Bab 78: Micah - 8.1
I spent the next few days laying crossbeams over the pit, ensuring each one was sturdy enough to support the new structure I had in mind. The work was meticulous, requiring precision and care to make sure the beams were level and securely anchored. Each beam had to be perfectly aligned, creating a strong foundation for what would come next.
As I worked, I made frequent trips to the debris pit gathered at the edge of the city. The remnants of the old buildings provided a wealth of materials, and I carefully selected the best pieces for my construction. Timber, bricks, and stones were all repurposed, each piece a reminder of the city's past and a step toward its future.
With the crossbeams in place, I began to construct a hut above the pit. The framework went up first, a skeletal outline of the new structure. I hammered nails, secured joints, and double-checked measurements, making sure everything was up to standard. Slowly, the hut took shape, walls rising and a roof forming above.
The sun beat down during the day, and I worked long hours, driven by a sense of purpose. The city needed this, a symbol of renewal and hope amidst the devastation. As the hut neared completion, I took a moment to step back and survey my work. It wasn't grand, but it was sturdy and functional, a testament to resilience.
On the second day of building, as I was securing the final planks to the roof, I saw Lucius approaching. His steps were measured, his gaze fixed on me. He held a rolled document in his hand, his expression a mixture of pride and nervous anticipation.
"Micah," he called out, his voice steady but with an underlying current of excitement. "I have something for you."
I climbed down from the roof, wiping sweat from my brow. "What is it, Lucius?" I asked, curiosity piqued.
He handed me the rolled document. "It's a complete blueprint," he said, his words coming out in a rush. "To scale, for a new Aetherhaven. Down to the lengths of the streets, rough population quotas for maximum residency, commercial wards, everything. All centered on a grid-based pattern for maximal traversal and a central market plaza."
I took the document from him, carefully unrolling it. My eyes widened as I took in the detail and precision of his work. Every street, every building, meticulously planned and laid out. The central market plaza was a focal point, designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
"This is incredible," I said, awe coloring my voice. "You've thought of everything."
Lucius nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "I-I just wanted to help," he said, his voice softer now. "To make sure the city can thrive again."
I looked at him, a newfound respect growing. "You've done more than help. This is exactly what we needed. Thank you, Lucius."
He shifted slightly, his eyes darting away for a moment before meeting mine again. "I-I'll leave you to it then. There are still details I need to finalize, but this should give you a good starting point."
I nodded, rolling up the blueprint carefully. "We'll propose this immediately. Your work will reshape Aetherhaven."
Lucius gave a small nod, then turned and walked away, already lost in thought, likely planning his next project. I watched him go, feeling a sense of gratitude and relief. With these plans, we could rebuild Aetherhaven stronger and more organized than ever before.
I turned back to the hut, a renewed sense of purpose filling me. There was much work to be done, but with Lucius's blueprint as a guide, the future of Aetherhaven was beginning to look brighter.
After another long day of work, I unrolled the blueprint once more, studying the intricate details. The central market plaza was perfectly situated, a hub for commerce and community. Streets radiated out in a grid pattern, designed for maximal traversal and efficiency. The city would be divided into distinct wards, each with its own function and character.
What caught my eye, however, was the thoughtful inclusion of the historic buildings that still stood after the blast. The barracks, a symbol of our city's resilience, was prominently featured. Lucius had even marked the end of the city furthest from Magnar's spell as "Old Town," preserving its character and history within the new design.
I marveled at the thoroughness. "Lucius, you've even accounted for the historic buildings," I said aloud, though he wasn't there to hear. "The barracks, Old Town... it's all here."
His foresight was remarkable. By integrating these surviving structures, we honored our past while building for the future. The blend of old and new would give Aetherhaven a unique identity, evidence of its endurance and spirit.
I stood outside the makeshift tent that served as our temporary command center, the rolled-up blueprint clutched tightly in my hand. My heart pounded with a mix of excitement and nerves. The plan that Lucius had created was nothing short of extraordinary, and now it was time to present it to Uncle Ulysses and Master Beswick. Their approval was crucial for the materials, manpower, and time we needed to bring this vision to life.
Taking a deep breath, I stepped inside. Uncle and Master were deep in discussion, their faces marked by the strain of recent events. They looked up as I entered, curiosity piqued by my determined expression.
"Micah," Uncle said, his voice warm but laced with concern. "What brings you here with such urgency?"
I nodded, unrolling the blueprint on the large table in front of them.
"I've come to present a comprehensive plan for the reconstruction of Aetherhaven," I said, my voice steady despite my racing heart. "Lucius Hadriana, the architect we summoned, has created this blueprint. It outlines every detail for rebuilding the city, down to the lengths of streets, population quotas, commercial wards, and more."
Master Beswick leaned forward, his keen eyes scanning the intricate details of the blueprint. "Impressive," he murmured, tracing a finger along the central market plaza. "This is meticulous work."
Uncle Ulysses joined him, his brow furrowing in concentration as he examined the plans. "It's certainly thorough," he remarked, nodding slowly. "But we need to discuss practicality. How much manpower? How much time are we looking at, Micah?"
I straightened, ready to address their concerns.
"Based on the scope of the project and the resources we have, I estimate it will take around a whole season to complete the major structures and fortifications. We'll need a significant amount of manpower, including builders, laborers, and craftsmen. Additionally, we'll require materials from surrounding regions, especially for the more specialized components like the amplification crystals and reinforced stone."
Master Beswick tapped the blueprint thoughtfully. "The time frame is ambitious, but considering the urgency of our situation, it might be necessary. What about the historic buildings? I cannot lose this barracks nor relocate it."
I nodded, pointing to specific sections on the blueprint. "Yes, historic buildings like the barracks are preserved and integrated into the new design. Under the ward of Old Town, the remnants from the former Aetherhaven will preserve- a harmonious blend of past and future."
Uncle Ulysses looked up from the blueprint, his eyes meeting mine. "You've done well, Micah. This plan is comprehensive and forward-thinking. However, the logistics of acquiring the materials and coordinating the manpower will be challenging. We'll need to rally support from Caer Elara and Caer Dunhelm, as well as every city all the way to Caer Fyrddin."
Master Beswick nodded in agreement. "I'll handle the negotiations with the other cities. They owe me some favors and, given the recent events, I believe they'll be willing to assist. Micah, you'll be in charge of overseeing the construction and ensuring everything stays on schedule."
I felt a surge of pride and responsibility. "Thank you, Master, Uncle. I won't let you down."
Uncle Ulysses clapped a hand on my shoulder, his grip firm and reassuring. "We know you won't, Micah. Now, let's get to work. Aetherhaven isn't going to rebuild itself."
With their approval, we set the plan into motion. Over the next few days, I coordinated with the various teams, assigning tasks and ensuring everyone knew their roles. Master Beswick and Uncle Ulysses worked tirelessly to secure the necessary resources and support from neighboring regions.
As the first shipments of materials arrived and the work crews began to assemble, a sense of purpose and determination filled the air. The blueprint was no longer just lines on paper; it was becoming a reality. A map of how to become better and stronger than before.
The conversation was winding down when a shy voice interrupted us. "Um, excuse me..."
We all turned to see Lucius standing hesitantly at the entrance of the tent, clutching his compass and a new set of papers.
"Lucius," I said, a bit surprised. "What brings you here?"
He cleared his throat, fidgeting with his compass. "I, uh, I-I have another proposal. It's a bit u-un-unconventional, but if we supply my compass with a l-l-l-large amount of mana.. It's a aether. My dad says its useless... He gave me it."
After a few seconds, he gathered he breath.
"Th-th-the city could be down today."
The tent fell silent, everyone staring at Lucius in disbelief. He paused and looked down towards the floor, embarrassed.
Uncle Ulysses was the first to break the silence. "Lucius, what you're suggesting is a master magician's level feat. How do you propose we supply that much mana? Are you sure it's safe?"
Lucius nodded, though he looked slightly nervous. "I-I understand the concerns, but my compass is g-g-good. It can channel and amplify mana. W-w-with the right amount of mana, The blueprint... I-I-I can reshape the city."
Master Beswick stepped closer, fascinated by Lucius's words. "This is amazing boy! Are you certain you could control it?"
Lucius met his gaze, his eyes filled with determination. "Yes, I am. I've studied this compass my whole life. If we do this right, it could save you fortnights of work and resources."
I glanced at Uncle and Master, seeing the uncertainty in their eyes.
"I believe Lucius," I said, stepping forward. "Besides, the benefits are too great to ignore."
Uncle Ulysses sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright, but we proceed with extreme caution. We'll gather everyone left, but Lucius, if at any point you feel it's too much, you stop. Understood?"
Lucius nodded vigorously. "U-u-understood."
He sheepishly exited the tent. I turned to Master and Uncle.
"I think this is also a perfect time to see the full capabilities of my pylons." I said.
We moved quickly. Master Beswick and I gathered the most powerful magicians we could find. Those of course being my pylons. Lucuis held the compass in the exact center of the city. We adjusted the pylons to converge at that location.
"Here goes nothing," he muttered, before raising the compass high.
Each of the most advanced mages manned a pylon, channeling their raw mana into the device tenfold. I accompanied one as well, placing my Aurorian crystal against the surface of a pylon. The air buzzed with energy as they channeled mana into Lucius's compass. The artifact glowed brighter and brighter, humming with raw power. Lucius stood at the center beneath the vertex of mana, his eyes focused and his hands steady on the compass.
A brilliant nova exploded from the compass, and I shielded my eyes against the blinding glow. The ground beneath us trembled as the mana surged through the artifact, reshaping the landscape. The air crackled with energy, and I could feel the power resonating through my bones.
The purple light grabbed the debris, deconstructed our makeshift homes, reformed the cobblestone in the streets, and slowly coalesced into the framework for the planned city.
Minutes passed, though it felt like hours. When the light finally faded, we opened our eyes to a transformed Aetherhaven. The new city stood before us, magnificent and whole. The streets, buildings, and walls were perfectly aligned, just as Lucius had planned.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
stone