Chapter 192: The New Proposition
Chapter 192: The New Proposition
Princess Elara remained quiet for a moment, her mind turning over the information Vincent had shared about the coal-powered plant and the intricate processes behind it. She was fascinated by the idea of harnessing energy in a way that didn't rely on magic, something completely alien to her world but clearly powerful. Her eyes returned to the large turbines and the steady hum of electricity that powered everything on the island.
After a moment, she turned to Vincent. "Would it be possible for us to have one of these coal- powered plants in our territory? I can see the benefits it would bring, especially in times of war. Our reliance on magic has its limits. And, in addition, we would need more than just the pistols and rifles you've supplied us. Our forces will need heavy equipment if we are to withstand a prolonged war against the demons."
Vincent raised an eyebrow, considering her request. "It's not impossible, but it won't be easy. Building and maintaining a coal-powered plant requires more than just resources. Your people would need to learn how to operate it, and that's no small task. There are many moving parts-literally and figuratively-that go into keeping something like this running. It's not just about building the structure and walking away. It's about understanding the technology, the physics behind it, the engineering that keeps everything functional."
Elara's face tightened slightly with determination. "We're fast learners. If we can master magic, I'm sure we can learn how to operate your technology. We've already adapted to using your firearms; heavy equipment like this shouldn't be too difficult to grasp."
Vincent shook his head gently, sensing her eagerness but wanting to temper her expectations. "Firearms are one thing, Elara. Pistols and rifles are relatively simple compared to something like this. A coal plant, helicopters, or any of our aircraft- these aren't just tools, they're systems. Entire frameworks of technology built on concepts that I'm not sure your people have encountered yet."
Elara looked at him, puzzled. "Concepts? Like what?"
"Physics, for starters," Vincent replied, leaning against one of the large railings overlooking the power plant. "The science behind why things work the way they do-how energy is generated, how it flows, how machines turn that energy into something useful. Then there's engineering, which is about building and maintaining these machines to make sure they don't break down. Mathematics plays a huge role too-calculating how much fuel is needed, how much power can be generated, how to balance the systems. It's all interconnected."
Elara seemed to absorb his words, but the weight of what he was saying began to settle in. "So you're saying we would need to change our entire way of thinking?"
"That's exactly what I'm saying," Vincent replied. "Your people have mastered magic, no question about that. But technology is different. It's not intuitive, and it doesn't bend to willpower or natural forces. You have to understand the mechanics, the cold, hard laws that govern how the world works-laws like gravity, momentum, and energy transfer. Without that understanding, you can't just build a plant and expect it to work."
Elara frowned slightly, her confidence dimming but not entirely gone. "But we are willing to learn. We know the world is changing, and we have to adapt if we're going to survive this war. I'm sure my people can be taught these principles. Perhaps your engineers can help us."
Vincent gave her a serious look. "I'm not doubting your willingness to learn. But this isn't about desire. It's about time and perspective. Your people have lived in a world shaped by magic for generations, maybe even centuries. Introducing an entirely new system of thinking, based on scientific principles, is going to take more than just a few lessons. It's a shift in worldview."
He gestured to the turbines and the lake. "Take this plant, for example. You'd need to understand not just how to burn coal to generate steam, but why the steam turns turbines, how electricity is produced, and how to safely manage that electricity without causing damage. And that's just the power plant. If you want heavy equipment-tanks, helicopters, aircraft—there's even more to learn. Piloting a helicopter isn't like using magic to glide through the air. It requires training, understanding of aerodynamics, mechanical maintenance. It's not as simple as flipping a switch."n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om
Elara's advisors, who had been standing silently behind her, exchanged glances. One of them stepped forward, concern evident in his voice. "Commander Vincent, if our people lack this knowledge, how can we ever hope to compete on the battlefield using your technology? Magic can only take us so far, and we need these advancements to survive."
Vincent sighed, his tone softening. "I'm not saying it's impossible. But it will take time. Your soldiers can be trained in operating certain equipment, but something like this," he nodded toward the coal plant again, "requires more than just a crash course. It requires a long-term commitment to learning, to changing the way you approach problems."
Elara nodded slowly, her mind racing. She hadn't expected technology to be this complex, though she was beginning to understand why Vincent had been so cautious. "We have scholars, scientists of our own-those who study nature and its elements. Perhaps they can begin the process of learning these... principles you mentioned. And from there, we can expand our understanding."
Vincent considered this for a moment. "That could work, but it will be a gradual process. And in the meantime, we'll continue to support you with weapons and equipment that are easier to integrate into your forces. Pistols and rifles are a good start, but we can also train your soldiers on more advanced firearms, maybe even some light vehicles. But as for things like helicopters or tanks? That's a much bigger leap."
Elara's determination returned. "Then we will start small, but we won't stop there. We will learn. If this war has taught us anything, it's that we can't rely on the old ways forever. We must evolve, just as your people have."
Vincent nodded, impressed by her resolve. "In that case, you'll have to bring the best of the best of your people. By that, I didn't mean in combat but in wisdom. Perhaps we can set up an educational facility that would teach you the scientific principles you'll need to understand the technology."
"Very well, we'll send our finest people into this island. Is it possible if we can as soon as possible?"
"Hmm...I think we can manage."