"So far, all the troops within the fortress have fought admirably," Michael began. "However, it seems to me that the rewards have been somewhat inadequate. Currently, rewards are distributed arbitrarily, without clear criteria. I believe visualizing future rewards based on merits and allowing for personal choices could improve overall performance. To that end, I've prepared this system for your consideration."
He gestured to a model on the table, crafted by Leonardo, which could be operated with a single staff.
"This system I've designed can be applied to all knights and soldiers in the fortress. Please take a look at the illustrations displayed on the model."
As Leonardo tapped the model with his staff, glowing letters and graphs began to appear in the air. The data was laid out in a way that was easy to understand at a glance.
Returning to the subject at hand, Michael continued in a solemn tone.
"The contributions made by knights and soldiers during battle will be converted into points, which can then be exchanged for titles, estates, land, or gold—whichever they choose. This system will facilitate smooth distribution of rewards and motivate them to fight to their fullest. Earning merits will provide even the most basic level of compensation, improving the quality of life for our soldiers."
A subtle shift rippled through the atmosphere of the meeting hall. While the idea was innovative, it also challenged tradition.
Duke Capone stroked his beard thoughtfully, his gaze lowered. Until now, rewards were granted arbitrarily by superiors, often based on personal discretion. This system would fundamentally alter that paradigm.
Then, Crown Prince Randolph abruptly rose from his seat, his face flushed with anger.
"I object to this!" he exclaimed.
Michael closed his eyes briefly, exhaling deeply. He had anticipated such opposition.
The disagreement stemmed from a difference in perspective. While Michael sought to reward merit, Crown Prince Randolph and the nobles favored a system based on status and background. If commoners and nobles were awarded the same points for their achievements, how could the authority of the royal family be upheld?
The prince's voice, filled with agitation, resounded through the hall. His reaction was not merely one of disagreement but of unbridled anger, fueled by a deep-seated inferiority complex toward Michael.
"To give choices to these ignorant fools? Rewards are ours to bestow as we see fit! How dare lowly soldiers presume to make demands? Dispensing rewards and punishments has been the sole privilege of the royal family since ancient times!"
The nobles in the room nodded gravely, their expressions tense.
Duke Capone, too, found merit in the prince's argument. Such a system could indeed undermine the royal family's authority.
"For leaders like us, is this truly a suitable system? I believe we need time to deliberate carefully. This is not a decision to be made lightly, especially under these circumstances," the duke remarked tactfully, though his words were clearly an expression of opposition. The others silently shared his sentiments.
Michael met Crown Prince Randolph's fiery gaze.
"Your Highness makes a valid point," Michael conceded. "However, Elonia is in a precarious situation, teetering on the brink of destruction. In such critical times, it is essential to provide all soldiers and knights with fair opportunities. We are at a clear disadvantage. Morale and motivation are crucial."
His gaze shifted to Crown Prince Edward, who blushed as the man he admired looked directly at him. Edward agreed with Michael's proposal but, being young and timid, lacked the courage to speak up. He could only watch Michael with shining eyes.
To Edward, who had just entered adolescence, Michael appeared magnificent and extraordinary.
Unaware of Edward's reverence, Michael continued, "I am confident that this system will significantly aid Elonia's recovery. What are your thoughts, Your Highness Edward?"
Unable to meet Michael's piercing gaze, Edward averted his eyes, silently pleading for help from Count Demonic. The count cleared his throat awkwardly.
"Hm, this is a rather radical proposal. I believe this is a matter beyond our authority to decide. Perhaps it would be best to leave the decision to His Majesty Henry III and His Majesty Charles V," Count Demonic suggested.
Michael sighed. Each time he encountered the constraints of the era, it felt as if his hands and feet were bound.
'Indeed, it seems this system is too progressive for them to accept. Perhaps I'll limit its implementation to our own family,' he thought to himself.
Surveying the room, Michael noted the heavy atmosphere that hung over the meeting hall. Out of respect for him as a commander, no one openly voiced opposition, but their sentiments were clear.
Crown Prince Randolph, now seated, continued to fume, unable to let go of his anger.
Despite Michael's seemingly unreasonable suggestion, he was the only one to object openly. To Randolph, it felt as though his authority was slipping away. The confidence he had displayed when trying to enlist Michael now seemed like a distant memory.
"When I proposed taking command, they all rushed to oppose me. Yet, when that man suggests something absurd, they say nothing? Cowards, every last one of them. Just wait," Randolph fumed inwardly.
Michael, however, gracefully accepted the consensus. To show resentment would only make him appear petty.
"Understood. It seems I was short-sighted. Please forget this proposal. Now, let us proceed with the military meeting," he said, casually diffusing the situation.
As Michael's composed demeanor eased the tension, the faces around him began to relax—except for Randolph, whose scowl remained.
At Michael's signal, Leonardo raised his staff, causing all the elements on the model to arrange themselves as they would appear in reality.
Michael resumed in a solemn tone, "First, we must discuss the placement and operation of the magic cannons and magic crossbows."
The weapons on the model glowed, categorized by type. The Orlando Fortress housed a total of 30 magic crossbows and 18 magic cannons. These expensive, resource-intensive tools were reserved for times of dire national crisis.
The magic crossbows were essential for repelling magical beasts. The Pamir Empire also deployed such beasts, in addition to the Black Hawk Tribe, known for their exceptional flight abilities. The Black Hawks would often ambush and abduct key figures, making the use of magic crossbows indispensable.