As he approached the village square, Raphaello saw Draxer circling the area, observing the people with a lonely expression. His steps were cautious, as if he was waiting for something or someone in particular. Draxer had a habit of engaging in the conversations that echoed around the square, absorbing the details and nuances of the social interactions happening around him. His quiet, attentive posture revealed a longing for connection and companionship, even as his solitude was a constant companion on his daily journeys.
Draxer noticed Raphaello from a distance and immediately launched himself towards him, running with palpable excitement and an infectious smile. His quick, determined steps reflected the excitement of finding a friend to trust and share the news he had discovered.
- Rapha, I have a lot of news to tell you.
Raphaello stopped to listen carefully to Draxer's hurried words, noticing the excitement evident in his voice. He approached his friend, curious to find out the latest news Draxer had to share.
- What happened, Draxer? It sounds like you're excited about something important.
Raphaello asked, noticing the excitement on Draxer's face. He eagerly awaited to hear the latest information about the village and possible upcoming events.
Draxer paused to catch his breath and quickly began relating the news he had heard in the conversations in the square. He mentioned the inspections that Baron Jericho's army planned to carry out on the subsidiary villages during the winter.
- Rapha, I heard that Baron Jericho's army will only carry out biweekly inspections of each village during the winter. This means that if we work correctly we won't have many problems when it comes to producing and hiding our coal.
Draxer continued to share his findings, including predicting an extremely harsh winter that could bring challenging consequences for locals. He expressed concern about the possibility of mass deaths and instability caused by the unforgiving weather.
- Furthermore, I heard that this year's winter will be particularly harsh. This could be terrible for many people in the village. We have to prepare ourselves in the best way possible. I need to know what your plan will be to sell coal without the local residents themselves reporting you to the baron.
Raphaello took the information seriously, recognizing the importance of staying alert in the face of imminent changes. He nodded with an understanding gesture, expressing his benevolence in helping the community face the challenges that lay ahead.
- I understand, Draxer. It is essential to ensure that everyone is informed about these changes. As for persuading people not to disclose information and to purchase our coal, I have a solid plan in mind. I intend to begin implementation in the next 10 days, but the success of this plan depends significantly on the resources I have at hand. So I'm focused on collecting some silver coins to ensure I can help as many people as possible when I start running it.
Draxer smiled, appreciating Raphaello's readiness and commitment to facing challenges head on. He knew that, with Raphaello's support and collaboration, the village would have a chance to overcome adversity and become stronger in the face of impending trials.
- But tell me what brings you here Rapha?
Upon hearing Draxer's question, Raphaello looked at him with a confident expression. He took a moment to collect his thoughts before responding.
- Draxer, we need to go to Coal valley There I will tell you my entire plan on how we can convince people to not only accept, but also support the production and distribution of our coal. I believe that, with your help and collaboration, we can make a difference and ensure that everyone benefits from this endeavor.
Draxer nodded, expressing his readiness to follow Raphaello to Coal Valley. Together, they set out in that direction.
Raphaello and Draxer arrived at Coal Valley, where they observed the family structure that stood before them. Three coal ovens stood out in the arid terrain. One of them remained intact, while the other two were partially destroyed, showing signs of wear and neglect. The floor was covered in scattered coal debris and a pile of dry clay bricks waited to be used for maintenance.
- Draxer, today we are going to carry out maintenance on this entire structure. I want to make sure we are ready to start producing charcoal in the next few test days. I need to see if the smoke will be noticeable when we start production.
Raphaello said to Draxer, pointing to the furnaces and the remains of coal around them.
Draxer was visibly surprised by Raphaello's idea. His eyes widened in awe as he processed the extent of the young man's knowledge of the charcoal production process. It was evident that Raphaello was more familiar with the subject than he might have initially imagined.
Where did you get all this knowledge from? Do you know any nobles who taught you about this?
Draxer was curious to understand the source of Raphaello's specialized knowledge.
Raphaello responded with a friendly expression, avoiding going into details about the origin of his knowledge.
- Oh, it's nothing so special. I learned from a few books and a little practice. And, you know, past experiences.
Raphaello said quickly shifting focus to the production process at hand.
- OK I understand. And how are we going to fix these open top ovens?
Draxer pointed to the damaged ovens.
- Don't worry. I will guide you every step of the way. Today, we're going to fix these two ovens.
Raphaello noticed Draxer's attention and decided to share more details about the art of creating and applying clay efficiently. He began by explaining that the clay suitable for this type of repair should have a slightly sticky texture, but not excessively wet. This would ensure it adheres to the bricks without running or drying out quickly.
- Draxer, before we continue, I'm going to get some fresh water from that stream there. The water in the stream is pure and will help ensure that we have the ideal consistency for the clay. It shouldn't take long.
He quickly walked towards the stream, enjoying the serenity of the forest as he followed the gentle sound of flowing water. Raphaello crouched down near the bank of the stream, carefully filled a bucket of cold, crystal-clear water to the brim, and walked back toward Draxer.
- Draxer, the first thing to consider is the correct proportion of water and clay to create the ideal clay. A mixture of three parts clay to one part water usually works well. However, depending on the consistency of the clay, you may need to adjust the amount of water to obtain the desired consistency.
He then instructed Draxer on the importance of kneading the clay evenly, ensuring that all the ingredients were completely integrated.
- You want to make sure the clay is mixed evenly. This helps ensure it adheres properly to the bricks and provides a strong, durable layer.
Furthermore, Raphaello highlighted the importance of applying the clay evenly between the bricks, ensuring that all gaps and cracks were adequately filled. He recommended that Draxer use a trowel or a piece of smooth wood to spread the clay precisely and carefully, ensuring that each affected area received an adequate layer of coverage.
- Make sure to gently press the clay between the bricks to ensure a firm grip. This will help strengthen the structure of the ovens and prevent any leaks or cracks in the future.
Draxer followed Raphaello's instructions with intense concentration, carefully following each step as directed. As he applied the clay between the bricks, he noticed how the consistency and precision of the process were key to ensuring the integrity of the kilns. The combination of Raphaello's expert knowledge and Draxer's dedicated skill ensured that the furnaces would be successfully restored and ready for charcoal production within the next few days.
Draxer watched in awe at the result of the hard work they had accomplished. The two kilns were now completely repaired, each brick firmly placed in place with the freshly prepared clay. Draxer ran his hand over the newly built structure, feeling the smooth, solid texture of the bricks held together by the high-quality clay.
As Draxer took in the success of the repair, Raphaello gently reassured him about the next step.
- Don't worry, Draxer. We will not start production today. We need to perform some final tests and adjustments before we officially start. If everything goes as planned, we will have enough coal to ensure a peaceful winter for the next 6 months if necessary.
Raphaello's words had a profound impact on Draxer. He was impressed by Raphaello's acumen and foresight, realizing the meticulous planning and strategic vision behind every step of the plan.
However, a lingering worry remained in his mind. Draxer felt the need to address the issue that worried him deeply.
- But even if we manage to produce it, I still can't imagine how you'll be able to sell it without people reporting that you're challenging the baron's monopoly.
Raphaello looked at Draxer with determination in his eyes. He unrolled the scroll of "De-rustare" in his hands, feeling the pulsing magical energy as he prepared to tell his plans for the next few days.
- I will be starting this plan in the next few days and I count on your help, Draxer. Together, we can ensure the production and distribution of our coal is a success
Raphaello was confident in the path they were about to take together.
With the sun setting in the distance, the two friends looked towards the horizon, contemplating the possibilities that awaited in the near future. With the promise of a solid partnership and a well-designed plan, they prepared to face the challenges and conquer new horizons in Vale do Carvão. The wind whispered softly through the trees, a harbinger of imminent changes that would transform the dynamics of the village and challenge Baron Jericho's rule.