ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Shwaaaโ!
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Clean water poured out through multiple holes.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Tiles densely embedded in the floor and walls.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
This was the communal shower room in the worker dormitory of Duke Carius’s territory.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Trevor stood there blankly with an incredulous expression.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“This is insane…….”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
He could accept lumberjacks working an hour and resting 30 minutes.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
The job was extremely demanding and dangerous, after all.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
He could also understand providing work clothes, protective gear, and tools.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
It would help them chop wood better.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But what was with this luxurious shower room?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Pull the handle, and warm water flowed steadily for a while.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
The laborers washed off bodies caked in sweat and dust, even lathering up with foam.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“No different from nobles.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Probably nowhere in the empire had such pristine bathing facilities.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Especially those tiles on the floor and wallsโthey were incredibly smooth, however they were made.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
No matter how he thought about it, this wasn’t a facility for ordinary wage laborers.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“What are you doing? Hurry up so the next person can wash. Quick, lather up.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
As he stood there dazed, Bernard poured a thick liquid over Trevor’s head.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Then he rubbed it with a rough cloth, and foam bubbled up enormously.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Enough. I’ll do it.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Not liking a man touching his body, Trevor quickly moved his hands.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
He muddled through washing like that, but an even more astonishing sight awaited outside.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
The dining hall on the first floor of the dormitory was laid out with all sorts of dishes.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Bernard picked up a tray and loaded food onto it.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Quite a lot, without hesitation.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Trevor asked with puzzled eyes.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Is it okay to just take that much?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“As much as you can eat. I’m pretty big, so I need this much. You hurry and scoop some too, Trevor.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“O-okay.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
He replied, but it made no sense at all.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
If food was self-serve, utter chaos would ensue.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Unless it was a highly disciplined army, it was bound to happen.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But contrary to his thoughts, the dining hall was utterly peaceful.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
People lined up in turn and leisurely ladled food.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“This can’t be…….”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Trevor kept tilting his head.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
In the Western Legion, mealtimes were always a riot.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Everyone fighting to eat more.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But here, the atmosphere was completely different.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Like watching a noble banquet hall.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Only those with no shortage of food could maintain such elegance.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
‘Hm? Come to think of it, is it the same here?’
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Trevor decided to be honest with himself.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
He had luxurious barracks and people serving fine meals.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But what about the soldiers of the Western 1st Legion?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Despite being imperial regulars, supplies were abysmal.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
They gave weapons and armor, but maintenance was on you.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Costs borne by the soldiers, of course.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Wait, who pays for the meals? The lodging?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“His Grace the Duke provides that. So we can work hard.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Even so, people get lazy quick…….”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“No chance. Slack off, and you’re fired.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“How do they check? No supervisors around.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“He just knows everything. See today too. Everyone gave their all, no exceptions.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Trevor nodded slowly.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
This really made no sense.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Everyone overflowing with zeal in hard labor?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Even in the rigorously indoctrinated imperial army, no such unit existed.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
He couldn’t understand it, but for now, he picked up a spoon and fork.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But what the laborers held was a bit different.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Why two of those long sticks?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Ah, these? Chopsticks, used like this.” Bernard deftly picked up food and ate with skilled motions. It was unfamiliar but seemed quite handy.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But Trevor, not used to them, decided on the fork.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
The food was flat bread, stir-fried meat, and salad with dressing.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
He normally wouldn’t glance at it, but the aroma was incredible.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Enough to make his mouth water.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Crunchโ!
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Wrapping the stir-fried meat and salad in bread, a crispy texture filled his mouth.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Hm?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Even ordinary food tasted amazing.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Not just from sweating all day.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
The ingredients were good, and it was cooked with real care.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Pretty good, right?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“……”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Trevor couldn’t answer Bernard’s question.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
‘Ordinary laborers eat food like this?’
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Compared to the serfs in Count Warren’s territory, the treatment was heaven and earth.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
After finishing the meal, people scattered.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
With nothing particular to do, Trevor grabbed Bernard and asked.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Where’s everyone going?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Work’s done, so free time. Play if you want, or go to night school if you wanna study.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Night school?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Evening classes.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Why study?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Can’t be a lumberjack forever. When you get old, need other work besides physical labor.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“You teach that to commoners?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“In Duke Carius’s territory, anything’s possible.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Huh!”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
An empty laugh burst out.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
The serfs in Count Warren’s territory didn’t work properly.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
All shambling like zombies, moving slowly.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Until the whip came out.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Naturally, Trevor had learned that only strong pressure made them obey.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But here was different.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Everyone moved autonomously, yet work ran smoothly.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Not even a supervisor overseeing tasks.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Saying Duke Carius knew everything.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
‘If that’s possible, he’s a god. All bullshit. Idolization gone overboard.’
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Trevor shook his head vigorously.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
No matter how he thought, this wasn’t right.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“What if the thick-headed lot rises up together?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Nobles stuck to dumbing-down policies to prevent rebellion.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Ignorance kept them from defying fate.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Rise up, what do you mean?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Having heard the mutter, Bernard frowned and asked.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
The remark seemed quite offensive.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
As Trevor tried to make an excuse, a group passed by in a rush.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Seeing him, they greeted very warmly.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Must be that strong newbie we heard about.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Thanks to you, material supply’s easier. Keep it up.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Keep up those results, and you’ll promote quick. Hang in there.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Sudden words of encouragement.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Trevor blinked in bewilderment.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Until they turned the corner far away.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Then Bernard’s uncomfortable face slowly relaxed.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“No way it’d happen like you said. His Grace and us exchange what we need.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“What’s that?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Hope and loyalty. Ask anyone, same answer? All staff ready to lay down lives.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Why?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“If I die or get hurt, His Grace will care for my family. To the end.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Bernard emphasized the last three words.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But Trevor still wore a dubious expression.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
It was the easiest way to buy subordinates’ loyalty.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
How many had tried similar in the world.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Even the most upright could succumb to temptation.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
He thought such loose trust bonds were bound to break.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“This’ll blow up in his face someday.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Trevor shook his head hard and trudged toward the dormitory.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
I sat on the office sofa, reading reports.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Having been away long, I needed to grasp how businesses ran.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But nothing particularly stood out.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
‘This is perfect?’
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Beyond maintaining status quo, it was self-developing now.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
And rules I’d set were firmly followed.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Like employee welfare above a certain level and strict work codes.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
No work without clothes, gear, toolsโI’d ordered that.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
‘The issue is some hires I didn’t interview.’
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Actually, that process wasn’t necessary.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Fire bad employees.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
I could see character info in the status window anyway.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But frequent turnover would breed anxiety.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Examples in moderation, stability more important.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
That’d make it a workplace everyone wants.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
It already was, but Duke Carius’s territory should be even more heavenly.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
A model for imperial society.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“When I’m at the mansion, I’ll handle all interviews. Bring all potential new hires.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Yes, then what about those selected while you were away?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“You picked well? But quietly let these go. Poor work attitudes.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Heh heh!”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Butler Miller Xavier burst into hearty laughter.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Curious why, I tilted my head, and the answer came promptly.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“There’s a rumor among staff lately.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“What’s that?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“That Your Grace has surpassed saint and reached divine realm…….”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“What?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Truly absurd gossip.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Even if I’d paid much attention, this was too much, no?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Why react sensitively to mere rumor?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Unlike Earth, real gods existed here.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Priests borrowed their power for miracles.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
‘And they wield enormous influence in this world.’
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
In the imperial capital, suppressed by emperor’s authority.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Elsewhere, priests’ prestige easily surpassed lords.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Some western small nations even let the church pick rulers.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
In a place with such high divine status, calling me what?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Overblown. Rumors have sources.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“I’ll clamp down on loose lips.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Please. By the way, how’s that guy doing?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Who……?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“The one here for community service?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Ah, you mean Trevor Warren. Surprisingly adapting well.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Really?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
I’d sent him to the logging site on purpose, to give him a taste of hardship.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Yet he’s fine?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Thought he’d throw a fit about why he had to do this.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Reading my puzzled expression, Butler Xavier smiled and replied.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Reputation among staff is quite good. Making work easier, they say.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Huh! His calling?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Wasn’t he utterly willful from one to ten?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Absurd, but I soon erased Trevor from my mind.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Too busy to spare thought for such a guy.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Any more items?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“This is the last.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“What?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“A summons from the court.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Whaat?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
No, I’m the sole imperial chief justice, aren’t I?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Who the hell summons me?
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
For a moment, thought it was a prank.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
But the court-issued summons was real.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Then Butler Miller Xavier relayed the content.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“They ask you return soon. Too many trials, they’re dying.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Can’t I not go?”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Your Grace.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“Yes.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“You must live long. Work hard, and all will be happy.”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
“……”
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
I looked at Miller Xavier with an incredulous expression.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
Even him, influenced by the staff.
ComplexStringWithรรรandotherUnicodeCharacters
No, but is there no way to skip work?
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Lolololol let the MC rest, god dang ๐คฃ