NOVEL NEXT Chapter 6: Chapter 6: The Glow of Progress
The construction of the mega bridge began with a sense of determination and excitement, but I knew this was no small task. The scale of the project required innovative solutions and meticulous planning. From day one, I implemented modern engineering techniques to ensure efficiency and safety, much to the surprise of the kingdom's engineers.
Innovation: Pulley Cranes and Hydraulics
One of the first systems I introduced was a pulley-based crane for lifting heavy materials. The workers were amazed at how the contraption reduced their physical strain and sped up the work. Soon after, I designed a primitive hydraulic system using water pressure to power some of the heavier machinery, an innovation that left the royal engineers in awe.
The princess, Evelyn, became an integral part of the project. Her curiosity and sharp mind impressed me. She asked questions about every mechanism, from the pulleys to the hydraulic systems, and even suggested minor improvements. Her presence began to feel less like an obligation and more like a partnership.
The Mythical Pet and Radium Discovery
During the second month of construction, I sent Terra, my mythical pet, into the depths of nearby caves to search for rare materials. To my surprise, it returned with a glowing green mineral: radium.
Using the system's guidance, I processed the radium into a safe, paintable form and decided to coat the sides of the bridge with it. At night, the glow illuminated the structure, turning it into a beacon visible for miles. The workers were mesmerized, calling it the "Bridge of Light."
Challenges Along the Way
The project wasn't without its hurdles.
Floods: A torrential downpour swelled the river, threatening to wash away the foundation. I quickly devised a barrier system using sandbags and diverted the flow with makeshift canals.
Winter Snowstorms: During the harsh winters, snow buried the site, freezing the machinery and halting progress. To combat this, I introduced heated tents powered by steam generators, ensuring that work continued even in the bitter cold.
Worker Morale: Long hours and grueling labor wore down the workers. Evelyn and I organized feasts and competitions to boost morale, even joining the workers in their celebrations. Her warmth and genuine care won their hearts.
As these challenges unfolded, Evelyn's admiration for me grew. She often watched me work late into the night, her expressions of awe and pride becoming more evident with each passing day.
Completion of the Mega Bridge
After two years of relentless effort, the mega bridge stood completed—a masterpiece of engineering and innovation. The glowing radium paint made it a marvel unlike anything the kingdom had ever seen.
The grand unveiling ceremony was attended by nobles, merchants, and the king himself. As the first carriage crossed the bridge, the crowd erupted in cheers. The king's expression was one of pure delight as he turned to me.
"You have outdone yourself, Leoric," he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "This bridge will not only connect our lands but also symbolize progress and unity. You've made history today."
A Royal Offer
During the celebratory banquet, the king extended an unexpected offer.
"Leoric, I want you to be the royal architect. Your talent is unparalleled, and with you in the capital, we can reshape the kingdom."
I smiled politely but shook my head. "Your Majesty, I am honored, but my heart belongs to Wynthall. I want to use my knowledge to uplift my people and bring prosperity to my dukedom."
The king nodded, impressed by my resolve. "Then I shall grant Wynthall a special status within the kingdom, exempting it from certain taxes for the next five years. Additionally, you will receive the construction fees—double the amount your dukedom pays in annual taxes."
The hall erupted in applause. This reward would transform Wynthall, giving me the resources to implement even bigger projects.
Evelyn's Decision
After the banquet, Evelyn approached her father with a determined look. "Father, I wish to accompany Leoric to Wynthall."
The king raised an eyebrow. "Why?"
"I want to learn more. I've seen what he's capable of, and I believe I can contribute to his vision. Please, let me go."
The king considered her words before nodding. "Very well. If this is what you wish, I will not stop you. But remember, you carry the pride of the royal family."
The next morning, Evelyn and I departed for Wynthall. Accompanying us were new workers, engineers, and carts filled with tools and materials. The king had also assigned a few of his top advisors to oversee future collaborations between the crown and my company.
A Bright Future
As we approached Wynthall, I couldn't help but smile. The bridge had not only connected the kingdom but also marked the beginning of a new chapter for my dukedom. With Evelyn by my side, my mythical pet Terra assisting in resource extraction, and a treasury full of resources, the possibilities were endless.
This was just the beginning of a legacy that would transform the world—one project at a time.
End of Chapter 6