The truth

A staring contest began anew. The book had never left Rafael's hands and was resting on his lap since he sat down. A novel? A random fictitious story? A guide to somewhere? A translation of another language? My personal journal? An ancient book with an unknown language? A guide to reinvent everything...

"This is the only thing that was with me when I woke up in that forest..."

After a second or two, Rafael continued, "It has a story written in it about an adventure where a new land, filled with treasures, is discovered."

"Can I see it?" Cenric asked.

"You've already asked your three questions. I don't know if you believe me, but if you don't, we can end this conversation here." Rafael said in a serious and decisive tone.

If I find anything suspicious... well, more suspicious than now is hard to imagine, but he has valuable knowledge. I'll have to take this leap of faith. Cenric's face softened, returning to a more neutral expression. He leaned back in his chair and continued.

"There is a war brewing. The north is already battling the enemy in small skirmishes. I'd say that in just a few years—maybe two at most—it will develop into a full-scale war with enemies coming from the north and west, invading and destroying everything we've struggled to build." He stopped talking to let Rafael process the information.

"These savages are together with the neighboring kingdom in the west. Both are helping each other in conquering the regions around them."

"Now, Rafael, the worst part. I have information that Count Edwin is siding with the enemy, giving them precious information. And for what?! It's easy to guess. They don't want to be destroyed, so they chose to help the enemy!" Cenric punched the table in frustration.

"As you said, you don't remember anything, so I'll explain how this kingdom works. Our king is Robert I, and he lives in the capital with his two generals, Duke Wallhart and Duke Wiglaf. Now, Count Cuthred manages the north and is already trying to defend his cities and villages. Count Edwin manages the south and is the monster I just mentioned."

"Under his management are Barons Frederic, Ine, and Floutt. Only Baron Frederic isn't influenced by Count Edwin."

God fucking dammit! Why did I have to travel right in the middle of a war? With so much information being thrown at him, Rafael cursed his fate each time Cenric revealed something new.

"Do you understand now? The enemy is already among us. I'm secretly helping Frederic, who is secretly helping Count Cuthred. This is our land; God blessed us with everything here." Cenric paused for a few seconds to let his words sink in.

"So, Sir Rafael, what is your answer to this? Will you help the people of this land, or will you be a coward and kiss the enemy's feet for a hollow promise of safety? Will you help us?"

The only thing Rafael was thinking about right now was how easy all of this would be if he had gunpowder. "I need some time to think, sir. This is a serious matter."

"No. I can't let you go before you give me your answer," Cenric said quickly.

"Fine, my answer is yes."

I hope this war ends fast. At least it isn't like the advanced wars I know. Here, it will take years before something big really happens, so by then, I'll have already created something that might help against the enemy.

"Who is the enemy? Where are they from?"

"You made the right choice, sir. The primary enemy is King Teodorico IV of the Austrasia kingdom. Their land lies northwest of here."

"When do you think they will launch a full invasion?"

"I don't know. Maybe tomorrow, maybe in two years. What is known is that someday they will attack, so we need to be prepared. Now, I think your knowledge about paper will help our situation. You see, messages and information are written on this type of parchment." He showed the parchment he received from the messenger before meeting Rafael.

"The problem with this type of parchment is that it requires a constant supply of animal skin. The good side is that it's cheap. Paper is only used for books or really important things because it's expensive, but that's only because it's imported in small quantities. So, if we put a lot of hands on it, I presume we'll be able to produce a lot of paper and thereby reduce the cost. Doing this, information will be easier to deliver, and we'll gain gold to fund our defenses too."

Wow. He's smarter than I thought people in this period could be. Wait... Oh, the year!

"Sir, what year is it?" Rafael finally remembered to ask.

Cenric blinked, taken by surprise. "Year 732. Did you forget?"

Whyyy... Rafael lowered his head and shoulders in despair after hearing the year. While he was questioning his life choices, Cenric noticed his reaction.

Why this reaction after hearing the year? By his response, it means he's Catholic and knows the concept of years, but then why turn sad after hearing it? Did he really forget the year?

"Sir, now that you know the situation we're in, let's talk about the papermaking process. Is it easy? I can command a few workers to do it, but not too many since it's harvest time."

sigh If I want a better place and an easier life, so be it. I'll have to build it myself.

"Don't worry, it's easier than you think. All we need is wood and fabric. In just one or two hours, that old man will finish what I asked him to do, and then I'll make paper for you to see."