System vs Rebirth

"This is the progress we have made so far. All the materials have been purchased, and they're about to be transported. Then, we'll use this place as a main base for our charity organization to restock supplies and other things.

"Once everything is settled, we can immediately begin our activity. Regarding all the details of the activity, I will leave it to Aurelia and Layla.

"And I will write down the basic guide that you can easily follow for the operation." Anna put down stacks of papers containing all the information about their charity organization.

Noel smiled wryly. "This is a lot. It must have been tiring for you to compile all that."

Just from a glance, Noel could see that the documents contained everything from the distribution route to how to do it step by step. All the items had been structured and listed properly, which made it easy for them to keep track of everything, including the cash flow.

It had been three weeks since she started preparing for the charity organization, and Anna finished everything that needed to be done for the charity.

"Thank you." Noel nodded with a smile. "Get some rest. You need to prepare for the trip as well. It's a shame that you can't be there, even though you are the one doing all the work."

"Hmph." Anna harrumphed. "Do you think I don't know that you often give me credits without me knowing it? This time, it's my turn. You should take the credit. The only thing that makes this possible is the money we get from the rune technology, which belongs to you."

Noel scratched the back of his head before turning around. "How is the progress, Khalid?"

Khalid nodded. "I created the prototype three days ago. For someone who is as strong as Duke Lorelei, they should be able to endure the side effects.

"However, since I have more time to do it, I will adjust the dose and perfect the process. It shouldn't take too long since the mix itself is not that different from the Spirit Awakening medicine.

"I should be able to finish it with some time to spare."

"I understand." Noel was satisfied. "In that case, proceed according to the plan. If you need anything, tell me about it. I will arrange everything for you."

"Thank you very much, my lord."

"There is also one more project that I want you to try. I don't know if you take it or not, but please stay for a bit after this."

Khalid didn't know what Noel had in mind, but it might be extremely important. As long as it was included in his specialty, he didn't mind doing it.

"I understand."

Noel then turned to Elaine. "How is the progress on the laws?"

Elaine looked at Noel as he prepared all this. It reminded her of the conversation she had after meeting her father.

…

Several weeks ago.

"Can you really visit me like this? Will the marquis punish you for sneaking out? You should go back immediately. I don't want you to suffer more because of me."

Elaine smiled wryly. After losing that battle against the Ardagan family, her father had stopped being ambitious. Instead, he turned back to focus on the family, fully aware that his family was on the edge of destruction.

Elaine shook her head. "Don't worry. I have earned this vacation. In fact, the marquis sent me to our family a few days ago, and I came here after visiting them."

"Is that so?"

"Yes. So, don't worry, Father."

"Well, as long as you're fine. You have turned down that position after all…"

"Hahahaha. If I become a minister, will I be able to achieve my dream? No. I will probably get stuck in politics. In fact, they might even eliminate me.

"Meanwhile, in the Ardagan family, I can do everything I want in peace, since the lord will be the one handling everything for me.

"Besides, our territory has stabilized now because the marquis has been buying our goods at a fair price. And the debt of the family is on me, which, from the looks of it, can be cleared within two years by myself.

"And he's the only noble that takes my words seriously. Even if the debts are cleared, I think… I want to continue working for the Ardagan family."

"Is that so? If that's your choice, I won't say anything. No, I have lost my right to say anything after giving you up back then." Her father sighed.

"It's fine, Father. I understand the situation."

"Still, the marquis is that charming, huh?"

Elaine chuckled. "Yes. I have no way of catching up to him. Still, his vision is for the people.

"There are trains, cars, and even boats. Those alone can improve the convenience for the commoners, which could create an era where the commoners have spare time to study or even become smarter and develop the area even further.

"And he has been asking me to create a law for something else, which can greatly change how the kingdom operates.

"I will make those policies and laws to regulate them. It's fine if my efforts are not recognized. Seeing how my policy and laws can bring the change alone is enough for me." A deep admiration was reflected in Elaine's face. It was a complete opposite of her expression when she first visited the Ardagan family to be punished.

"I understand. Do whatever you want. I don't plan to impose any family duty on you, so live however you want."

With a big smile on her face, she replied, "Yes, Father!"

…

Elaine took a deep breath, remembering her resolve. She took out the document and explained, "This is the basic flow, according to what you envision for the airship, my lord. Please check."

Noel briefly checked it and ultimately nodded his head. "Sure. Let's proceed with this. Also, take care of the regulations for the charity."

"Understood."

Anna looked at her, as if asking her to go with her to discuss it. Elaine nodded and followed Anna, leaving Noel and Khalid alone.

And Khalid knew it was time to learn what kind of project Noel wanted.

Noel started the conversation by dropping a bomb. "Khalid… Have you heard about… homunculus?"