As promised, Otto confronted Emilia and convinced her to prepare for war. He was the perfect person for this task, as they both share the same ideology of avoiding conflict. Otto decided to keep all information about Roswaal secret, only sharing what they know about the Sages.
Two days of intense debates on the course of action passed. They were exhausting days for him, but finally things began to move.
At this moment, a letter arrives at the mansion from the city of Costuul. I find myself in the laboratory with Emilia and Beatrice. It's nighttime, and we are about to rest, but as usual, we share a moment together, just the three of us.
"Still, we must prioritize people's lives," Emilia affirms, staring at me with determination. "I won't allow anything to happen to them."
I smile, nodding at her words. "Of course, our priority is to protect everyone," I assure, watching her expression relax.
As we progress in this situation, Emilia becomes more confident and active, unafraid to voice her thoughts, especially when it comes to the welfare of others.
This makes me happy.
Meanwhile, I continue to comb Beatrice's hair, as she sits on my lap. In the laboratory, I manage to feel a bit calmer, although I continue to search for alternatives to war, it seems that the decision has already been made.
The problem is that Roswaal hasn't provided me with any information regarding this. I need him to call me to give me details so that I can act accordingly.
"Betty doesn't want Marco to keep putting himself in danger, in fact," Beatrice complains.
"But now I'm stronger than before," I respond, finishing combing her hair and hugging her to feel her warmth.
"Still, you keep facing dangerous situations, I suppose," Beatrice comments as she places her hands on my arms, accepting my embrace. "Betty fears the day she might not see you again, in fact."
Emilia watches both of us and smiles. "I agree with Betty; you keep getting yourself into risky situations."
Faced with both their responses, I can only shrug. It's not that I want to fight; I simply desire a peaceful and safe life.
"To achieve our dreams, sometimes we must face risks."
"Hmpf!" they both snort simultaneously.
I wonder how Rem is doing. She will surely try to return when she hears the news, but until then, I hope she finds what she's looking for.
"In any case, we must be prepared to minimize the impact on Irlam. The last thing we need is for people to feel afraid," I say, looking directly at Emilia. "Our responsibility is to ensure that our people don't fear, make that clear."
"Yes!" Emilia squeezes her hands with determination. "I'll do everything in my power."
After chatting for a while, Emilia leaves the laboratory and heads to her room. She must feel lonely without Puck; obviously, she has us, but she must miss him too.
The same goes for me, as well as for Beatrice.
"When are you going to tell me where he is?" I ask Beatrice, grabbing her ears.
She reacts quickly, grabbing my hands and trying to remove them.
"I won't tell you, in fact!" Beatrice exclaims, taking my hands off and looking at me annoyed. "You better pay attention to Betty, I suppose."
Beatrice leans against my chest, and we both lie down. The light in the laboratory goes off, and I close my eyes, trying to fall asleep. I hug Beatrice, and we settle in to sleep.
"Goodnight," I feel the heaviness in my eyes.
"Rest, I suppose."
I must be strong; right now, I can't stop. I will be able to cope with this situation, and if I do, I'll be able to get closer to where I want to go. This world wants to consume me, but I won't allow it.
I am strong; I become stronger every day. I will consume this world entirely.
Morning comes. I feel Beatrice's warm embrace as she breathes slowly on my chest. I stroke her head and carefully remove her arms, preventing her from getting up.
Afterward, I head to take a shower, and to my surprise, Ram is outside the bathroom entrance.
"Do you want to take a bath with me?" I ask Ram, to which she gives me a threatening look.
"Who would want to bathe with you?" she responds, making me smirk mischievously.
I grab a towel and hold it in my hands, locking eyes with Roswaal.
"Well, I guess it'll be with Roswaal then. Too bad you can't come in," I say, opening the shower door, and before stepping in, I add, "Good morning."
I close the door behind me and enter the bathroom, where I see Roswaal submerged in the large tub. He leans forward, and his eyes meet mine.
"Hi~~!" Roswaal raises his hand in a friendly gesture. "To thi~~nk you'd be here."
It's rare to coincide in moments like this; usually, I avoid entering when he's in the bathroom, but today I decide to seize the opportunity to find out if there's any news. The letter from Costuul is surely already in his office.
"I can't afford to waste a minute," I strip off my clothes and head towards the artificial shower. "I suppose you must be busy too."
Roswaal smiles at my words, shrugging as if enjoying a recent respite.
"La~~tely, I've been fe~eling fre~er. Thanks to you, who have taken care of keeping the prope~~rties in perfect condi~~tion, I've managed to have qui~~te a bit of fre~~e time."
I activate the shower, allowing the water to begin falling over my body. As the cold water envelops me, I continue speaking.
"Soon, I will organize a team of people so that I can also have more time."
The truth is, I've been extremely busy with all the paperwork. Even with the typewriter, it's been exhausting work. Otto and I can barely keep up with all the tasks that need to be done.
I've already selected the right people; I just need to make the announcement, and of course, I'll do that today.
I can't allow any more delays. The birth of a new ministry is essential if I want to have everything in order to focus on my invention projects and the improvements I plan to implement.
For the war as well, having people to take care of things will allow me to have a more active role.
Roswaal remains silent and then gets up.
"I've received important news; I need to talk to you. Come to my office when you're done," he says without his usual mannerisms, then leaves the bathroom without adding more words.
I don't fully understand that man; I don't know if he follows all the rules to the letter, but something has definitely changed. I must find out what it is.
I finish my shower, quickly dress, and head towards Roswaal's office. There, both of them stare at me intently.
"I took a little longer than expected," I walk to the sofa and sit down. "Did something happen in the capital?"
There's no time to waste; I must get straight to the point. The atmosphere becomes increasingly tense, and I feel the weight in the air.
Acting as if I didn't know, I simply need to follow the steps that will make Roswaal believe he's on the right track. Ram then hands me a letter, the same letter that Miklotov showed me once.
I read its contents and notice slight modifications.
"Don't they need your approval to grant me the lands of Irlam? They are in a central location relative to your possessions; it's somewhat hasty to grant me ownership of Irlam, even as a viscount."
Roswaal smiles, shrugging as if resigned. "I tried to refuse, but they offered a city in exchange, a rather strategic city near the capital. It's advantageous for us to have it under our control."
The city of Hanumas is located a short distance from the capital, which would allow us to improve our trade relations in that regard. It also opens the door for us to initiate expansion operations in that area, creating a connection between Irlam and Hanumas.
"Still, the next step is..."
Roswaal sighs, stands up, and walks to the window. Memories of a past conversation begin to surface in me, the first time I spoke to him about the Book of Wisdom.
My hands start to tremble slightly, recalling the pain of seeing Beatrice embracing me for the first time.
"Costuul and my family have always maintained good relations. The magical automation machine of Costuul was created by one of my ancestors," Roswaal turns and looks me in the eyes. "Though not as impressive as your improved steam machine, it definitely contributed to the growth of their city. What was once a small town becoming the country's leading Lugunica in advancements in Lugunica."
The closest thing to what I intend to achieve in Irlam. Without a doubt, Costuul is our main competitor, but in terms of physical knowledge, we are ahead.
"They have made considerable progress, especially in the field of magical machines; they are decades ahead of us."
Yes, they have the advantage in that aspect, but that doesn't explain their desperation.
"The latest generation of the Costuul family has been pressuring us for improvements in their machine. However, having allied with the Karsten family, I decided to reject their demands."
The atmosphere becomes increasingly tense, like in an Edgar Allan Poe suspense plot, where every word hides a deep and dark meaning. Roswaal keeps secrets, and it's my duty to uncover them.
The Karsten family has taken decisions in Costuul, but it was the Mathers who provided opportunities for them to advance.
"The Marquis of Costuul, Robert Costuul, is a notoriously greedy figure. Since the steam machine became public, he has tried to contact me repeatedly. However, due to our current political campaign, I have rejected all his requests."
Of course, making a deal with Costuul would not be beneficial at all. What he desires is precisely the same as what I intend to achieve.
"In the library of the main mansion, the blueprints may be found, although my servant has not been able to locate them. I'm not sure if they're hidden or if, in fact, only Costuul possesses them."
"Or maybe you're lying to force a confrontation," I think to myself, without showing any expression.
In a world where patents don't exist, any invention can be claimed as one's own, but it's also possible to accuse others of theft, all depending on the power you wield. It's a reality that repeats itself everywhere.
"War is imminent," I fix my gaze on Roswaal with determination. He opens his eyes, visibly surprised, but tries to say something that I interrupt.
"I won't allow them to lay their hands on Irlam. We will engage in negotiations, but if they try to harm us, they will pay a high price," I place my hand over my chest. "I, Marco Luz, will assume all responsibilities that this entails. To achieve this, I need you to tell me everything you know."
Roswaal closes his eyes for a moment, causing my heart to race. The future becomes uncertain.
"Interesting..." Roswaal finally sits at his desk and looks me in the eyes. "Are you sure this is your final decision?"
I try to maintain composure, though no matter how strong I've become, at this moment, I'm no match for Roswaal. He masters all branches of magic and possesses skills and knowledge that far exceed mine.
In a physical fight, perhaps I could defeat him, maybe, but I'm convinced I would be powerless in a magical confrontation.
"They yearn to take everything from us," I approach, locking my gaze with his with deep hatred. "I won't allow anyone to snatch Irlam from us! Even if the facts are consummated, if the fight is inevitable, I will face it."
Roswaal smiles as he intertwines his hands.
"Then allow me to support you in any way possible."
I settle on the sofa, eager to hear his plans.
"Battles over territory are commonplace; there are even combat matches held in coliseums to settle land ownership, aiming to avoid unnecessary losses," Ram offers me a cup of tea, although her gaze reflects some annoyance.
I smile gratefully for her gesture of concern. Ram, undoubtedly, is a great hypocrite.
Then, it's time for me to express my thoughts.
"Costuul wants to put an end to Irlam. Our significant actions and the exponential growth of contracts with us have them afraid of falling behind."
Roswaal nods, confirming one of the main reasons.
"In Costuul, despite the usefulness of their inventions, there is a marked lag compared to the advancements of the era due to the population increase. Improvements are focused on magic since they don't fully understand physical principles. Their focus is on magical optimization or the replacement of these principles." Just imagining the amount of pyroxene crystals, they must consume hurts my pocket.
"We import Lamicta fire and earth crystals to Costuul, which they use in their forging factory."
He reveals another of the great secrets: the factory where holy coins and magical steel are produced.
"Now, what I want to know," I cross my hands, trying to envision the answer. "What can I gain from this war? Not only must we prevent them from reaching Irlam, but we must also turn the war into a benefit."
The atmosphere becomes charged with anticipation as I await Roswaal's words. Amid the palpable tension, Roswaal falls into a brief silence, while the dense and desolate atmosphere seems to conspire to disturb my calm.
With a thoughtful gesture, I bring the teacup offered by Ram to my lips, attempting to quell the storm of thoughts raging in my mind.
"The prospect of losing lives because of these inventions will not be well-received, and the reason they use the revolutionary army is to involve you more expeditiously," Roswaal begins, abandoning his usual mannerisms. "You will need to accuse them of something similar."
I already foresee the path he intends to chart.
"Spread the rumor that they are linked to the Witch Cult."
The irony is not lost on me; they accuse us of being associated with the revolutionary army, the same one that has ties to the cult. We must conduct this battle according to the principles we have upheld thus far.
It seems that Helena, our journalist, will have a challenging task ahead.
"As expected, you understand the situation quickly," Roswaal asserts, pointing towards the mountain. "Costuul could indeed have those connections, but for now, they are just my assumptions. Whether you choose to believe me or not will depend on your judgment."
Everything falls into place. The connection with the cult is a latent reality. It was expected that the wise men would be intertwined with the organization. At this moment, they seek to use elements from Costuul to incriminate me.
However, they do not foresee that I will prevail in this contest. But if I do, I will have the ability to dismantle Costuul completely, and that would also redound to their benefit.
They pretend to be the rabbits, hoping I'll be the hunter. But in their cunning, they plan to devour me whole.
"Then, there's nothing more to say," I rise to my feet, my gaze fixed on the imposing mountain. "We will declare war, and you will send a letter to Costuul denying these connections, which will give us time to act. I will begin mobilizing immediately."
I nod my head in respect to Roswaal and leave his office.
Is this the right path?
I am curious about what lies within that mysterious book and what future it plans for us. However, at this moment, I have no choice but to keep moving forward.
Once in Irlam, I head to my office. Upon entering, I see Otto conversing with Beatrice and Emilia, who fall silent upon seeing me.
"Good morning," I greet, entering the room and heading to my desk.
Amidst the urgency pressing upon us, we begin coordinating the intricate details of our plan, aware that the fate of Irlam ominously hangs over us.
"The ministers' investiture will take place today. They have already been summoned to the square for the ceremony," I look at Otto with determination. "Go and organize everything for it to take place this afternoon; we must finalize this step if we intend to focus on the matter of war."
Aware of the need to lighten our workload, I identify various tasks that Otto and I can delegate. Baltazar and his assistant will be responsible for approving all mining operations and matters related to the smithy.
Helena, who has shown exceptional performance with the printing press, has the crucial mission of expanding our influence beyond the borders of Irlam, a goal that has not yet been fully achieved.
However, my attempts to establish contact with alchemists have been unsuccessful so far. Although I know they abound in Gusteko, I am forced to wait for someone named Hermod, hoping that he can provide the help we need.
The field of chemistry, in which Beatrice and I are falling behind, demands imminent progress.
In the military sphere, Alsten and Crusch have taken command of expansion operations, relieving me of that responsibility.
The population increase necessitates considering the creation of a police force responsible for maintaining public order, and I intend to announce applications for it today.
Frederica is diligently handling matters related to the academy. Her efforts in hiring experts from various places to teach magic have gradually brought renown to the academy.
It is evident that soon we will need to segment students by age and levels of knowledge, and perhaps even consider the creation of a university, a technical institute that prepares new talents for factories and their respective modes of operation.
The opening of the Patent Center, though imminent, will be delayed for a reason I keep secret, a plan I have in mind that could result in significant gains.
In the midst of this overwhelming list of tasks, Emilia interrupts with a question that reflects her concern:
"Marco, are you sure it's prudent to establish a hospital?" Her gaze settles on me, tinged with concern.
Amidst a careful and laborious search, we have managed to recruit several healing mages, from novices to experts, who have decided to seek opportunities in our lands.
Additionally, we have established a class taught by Emilia to teach them the fundamentals of medicine in Irlam.
This recruitment process has taken time, as these healing mages are scarce and many of them are affiliated with guilds or noble houses.
Most of the more experienced healing mages have chosen to take on research roles, with the purpose of integrating their methods more effectively.
This work is carried out in our academy, and they are paid for it.
However, my ambition goes beyond this. I have conceived the idea of establishing a chain of hospitals, with the goal of making quality medical services accessible to everyone.
These hospitals will be funded through taxes but will be available to all, with doctors willing to attend to those in need.
The decision to undertake this endeavor is shared with Emilia, whom I look at with determination.
"If you believe you can handle it, then we can do it," I tell her, and her face lights up with excitement as she squeezes her hands.
Emilia has a deep passion for healing and medicine, even though it is not her primary element. Her contracts with the spirits seem to be enough to support this vocation, although Puck is a better resource in this regard.
However, I have no hesitation in supporting her dream and ambition.
I feel that this will not only help her forge her own name but also grant her invaluable responsibility in her future as a ruler. Now she will be dealing with human lives and will need to learn to manage, in addition to teaching future practitioners.
I have imparted all my knowledge of medicine to her, although it may not be very extensive. I have used articles and books to expand her understanding. From here on, Emilia will surpass my knowledge and will have to chart her own path.
As for the Ministry of Agriculture, I have already found someone capable of taking charge of it.
Among the dense web of decisions and responsibilities I assume as a leader, I cannot overlook the presence of the other ministers. They are an essential part of this project, and I do not want to underestimate their importance.
This collaboration will allow us to move towards the consolidation of quality standards and the creation of more rigorous regulations for our industry. I will not let myself be stopped, no matter the difficulties that arise.
Amidst my reflection, a soft, pleading voice wrenches me from my thoughts. It's Beatrice, with a shy expression on her face as she tugs at my jacket.
"Marco... Can we go to that restaurant today?" she asks, with a glint of desire in her eyes.
Beatrice's gaze makes my heart soften, almost without thinking about it.
"Whenever my princess desires," I reply tenderly, taking her hands and lifting her onto my shoulders. "Are you coming with us?" I add, glancing at Emilia, who nods eagerly.
We decide to have lunch outside, at a new family-style restaurant that offers a wide variety of dishes from this world. After satisfying our appetites, Otto and I immerse ourselves in the preparations that await us.
Once we are ready and organized, I watch as people begin to gather.
Helena, Shane, Karl, Rost, Jahir, Pearl, and Crusch— all names that have proven to be influential and highly skilled for their future roles—are present in this crucial moment.
After several minutes, a crowd has gathered, and I feel it's the right time. I step up to the platform, observing the crowd, who appear smiling, well-fed, and elegantly dressed.
Their clothes are simple, without the ostentatious luxury of most nobles, but they have a unique style that reflects Rem's store influence.
A smile forms on my lips as I joyfully behold my people.
"Habitants of Irlam!" I announce firmly, causing silence to fall, laden with anticipation. "Today, I can affirm that we are fulfilling our first promise."
After these words, the future ministers join me on the platform, all standing tall and ready to receive their appointments.
"I am immensely proud of what we are building. Each of you has played an essential role in this achievement," I add, sweeping my hand back and gesturing to everyone present. "So, I want to pay tribute to these people."
Excitement and anticipation fill the air as the culminating moment approaches. The gazes of those present reflect a deep sense of shared achievement, as if everyone is weaving together a bright future.
Otto steps onto the platform, holding a black wooden box elegantly decorated with a golden ribbon. His gaze sweeps over the crowd with anticipation.
"Today, we will appoint the ministers of Irlam!" I smile, accepting that I will finally have more time to dedicate to my projects. "People from the town who have gradually risen, individuals who, through their effort, talent, and intelligence, have reached where they are today."
I raise my hand, pointing towards the sky as a symbol of shared aspiration.
"These individuals will have a responsibility to you, they will be in charge of administering different important areas in Irlam." I begin to applaud, and the applause spreads like a torrent of enthusiasm. "A round of applause for the new ministers!"
The applause mixes with the cheers of the crowd, creating a symphony of joy. This project has been a challenge that I have faced with determination, from drafting rules to navigating bureaucracy.
"More administrative positions will soon open, and only those who pass the exams will be approved." I tighten my fist, conveying the importance of preparation. "Study, investigate, invent, remember that in Irlam, merit and actions will open doors for you, regardless of your race or gender. Everyone has equal opportunities!"
The cheers and applause reach their peak once again as more people gather to listen while the ceremony continues.
"The Minister of Press, Helena Grandheart!"
Helena takes a step forward, approaching us. She holds in her hands the letter that will play a crucial role in my plan against the sages, the person who will lead a press research group with the intention of informing the people.
Despite the corruption that plagues the media in our world, I see noble potential in Helena, full of possibilities that deserve to be cultivated.
I take the badge and look at Helena, who radiates a smile full of life and enthusiasm.
"Congratulations, Helena. Your grandfather would be proud to see you advancing with your dreams." With extreme care, I place the badge on her chest. It shines with a glow that reflects her passionate spirit and tireless pursuit of truth.
"Wisdom and the pursuit of truth, that's what you represent." I smile, looking at her proudly and letting my words resonate with the audience.
She bows before me with gratitude and humility.
"Thank you very much for giving me this opportunity. I feel fortunate and sincerely appreciate everything you have done for me."
Helena takes a step forward, bowing to everyone present.
"If any of you have information or wish to work with the Ministry of Press, applications must be submitted to the Ministry office."
A new building, imposing and majestic, rises in the heart of the city, larger than the academy and only half the size of Roswaal's mansion. We bought properties and relocated people to make this dream a reality.
Now, near the city center, stands the Ministry, a place where all the ministers will work from now on.
The applause resonates strongly, bidding farewell to Helena for her commitment and bravery.
"The Minister of Education, Frederica Bauman."
Applause bursts forth with enthusiasm, children cheering joyfully. Frederica, though looking surprised and somewhat uncomfortable with the ovation, can't help but smile. Her sharp teeth make a special appearance, but to my eyes, her beauty is undeniable.
She advances with elegant steps, wearing a stylish black dress that highlights her golden hair. Standing before me, she wears a warm smile and meets my eyes.
I take out the badge and begin to place it on her. A golden badge in the shape of a book, symbolizing knowledge and learning.
"You represent the future, the past, and the present. In you lies the responsibility of our future generations, in you rests the hope and beginnings of Irlam." I finish placing the badge and look at her with a sincere smile. "You are the future of Irlam."
She looks at me in surprise, then squints her eyes and lets out a light laugh.
"It seems I have many responsibilities, don't I?" Frederica bows in a sign of respect. "As long as I live, I swear to give my utmost effort to create a new generation full of knowledge and opportunities."
She has worked tirelessly, dedicating great effort to studying everything necessary in the academy for the future generations of researchers and workers.
Her commitment deserves all possible honors.
"Those who feel passionate about teaching, about raising future generations, about working and researching, about pursuing their dreams, I await you at the Ministry office."
Frederica steps back, and I continue with the medal presentations. Karl, the Minister of Planning, in charge of construction works, steps forward with determination. His face reflects the seriousness of his position, and he accepts the medal with pride.
Rost, the Minister of Environment, approaches to receive his distinction. His commitment to cleanliness and caring for the city is evident in his expression. The citizens applaud, recognizing his work.
Pest, the Minister of Public Safety, is next to be decorated. Despite having lost a leg in the line of duty, his determination is unshakable. The audience gives him a warm applause.
Jahir, Minister of Food and Agriculture, receives his medal with humility. His responsibility to ensure food quality is vital for everyone. The crowd acknowledges his importance and applauds him with gratitude.
Pearl, Minister of Labor, is praised for her pivotal role in maintaining fair wages and accessible schedules for all. Production will only be successful if it is treated with fairness, and she is a key piece in that puzzle.
Shane, Baltazar's assistant, accepts his position with responsibility. Although Baltazar did not want to take the position of minister, he trusts Shane to assist in his work.
Alexander, Minister of Industry, is recognized for his task in managing the factories and ensuring safety standards. His work contributes to the development of the city.
And finally, it's Crusch Karsten's turn, the Minister of Defense. Alsten chose not to be part of the ministry, stating that Crusch has better capabilities.
She walks with a smile on her face, demonstrating her dedication to improving the army and protecting the city. Her military uniform reflects her commitment, and I can't help but praise her.
"You wear it quite well, you look beautiful," I tell her with admiration.
Crusch, despite her military attire, radiates beauty and confidence. She smiles and bows to me in a sign of respect. Then, she turns her gaze to the crowd.
"I promise to defend you! I promise to do everything in my power to ensure peace reigns in Irlam!" she announces with determination.
Applause erupts, not only from the soldiers but also from the adults present. Emotion fills the air as Crusch commits to protecting the city.
The ceremony comes to an end, and it's time for me to give some final words.
"I remind you all that if any of you want to achieve a decoration, a position, if you wish to advance in life, you must continue studying, researching. Knowledge and creativity will guide you to the future you desire," I raise my hand with determination, pointing towards the sky. "For Irlam!"
The crowd responds with fervent chorus.
"For Irlam!"
The ceremony concludes, leaving a feeling of hope and unity in the air in this new stage of Irlam.