My last night with Emi was extraordinary. After we kissed, we stayed together by the lakeside, enjoying each other's company. There was no need for words in that moment; simply being present for each other was enough. The gentle rustling of the leaves, caused by the nighttime breeze, reignited the atmosphere multiple times, leading us to kiss repeatedly. Initially, our kisses were somewhat awkward, clearly revealing our inexperience in that situation.
As time went on, everything became even better. When we kissed, our minds and bodies melded into perfect harmony. This sensation left me strangely relaxed and numb, as if, at that moment, only Emi and I existed in the world. By the end of the night, we returned to the mansion. Despite the maids offering to escort her to her room, I insisted on accompanying her, wishing to spend as much time as possible by Emi's side. Upon reaching her room, we exchanged one final kiss before she entered and left me alone in the hallway. With a silly grin on my face, I returned to my own room and fell asleep, awakening the next day.
Upon awakening, I dressed in my daytime attire and descended to the dining room. When I arrived, I noticed that only Albert was present. This didn't seem unusual to me, as Albert always seemed like the type of person who woke up early. I walked to my chair, receiving assistance from a maid to sit down, and then directed my gaze towards Albert, who was sipping a cup of coffee while examining some papers. Although I wasn't particularly interested in what he was doing, I thought it would be a good opportunity to engage in conversation with him and change things up a bit, as we rarely spoke.
"Good morning, you seem busy. Working on something important?"
I asked in a friendly manner, while observing the papers in Albert's hands. Upon hearing my words, he displayed a small smile before taking another sip of his tea. Then, he looked at me and replied.
"Good morning. Well, sort of. Even though we're theoretically on vacation, we still have to deal with kingdom matters"
Albert said, releasing a small sigh, but his words didn't fully match his actions. As he spoke, he had a smile on his face. It seemed like he genuinely enjoyed being involved in kingdom affairs.
(Well, I guess it wouldn't hurt to listen. If it's something I can handle, I'm willing to help)
I thought with determination in my mind, secretly hoping to strengthen my relationship with Emi's siblings. Deep down, I believe I just wanted to establish a deeper connection with them.
"Is there any way I can be useful in this case? While I'm not sure if I'll be of great help, if it involves my expertise, perhaps I can think of a solution or offer some contribution"
While looking at Albert, I spoke my words. He stared at me for a few seconds, then shrugged as if he wasn't too concerned about the matter.
"I don't mind, actually, I would greatly appreciate it if you could solve this problem. Recently, a certain region was hit by a storm. As a result, a significant amount of the local water was contaminated with soil and sand brought by the storm. Currently, we're assisting these people by distributing water, but I fear that if we don't resolve this soon, they will run out of water. And honestly, I don't want it to come to that"
Edward sighed, revealing his concern about the current situation. Although I was initially shocked by this incident of which I had no prior knowledge, I didn't need to think much to find a way to help. The solution seemed clear, we would have to implement a filtration system. Throughout the history of my former world, various methods were developed, but I believe that the cheapest and simplest one will be the best option since most of those affected are low-income people.
As these thoughts filled my mind, I evaluated the papers Albert had handed me. While this wouldn't completely solve the problem, it would likely help contain it temporarily. With my thoughts aligned, I focused my attention on Albert and continued.
"I believe there's something we can do. Gather gravel, small stones, pebbles, and sand. After collecting all these materials, wash them thoroughly in the specified order and stack them in layers. Then, pour water and boil it again. That should make it clean enough to be consumed. While this solution won't solve the long-term problem, I hope it will help mitigate the situation... at least that's what I hope for"
Upon hearing my words, Albert put his hand on his chin and pondered for a while, while the sound of doors opening echoed in the room. I looked towards the door and saw Emi enter, accompanied by my parents and her parents. They took their seats in the dining room. As soon as Emi sat down, we exchanged discreet glances. A slight blush appeared on her face, but she just smiled at me.
"Good morning"
Emi greeted with a smile, and upon hearing her words, I returned a warm smile on my lips.
"Good morning"
While our brief interaction took place, a conversation between the king and Albert began to draw everyone's attention. In fact, they weren't particularly discreet from the start of the conversation.
"What's troubling you, Albert? You seem pensive"
The king questioned, closely observing Albert. Upon hearing the king's words, Albert gave a discreet smile and replied.
"I believe that, thanks to Ren, we will be able to solve the issue of the recently contaminated water"
Albert caught the attention of the king and everyone present by saying that, which quickly made everyone look in my direction.
"Is that so? Well, I appreciate that, Ren. Your help will certainly be rewarded in the future"
The king pronounced with a gentle smile as he looked at me. Upon hearing his words, I didn't know how to respond. In truth, I had nothing in mind that I truly desired. With that in mind, I discreetly glanced at Emi, who was watching me with a curious gaze, and then said.
"I appreciate your offer, Your Majesty... but I believe I've been rewarded enough. I don't think I need anything more"
By saying that, I made a point to look at Emi, making it clear to everyone the reward I was truly grateful for, if I could even call it a reward.