Alex cracked his knuckles before placing a stack of documents on the table in front of Elias. The latter, engrossed in his calculations and sketches, barely looked up.
"This is the list of potential engineers we've identified so far," Alex said. "They're sorted by specialization—computing, electronics, advanced materials... But the problem is that almost all of them are already tied to major companies or research labs under contracts with foreign governments."
Elias leaned back in his chair, frowning as he quickly scanned the list.
"I expected that," he said. "Most of the talent in this field is already locked in by the big players. But there must be independents—isolated researchers or people dissatisfied with their current positions."
Alex nodded, pulling out another document.
"We have a few potential candidates, but reaching out to them will take time. We'll need to be discreet to avoid drawing attention. And then there's the issue of visas and permits. Bringing in foreign engineers could complicate things."
Elias took a deep breath, clearly impatient but pragmatic.
"Start with the ones who are already here—local talent. Even if they don't have major achievements yet, I can train them quickly. We don't need stars; we need serious, motivated workers."
Alex noted down the instructions and stood up to make some calls. Elias returned to his plans, calculating material and equipment requirements.
---
In the next room, Lassen flipped another page of his novel absentmindedly. The sound of technical discussions filtered through the half-open door, but he paid no attention. Adrian entered quietly, carrying a tray with tea and biscuits.
"Master, Alex is making progress in recruiting the engineers. Elias seems confident, but it will probably take a few weeks to complete the team."
Lassen looked up, clearly unimpressed.
"And that requires an update every five minutes? They can handle it without me. I'm not stepping into that factory to supervise anything."
Adrian calmly set the tray down and leaned against the wall.
"Master, this project is already attracting attention. Even though things seem quiet for now, it's obvious people will start watching us closely as soon as we produce something tangible."
Lassen shrugged.
"So what? That's not my problem. If anyone has questions, they can talk to Alex. I'm just a spectator."
Adrian gave a faint smile.
"A spectator holding all the cards. Sometimes, Master, I wonder if you truly understand just how much your actions are changing the world."
Lassen simply smiled and returned to his book.
---
Meanwhile, Elias was busy in the technical room. He had already drafted several circuit board designs and compiled a detailed list of required components. But one issue remained unresolved.
"Alex," Elias called as the latter returned from a phone call. "We're going to need specialized equipment—laser etching machines, sterilization chambers, and access to rare materials. Where do we stand on that?"
Alex quickly checked his notes.
"Some machines can be discreetly imported through trusted suppliers. For rare materials, we have a few leads, but large orders will raise questions. We might need to split the orders to avoid drawing too much attention."
Elias nodded, jotting down notes in his notebook.
"Do whatever you need to. As long as I get what I need, I can start assembling a prototype. That'll be the best proof we're on the right track."
---
Later that day, Alex returned to Lassen with a thick folder under his arm.
"Master, I have some updates. We've found three local engineers who meet Elias's criteria. They should be here within a week."
Lassen didn't even look up.
"Great. Why are you telling me this?"
Alex sighed.
"Because this is moving fast. The more progress we make, the more attention we'll attract. The Prime Minister will probably want an official report as soon as he finds out we're recruiting a team."
Lassen finally closed his book, visibly annoyed.
"He can wait. And if he's really impatient, he can go through you. I'm not here to write reports. That's your job, as always."
Adrian, listening from the doorway, couldn't resist adding his opinion.
"Master, there will still need to be some level of interaction with the authorities. If you keep staying in the shadows, it could complicate future negotiations—even with those we've already spoken to."
Lassen shrugged.
"That's their problem. My job is to have ideas. Their job is to handle everything else. Now let me read."