Chapter 244: Progress on the Island
Aside from the fields, I checked on the operation of the waterwheel, the dyeing of threads had begun, and the secondary recruitment of residents was underway. The flow of water through the irrigation channels had been completed, and we were currently in the evaluation phase. We had also hired soldiers. As for the knights, I preferred to hire them directly, just like the changelings.
“Once we finish deploying the soldiers, we’ll start the secondary recruitment for relocation. If any knights arrive, please hire them directly,” she said.
“Ugh, that sounds like a hassle,” I replied.
“Knights choose their lords. While it’s just a formality in this peaceful area, that formality is important to them,” she explained. Soldiers were one thing, but knights had their own standards for who they served. Unless we gained some fame, it seemed unlikely they would come to us anytime soon.
In places like Nakahara, where conflicts were constant, it was easier for knights to build their reputations. Here, though, even if they served, they would only be ornamental or deal with trivial disputes, making it less appealing for knights who were driven by ambition—or rather, a sense of justice.
Without war, there would be no expansion of territory, so there was no chance of land being granted. Opportunities to raise their prestige as knights were also scarce. They might come here boasting about being invited for a hefty sum, but that was about it.
“It’s likely that we’ll attract adventurers who are fallen knights, struggling to find a place to serve. To maintain appearances, I think it would be wise to hire two or three who have a good presence,” she suggested.
“For defense, training the soldiers is the basic approach,” Soleil added, supporting Auro’s point.
“That’s fine, but please prioritize their character,” I said, recalling Chris’s younger brother, Reed. I wondered how he was doing. Was he heading toward that troublesome marshland?
“Also, the ‘Spirit’s Branch’ has been completed. I plan to install it, but what should the inscription on the pedestal say?” she asked.
“Something like ‘Comfortable’? A four-centimeter body?” I joked.
“I don’t understand your response,” Soleil shot back, and Kiel dismissed me with a wave.
“…Should I go for a golden branch or a silver one?” she pondered.
“Go for a golden branch?” I was confused again.
“Obtaining a real Spirit’s Branch is difficult. I’ll have a craftsman make one from gold or silver and install it. It’s like a good luck charm,” she clarified.
“I see, so we’re just decorating with a fake for good luck,” I mused, momentarily wondering if she knew about the Ex-Staff or Karn.
“If you wish, I can ask the priest at the temple to perform a blessing ceremony,” Soleil offered.
“No, that’s fine. If we’re using a fake for good luck, it’s fine if demon beasts come around, right?” I retorted. I believed that trusting the gods, believing in religion, and having faith in a leader were three separate matters. Human intentions would inevitably mix in.
Besides, in this world, it would be far better to ask the spirits directly.
“Not that it’s fine for demon beasts to come around… I mean, it wouldn’t have any effect at all, would it?” Kiel said, sounding exasperated.
“Well then, I’ll prepare the branch myself,” I declared. If we didn’t need a demon beast repellent, then a branch from the Ex-Staff would suffice. The inscription on the pedestal could be something like ‘Comfortable Living’—though it sounded a bit like a tagline from a women’s magazine.
After our meeting, we wrapped things up, and Kiel continued muttering to himself as he left. Was he really that surprised I was making sweets? Did he think a cute girl was behind it all?
Also, Charles had turned into Auro, but I had no idea how to handle that…
I quietly asked the spirits to make any vegetables taken from the fields without permission extremely bitter. That would probably be more effective than just surrounding them with a fence; if they weren’t tasty, no one would want to steal them.
Additionally, I requested that if anyone took my belongings off the island without permission, they would be subjected to relentless pranks. They seemed eager, so anyone who tried to take something would likely end up in a comical situation.
The ones who could grant permission would be Soleil, Auro, and myself, with Charles likely involved for the vegetables. I needed to think of a way for the spirits to distinguish between us, though.
Maybe a ring-shaped seal would work; as long as the spirits could recognize it, a small one would do. I could even thread it through a chain and wear it around my neck.
If the spirits could tell the difference, I might as well change the size and design a bit. Perhaps I could link it to the key for the door?
Seals were quite common here since literacy rates were low, making them essential. It was like stamping one’s mark instead of signing. Some people even had their likenesses carved into their seals. It made sense that heralds existed.
Moreover, there were many stylish signs in the town, designed so that even those who couldn’t read could tell what each shop was.
I’d need to consult Soleil about the permission system later. Oh, I almost forgot about the spider webs I was asked to make; I should get a few crafted.
The staff for the infirmary had been decided, and the bathhouse and bakery were also set. Most things were falling into place; now we just needed a teacher for the academy. With so few children, one dedicated teacher would suffice. They’d need to teach reading and writing, basic math to avoid being cheated while shopping, and instill a habit of cleanliness.
I wanted to educate them on hygiene, but first, I needed to find a teacher willing to do so. I could also ask soldiers to take turns practicing swordsmanship occasionally.
As for the island’s defense, I might need to consider more than just relying on the natural reefs and the spirits. Should I have Karn train the soldiers rigorously…?