In my hands, I held a less refined version of the Kar98k precision rifle. Although its appearance was similar, its operation was not as elegant. While classified as a long-range rifle, the barrel still lacked refinement to be called a true sniper. However, that doesn't mean it's unusable. We have a long way to go if we want to rebuild the wonders of the modern era in this world. With this reflection in mind, I pulled the bolt back and began loading the weapon with bullets.
Carefully, I inserted one bullet at a time into the gun until they were all in place. Then, I pushed the bolt forward, aiming at a target located at a considerable distance from me. As I pulled the trigger, the recoil surprised me, causing me to recoil slightly, and the bullet ended up hitting the other side of the room. As expected, it was impossible to fully master a weapon on the first attempt. However, the result seemed quite satisfactory. With some improvements, we could certainly employ this weapon in war situations.
After the tests, I met again with the scientists, sharing some points where the weapon could be improved. Then, I set off by carriage to the next location I wanted to check progress. After a few minutes, the carriage stopped, indicating that we had arrived. Upon disembarking, I came across the projects we were funding in that region, noticing several greenhouses arranged at various points. Inside them, I saw some plants that would not normally be able to grow in that environment, such as cotton.
After a short stay at the location, I had a conversation with those in charge and received a progress report. I then decided to return home, and the journey back went smoothly, without any notable events. However, I couldn't help but notice the discomfort of the carriage cushions, something that would certainly need to be improved in the future. Unfortunately, there are always unforeseen events that end up postponing this project for another occasion.
With a tired sigh, I continued my journey back. As soon as I arrived at my residence, I got off the carriage and was soon greeted by Oliver, my butler, as well as my assistant.
"Ren-sama, there's a matter that requires your attention"
Oliver said. Hearing Oliver's words, I raised an eyebrow, as it was unusual for him to need to seek me out for something.
"Very well, let's go inside. On the way, tell me what it's about"
I said, curious about the matter. I agreed with Oliver and we headed towards the mansion. Along the way, he informed me that during my absence, a carriage with a familiar crest had arrived at the residence, bringing a noble who requested an audience with me. Oliver emphasized that the noble was respectful at all times, without any sign of disdain or offense. Additionally, the noble expressed that I didn't need to come immediately, but he expected a response as soon as possible.
Oliver was unsure how to proceed in this situation and therefore led the noble to my office while instructing Hana to prepare tea and cookies to be offered to the noble while he waited for me. Deliberately, Oliver withheld the noble's name, considering it more appropriate for me to meet him personally.
As soon as we reached the door of my office, I took a deep breath for a moment before looking at Oliver and nodding. He then touched the doorknob and opened the door, giving me space to enter next. Upon entering the room, I came face to face with a young boy who seemed to be no older than seventeen, sitting on the couch and enjoying a cookie.
The sound of the door being closed finally seemed to catch the boy's attention, and he focused his gaze on me. Being the first time I saw him, I had no idea why he wanted to talk to me. So, instead of taking my usual armchair, I chose to sit on the other couch.
"It's a pleasure to meet you. I am Ren Orchid Solaris. Make yourself at home during your stay at my residence"
I greeted warmly, extending my hand in a friendly gesture. The boy seemed momentarily surprised but quickly regained his composure, adopting a serious look on his face. However, I couldn't help but notice the crumbs next to his mouth, which contrasted with the momentary seriousness.
"The pleasure is equally mine. I am the new Marquess Liam Montague Solaris"
Said Liam, displaying an inviting smile on his face. Upon hearing his words, a curious doubt arose in my mind. He mentioned being the new marquess, and although his surname was not unfamiliar to me, I couldn't recall if I had seen it before. With a sincere expression, I decided to delicately address the matter.
"I apologize if this seems rude, but I have a slight feeling of familiarity with your surname. Could it be that we have met before?"
I asked, seeking to clarify the possible connection. Upon hearing my words, Liam let out a laugh and, for a moment, seemed absorbed in looking outside through the window. The atmosphere became tense, and a feeling that the conversation would take a strange turn began to emerge.
"Well... perhaps you know me by my father's name; his name was Barton"
Said Liam, with a peculiar look on his face. His words brought a weight to the air, and I was unsure how to respond. In a way, I realized that it was I who had given away his father, even if indirectly. The thought that Liam might have come seeking revenge crossed my mind, but his eyes showed no hostility or resentment as they stared at me. Instead, I saw understanding in his gaze.
"I can imagine what you're thinking"
Liam continued, breaking the tense silence.
"However, I promise you that I didn't come here with hostile intentions. To be honest, my father was never a good example of a person. My mother and my two sisters suffered constantly from abuse and insults. In fact, I never really saw him as a member of my family"
After his words, Liam sat in front of me, assuming a serious expression on his face.