The Frugal Mage

After a few more seconds, Farren finally gave his opinion.

"I don't think it's just about durability… If it's too heavy or clumsy, no one will use it. People are used to quills because they're light. If this feels like holding a rod of iron, they'll hate it. I'd use a thin alloy, something light but flexible, maybe even mix in bone or treated wood for the body. The nib, though…" he frowned as he had to consider this carefully.

"…it doesn't have to be all metal, does it? What if the tip was plated, just enough to handle the wear, but kept light and smooth? That way it flows better."

Rayven clenched his fist... As expected, aside from Gene, there were many talented individuals within the estate.

They just needed a chance to show their abilities.

What he heard was an insight he hadn't expected. After all, the man was already thinking about how a person using the pen would feel.

He didn't even consider it and just thought that it would be convenient since they would no longer have to use any ink drops.

Rayven even felt that this business would really make him rich once it started. Perhaps, if that happened, he wouldn't have to work as an Adventurer again.

Still, the group wasn't done yet.

Aaron, the eldest, studied the parchment quietly all this time. He was also nodding and agreeing with their words as he found this reasonable.

But he wanted to add something…

"You're both missing the heart of this. The ink has to flow steadily, neither flooding nor clogging. That's the soul of this design. The reservoir's one thing, but controlling that flow…" He then tapped at the narrow lines Rayven had drawn between the ink reservoir and nib.

"That's where it will succeed or fail. If it were me, I'd experiment with different bore sizes, different angles. Maybe even use a thin wire inside the channel to regulate it. Metalwork we can handle, but consistency? That'll be the true test."

Rayven listened to them in silence, impressed.

Durability. Usability. Consistency.

All of it was considered by the men…

He was also quite happy that none of them dismissed the idea as foolish. After all, it was something new, and some people may not like the idea of changing the traditional way of writing.

Rayven was satisfied as he folded the parchment carefully and slipped it back into his pocket.

"Good," he said at last. "That's exactly the kind of thinking I need. This isn't a sword or armor to be used once in battle. This is something that must work again and again, every day. Instead of just choosing one craftsman, I'd really like to hire the three of you to work together…"

The three craftsmen straightened unconsciously at his words. They then looked at Rennard, since he was basically the one who had employed them here.

Seeing that Rennard wasn't speaking just yet and was still in thought, Aaron stepped forward and explained.

"We can certainly work for you, young master. Our duties here are mostly repetitive. We already trained apprentices to handle the wire pulling and shaping. They'll keep the workshop running even if we're not always here."

His words carried a hint of excitement, though his tone was calm.

It wasn't just about money. They liked the idea of working on something new, something that would challenge their craft.

The other two nodded firmly. Farren even added enthusiastically… "It would be refreshing to work on something different instead of drawing and stretching metal all day. I think we'll be able to give this writing tool of yours the refinement it needs."

At last, Rennard raised his head and looked at Rayven. "They're right. Even if they leave the floor work to the apprentices, the output won't be affected. I trust these three enough for that."

He was a bit hesitant at first, but seeing that the three didn't mind it, he could only allow it since he also wanted to support the young master.

Rennard then added a few more things that Rayven might need to know.

"Currently, they're each being paid seven silver coins a month. That's the standard for skilled metalworkers in this city. It's not high, but it's steady, and it keeps them here."

Rayven thought for a moment. Seven silver wasn't much compared to the profits a successful pen business could bring. If he wanted these men to work hard, stay loyal, and not cut corners, then he needed to show them that their efforts would be rewarded properly.

"Then… Since I'm basically stealing you all from this workshop, I'll pay you nine silver per month. Each of you. In return, I expect dedication and results. If you succeed with me, your names will be tied to something far greater than wirework."

The three craftsmen exchanged glances. Their eyes widened a little at the number… It wasn't a fortune, but it was a clear show of respect and trust.

Aaron bowed slightly. "That is more than fair, young master. You'll have our best efforts."

Bram also nodded with approval. "If you're willing to value us that much, then I'll make sure this pen doesn't fail."

Farren was probably the most excited among them since he had just gotten married.

"I like a salary increase… You'll get more than your money's worth."

With all these arranged, he immediately hooked them up with Gene, so they could all work together.

Rayven would also let him decide where they should start working… Well, that was part of Gene's job… to manage the people.

***

The following morning, Rayven arrived at the Adventurer's Guild earlier than usual.

It was still quite early, so there weren't many people around.

Stella, the young receptionist, spotted him almost immediately and gestured for him to come closer.

"You're early… The Guildmaster instructed me to bring you upstairs. The Gray Ring team is waiting."

Rayven's brows rose slightly. The name was new to him, but he came here for the Silver-Rank team, who had lost their mage.

He could only assume that Gray Ring must be the name of their group.