NOVEL NEXT Chapter 4: Chapter 4: A Mega Bridge and a Mythical Ally
The day began like any other, though the weight of the royal invitation hung over me. The capital, Arenthal, was a marvel of architecture and engineering compared to my dukedom, but even as I admired its grandeur, my engineer's eye spotted flaws and areas for improvement.
As my carriage trundled over the main bridge leading into the heart of the city, I felt the distinct, unsettling sway of instability beneath us. The bridge creaked ominously, its stone arches cracked and worn by time. This was the kingdom's primary lifeline for trade and transportation, yet it was barely holding together.
My steward, Cedric, noticed my grim expression. "Something troubling you, young master?"
"This bridge," I muttered, my eyes scanning its structure. "It's a disaster waiting to happen."
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A Systematic Solution
That evening, in my room at the inn, I summoned the system. It had become my secret weapon in this world—a guide and provider of tools from my past life.
"System," I said, focusing on the glowing interface that only I could see. "Show me modern bridge blueprints."
The system responded instantly, presenting a range of options. I settled on a suspension bridge design—elegant, durable, and capable of supporting heavy loads. The blueprint cost a significant number of points, but it was worth it.
Just as the transaction completed, the system announced:
"Congratulations! For your purchase, you have unlocked the Mythical Companion: Terra Pup!"
Before I could react, a small, fluffy creature materialized before me. It looked like a mix between a fox and a puppy, with shimmering golden fur and bright emerald eyes.
The system explained, "Terra Pup has the ability to consume soil and extract specific materials or minerals as needed. Its abilities will aid you in construction and resource gathering."
The pup wagged its tail excitedly, nuzzling my hand. "Well," I said, laughing, "welcome to the team, little one."
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Inventing Cement
The next morning, I began work on a critical component of my bridge project: cement. This world relied on primitive construction techniques, and I needed a reliable binding material to create something truly durable.
With the Terra Pup's help, I collected limestone, clay, and other materials from the surrounding area. Watching the pup dig effortlessly through the soil and spit out pure limestone powder was both fascinating and amusing.
Using my engineering knowledge and the system's guidance, I set up a small kiln to experiment. The process was straightforward but labor-intensive:
1. Heating Limestone: I heated the limestone until it turned into quicklime.
2. Mixing with Clay: Combining quicklime with clay created a paste-like substance.
3. Grinding: I ground the mixture into a fine powder.
The result was a grayish material that hardened when mixed with water—cement.
When I tested it on a small brick structure, the results were astounding. The bricks bonded firmly, creating a sturdy, weather-resistant surface. My excitement was immeasurable.
"This will change everything," I whispered, staring at the first cement block.
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The Royal Party
When the night of the royal party arrived, I entered the banquet hall with a new sense of purpose. The grand room was alive with chatter, laughter, and the clinking of glasses, but my thoughts were focused on the bridge.
As I approached King Aldred, I noticed the nobles' curious glances and hushed whispers. My reputation had clearly preceded me.
"Your Majesty," I said, bowing deeply. "Thank you for this honor."
The king smiled. "Young Duke Leoric, I hear you've been busy with your innovations. Tell me, what brings you to Arenthal?"
Taking a deep breath, I began, "Your Majesty, I must speak about the kingdom's main bridge. It is dangerously unstable. If it collapses, it will disrupt trade and endanger countless lives."
A murmur spread through the hall. Some nobles looked intrigued, while others seemed offended by my boldness.
"Preposterous!" scoffed Lord Damon Albrecht, a powerful noble. "That bridge has stood for decades. Who are you to question its integrity?"
"I am an engineer," I replied firmly. "And I can prove it."
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Proposing the Mega Bridge
Using the system's blueprints and a series of sketches I had prepared, I presented my vision for a new suspension bridge. The design was revolutionary, featuring steel cables, wider lanes, and reinforced supports.
"This bridge," I explained, pointing to the detailed diagrams, "will not only be safer but will also support more traffic and heavier loads. It will connect the capital to the rest of the kingdom more efficiently, boosting trade and prosperity."
The room fell silent as I outlined the benefits, using simple terms to ensure everyone understood. But skepticism lingered.
"And where will you find the resources for such a grand project?" Lord Albrecht challenged.
I smiled. "I have already begun developing a new material—cement. It's stronger and more durable than anything currently used. With this, I can build a bridge that will last for centuries."
To demonstrate, I presented a small cement block and struck it with a hammer. The block remained intact, its resilience evident.
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Securing the Project
The king leaned forward, his expression thoughtful. "Your proposal is ambitious, Leoric. But ambition alone is not enough. Can you truly deliver on your promises?"
"With your support, Your Majesty," I said confidently, "I can begin construction immediately. The Terra Pup at my feet wagged its tail, as if to affirm my words.
After a moment of deliberation, the king nodded. "Very well. I will entrust this project to you. But know this, young Duke—failure is not an option."
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The First Mega Project
As I left the banquet hall that night, my heart swelled with a mix of pride and determination. This was more than a project; it was a chance to prove that innovation could change the world.
The next day, I began assembling a team, recruiting workers from the capital and Wynthall. With the Terra Pup by my side and the system's resources at my disposal, I felt unstoppable.
The bridge would be my greatest challenge yet, but it was also the first step toward building a legacy—one that would reshape the kingdom and secure Wynthall's future.
(End of Chapter 4)