Chapter 399: Central Hub
In the Relic Research Institute of Hope Island, Charles was surrounded by a cohort as he was led through the highly secure facility.
The group included Minister of Administration Leonardo, Police Chief James, and several head researchers in the institute.
James had handpicked these leaders from the ranks of the police and the navy. The main criteria hadn't been their capabilities but rather their loyalty.
Under their guidance, Charles was brought into a massive room where tables were strategically spaced apart. On each table, a different item was displayed and encased within thick glass barriers. Charles immediately recognized these as the incredible products Leonardo had mentioned earlier.
Leonardo highlighted a particular material, saying, "This substance was extracted from soil by Ascendant No. 9. Yield is low, but it has many uses. It is lighter than iron and steel yet surpasses both in hardness and exhibits superior resistance to corrosion. The Type-3 Steel I mentioned earlier is a metal alloy made from this substance."
Leonardo then presented a gleaming silver metal block to Charles and added, "Moreover, after grinding this metal to fine powder, it serves as an exceptional fuel source. It's quite remarkable!"
As Charles examined the metal block in his hand, he rifled through his memory as he tried to match it with elements from the periodic table he had long forgotten.
Extracted from soil, lighter than iron, higher resistance to corrosion, usable as fuel in power formThat sounds like titanium. I remember that titanium powder is flammable. But my chemistry knowledge is limited; I could be wrong.
The unique metal properties of the block in Charles' hand made it difficult for him to ascertain whether this metal was exclusive to the seascape or existed in the surface world as well.
"Let's not limit this substance to weaponry. Experiment with it and explore its potential across various sectors and see how it could be applied."
Being from modern times, Charles clearly recognized the significance of discovering a new metal element.
Charles looked up and surveyed the assortment of items on display. They ranged from solid and liquid forms to even living specimens. For example, there was a dog with two brains stitched together.
As Leonardo explained each item one after another, Charles' excitement grew. These innovations signaled the dawn of new technologies and inventions poised for swift integration into industrial processes, promising a substantial uplift in Hope Island's economic strength as well as military capabilities.
Beyond their direct functionality, the mere existence of these items could spur a leap in technological progress.
Without prior knowledge of iron, humans would never be able to craft a dagger out of thin air. However, with a tangible example placed before them, they could create one faster as replication was easier.
Charles felt that the discovery of these substances could propel the entire subterranean human civilization beyond the limitations of the Second Industrial Revolution to reach a new era.
Perhaps the development might heavily diverge from the surface world's electrification era and possibly steer the subterranean technology toward a magic-infused era.
Just then, thoughts of the now-defunct Foundation entered his mind. He realized the parallels between Hope Island's direction and the path once trodden by the Foundation.
How does what I'm doing different from what the Foundation has done?
No It's different. The Foundation's downfall was due to their insatiable desire for the Divinities' power. My actions, however, are motivated by human curiosity and the pursuit of exploration.
Charles knew that it was too far-fetched to dwell on these matters, so he decided to focus on the immediate opportunities presented by these substances.
This was the perfect opportunity to amplify his own strength significantly. Unlike other governors, Charles had no desire for territorial conquest. The only reason he wanted to strengthen himself was to balance the power dynamics with the Pope's Divine Light Order.
Despite their current alliance, there was a stark power imbalance. If the Order turned against him, he wouldn't be able to even put up a fight.
The Pope's unpredictable nature and peculiarities had always been a constant concern for Charles and reminded him of the need to remain cautious.
Thinking back on the massive resources revealed by the Divine Light Order earlier in the day, Charles turned his gaze back onto the array of items before him. A thought entered his mindthere was finally hope in standing up against them.
Staring at the fluorescent jellyfish pendant in his hand, Charles knew he wouldn't have much use for it. However, his contemporary insight allowed him to see its potential beyond the realm of luxury goods.
"Is the ability to encase a living entity within a confined space? We shouldn't limit this ability to crafting high-end luxury items. I think it has great potential in the medical field."
"If the Ascendant can place something in, then surely removing it shouldn't be of much difficulty. Consider the implications for complicated pregnancies; the fetus could be safely extracted without endangering the mother. If this can be done, we might be able to eradicate maternal mortality on Hope Island due to childbirth complications.
"Similarly, when it comes to various internal blockages and foreign bodies that typically necessitate surgical intervention, the Ascendant could simply extract them directly."
The eyes of the middle-aged man standing next to Charles lit up in enlightenment as he eagerly nodded. "Governor, you have such great insight. I truly am not as smart as you to have overlooked such potential applications."
A trace of annoyance flashed across Charles' eyes before he shifted his attention to the other innovations.
The man was clearly caught off guard by Charles' reaction and stood frozen in the spot. Leonardo nudged him and advised, "Go straight to the point. Don't do mere flattery. Our Governor prefers substance over empty praise."
Leveraging his contemporary insights, Charles studied the detailed profiles of the various Ascendants. He felt like he had finally gained his "golden finger" after crossing over to this world. However, he was still apprehensive over the potential consequences of utilizing these individuals.
"Would these Ascendants obediently comply with our orders?" Charles asked as he eyed the displayed items.
"That's not possible. In the first place, they're all convicts on death row, sentenced for their major crimes. However, our prison guards will keep them in check. It is a concession on our part that they are still alive to this day," James clarified from the side.
"Devise a system to manage them effectively without causing too much backlash. They're tools for our use, but even tools require careful handling and maintenance," Charles instructed.
Leonardo nodded in agreement. "Indeed. But Governor, regardless of our stance toward these convicts, there's no doubt that the Relic Research Institute is critical to our island's future."
Charles concurred with the sentiment with a nod. "I know. This facility will be the central hub for technological advancement on Hope Island. I will get Bandages and Feuerbach to send more of our Navy soldiers over to safeguard the area."
Just as they were discussing the details, an unexpected news interrupted them.
"Governor! A few animated ships from Elizarles Shores had just docked!"
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