mana accumulating. I'll need your help soon," Puck comments, while Emilia tries to make him stop talking, but he continues. "Every now and then, I need to release the mana I accumulate. Lately, I feel like it's time, so I need to find a place or a way to release it completely."
Emilia gives up, sighing defeated by Puck's persistent comments.
"I'm sorry, Marco. I know you've been busy, that's why I hadn't mentioned it before," Emilia lowers her head.
It's true; I had almost forgotten about this problem. I think there was a movie or something that addressed it. I'll have to think of an alternative; I can't allow the village to be affected, as it could ruin the curing of the concrete.
It's another headache for the list.
Puck pokes his head out and chuckles before returning to Emilia's body.
"Don't worry; it's important to know anyway. Today, we'll meet with Beatrice in the afternoon to find a solution to this issue," I say as I gaze towards the mansion. "I can't allow Puck to unleash his magic there; it would likely freeze the entire place."
"Yes, thinking about it, it's more serious than I initially thought," Emilia responds thoughtfully.
"Crops would be affected, as well as the animal's life cycle. Puck's mana is substantial, so it's not something that can happen spontaneously. We need to plan the course of action carefully to avoid harm," I say as I place my hand on her head, smiling. "Don't worry; everything will turn out fine."
We decide to table that matter for later and continue on our way. We discuss other topics, such as the village's progress and our plans for the future. As we walk, I feel the tension of the past few days beginning to dissipate, at least for a moment.
In an instant, Emilia takes my hands without saying a word and starts using healing magic on me. I watch as she closes her eyes and concentrates her energy on my hands.
"You've been sleeping very little; I'm worried about you, Marco. Magic can alleviate fatigue, but your mind will keep wearing out," she says, concerned.
In my quest to progress, I've reduced my sleep hours to only one or two hours a day. I can fall asleep quickly, but getting proper rest is another matter. I've had to do it because my phone's battery is not infinite, and I still have a lot to transcribe.
Every night, I dedicate time to transcribe all my files, and thanks to Beatrice's help, I've made a lot of progress.
The problem is that I've gone five days without sleep more than one hour, and with the arrival of phase two, it's crucial that everything runs smoothly. I've read several books from the library to better understand this world and use magic to the best of my ability.
Healing magic can restore my energy, but the issue is that my mind also needs rest.
"I'll take a break when everything is over," I say with a smile, "I promise."
Emilia nods, but then her expression becomes serious. Before I can say anything, she begins to speak.
"Marco, I know you don't like to talk about this," Emilia grips my hand tightly, "but I have to talk to you about Rem."