Chapter Fifty-Nine: Valencia’s Invention (Part Two)

Those engaged in the trade of magic crystals were even more elated, for if this invention truly succeeded in its improvement, it would mean expanding the applications of magic crystals into far broader realms. Previously, most magic crystals were used primarily by mages, limiting the market significantly. But if this technology could enter everyday civilian life, the market would grow immensely.

“Gentlemen, this is not all. My laboratory has several major projects underway, and this is just one of them. There are a couple of other significant initiatives currently on hold because I am focusing all efforts on advancing the energy conversion array. If any of you are interested in investing or collaborating, I would be glad to work with you.”

“Could you tell us more about these projects?” someone eagerly inquired.

“We have obtained some ancient mechanical blueprints from the former Earth Spirit Empire. This machinery uses coal—like the kind we burn for heating—to generate a partial function similar to that of the energy conversion array. To be precise, it doesn’t convert elemental energy directly, but it can produce power much like what I demonstrated earlier,” Walden Hale explained as he steered the conversation toward his central point. “To be frank, you should all know mages have always held themselves in high esteem. The energy conversion array was my way of telling them that the world doesn’t revolve solely around their magic.”

The crowd responded with applause. Princess Helen shrugged indifferently; as a natural spellcaster, she dismissed Walden’s words, unable to grasp the significance of what he implied. Yet the others understood perfectly. Devices like the energy conversion array had long been monopolized by mages or, alternatively, by vast institutions like the Church that harnessed the power of faith and divine entities. No individual kingdom could match that. But now, Landia had shattered this monopoly and produced a finished product. While a prototype could still be suppressed by the mages, a completed invention gave far greater leverage in negotiations.

Merchants had gradually cultivated relationships with mid-tier mages through incentives and benefits, but cooperation with high-tier mages remained rare. When merchants needed complex designs, they had to offer hefty sums and grovel for favor. With the energy conversion array emerging, high-tier mages would realize that such restrictions were increasingly untenable. The prospect for collaboration would grow steadily.

“Gentlemen, but do not be overly optimistic. Refining the energy conversion array for civilian use will be a long process. Devices like this rely on elemental pools that only exist within the towers of high mages. This mechanical contraption is comparatively simpler and more practical. If we can reconstruct it, we can deploy it as an interim solution before the energy conversion array is ready,” Walden Hale smiled.

The assembly nodded in agreement. Many who had earlier questioned Walden’s suggestion to distinguish machinery from alchemy no longer doubted its potential. For merchants, whether it was the energy conversion array or mechanical devices mattered little; what mattered was whichever brought greater profit. If the array required years of research, why not use the mechanical device first?

“Prime Minister, I am interested in this mechanical device. Perhaps we could discuss it further,” a portly merchant interjected, prompting others to regret not speaking up sooner.

“Mr. Gorsky, thank you very much. I believe your involvement will bring about a great invention,” Walden Hale complimented him, then added, “But I advise that if you are truly interested, you should persuade the parliament to expedite my proposal’s approval. Otherwise, if the invention is ready but the legislation still lags, both you and I will suffer substantial losses.”

Laughter rippled through the room. Walden’s remark reflected the growing influence these merchants wielded over parliament, often swaying votes through private dinners and lobbying outside the Capitol.

“Gentlemen, quiet please. Actually, what I have shown you and what I have proposed so far are not my entire purpose,” Walden Hale’s tone grew serious as he shifted the discussion to his weightiest matter.

The murmurs and laughter faded, and all eyes turned to him.

“Friends, today I invited you to witness these inventions and to hear my legislative proposal protecting intellectual property rights as evidence that our nation is on the path to prosperity. We are growing stronger and wealthier. But you all understand the current situation well. Let me be honest: unless I am mistaken, conflict with the Church will erupt within days. Their allied forces have already assembled, and war could break out at any moment. I need your support! Our free market, our thriving economy, must not bow to tyranny! Our bright future must not be controlled by others!”

Walden’s voice echoed in the basement, accompanied only by the sound of throbbing hearts. His passion intensified; he even clenched his fists with resolve.

“Prime Minister, we stand with you and the government. Even if war breaks out, I believe everyone here will support you. Should the Church prevail, the northern factions will seize the opportunity to encroach upon our trade,” Gorsky said, turning to the others. “What do you think?”

Most agreed. They understood the stakes clearly. A defeat would jeopardize both land and maritime commerce. Overseas trade had long been contested by southern and eastern nations competing for access to the Far East and the islands of the South Seas. Previously, eastern nations and the House of Hawthorn dominated, until the southern alliance led by Landia rose. The New World was also attempting to establish trade routes, though stable and secure passages were still lacking. Once established, southern maritime commerce would flourish even further.

Walden observed their reactions quietly. Ordinary people could be moved by emotion, but these powerful businessmen, backed by influential merchant groups, required a different approach—one of self-interest. His earlier statements laid the groundwork: highlighting potential losses, then dangling the bait.

“But if we give our full support and win, what benefits will we gain?” someone finally asked. This question resonated with all. A loss promised disaster, but victory—what would it bring?

“Of course there will be benefits. If we win, we will demand that northern nations open their markets equally to all countries, allowing free trade,” Walden Hale replied with a smile.

“Free trade? Long live free trade!” those who understood cheered.

Southern goods were undeniably gaining competitive strength. Equal market access meant products from north and south could flow freely, a tremendous advantage for southern merchants. Some even connected the earlier mention of the textile machine and Walden’s mechanical device—if markets opened freely and the south enhanced production through improved machinery, they could envision a cascade of wealth pouring down like rain.