SchemeDefaultSolarized LightSolarized DarkLightDarkSepiaHigh ContrastFont TypeDefaultTimes New RomanGeorgiaPalatino LinotypeOpen SansFont SizeSmallMediumLargeVery Large LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Although dwarves may seem less prominent compared to other races, they are, in fact, a very peculiar race when examined closely.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

They are widely known for their excellent craftsmanship as blacksmiths, and are characterized by their extremely short stature.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

However, their small size allows them to easily move through tight spaces, making them well-suited for mining.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Despite what one might assume about their strength due to their size, dwarves are actually incredibly strong.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

The misconception that they are weak stems from the fact that, unlike the aggressive beastkin or the constantly brawling humans, dwarves do not often seek out fights.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

But once you see a dwarf in battle rather than in a forge, all your assumptions will be shattered.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Their stubby build makes them hard to counter, and they possess excellent balance.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Moreover, unless you are a similarly small race like goblins, dwarves naturally tend to target their opponents’ lower bodies.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Just as humans focus on an ogre’s legs in battle, dwarves apply the same tactics.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz They are a race that you underestimate at your own peril, yet thanks to their cheerful and optimistic nature, dwarves rarely come into serious conflict with other races. LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

However, even dwarves have one major flaw…

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

[They are a race willing to forge weapons for demons—as long as they are paid.]

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

[True artisans are said to have pride that money can’t buy, but dwarves are an exception.]

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

[If you ever trade with dwarves, be careful. They won’t stab you in the back, but they might chop off your nose to sell it.]

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

That flaw is greed.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

The fact that dwarves are greedy is universally acknowledged—even the dwarves themselves admit it.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Originally, dwarves weren’t greedy.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

As a race of master artisans, they once took immense pride in their craftsmanship and focused solely on honing their skills.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

But everything changed when the “Race War” broke out.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Even though humanity had learned magic from the demons, the gap in basic abilities between humans and elves was still vast.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Thus, the human alliance paid dwarves enormous sums to supply them with weapons.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

If you’re lacking in physical abilities, your weapons need to be top-notch!

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Otherwise, you won’t stand a chance against the elves!

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

With that in mind, the human alliance equipped not only knights but even ordinary soldiers with dwarf-made weapons.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

They also purchased magical tools, clothing, accessories, and most importantly, iron—everything necessary to efficiently harness magic.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

It was similar to the U.S. “Lend-Lease Act” on Earth—except that here it was full purchase, not a lease.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

In any case, Machina (the dwarves’ country) amassed immense wealth and fame starting from the Race War.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

They generously showered their people with subsidies, which in turn boosted dwarf production even further.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

[Dwarven weapons are reliable!]

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

[Goods crafted by dwarves guarantee 100% quality!]

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

[Still not buying? Seriously??]

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

That virtuous cycle has continued uninterrupted for the past 300 years.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Even items that appear ordinary become exorbitantly priced if they’re dwarf-made.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

While dwarves might scam you in other ways, when it comes to craftsmanship, they are utterly sincere.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

They never cut corners in their work—it’s just that you can buy that sincerity with enough money.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Their honesty in commerce makes it hard to blame them.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Even the mighty Minerva Empire is just another customer to Machina.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

While dwarven goods themselves are remarkable, their greatest asset is their metallurgy.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Being a race of blacksmiths, their ability to manipulate metal is unrivaled.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Many scholars have assessed that dwarven metallurgy is at least several stages more advanced than that of other races.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Humans struggle desperately but cannot catch up.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Demons and elves rely more on their inherent magic and strength than on technology.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Beastkin, having only recently built their civilization, still lag behind technologically.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

And above all, one thing stands out:

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Machina, the dwarven nation, has never once been engulfed in war since its founding.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Of course, there were challenges during its establishment, but they were minor compared to other nations.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Since dwarves naturally enjoy crafting over fighting, conflict rarely finds a foothold there.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Some might worry they would become isolated, like the Galapagos, but how could they be isolated when neighboring human nations are eager to buy their goods?

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Thanks to this bizarre history and unique racial traits, dwarves command an undeniable presence, even if it’s not always obvious.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Up close, they seem like a race of highly skilled craftsmen; from afar, they are a race deeply involved in the grand events of history.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Objectively speaking, they are certainly “artisans”—yet ironically, they are artisans whose pride can be bought with money.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

One scholar harshly criticized the dwarves’ greed:

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

[Each time we kill a dwarf, another dwarf will sell us weapons to do it with.]

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

It’s a scathing, brutally honest critique of dwarven greed, much like something a “Steel Marshal” would say.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

And as time passed, the peculiarities of their race eventually led to major problems.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Why?! Why won’t you acknowledge the magic engine as my invention?!”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Ains, the inventor of the magic engine, slammed his thick hand on the table and shouted.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Although he hadn’t drunk any alcohol, his face was flushed bright red, and his thick brown beard was trembling with rage.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

His blazing eyes made it clear how furious he was.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“How dare you raise your voice before the King! Lower it at once!”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

snapped another dwarf standing across from him, frowning sternly.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Unlike Ains, whose clothing was singed here and there from working with magic, the bureaucratic dwarf was neat and polished, wearing a monocle.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

While most dwarves were naturally inclined to blacksmithing, that was before the Race War.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

After they tasted the sweetness of wealth, more and more dwarves like this bureaucrat, who cared only for money, began to appear.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Of course I know who I’m speaking to! That’s exactly why I’m asking! You never gave a damn before, so why now?!”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“How dare you use such foul language before the King! How many times must I tell you to hold your tongue!”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Then tell me why, damn it! Why are you suddenly declaring the magic engine state property?!”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

As Ains and the official barked at each other, there was one dwarf who remained completely unfazed.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

This dwarf, however, was unusual in another way.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Besides his typical bushy beard, his entire body was adorned with extravagant jewelry.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Not only were his fingers stacked with flashy rings, but even the decorations tying his beard were made of gold.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

And his crown… oh, his crown.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Normally, crowns are made of solid gold.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

But this dwarf’s crown went beyond that:

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

The entire crown was a single enormous diamond.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

You might think that’s absurd, but it truly was made of diamond.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

To top it off, the embedded jewels were so lavish that if Isaac (the scholar) had seen them, he would have said:

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“It looks like that purple space gangster’s glove was turned into a crown—only it’s pure diamond instead of gold.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“What else could it be? You just invented it — you’re not the founder.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Bourge V, the King of Machina and a dwarf consumed by greed itself, replied as if the question was silly.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

He was a dwarf king who, after the racial wars, had learned the taste of money and now sought to steal Ains’ invention.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Hearing Bourge V’s words, Ains stopped arguing with his vassals and glared at the king.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Even in front of royalty, his face showed no fear whatsoever.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“So you’re saying you won’t acknowledge it just because Zenon was the original creator? Even though Zenon himself said I could do whatever I wanted with it?!”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Then that means we can do whatever we want too. Without Zenon’s idea, you wouldn’t have been able to invent the mana engine either.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

It was the worst kind of sophistry.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Ains barely managed to stop himself from clutching the back of his neck in frustration.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

If Isaac had been there to hear it, he too would have been utterly dumbfounded.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

The mana engine — or rather, the steam engine it was based on — was a technology that would have naturally been invented in time anyway.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

The pump that served as the foundation for the steam engine had already been invented long ago.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Isaac had merely shared knowledge from a not-so-distant future.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

The problem was, the invention had gone beyond a mere innovation — it was something that turned the entire world upside down.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Not to mention, the most famous “public figure” had already shown steam locomotives in a book.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Also, Bourge V had turned the entire dwarf nation into arms dealers during the racial wars and profited massively.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

There were other reasons too, but in the end, it came down to sheer “greed.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

He wanted Ains’ mana engine so badly he was now trying to nullify Ains’ ownership of it.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Don’t talk nonsense! You saw Zenon’s biography yourself! The inventor of the steam locomotive there — that’s me!”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

If Isaac had heard that, he would’ve laughed and said, That was just a coincidence.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Oh, that? You said yourself before — your disciple would’ve eventually invented the steam locomotive, carrying on your legacy. And now you’re changing your story?”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Still, not just Ains but everyone else had firmly believed otherwise.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

If they had seen Isaac now, they would have heard a helpless chuckle.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“That future no longer exists! I just want rightful ownership, that’s all!”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“You see only part of the picture. You have no idea how much potential the mana engine holds.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

As appeals and sophistry flew back and forth, Bourge V shook his head in pity and berated Ains.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“The mana engine — it’s power enough to move even massive hunks of iron. It’s not just for locomotives; it can be applied to all sorts of fields. Machines, for example.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“What?”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“We can replace the machines that require magic to operate with mana engines.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Since Machina is a dwarven nation, mechanical engineering was already quite advanced — it just hadn’t been systematically theorized yet.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

With their natural dexterity and instinctive craftsmanship, dwarves often managed to create impressive inventions.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Many modern inventions like refrigerators and air conditioners had come from dwarf hands — although a closer inspection would often reveal an elf’s magical touch behind them.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Take air conditioners, for example: in the sweltering heat, elves would cast cold spells to cool themselves.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Dwarves, seeing this, thought, What if we put that into a machine? and obtained magical formulas from the elves to integrate into mechanical devices.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Thus, mechanical engineering advanced, but physics — the underlying theory — became reliant on elves.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“If you have a power source, you can replace anything. That alone can generate incredible wealth. Magic? Only those pointy-eared and horned freaks can use it well. For dwarves and other races, mana engines are a necessary power.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“…”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Besides, the things those horned freaks make aren’t to be taken lightly either. They can manufacture things even faster thanks to magic. If we let them, we’ll lose the markets we’ve monopolized.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Bourge V’s greedy nature was matched only by his sharp insight.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

In fact, Helium’s goods — produced by the demon nation — were every bit as good as the dwarves’.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Whereas dwarves had superior hardware, demons had powerful magic-powered “software.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

If Helium had stayed isolated, the global market would have been dominated by Machina — but now, with Helium’s rise, they could no longer stand by.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

And just in time, Ains had invented the mana engine.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Bourge V planned to use this opportunity to turn the entire country into one giant “factory.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

That’s why he wanted to steal ownership: to mass-produce mana engines and distribute them widely.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Think of it as sacrificing for the nation. In return, your name will be etched into a page of history. Of course, you’ll also amass a fortune beyond your wildest dreams.”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“You… you bastard…”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Ains was so stunned he could hardly speak.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Bourge V, meanwhile, smiled broadly, baring his teeth — which, befitting his greed, were covered in gleaming gold.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Seeing that, Ains felt the last thread of his sanity snap.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Do you even know how many dwarves are collapsing from overwork right now!? Just how many more of our kin are you planning to grind into dust!?”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

As Ains cried out, the distorted nature of Machina became clear.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Machina had evolved into the closest thing to “capitalism” after experiencing the lure of money 300 years ago.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Over time, wealth grew to surpass even political power.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Bourge V had managed to retain his monarchy because the nation had become the arms dealer supporting the Human Union.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Naturally, the royal family reaped the greatest profits, and in a world where money ruled, the monarchy was now a mere figurehead.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

But there were major side effects: namely, the emergence of a “worker” class.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

The term “worker” originally came into common use after the Industrial Revolution, but dwarves, due to their traits, had created their own twisted version.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Just the dwarves collapsing from endless weapon-making would fill a whole cart!”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Individual dwarves were no longer seen as craftsmen but as “factories” themselves.

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“And now you want to suck even more blood from them? What the hell are you thinking!?”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

“Then can you handle the exploding demand? Do you have any idea how many regions are desperately struggling because they lack enough of our weapons?”

LongStringOfTextToSimulateLargeRandomDataSet123456789abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

Because of the ever-present threat of monsters, it was virtually impossible to halt the factory system.

★★★★★

Search the lightnovelworld.cc website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

Tip: You can use left, right keyboard keys to browse between chapters.Tap the middle of the screen to reveal Reading Options.

If you find any errors (non-standard content, ads redirect, broken links, etc..), Please let us know so we can fix it as soon as possible.

Report
Follow our Telegram channel at https://t.me/novelfire to receive the latest notifications about daily updated chapters.