Regressor of the Fallen Family Novel

Regressor of the Fallen Family (Novel) Chapter 242

Chapter 242

"Your Highness!""Master!"Clayton, looking somewhat tired, and Hammer, with sunken cheeks and hardened expressions, faced Logan.Seeing their weary faces and the tension evident in them, Logan felt compassion, though he believed the situation was inevitable, and he patted their shoulders with a wry smile."You've endured a lot.""How could we neglect our responsibilities to the kingdom...""If you understand that, let us take a short break..."As the two leaders, each giving contrasting responses, exchanged awkward laughs, Logan scanned the area."Indeed..."Possibly due to their experience working on several major construction projects together, the construction appeared to be progressing smoothly.The project had begun in the most suitable location for developing the western outskirts of the capital.The water gate was nearing completion, and the Tenon River could be seen beyond the tunnel under the mountain range, everything seemed to be going well.However, the anticipated problems were beginning to surface."Will this reservoir's capacity be adequate? It seems smaller than the McLaine Dam, and have you considered that we need to cultivate double the arable land?""With the continuous flow of river water, the calculations suggest this size is suitable, Master. We have some experience in this area...""No, dig deeper. Increase the capacity by more than double."Hammer's face contorted at that resolute demand."We need to finish this quickly, right? But that will significantly extend the completion time!""Your Highness. My calculations align with Hammer's—it should be sufficient."Despite Clayton's defense, Logan shook his head."It must hold enough water to irrigate the entire wasteland in one go. We plan to use magic-enhanced water farming here. It's much more cost-effective to dissolve magic crystals in still water rather than in flowing water."At Logan's words, Hammer and Clayton's eyes widened."Magic-enhanced water... didn't you mention it was financially burdensome, Master?""Are you certain you can handle it? Really?""I will manage it, so proceed as I have instructed.""Ah..."The shock was brief, but as Hammer realized the enormity of the task ahead, his expression grew more strained."Ugh, to double this..."Although Clayton also sighed, Logan remained resolute.'It's necessary. It must be done. If we are to save even a little time and budget.'He felt a slight headache, perhaps due to accumulated fatigue, but there was no need to show weakness."Hammer, with these adjustments, when do you anticipate completion?"Haa.Hammer shook his head in discontent but soon provided an answer."It will take about two more months, Your Highness.""Attempt to reduce it to around a month.""No, are you serious now...!""Ahahaha. Let's give it a try, Lord Hammer. Your Highness, I will do my best."Whether it was to Hammer, who could only stare in disbelief, or to Clayton, who shook his head with a forced smile, Logan felt regretful for them all.Perhaps because Clayton was aware that the finances were already stretched to the limit."Very well, then I entrust you with finalizing everything, Lord Clayton.""Consider it done, Your Highness."With orders given and received, everyone was worn out.But those cognizant of the dire situation had no time for complaints."How can we possibly cut a month...!""Lord Hammer. Shh!"Except for one dwarf whose workload had significantly increased.* * *[The implementation of magic-enhanced water farming in Esperanza's territory has been concluded.]"Quicker than expected. I thought it wouldn't be finished until around the dam's completion time."[The precise determination of the magic crystal ratio played a significant role. I will provide a separate report on this matter.]"Excellent. Well done, Ria."Upon receiving Victoria's report, Logan let out a faint smile.If things had gone awry, it had turned out positively, almost causing uncontrollable laughter."Return to the capital for now. Once the dam is finished, bring the magic crystals to be installed there."[I have them prepared already.]"...Splendid. You have worked diligently."Victoria's efficient handling of affairs brought a smile to Logan's face after a long time."Now that the mission is a success, I should offer a reward... Ria, is there something you desire?"[No. Being trusted as a magician was a great accomplishment in itself.]Not only was her task execution precise, but her response was perfectly endearing, making Logan even more eager to reward her."Nevertheless, speak up. Clear incentives and penalties will encourage others to be diligent in their work."[If you insist, um... I have heard rumors lately about the magical troops. I would like to join them as well.]"Why?"There was no reason to decline.Logan's principle was to have all magicians in the kingdom be part of the magic troops.Furthermore, whether in combat engineering or support, the effectiveness demonstrated by the golem school had become an essential factor in McLaine's battles."Are you certain you can manage it? Truly?""I will handle it.""...?""I see no reason to refuse."Logan's principle was to have all magicians in the kingdom be part of the magic troops.Moreover, be it combat engineers or support, the effectiveness shown by the golem school had already become an indispensable factor in McLaine's battle."Why? I'm curious about your reason."[To be honest, conducting research at the mage tower isn't my preferred style. I believe it would be more beneficial to be in a place that directly utilizes magic and provides training.]Seeking combat experience.This unexpected response prompted Logan to let out a small sigh as he glanced at Victor standing behind Victoria through the communication device."Very well, if your brother has no objections..."[It's fine.]"Hmm?"Logan had anticipated that Victor would openly disapprove of his younger sister seeking combat training.However, Victor's calm expression as he gazed at Victoria's back indicated otherwise.The overprotective sentiment he had previously exhibited seemed greatly diminished.'A sign that those youngsters are truly maturing.'Observing this positive change elicited a content nod from Logan."Alright, then. Inform Clayton on your behalf and join the troops whenever you wish."[Thank you!]"Victor, you have also worked diligently. Hence, I have arranged something special for you."[... Oh? I haven't contributed much....]"Starting today, partake in the Royal Knights' training. You will be excused from your guard duties for a while. Following regular training, the Sword Sage will oversee your development, so learn diligently."[... Oh?]Victor, momentarily stunned, soon displayed a flushed countenance, as if it was unusual for him not to cheer at that moment.The prodigy, who had reached the pinnacle of the top-grade knights at just twenty-one, would now experience even swifter growth.And now.'The dam project is progressing smoothly, and the magic-enhanced water farming is nearly complete. Is it time to inspect the troops' training?'The last of the three major expensive policies.The soldiers, who had commenced training approximately three months ago.It was time to evaluate another cornerstone for the kingdom's future.* * *"Feet visible!""Are you truly lagging behind due to this minor issue?""You claim to be knights, yet your physical stamina is lacking. Show some dignity!"Amid the royal training grounds, constant reprimands could be heard.Knights bearing flame insignias on their armor pursued those without emblems, persistently pushing them.Naturally, those being scolded were essentially living a nightmare.Blue.Warhorses, drugged into slumber, were draped over their shoulders."How can individuals carry, bite, horses and sprint like this?""I-, insane people.""Is this training or, ugh, torment?!"While they attempted to whisper criticisms quietly, those with acute senses could easily hear their voices.With eyes widened in disbelief, Logan observed the training knights. The Sword Sage, clearing his throat as if to explain, began to clarify."Ahem. The training I proposed is not like this. I heard they train similarly in McLaine. Since it supposedly fosters unity with their horses, I deemed it worth a try.""...The results will undoubtedly show. It's already been proven in McLaine. Of course, it's less rigorous here since the terrain is flat, not mountainous.""That's absurd...""...?""...thing they enacted. It likely explains why McLaine's knights are so formidable. I've even heard commendations about Esperanza's subordinates, stating their caliber is not far from ours."That seems exaggerated."But if I may ask, weren't you planning to pass on the Ironblood Sword technique? Why concentrate solely on physical training?"Faced with Logan's query, the Sword Sage's brow twitched slightly.In a somewhat subdued tone, he responded."I discovered that some lacked fundamental fitness. And honestly..."After a brief hesitation, the Sword Sage sighed and shared his thoughts."There's a mix of McLaine loyalists and those motivated by financial gain. Implementing full McLaine-style training from the outset would be...""Isn't that the responsibility of an instructor?""...""Ah, my apologies. If it's unfeasible, then so be it..."Crack."From now on, I will properly retrain them."As Heinckel's expression turned fierce and the cries of the trainees seemed to reach his ears, Logan could finally depart from the training grounds with a contented smile, feeling satisfied."Prepare spears!""Ha!"Following the drill command by a tall female soldier acting as an instructor at the forefront, the spear swings were still somewhat clumsy. Nevertheless, the formation remained orderly.Only three months into training.In a culture previously centered on agriculture, with women who likely had never engaged in physical activity - their gazes burned with determination.Even in comparison to the male trainees seen in the morning.Eileen, with a sun-kissed complexion, exuded a sense of pride as she reported their progress."Out of the final 52,000 volunteers, 13,420 were women. As you can see, almost none have dropped out, and they are absorbing the training effectively. The dropout rate is even lower than that of the male soldiers. This is also thanks to McLaine's seasoned soldiers, including Cassie here, who is excelling as an instructor.""I also heard that the nation's first female knight is setting a remarkable example?""That's indeed accurate."Eileen's confident response almost made Logan forget the internal concerns he had harbored—her countenance was radiant.Having delegated the training of women to others and not visiting for over three months due to being 'occupied'..."It appears promising.""Absolutely!""...Absolutely?""As someone who received sword training from the greatest sword hero and is admired by over ten thousand female soldiers, I feel invigorated every day with a sense of purpose!""...I'm pleased."Certainly pleased, yet a wistful smile accompanied a slightly hollow sensation.Nonetheless..."Well, except for not seeing you daily."Eileen's casual remark while observing the training grounds struck a chord with Logan."I apologize. I do not have a justification..."Instinctively preparing to offer an apology."It's alright.""Hmm?""I comprehend that it must be this way at present. I understand everything, so concentrate more on what lies ahead in the future.""That's...""That's the only way for those days we rode horses together in the town to return sooner, correct? Isn't that so?"The resolute blue eyes met Logan's."Absolutely. Without a doubt..."That resolute gaze provided much-needed strength to Logan's heavy heart."I will make it happen."Their hands clasped firmly.The reunited lovers shared a moment of warmth, not with excitement, but with a shared determination.A month later.[A disease has begun spreading in the southeastern region.]An unexpected worst-case scenario left Logan frozen in disbelief.