The sun was beginning its descent, casting long shadows across the workshop as I meticulously adjusted the final details on the pylons. The rhythmic sounds of the forge and the hum of mana flowing through the constructs created a symphony of productivity that I found both soothing and invigorating. I was lost in my work, each movement precise, each adjustment crucial.
The door to the workshop creaked open, and I looked up to see Master Beswick standing in the doorway. His imposing figure was silhouetted against the fading light, his presence commanding as always. There was a stern look in his eyes, a sign that this was not a casual visit.
"Micah," he began, his voice carrying a weight that made the air around us feel heavy, "we need to talk."
I wiped my hands on a cloth and set my tools aside, my heart sinking. I knew what this was about. "Master," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady, "what is it?"
Beswick stepped further into the workshop, closing the door behind him. "Your outburst earlier," he said, his tone measured but firm, "was unacceptable."
I felt a flush of embarrassment creeping up my neck. "I was overwhelmed," I admitted, "there's just so much to do, and it feels like everything is on my shoulders."
Beswick's eyes softened slightly, but his expression remained stern. "I understand the pressure you're under, Micah. We all are. But that does not excuse speaking to your superior in such a manner, especially in front of the men."
I clenched my fists, frustration bubbling up. "And what am I supposed to do? I'm juggling a thousand tasks, and everyone looks to me for answers. It's too much!"
Beswick's gaze hardened. "You think you're the only one carrying a burden? Every single person here is under immense pressure. That's no excuse for insubordination."
I looked down, the weight of his words pressing on me. "I'm sorry, Master. I didn't mean to disrespect you. I just... I feel like I'm drowning in responsibilities."
Beswick sighed, his gaze unwavering. "You are young, Micah, and you have taken on more than most your age. But leadership requires composure, even under the greatest pressure. Your actions and words set an example for others."
I met his eyes, defiance sparking in my chest. "Composure? It's easy for you to say! You've had years to learn. I'm expected to be perfect right away!"
Beswick's face darkened. "Do not mistake my experience for ease. I have faced more challenges and failures than you can imagine. What matters is how you rise above them."
I took a deep breath, trying to absorb his words. "I know, Master. I will do better."
He stepped closer, his presence a steadying force. "You have great potential, Micah. Your work is invaluable to our efforts here. But you must learn to balance your responsibilities and control your emotions. We are all in this together, and we rely on each other."
I felt a surge of resentment. "Rely on each other? Everything is on my shoulders. I'm the one making sure everything gets done!"
Beswick's grip on my shoulder tightened, his eyes boring into mine. "And do you think I don't see that? Do you think I don't appreciate your efforts? But this is not just about you. This is about all of us working together. Delegate tasks when you can, and do not be afraid to ask for help."
His words were a balm to my strained nerves, and I felt a surge of gratitude. "Thank you, Master. I appreciate your guidance."
He nodded, his expression softening further. "Good. Now, show me what you've accomplished. Let's see these pylons you've been working on."
I led him to the finished pylons, explaining the improvements I had made. Beswick listened intently, occasionally asking questions or making suggestions. His approval and interest in my work bolstered my confidence, reminding me why I had chosen this path.
"All you needed to have said is you were improving. That is all I want of you. Squire remember; we cannot control time, and perfection is always just out of reach." Master said, placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder before leaving me to digest his words. "You remind me of a master painter in some ways. The greats carry their masterpieces for years, diligently adding or changing the smallest of things. Things only they ever notice. Some even die before they feel comfort in their perfection,"
I energetically said, "But if they just set it down, they can always create more than one painting! I never must achieve perfection on the first try. I can always design a better way afterward."
Determined, I rushed back to my workshop. I pulled the template for the pylons from the stack of various designs and projects. I scribbled through some notes, added to others, and standardized the design for the first wave of pylons. Now, it was time to get to work.
I trudged without sleep for days and days more. All the extra time went to salvaging the completed products and reconstructing them to meet the new benchmark. My first masterpiece, the Aetherhaven defense pylon, had to be perfect.
My suit was ingenuity at its finest, dedicated to the sole purpose of combating magic, but I truly felt accomplished with these weapons. They were my original design, utilizing all of my artifice knowledge. While I found details that warranted addressing, that would be saved for a second iteration. For now, these were perfect in their own way.
A large pile of empty energy potion bottles collected in the corner of my workspace, a testament to the hours of sleep I missed. However, a plethora of my creations amassed in the street outside of my workshop. I stopped tracking the numbers somewhere after twelve, focusing only on making more. I carried out the final piece, exhausted and nearly out of materials, potions, and will to continue.
Finally, I collapsed in the ruined street, my body giving in to the sheer exhaustion that had been building for days. As I lay there, staring up at the sky, the sense of accomplishment began to sink in. I had done it. I had created something truly remarkable.
Master Beswick found me lying there, a gentle smile on his face. "Rest now, Micah. You've done more than enough."
I nodded weakly, feeling the weight of his words. As I closed my eyes, the world faded away, leaving me with a sense of peace and fulfillment.