Listening to his words, Orion couldn't help but think, 'Help the warriors.' Of course, given that he would soon become a warrior himself, he had every reason to decide whether he wanted to assist them or not.
However, even if he attempted to refuse, given the way Stronghold Leader Zogar was regarding him with hopeful eyes, it probably wouldn't bode well if he sent the leader of the stronghold back displeased.
Then again, there might be an opportunity for him to gain something from this conversation.
"Well, what's your opinion?" Stronghold Leader Zogar asked Orion once more, the hopeful expression on his face gradually fading.
"Stronghold Leader Zogar, it's not that I'm opposed to helping, but handling such a task would demand a significant amount of materials, time, and effort. Therefore, I don't think it would be fitting for me to engage in such work without some form of compensation," Orion stated, shaking his head tiredly at Stronghold Leader Zogar's words.
While his willingness to deal with the newborns stemmed not only from a lack of confidence in the Caretakers and the Village Chief but also his desire to establish his influence and power improving his strength, he wasn't willing to do so without some form of benefit.
This mindset also guided his decision to take on the leadership and development of the new village, which would grant him more authority as the village chief.
Just considering the various types of rules he could establish was enough to make him smile internally, knowing that his throbbing shaft would undoubtedly be occupied during that period.
"Oh!" Strong Leader Zogar said, his eyebrow raised as he finally grasped the reason behind Orion's hesitation. Straightening his posture, he continued, "Humph! If that's what's been concerning you, then put those worries aside. I'm not asking for your assistance for free. Given the complexity of the task, we'll supply all the necessary materials you require for the job. Upon completion, I'll compensate you for your time and effort, and for each subsequent use as well."
"Since it's your ingenious idea, you'll receive a fair share of the operating costs. Consider this - with just this opportunity, you'll amass enough wealth to provide for your family even before your warrior status is achieved. And once you've become a warrior, it's not far-fetched to imagine you as the wealthiest warrior in the village. That is, of course, if you're serious about increasing your wealth as a warrior." Strong Leader Zogar concluded with a grin, fixing his gaze on Orion expectantly.
Certainly, the appeal of holding the title of the wealthiest warrior had a distinct appeal to Orion. However, as he mulled over Stronghold Leader Zogar's proposal, he found himself drawn to the deal, except for one key aspect. "Could I also maintain a degree of influence over the management of the construction?" Orion asked.
Despite the compensation he would receive, it was essential for him that he possess some level of authority over the direction his invention would follow.
However, Stronghold Leader Zogar's face darkened. He cast a scrutinizing gaze upon the young man who stood confidently before him. With narrowed eyes, Stronghold Leader Zogar's voice held a tinge of suspicion as he retorted, "You're not suggesting you doubt our capability to manage your creation, are you? Or could it be that the payment falls short of your expectations?"
"No, it's not that," Orion quickly countered, shaking his head. "I actually think it's wiser to entrust the management to me. After all, I'm the one who imagined and constructed it. Doesn't it follow that I'm the most equipped to handle any problems that might arise?" He paused, letting his words linger for Stronghold Leader Zogar's contemplation.
Even though Orion intended to contribute his creations to the village and receive substantial compensation in return, he wouldn't entirely relinquish control, especially considering his family's dependence on the village as their primary source of livelihood.
"True.... True..... You raise a valid point," Stronghold Leader Zogar admitted, his brows furrowed as he delved into Orion's proposal. Upon reflection, he realized that even if Orion were to deliver his inventions and entrust them to the village, the question of maintenance and repairs still remained.
They lacked the expertise to address potential faults or to handle any unforeseen issues that might arise. The more he considered it, the more he recognized the wisdom in Orion's request to retain control.
Stronghold Leader Zogar's demeanour shifted as the realization settled in, and he nodded in agreement with Orion's perspective.
Seeing Orion's strong commitment to helping the village, Stronghold Leader Zogar internally sighed. He responded, "Though I had thought of this initially, I refrained from adding more on your shoulder due to your numerous tasks. But since you've raised the matter, I find it fitting to further reward your dedication." Stronghold Leader Zogar's lie lent an air of evaluation to his words as if he were testing Orion's character.
"When the time comes, you won't just receive payment for your inventions, but also for your mindful maintenance of them, making sure they remain in optimal condition," he continued, his words cloaked in the facade of scrutiny.
Gazing at Orion, he asked, "Does this arrangement meet your expectations, or is there something else you'd like to add?" Stronghold Leader Zogar sought to ensure that all terms were clear and satisfactory to Orion.
"No, I don't want to add anything. It's okay this way," Orion responded with a nod.
"Then, we have a deal," Stronghold Leader Zogar said, extending his hand for a handshake. He observed Orion's response, pleased to see the younger man reciprocating the gesture. Their hands firmly gripped each other's, the shake lasted a few moments before they released their hold.
While the curiosity to ask about the origin of this innovative idea had crossed Stronghold Leader Zogar's mind, he ultimately decided against it. He had conducted his own prior investigation upon arriving at the farm, gathering pertinent information from Caretaker Naida about Orion.
Though the details weren't extensive or particularly remarkable, combined with the insights provided by Caretaker Ivor, the evidence pointed toward the idea being genuinely Orion's. Any suspicion that this might be the creation of someone older seemed to dissipate. Stronghold Leader Zogar acknowledged that regardless of its origin, the idea itself held the potential for a significant impact.
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