Steam Engine and The Academy Speech

Leoric Wynthall stood on the bustling construction site of the new city, his sharp eyes scanning the progress. Evelyn, holding the black dragon in her arms, watched him with a fond smile. The dragon, now a bit larger but still adorably clumsy, was fast asleep. Its rhythmic breathing and tiny snores added a whimsical charm to the otherwise serious atmosphere.

Leoric issued orders to the immigrants, who were adjusting to their new lives in the dukedom. "Every immigrant must apply for an ID card," he instructed firmly. "Additionally, every healthy adult must contribute to the construction efforts. Let's build this city together."

Temporary tents were set up for the immigrants, along with basic amenities like public toilets and food distribution points. Leoric ensured that even in the chaos of construction, everyone had the essentials to survive and thrive.

Merchants, nobles, and citizens from both the dukedom and the kingdom began purchasing plots of land in the new city. Workshops, factories, and homes started taking shape, each design meticulously approved by Leoric's company to maintain the city's aesthetic and structural integrity.

Months of Progress

As months passed, the trade route project connecting the dukedom's main roads to the kingdom's central market was completed. The network of smooth, well-planned roads delighted the citizens and boosted trade significantly. Leoric felt a surge of pride as he saw caravans and travelers bustling along the new routes.

A Special Birthday Surprise

One evening, Leoric learned that the princess's birthday was the next day. Determined to make it special, he decided to throw a surprise party. Conflicted about what gift to give her, he finally settled on crafting a necklace. Using a beautiful emerald, he carved intricate designs into a platinum frame, creating a masterpiece.

The next day, the unsuspecting Evelyn arrived at the office to find everyone waiting for her. A grand cake, prepared by Leoric using the modern cooking skills granted by the system, took center stage. The aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air as everyone cheered and celebrated.

Evelyn was moved to tears by the effort. "Thank you, everyone," she said, her voice trembling with emotion. When she tasted the cake and food, she was astonished. "Leoric, this is amazing! I've never tasted anything like it."

As the party wound down and everyone left, Leoric approached her with the necklace. "Happy birthday," he said softly, helping her put it on. The princess's eyes glistened with tears as she admired the gift.

"It's beautiful," she whispered, overcome with emotion. Impulsively, she leaned closer, her lips brushing against his cheek. Startled, Leoric felt his face heat up as she quickly retreated, her face flushed, and ran out of the room.

Advancing Technology

The next day, the princess wore the necklace proudly, looking radiant. The black dragon, now playing with another pet dragon, appeared healthier and more energetic than ever. Encouraged by the progress in the city and inspired by the success of the trade route, Leoric unveiled the blueprint for the steam-powered engine to his engineers.

"This will revolutionize transportation and industry," he declared. The engineers were amazed, their eyes wide with excitement as they studied the designs.

Within months, the first steam-powered engine was completed. Leoric demonstrated its capability at a wheat processing plant, where it efficiently ground flour. He also introduced a steam-powered ship, which immediately garnered attention across the kingdom. Orders for the ships poured in—25 from the kingdom, six from a major merchant group, and ten from a neighboring country. At 100,000 gold coins per ship, with additional charges for personalization, the steam engine became a major revenue source for Leoric's company.

Many industrialists also placed orders for steam engines tailored to their requirements, marking a new era of innovation.

City Development

More than half of the city's construction was completed, and the residential zone was bustling with new residents. Leoric's vision for the city—a hub of trade and innovation—was taking shape. The influx of merchants, artisans, and laborers created a thriving community. With just five months to go, the city's construction was on track for completion.

Duke Roderic Wynthall summoned Leoric with exciting news. "The royal academy has invited you to deliver a speech," the duke announced with pride. "It's an incredible opportunity to showcase your achievements."

Leoric accepted, knowing this was also a chance to confront his older, arrogant brother Sedric Wynthall, who was a student at the academy. The academy's strict rules prevented students from contacting the outside world, so his brother was unaware of Leoric's accomplishments.

The Academy Speech

When Leoric arrived at the academy's main hall, all the students were gathered. Spotting his older brother, he approached him. His brother sneered, assuming Leoric was there to enroll. "What are you doing here, brat?" he taunted. "This place is for elite minds, not fools like you. When I become the duke, I might hire you as a house worker." His friends laughed along.

Leoric smirked but said nothing. The function began with the academy head giving a speech, followed by applause. Then the head introduced the guest of honor: "Please welcome the founder of the kingdom's largest construction and equipment company, the inventor of the steam engine, and the heir of the Wynthall dukedom—Leoric Wynthall."

The hall fell silent as Leoric stepped onto the stage. His brother's face turned red with disbelief and anger. As Leoric began his speech, the students listened intently, impressed by his achievements and vision.

After the event, many students and professors approached Leoric, eager to learn more or apply for jobs at his company. His brother, humiliated, left the hall in a rage. Leoric returned to the dukedom with a stack of job applications and the satisfaction of having silenced his brother's arrogance.