Glaiftrum War Chronicles The Salvation Strategy of Matthias, the Smiling Strategist
The Unified Calendar Year 1196, May 15th.
In the city of Greiftorum, located in the central region of the Kingdom of Greiftorum, within the Mage’s Tower.
Upon returning from the workshop of York, a dwarven blacksmith, the Great Sage Magda summoned Sidonius, the Grand Master of the Guardians of Wisdom, Weisswache .
Sidonius usually disguises himself as an ordinary elderly human, but he had now resumed his true form — that of a young elven male. Though he has lived for over twelve hundred years, magic keeps him youthful.
He and Magda have known each other for over a millennium, and he is one of the few people with whom she can speak freely.
“Though I managed to halt the development of the magical artifact Werkzeug, perhaps I was mistaken.”
It was rare for Magda to express doubt.
“Isn’t imparting knowledge to Matthias aligned with our goals? In truth, his insight far exceeds my expectations. I’m hopeful that if anyone can elevate future candidates to become Administrators, Herscher , it would be him.”
The purpose of the Guardians of Wisdom, Weisswache , is the resurrection of the god-like Administrator Herscher . To achieve this, they search for and guide those who might become Administrators, referred to as “candidates,” employing various strategies.
One such strategy is cultivating aides for these candidates, and Matthias was considered a strong contender.
“I believed granting Matthias knowledge would greatly benefit our cause…”
Magda let out a deep sigh.
“But the issue is… He absorbed all the knowledge we provided and ventured beyond what we anticipated. I never expected him to reach into forbidden territory so soon. I don’t know what to do about it…”
Magda had foreseen that Matthias might eventually begin developing the forbidden Magical Engine, Magimotor. Therefore, she discreetly restricted access to information about ancient civilizations, particularly technologies involving Pneuma, the essence used in magical engineering.
“Indeed, his creativity stands out. Before hearing from Magda-sama, I couldn’t even conceive of using magic, Magi, for power. But not only did he come up with the idea, but he also invented practical principles within just four years of being here. It’s astonishing to think someone could possess such creativity.”
Matthias developed a Stirling engine based on knowledge from his past life, though the concept of a heat engine isn’t something one could easily conceive without prior understanding. Unaware of this, the two mistook his genius for an extraordinary leap of innovation and were left in awe.
“True. The mechanisms Matthias devised differ entirely from those of ancient times. If he had accidentally stumbled upon past knowledge, it might make sense, but creating something entirely new from scratch goes beyond mere talent. Considering this, similar incidents may occur in the future…”
“I understand your concerns, but I can’t think of any specific solutions either…”
Sidonius too wore an expression of bewilderment.
“Perhaps placing him here in the tower was a mistake.”
Magda muttered softly.
“But given his situation, isn’t it best for him to remain here? His health has improved significantly, and should anything happen, immediate treatment is available. Moreover, the knowledge he seeks is only accessible here.”
“That may be true, but Matthias is still a twelve-year-old child. This environment, devoid of peers, doesn’t seem ideal.”
“You’re right. Most around him are individuals who’ve lived for over fifty years, including his caretakers. Even when he ventures outside the tower, it’s only to visit the dwarven workshops, leaving little opportunity to interact with children his age.”
Matthias does have attendants, but they’re also elite assassins sent by the Shadow Watchers, Schattenwache. Though appearing as a young woman in her early twenties, she is actually a highly-skilled assassin of the Dark Elves who has lived for nearly seven centuries.
“Perhaps we should send him back to the capital. He’ll turn thirteen next year, the age for entering the primary division of the Royal Academy. Enrolling in the academy might help him make friends and alleviate some of the current issues…”
Though Magda spoke the words, she lacked confidence, trailing off weakly.
“I understand your point, but do you think a genius like Matthias can interact normally with children his age? Besides, I doubt he’d find anything to learn at the primary level. In fact, his knowledge and intellect already surpass even the professors in the research department.”
The capital city, Shwerrenburg , is the most renowned academic city on the Endelant continent, home to numerous educational institutions, including private academies.
The “Shwerrenburg Royal Academy,” named after the city, is an elite school that attracts international students from allied nations.
The academy offers a three-year primary division starting at ages twelve or thirteen, a three-year secondary division beginning at fifteen or sixteen, and a graduate-level research division for scholars and teachers.
“I share your concern. Moreover, I hear competition at the academy is fierce. Graduating with top marks from the higher division allows even commoners or knights to rise in status. Surely, there will be jealous rivals who see Matthias as an obstacle. Making friends won’t be easy.”
“Without friends or opportunities to learn, a driven child like him would likely become discontented.”
“That’s true, but Matthias is wise. Even if he feels discontent, it’s unlikely he’d act recklessly because of it. What worries me more is his free time. Knowing him, he’ll find something to occupy himself with, which leaves me uneasy.”
The two continued their discussion but reached no conclusion.
The next day, they summoned Matthias.
Magda cut straight to the point.
“Would you consider attending the academy? While there may not be much for you to learn academically, social interactions are important.”
Startled, Matthias widened his eyes but quickly nodded.
“I wouldn’t say there’s nothing to learn. In fact, I believe there are things I can learn there that I can’t here.”
Sidonius voiced his curiosity.
“What specifically do you hope to learn?”
Matthias smiled as he replied.
“Human relationships. Though I receive reports on the kingdom’s nobility, I don’t get subtle insights that only close acquaintances might share.”
At his words, Magda smiled faintly.
“Yes, the words of those close to us are important.”
“And regardless of what I pursue in the future, human relationships will always be crucial. Attending the academy could broaden my options, and it’s something I’ve been considering for a while.”
Exchanging relieved glances, Magda and Sidonius gave small nods.
“In that case, let’s have Martin contact Baron von Lauschenbach through official channels. There will be preparations to make.”
Magda decided to inform Matthias’ father, Baron Richard von Lauschenbach, via Martin Netzer, the senior mage responsible for the Guardians of Wisdom in the capital.
After Matthias left, Magda turned to Sidonius.
“He’s perceptive. He understood our concerns.”
“Yes. He showed neither worry nor discontent. Likely, his talk of human relationships was meant to reassure us. For someone like him, direct communication isn’t necessary to address problems.”
“That’s true. Expanding his social circle is beneficial—for both him and us.”
Magda’s words earned a nod from Sidonius.
“If people gather around Matthias to support him as a potential candidate for the god Herscher … I imagine that’s something he’s already thought through.”
At this, Magda gave a firm nod of agreement.