Reborn With A Technology System In A Fantasy World

The convoy rolled to a stop at the edge of the Corrupted Lands, the Rover leading the way onto the flat expanse of hard, dry earth.

Immediately, they all sprang to life. Women began directing the unpacking of tents, bedrolls, and cooking supplies from the Trailblazers.

The sheer scale of the untouched wilderness pressed in, but the group moved with purpose, transforming the empty space into the beginnings of a home.

Adrian barely had his feet on the ground before the craftsmen surged forward, forming a loose circle around him.

They knew the moment had arrived. Gavrin stepped forward and spoke first.

"We're ready, sir. Do we begin now? Should we start with the survey?"

Adrian scanned the group and he could see that their faces were etched with determination.

He nodded. "Yes, we'll begin now. But not with the buildings."

"Look around. There's no accessible water. None for drinking, none for washing, none for working. And everything depends on water. We'll have to secure that first."

A murmur of understanding rippled through the craftsmen. No one complained as the logic was undeniable.

They simply nodded and Adrian continued, his gaze sweeping over the group and landing on three individuals.

"Jeffery, David, Noah. You three earned your rest after your work on the mountain. You can go eat breakfast, sleep if you can. We need you sharp later. Your skills will be crucial once we start the main construction."

They looked like they wanted to protest, but Adrian's tone brooked no argument. After a moment, they nodded gratefully.

"Thank you, Adrian," Jeffery said, before they turned towards the camp activity.

Adrian refocused on the remaining craftsmen, including Charles, who was practically vibrating with energy despite his earlier theatrics.

"Charles here has volunteered his earth magic for this initial phase. We'll need it for the well. He's more than capable."

Charles puffed out his chest and a smug grin spread across his face.

"Naturally! Who else could possibly channel the raw power of the earth with such finesse? You'd be digging with spoons without me!"

It earned a few chuckles and eye rolls, until Adrian continued.

"Listen carefully. What we build isn't just a hole in the ground. It's the start of a comprehensive plumbing system. Wells, pipes, storage tanks, filtration, waste disposal, everything integrated from the outset. You'll learn techniques and principles here that will apply to everything we build. Consider this your first major lesson in planned infrastructure."

He saw the spark of interest ignite in their eyes, the promise of new knowledge was a powerful motivator for craftsmen.

"Furthermore," Adrian added, "I'll be establishing a proper working schedule soon. I appreciate your willingness, but taxing yourselves to exhaustion leads to mistakes and injuries.

I aim for most work shifts to be no longer than eight hours. Rotations will ensure continuous progress without burnout."

Nods of approval met this.

"Good. Now, I've already identified the optimal location for the primary well. Follow me."

Adrian turned and began striding towards a specific spot about some hundres meters away. As he walked, his mind focused inward.

'Tech Core, purchase Advanced Hydraulic Engineering & Sanitation Systems Knowledge.'

[5000 TP Deducted...]

[Purchase Complete!]

Adrian didn't waste time to assimilate the knowledge immediately, and a torrent of information came into his mind.

'Now, we're talking,' Adrian thought, a wave of satisfaction washing over him as the knowledge settled seamlessly into place.

He reached the chosen spot and turned to face the expectant craftsmen and the eager Charles.

"Let's get to work."

***

The Academy buzzed like a hive. Students walked around the courtyard their smiles stretching ear-to-ear.

Pairs and groups lingered, some holding hands, others chattering excitedly. The reason for the vibrant energy? The long-anticipated Mid-Term break had officially begun.

Among the throng, Karl and Serena walked side by side, an uncommon pairing that drew a few curious glances.

It was rare to see a Knight interacting so closely with a Mage, but it didn't bother them.

They'd been walking in companionable silence for a while, the cheerful noise of the departing students a backdrop to their quiet thoughts.

Karl finally broke it in a low voice. "Still no news from Adrian?"

Serena's step faltered slightly. She'd cried countless tears for her missing brother since his communication ceased. But this time, she didn't let the wave crash over her.

She took a small breath and said.

"I know... But I am confident he's out there somewhere. He must just be incredibly busy. Nothing serious could happen to Adrian, I'm sure of that."

Karl looked down at her, relief softening the worry lines around his eyes. He offered a genuine smile.

"That's the spirit. I'm sure of it too. He'll turn up with some grand revelations, you'll see."

They soon reached the imposing Academy Gates and Serena knew she was cutting it fine. Her family carriage would be waiting.

Yet, she lingered for a moment longer, turning fully to Karl. A soft, slightly sad laugh escaped her. "I'm going to miss you a lot, Karl. Truly."

Karl felt a sudden warmth flood his cheeks as they flushed pink immediately, but he immediately tried to regain himself and replied.

"Really? Well... I'm going to miss you too, Serena. A lot."

At the gatehouse, Serena quickly registered her departure on the ledger. The finality of the gesture settled between them.

As she stepped across the threshold, officially leaving Academy grounds, Karl managed a small wave. "Best holidays, Serena. Enjoy your time at home."

Serena turned back one last time and gave him a bright, genuine smile. "You too! Though it's too bad I can't join you in your amazing home."

Karl let out a slightly forced laugh.

"Yeah," he said, shoving his hands in his pockets. "Yeah, it's gonna be tons of fun. Can't wait."

"Take care of yourself, Karl." She raised her hand in a final wave. "Bye!"

"Bye, Serena."

Karl watched as she walked towards the imposing royal carriage of the Borins', gave a final wave through the window, and then the carriage pulled away.