In A Fantasy World I Can Absorbs Abilities

Chapter 60 Harsh Reality

One retainer spoke up hesitantly.

"Sir Michael has a point. Pioneering new land is risky, but if successful, the rewards could be immense."

Another chimed in, his tone more thoughtful.

"True. Our current land has been nothing but a source of contention with neighboring lords. With no opportunity for territorial expansion, it's become a burden. Starting anew might be the better choice."

Seeing the gradual shift in his retainers' attitudes, Baron Crassus exchanged a glance with Michael.

The decree was final; there was no room for negotiation. But Michael's timely reasoning had quelled much of the initial unrest.

The baron gave his son an approving nod before addressing the room.

"Exactly. Let's approach this as an opportunity rather than a setback. It won't be easy, but if we work together, we can make this new land our own and create a brighter future."

The retainers began nodding, their resolve slowly solidifying. While traces of unease and resentment remained, they understood they had little choice but to accept.

Watching the scene unfold, Michael thought to himself:

Tackling the challenges of our current land seemed overwhelming, but perhaps this change is a blessing in disguise.

A new era of pioneering was about to begin.

Michael contemplated the most critical task for developing the new territory. Was it establishing efficient transportation or improving the environment? No. The foremost priority was securing talent.

This had long been an issue for House Crassus. As a relatively new noble family—separated from the Barclay Earldom 300 years ago—they lacked the prestige of an ancient lineage. The stigma of betrayal hung over their name, tarnishing their reputation and limiting their ability to attract talented individuals.

Most of the current retainers were descendants of families who had served the Crassus estate for generations. Recruiting new talent was challenging, and even retaining existing personnel was a struggle.

Michael gazed out of his study window at the vast plains and forests stretching across the horizon. Despite the picturesque landscape, his thoughts remained heavy. Leaving behind the familiar to pioneer new lands was no small task. Michael's vision wasn't merely territorial expansion—it was true development, where knowledge and technology flourished.

But the reality was harsh.

The great noble houses monopolized knowledge and hoarded talent, while smaller houses suffered from a severe shortage of capable individuals.

Seated in his study, Michael reflected on the past. His memories reminded him of the many academies scattered across the continent. However, the graduates of these academies were often tied to powerful patrons or noble houses with established reputations. Those free to choose their paths were so exceptional that House Crassus could hardly hope to attract them—neither their wealth nor their honor was sufficient to compete.

Michael knew how dire the situation was. For House Crassus to overcome its limitations as an upstart noble house, he needed a novel approach.

Summoning Leonardo to his study, Michael hoped the talented artifact artisan might have connections to the academies or mage towers.

Leonardo, who had become a yoma, seemed to be thoroughly enjoying his new existence. His loyalty to Michael was as overwhelming as it was unsettling.

Led by Alex, Michael's squire, Leonardo entered the study, visibly excited. His transformed appearance was striking—his towering frame, muscular build, and handsome features, crowned with long black hair, bore little resemblance to his former self.

Yet, Michael found it unnerving.

Having such a strikingly handsome man gazing at him with adoration in his eyes was nothing short of uncomfortable.

"Leonardo, take a seat," Michael instructed, gesturing toward a chair.

Leonardo obeyed without hesitation, settling into the seat as he awaited orders.

Since gaining new powers as a yoma, Leonardo had devoted himself to crafting new scripture for Michael, viewing him as a divine figure. Even with the Outsider sealed and gone, Leonardo's devotion had not wavered.

In truth, his former worship of the spider-like Outsider had shifted entirely to Michael. His mind teemed with plans to establish a religion around Michael, complete with sacred texts.

Michael would have been horrified if he knew.

"Master, your humble servant has come at your call. What is it that you require of me?" Leonardo asked, his tone reverent.

Michael sighed. While the excessive loyalty was appreciated in a way, it was more unsettling than reassuring.

"Leonardo, which mage towers have you studied at?" Michael asked, steering the conversation toward the matter at hand.

Leonardo paused briefly before answering.

Continue your journey with My Virtual Library Empire

"I was born and raised in the Church of Radiance and first enrolled at the Bronia Academy within its domain," he began, his voice tinged with the bitterness of unpleasant memories. The rigid rules and religious indoctrination of Bronia had suffocated his spirit.

"But their incessant preaching and strictness drove me away. I fled to the Pamir Empire, only to find their approach overly militant. They were obsessed with battle magic, and the so-called mages focused solely on creating combat spells. I wanted something more scholarly, so I left for the Kingdom of Celeste."

A faint smile graced Leonardo's face at the mention of Celeste.

"It truly lived up to its reputation as a center of art and learning. I became the apprentice of an artifact artisan and learned many things. Unfortunately, I had to flee again when my master decided to marry me off to his daughter. I had no interest in marriage. After that, I wandered the continent, studying at various mage towers, until I eventually met my previous master. But all that is in the past now. Ever since meeting you, I've realized my former allegiance meant nothing."

Leonardo's voice brimmed with satisfaction as he gazed at Michael with fervent eyes. The intensity of his devotion made Michael's head ache.

Still, in this remote region, someone of Leonardo's caliber was a rare gem. Michael knew he had to make the most of it.

"I need your help to recruit and cultivate talent," Michael said. "Do you know anyone worth bringing here? It doesn't matter what field they excel in, as long as they're exceptional. How can we attract academy-trained individuals to join us?"