The Demonstration of Effort
My relationship with Ram has fractured. We don't harbor ill feelings towards each other, but neither of us desires to broach the subject. I don't blame her, yet I cannot fully accept what she did. However, should the opportunity present itself, perhaps I'll attempt to engage in a conversation with her.
"The reason we've toiled for so long," I gesture towards the imposing, vigorously functioning steam machine.
All eyes turn toward the clamorous steam machine, which continues its ceaseless motion. Roswaal contemplates it thoughtfully, causing my unease to mount.
"If this isn't something meant to be created now, if I've gone too far," I think, doubting what Roswaal has in mind.
"This machine serves a multitude of purposes, from breaking things to performing more intricate operations. It adapts to various objectives," I declare with resolve. "We could even employ it for carriage propulsion without having to rely on dragons. They don't tire and can achieve remarkable speeds."
Emilia regards the machine with joy and astonishment. She possesses a basic understanding of its workings but has always yearned to witness it in action. Puck emerges from Emilia's form and approaches Beatrice, who receives him with open arms.
"We can use these machines to bring in mining carts. They can execute the labor of over forty men without respite, making them invaluable," I say while gazing at Roswaal, attempting to accentuate all the benefits. "I've mentioned it before, but I'll reiterate: this machine heralds a new era in which we can accomplish tasks more efficiently, with enhanced quality and swiftness."
Roswaal smiles, satisfied with my response.
Excitement and enthusiasm permeate the atmosphere as Roswaal, and I discuss the possibilities of modifying and employing the machine for diverse purposes. I recognize Roswaal's entrepreneurial vision, understanding why I want to market the simplified version.
"This machine boasts numerous advantages. If we sell the simplified version, we can subsequently offer an upgraded version at a higher price," I say, admiring the beauty of the machine in motion. "I'll adapt it to perform various roles, but we'll maintain a monopoly on mining and pumping production." I smile towards Roswaal, displaying my ambition.
"We're on the ri~~ght path. Let's go~~ all in, then, Ma~~rco," Roswaal responds with a smile, expressing satisfaction.
With Roswaal's words, the final phase of the village reintegration plan commences. The dwellings are prepared, and the initial stage of the project has reached fruition. Now, with the residences ready, everyone can initiate their relocation.
Oscar, the chief of laborers, has granted his endorsement for reintegration, attesting that the concrete has splendidly responded to earth magic, solidifying and conforming to the region's preferences. Its durability has been enhanced, and construction proceeded at a pace beyond expectations.
Without his extensive expertise, this accomplishment would not have been attainable.
We've assigned homes to each family, as they are identical in design. These are simple two-story structures, reminiscent of traditional townhouses, complete with a courtyard and a small terrace. It is a departure from their accustomed dwellings, yet they exude fresh and efficient designs.
The room layouts afford them versatility, allowing for customization to suit their needs, in addition to featuring a separate kitchen and a garage for storage or other purposes of their choosing.
The choice of flooring was a nuanced decision, considering cost and practicality, as wood presented various disadvantages. Consequently, we opted for hydraulic tiles as an alternative. These are crafted from sand and cement, sans the necessity of kilns.
A mold, corresponding to the tile's dimensions, is prepared and fitted with metallic patterns to shape the design. The voids are then filled with pigments, and the form is removed. Subsequently, a layer of sand is applied to prevent color displacement, followed by an additional layer of sand-cement mixture or similar product.
The mold is placed in a press, and upon removal, the tile is ready.
Remarkably, in this world, this method proves more cost-effective, rendering it an excellent alternative.
Establishing a water pipeline system proves superfluous, as magic functions extraordinarily well here, and there are limited water sources in this location.
Although a river exists, its flow is rather modest, thus utilizing it would detrimentally impact crop production and the overall aesthetic.
As we progress with the implementation of the reconstruction plan, I realize that, with adequate financial resources, we can efficiently make such improvements feasible. The utilization of hydraulic tiles in the residences proves to be a long-lasting investment, as the tiles do not deteriorate over time.
This enables us to provide swift and effective assistance to those in need.
My objective is to equip all the residences with these enhancements. Those without them will be more budget-friendly, but I will ensure they have access to appropriate water services. Furthermore, I guarantee that all residences are fully furnished, imparting an opulent appearance.
Notwithstanding this, the cost of these residences only slightly surpasses that of a conventional house.
Although they may not boast the same degree of privacy or spaciousness as before, they are ingeniously crafted to endure diverse climatic conditions.
With the layout of roads and the arrangement of homes, the area begins to assume the semblance of a burgeoning neighborhood, characterized by order and cohesion. The roads are straight and ample, and sidewalks are meticulously constructed to facilitate leisurely strolls.
All of this is meticulously contemplated, with an eye not solely on the present but also on the future. I must contemplate how it will be, not merely how it is at this instant.
As the denizens move into their newfound abodes, I observe their astonishment at the aesthetics and enhancements. In the future, it is plausible that homes with more diverse designs may evolve, yet for now, this novelty is unprecedented.
While I walk alongside Rem, overseeing that everything proceeds with utmost precision, I behold people radiating happiness at this fresh opportunity.
Some of them are the very laborers who erected their own homes, while others are farmers who now possess stable dwellings.
Furthermore, the blacksmiths, carpenters, and the leaders of the laborers also have their homes furnished. This enables them to reunite with their families, and none have spurned this chance. They all journeyed with joy to gather their loved ones from the capital and other places.
Everything is unfolding as planned.
Most astonishingly, those who still retained their residences offered to sell their lands to secure a home in the new district. This has been my scheme from the outset: relocating these individuals to the mansion while we demolish and reconstruct the area.
This course of action also permits us to segregate the space and establish commercial and industrial zones, where people can labor.
However, all those pales in significance before me is the most paramount edifice. A structure that required earth lamicta crystals to sustain it and serve as a refuge in times of crisis.
"A school, indeed," Rem remarks, gazing upon the grandeur of the construction.
We have erected a grand school in the vicinity, spacious enough to accommodate all students. We have enlisted capable individuals to instruct in the arts of reading and writing, and personally, I shall impart lessons in mathematics and other subjects.
Frederica expressed her desire to oversee some classes in etiquette and history, a proposition I gladly accepted, appointing her as the institution's director. I have complete faith in her pedagogical prowess due to her prior experience.
All of this became possible thanks to Roswaal, who has generously financed the endeavor. Nevertheless, our financial resources are starting to dwindle as we have yet to sell the lamicta crystal lots.
Fortunately, we will soon be able to increase production and gain access to more raw materials, thereby reducing our reliance on external material purchases.
"A school, eh?" Rem remarks, smiling.
"Yes, if anyone wishes to labor in the industry, at least a modicum of literacy shall be requisite," I comment.
Furthermore, I am convinced that academic and investigative specializations will emerge. I do not wish to bear sole responsibility for creating everything but rather to afford the people of this place the opportunity to advance on their own.
Once all the people settled in, night descended, and the village was illuminated by the light crystals we produce in our mines, which did not constitute a significant expenditure.
During the night, the lanterns crafted by the blacksmiths bestow upon the village a magical aesthetic. The contrast between what we have constructed and how it was before is strikingly evident.
People sold all their former residences in hopes of joining the transformation. Some were immediately relocated to their new homes, leaving only five vacant dwellings to be sold to outsiders.
Our aim is to entice individuals to purchase land or pre-built houses, thereby allowing us to expand gradually.
Everyone was gathered, and we had hired musicians and chefs for this special day. Roswaal did not object, for if these people vote for Emilia, it will provide us with an additional advantage. Emilia, Roswaal, and I stood on the stage.
I step forward between the two of them to officiate the culmination of phase two and the commencement of phase three.
Standing erect with my back straight and adorned in a formal black suit, I observe as all eagerly anticipate my words. Clearing my throat, I summon determination from the depths of my being and begin to speak.
"Inhabitants of Irlam, today is a special day. We have suffered immeasurable losses during a cruel assault." I clasp my hands, recalling the pain of that moment. "However, we chose to forge ahead, not to lag behind, and we advanced. Thanks to that, all residents now have a fresh opportunity.
"We have the chance to become greater. This is not limited merely to the construction of residences. Dear people of Irlam, we aspire to continue expanding, erecting new factories, structures, and annexing all neighboring villages." I extend my hand, showcasing my ambitions. "Today, on this grand day, I declare myself the new mayor of the village. We will grow to become rivals of the capital itself."
A surge of cheers erupts in the atmosphere, signifying the acceptance and enthusiasm of the inhabitants and laborers who have exerted themselves so diligently. All hail and exult towards a promising future, yearning to keep progressing.
Emilia then interjects.
"To achieve this, we need your assistance. With your support, we can grow. Only you can determine how far we shall reach." She places her hand upon her chest. "So, what say you?"
I direct my gaze toward the audience, which continues to cheer and applaud for us. Undoubtedly, it's a warm sensation. Everyone desires to keep advancing, to forget their sorrows, and to grow in grandeur.
"Allow me to present to you the new changes in the village!" I exclaim excitedly, pointing toward the imposing school that stands out amidst the other structures, strategically located at the heart of the village. "That place is a school, where absolutely everyone will have the opportunity to learn to read and write and gain knowledge to which only nobles have access."
The gazes of the people turn toward the magnificent two-story building, stretching across the space of several conventional houses. With the capacity to accommodate two hundred individuals, we have successfully created the first school.
"In this place, everyone has opportunities. Thanks to Mr. Roswaal L. Mathers, we have hired highly trained staff who will guide you. Without knowledge, there is no power. Everyone will be capable of acquiring different skills to nourish themselves and fulfill their greatest desires."
In the future, new jobs will emerge that will require knowledge. That's why I ask everyone to dedicate some of their time to study.
"To those who are working, flexibility will be provided so they can study. Furthermore, they will receive various benefits as they attain higher levels of knowledge. They can work as accountants in the new factories, start their own businesses. Only you set your limits," Emilia adds.
The people cheer even louder. For them, this is a golden opportunity. It's the greatest wager, and it depends solely on them. That's why I need them to be intelligent, to grow, to establish their own businesses, to be entrepreneurs and leaders in their respective fields.
"In addition to education, we have also constructed new factories and commercial zones to boost the economic growth of our village. These factories will generate employment and opportunities for all of you. I invite you to join this new stage of prosperity and become part of our industrial development. Together, we will be capable of overcoming any obstacle and become a force to be reckoned with, even by the capital," I proclaim with conviction.
The crowd continues to applaud and cheer, brimming with enthusiasm and hope. The vision of a prosperous future has deeply resonated in their hearts, and they are ready to fight for it. Tears of pain and suffering have transformed into tears of joy and determination.
Emilia, with her soft yet spirited voice, adds:
"We cannot forget our essence or our history. As we move towards a bright future, we must preserve our traditions and values. Let us safeguard our identity, our roots, so that we never lose our essence on this path to progress."
The village erupts into an even greater uproar, applauding and cheering with even greater vigor. They are determined to forge a better future without forsaking their past.
"Today marks the beginning of a new era for Irlam!" I exclaim with enthusiasm. "Together, we will build a prosperous village, a place where everyone can reach their dreams and where greatness is within the grasp of each of you. Let us advance together towards a brilliant future!"
The roar of the crowd spreads throughout the village, enveloping us in a sea of hope and determination. In that moment, I know we are on the right path, and Irlam will become a place where dreams come true.
"Then, for all of this, we need a force capable of defending us. That's why we decided to form our own force. We will rely on ourselves to defend what we love."
I extend my hand towards Rem, who carefully hands me the weapon.
"We shall not be mere knights! We are protectors," I proclaim with determination, raising the weapon high. I am aware of the hard work the blacksmiths have invested in its creation.
The weapon I hold in my hands is the source of my confidence, the beginning of an unstoppable legacy. With this, I have no reason to fear; I can enhance it, increase its power, and achieve swift and efficient strength.
"This is a rifle! It is the fruit of the collaborative labor between the blacksmiths and me," I announce proudly.
The Mosin-Nagant rifle rests in my hand, a bolt-action design that saw the light at the end of the 19th century and was widely used in the Russian military and other countries during the 20th century.
Assuming a resolute stance, I stand firm while Rem dons a conventional suit of metal armor, akin to what most people wear. Only the affluent knights can afford steel alloys, but I am determined to surpass them soon.
With a fluid motion, I unlock the bolt of the rifle by raising the handle and sliding it backward. I insert a cartridge designed to hold a maximum of five bullets before needing to be replaced.
The greatest challenge lies in the fact that black powder is tremendously inefficient. Since I don't have access to smokeless powder at this moment, I had to make modifications to the weapon to ensure the optimal functioning of the bullets.
The bullets are of caliber 7.62x54mmR, or I think they are, which led me to blend black powder with small fire-lamicta compounds. Normally, this would be costly, but thanks to the minuscule quantity required per unit, it poses no issue.
Destroying the crystal powder will diminish its power, but it won't affect the rifle. Until we have smokeless powder at our disposal, we will need to perform more frequent maintenance on the weapon. However, this will only be temporary.
When we have more resources, we can invest in the creation of superior firearms.
"This is just a glimpse of what the defenders will be capable of!" I declare vehemently, aiming toward the armor eagerly anticipating impact. I take a shallow breath and, with unyielding determination, squeeze the trigger of the weapon.
Bang!