"Even though I have several reforms in mind for the economic sector, my current authority isn't sufficient to implement them. Countess Mary, the regent of the Earldom, holds the power, and the councilors are hesitant to support me due to my youth and perceived lack of experience," Edward pondered.
At that moment, a spark of inspiration illuminated Edward's thoughts. He realized that enacting extensive reforms was a challenge due to their high costs and the lengthy time frame needed for significant change. Moreover, the councilors lacked the foresight he possessed from coming from the future, causing them to reject such proposals. Thus, he conceived a plan to propose the reconstruction of city roads instead. Road improvements were tangible, and immediate, and held clear advantages, making them a strategic starting point.
The request was approved after just half a day. A contract work offer was provided in the city hall to hire 100 temporary workers for a period of 1 month with a daily wage of 3 pence/day.
In just a matter of a few hours, all the available slots for workers were already taken. This highlighted the profound desperation for employment within the city of Norwich. Edward let out a sigh as he observed this situation.
He also approached the councilors with a request to appoint him as the project manager for the reconstruction. However, the idea of entrusting an eleven-year-old with such a supervisory role seemed quite implausible. Nevertheless, considering his position as the heir to the earldom, they granted him a purely honorary title of Assistant Project Manager. This designation allowed him to oversee the workers and issue instructions in the absence of the actual Project Manager.
Observing the numerous hurdles he had to navigate and realizing that he had to seek permission for every step from the councilors, Edward became increasingly certain that he would need to officially inherit the territory to wield its complete authority. However, the passing of the current Earl was still four years away.
Edward studied the city map meticulously, identifying strategic locations that demanded specific road types. He envisioned a grand Roman road stretching from the castle's entrance to the city's exit, ensuring a stately path. Additionally, recognizing the significance of commerce, he planned a dedicated trade route connecting Norwich and the capital city of London, opening doors to enhanced business prospects.
A few days later, as Edward diligently supervised the laborers, his watchful gaze caught the sight of a man who seemed out of place amidst the construction commotion. Dressed in worn attire, the man's eyes held a mix of curiosity and awe as he observed the road taking shape. Edward approached him with a friendly demeanor, his curiosity piqued.
"Good day," Edward greeted warmly. "It seems you're interested in our work. Are you a local resident or perhaps a traveler passing through?"
Astonishment crossed the man's face as a young boy approached him, inquiring about the roads. However, the boy's attire spoke of affluence, hinting at a higher background. The man, originally a trader from Mercia, had been forced to seek refuge in Norwich due to harsh weather on his journey to London, his intended destination 160 kilometers away. To his surprise, upon entering the city, he was met with a bustling scene of road reconstruction. The sight was nothing short of remarkable, for every corner of the city seemed to be under refurbishment. While some roads were clearly prioritized for military and merchant use, what struck him was the meticulous attention given to every thoroughfare, a level of care rarely seen outside major hubs like Paris, London, or Winchester.
"Ah, indeed, young sir," he responded with a nod. "I'm a traveler, originally a trader from Mercia. My journey led me to Norwich, although I hadn't anticipated this detour."
Edward's curiosity shone as he chimed in, "Sir, what do you think of these roads? Are they different from what you've seen?"
The man's eyes crinkled with a knowing smile. "Oh, absolutely. These roads, they're like no other. Back in my days on the trade routes, you'd seldom find such attention given to every street. These folks here are reconstructing not just for the wealthy or the armies, but for every soul who treads upon them."
A smile graced Edward's lips as he absorbed the man's resonating sentiments. With a mutual understanding apparent, he bid his farewell, departing with a smile of his own.
By the close of September, the ambitious road reconstruction project reached its culmination. With expenses totaling a substantial £100, the monthly profits had dwindled to naught. Nonetheless, the collective consensus, shared by Edward and the councilors alike, deemed this venture a prudent investment. The prospect of promising returns in the future justified the costs incurred, fostering optimism and anticipation for the days ahead.
What truly captured Edward's attention was the substantial surge in experience points (exp) following the completion of the reconstruction effort. It stood as a rewarding outcome for his dedicated endeavors.
Status:
Name - Edward Plantagenet
Age - 11
Title - Heir of Norfolk
Martial - 6
Diplomacy - 6
Intelligence - 28
Reputation - C
Wealth - £2,107
Skills - Appraise (Lv. 3)
Level - 8 [17/800]
Spare Points - 1
"Well, accumulating more experience points is certainly beneficial, so I suppose it's acceptable for the time being," mused Edward.
Opting to shift his attention toward the education of himself, Edward chose to delegate the administrative tasks to the councilors. While their approach was stringent, their competence within their respective domains was undeniable. This strategic move implied that even if the earldom didn't thrive under their guidance, it was unlikely to face downfall.
Edward set a personal objective for himself: Within a span of two years, he aimed to accomplish his advanced education before deliberating on subsequent plans.
The primary motivation behind this extended hiatus was Edward's determination to undergo intensive training and develop formidable strength, ensuring he wouldn't be underestimated. While his physical condition had improved significantly and was far from frail, his stature remained shorter than desired. A growth spurt, he believed, would be a welcome enhancement to his progress. In addition, he patiently awaited King Edward III's declaration of his claims to the French throne, which were rooted in his mother's lineage as the princess of France.
"By the time the era of turmoil arrives, I shall have readied myself adequately," pondered Edward.
—----------------
2 years later…
"You called for me? Father?" asked Edward.
"Ah, yes," Thomas remarked, seated in his study as he observed his son. Edward had emerged from the brink of death to mature into a capable young man. Completing his advanced education in just two years, he had also undergone a significant growth spurt, reaching a height of 5'6" – a respectable stature for a man. Under the guidance of Ser Manny, he had honed his sword skills, engaging in a closely contested duel during the final exams of his advanced education. It was indeed an amusing sight to witness a skilled knight like Ser Manny grappling with a thirteen-year-old opponent.
"I have decided to grant your request for a year-long expedition across England," Thomas stated. "However, I cannot permit you to travel to France due to the ongoing conflict between our nations. Instead, you may journey to Flanders, as they have openly expressed their support for our cause in this skirmish," Thomas added.
"Thank you, Father. I will ensure that the knowledge and experience I gain from this journey contribute to the prosperity of our Earldom," Edward expressed.
"Yeah, sure." replied Thomas.
Thomas's voice slowed down as he inadvertently verbalized his inner thoughts, "Remember to find happiness along the way." A smile of contentment played on his lips as he realized his slip of speech.
Quest: 'Gain the Approval' Completed!
20 Pts and 20 exp received.
Edward exited the study and stepped into the corridor, a wide smile gracing his face. His year-long expedition had been granted approval, and even though the option of traveling to France was off the table due to ongoing conflicts, he had been offered the opportunity to explore Flanders instead – a bustling trade center.
He has grown quite a bit over the last two years, both literally and figuratively. His stature is now that of an average man and his stats were much better than any teenager one could find.
'Status', he thought.
Status:
Name - Edward Plantagenet
Age - 13
Title - Heir of Norfolk
Martial - 11
Diplomacy - 9
Intelligence - 29
Reputation - C
Wealth - £1,918
Skills - Appraise (Lv. 5), Financial Literacy(Lv. 3), Oratory(Lv. 3)
Level - 10 [35/1000]
Spare Points - 0
Shop - 78 Pts
Edward had made impressive strides in his Martial abilities, and his skills had developed significantly. However, what truly caught his attention was the unexpected unlocking of a Shop feature when he reached Level 10 during his combat test with Ser Manny a couple of days ago.
Upon accessing the Shop, he discovered it had multiple stages, with only the first stage accessible for now. This initial stage offered a range of basic items like paper, quills, ink, and other daily necessities. While not particularly rare, these items were available instantly and could also be stored within a built-in storage system that accommodated up to five items at a time.
Stage One of the Shop was divided into three sections: Basics, Skills, and Information. The Skills section was undoubtedly the highlight. It allowed him to purchase the skills he required, though the cost was steep. This presented a significant advantage as he could acquire new skills without the need for extensive practice.
The items in the Shop were acquired using points, which could be earned through two methods: converting his cash into points at an inefficient rate of £1 per point, or receiving points through quest completions. His most recent quest involved gaining his father's approval for an expedition, rewarding him with 20 points upon successful completion. He now has a total of 78 points. The prices of the currently available skills were:
Alchemy: Basic - 100 pts
Archery: Basic - 90 pts
Smithing: Basic - 85 pts
Virtual Map - 75 pts
Etiquette: Basic - 50 pts
Lute - 50 pts
Falconry - 45 pts
Scribe Skills - 40 pts
Cooking - 30 pts
Haggling - 25 pts
Skill advancement came with options: improve proficiency through experience or acquire a more skilled version at a higher cost—a choice yet unattainable due to Edward's present level. Still, he held faith in its eventual availability.
A treasure trove within the shop lay in the 'Information' section, a wellspring of power for Edward. Across past, present, and future, information was purchasable, albeit at a steep price that promised commensurate worth. Presently, a mere five pieces of such knowledge were accessible.
"Lancelot's Radiant Sword Style: Part 1 of 10" – 100 pts
"Roman-Greco Strategies" – 90 pts
"Swords of Renaissance" – 75 pts
"Mines of Europe" – 70 pts
"Basic Chemistry" – 50 pts
Though seemingly unremarkable, these skills, when wielded adeptly, could prove lethal in this primitive world.
Wearing a content smile, Edward eagerly started preparing for his upcoming journey, brimming with anticipation and excitement.