I've Inherited the Summoning Skill, So I'm Going to Try to Master It! - Episode 109: In Other Words, It Means I'm Being Read

Episode 109: In Other Words, It Means I’m Being Read

Since it was the first day, we decided to head back after making some progress. Still, we had discovered nearly five new veins of ore. The official and the miners who guided us were grinning with satisfaction.

It seemed that in the afternoon, they were going to start investigating the veins of ore. They were busily moving around. I heard they were even calling in miners who were supposed to be off today. I felt bad about it; their well-deserved day off was ruined because of me.

However, it turns out that today was actually supposed to be a workday. But since I was doing the ore exploration, they had given the miners a break so as not to get in the way.

“If the news of the new veins of ore gets out, everyone will be happy.”

“That’s true, but make sure not to overwork them.”

“Third Prince…! Of course, we’ll be mindful of that!”

The official and the miners seemed genuinely moved by my comment. Even though I thought it was just a simple suggestion. Could it be that the working conditions here are poor? That would be troubling.

This country doesn’t have a slavery system, so I don’t think forced labor is happening. But could it be close to that? If so, I wouldn’t understand why the official was so touched by my comment. On the contrary, it would be a painful topic to bring up.

Curious, I asked. And apparently, the workers were hired in a regular manner. However, the working conditions were harsh, and it sounded like they had a hard time with it.

It seemed that the workers found it moving because I cared about the working environment. It was something they had considered normal.

“Most mines have similar working conditions. I’ve always thought we need to improve them. However, since mines are owned by nobles, it’s difficult for me to speak out.”

I understood now. As a member of the royal family, if I asked for improvements in the working conditions, the nobles would have no choice but to follow. They’d need a good reason if they were to oppose such a request.

“In that case, I’ll tell them to improve the working conditions. Of course, I’ll make sure the nobles in charge of other mines hear it too. I’ve heard that mining is quite profitable, so a little extra effort shouldn’t be a problem.”

I smirked. It should be possible to add things like rest areas in the tunnels.

In this world, magic exists. Using Earth Magic like Moguran’s, we could easily reinforce the ground. And it would be no problem.

Even for the Duke of Flute, the mine wouldn’t be completely depleted yet. Which is why he hasn’t fallen into ruin and can still look for the next move. In other words, the mine is still quite profitable.

We returned to the inn for lunch. In the afternoon, we were supposed to forge a sword at the request of Brother Leonard. Of course, it wouldn’t be me forging it, but rather Maester.

Apparently, the preparations were already made during the morning.

“Your Highness Rufus, thank you for your hard work.”

“We found more veins than expected, so the investigation didn’t progress as much as planned. At this rate, our stay might be extended. I should probably consult with the Duke of Flute later.”

“I’m sure Father will be happy about that.”

Flare-chan clapped her hands and smiled. If a lot of ore veins were found, it would give the Duke of Flute more leeway. Naturally, that would buy more time.

I wasn’t sure what kind of strategy Brother Gilliam had planned, but having more time is always a good thing.

As we ate lunch, I talked to Flare-chan about what had happened in the morning. According to Balt, Brother Leonard and the Duke of Flute were planning to investigate the mountain that Lagios had flattened.

I just hope there aren’t any lava pits or anything. If there are, I’ll have to ask Lagios to cool them down.

In the afternoon, Flare would join me. Since we were just going to the workshop to forge swords, I didn’t think she needed to come. But unlike the mine, there wasn’t much danger. So I couldn’t think of a good reason to say no. Was I the only one who thought it would be a waste of time for her to come along?

We arrived at the workshop, the same one as yesterday. Since my face was already known here, there was no need to be shy.

So, I immediately summoned Maester. He was eager since we were going to forge a sword.

“Master, what should we make today?”

“I’d like you to forge a sword for Brother Leonard, if possible.”

“Of course. But just swords? Won’t that be a bit dull?”

“That’s true. How about trying a spear or an axe?”

“Your Highness Rufus, let’s start with a sword. If there’s any leftover material, feel free to make anything else.”

Balt stepped in with a somewhat flustered expression. I wonder if Brother Leonard told him something? Or could he have foreseen that we might go off-track? The Sword Saint Skill is truly terrifying.

Well, since Balt said that, I guess there’s no choice but to go with it. Let’s start by making the sword.

“Alright, Maester, make the same sword as yesterday.”

“Got it. But don’t you think making the same sword again is a little boring?”

“That’s true. How about making a greatsword that can be worn on the back?”

“Your Highness………”

At that point, Balt seemed to struggle for words. In his mind, he’s probably thinking, “Well, it’s still a sword, so I can’t really deny it.”

Brother Leonard had only asked for a sword. But he didn’t specify what kind of sword he wanted. So, there shouldn’t be any issue.