"As for you, Albert, you're still young, but you must also learn to be strong and kind—these are the foundations of becoming a great person."
Albert nodded vigorously. Though he couldn't fully understand his brother's words, he knew that everything his brother said was right.
As they say, blood is thicker than water.
Since Wulfrik and his brothers had lost their mother, and because Duke Frederick was busy with family affairs, Wulfrik had taken on greater responsibility for caring for his two younger brothers.
Whenever he saw them growing up healthy, Wulfrik's heart filled with warmth and satisfaction.
Wulfrik wasn't at all worried that his two brothers would threaten his position, because according to the noble inheritance law common throughout the Aethervancia Continent, Wulfrik, as the legitimate eldest son, was the undisputed first heir of the Sowerbright family.
Duke Frederick had also raised Wulfrik as the family heir from childhood, placing great hopes in him.
In fact, throughout the Aethervancia Continent, except for the imperial houses of the great empires and royal houses of kingdoms, the titles of other feudal nobles were basically inherited by the legitimate eldest son.
As they say, "United we stand, divided we fall."
Wulfrik had long resolved to properly cultivate his two brothers so they could become his capable assistants in the future.
...
After the meal, Wulfrik took his two brothers for a walk in the castle gardens, enjoying the rare peaceful time.
In the garden, flowers of all colors competed in beauty, butterflies danced gracefully, and the air was filled with a faint floral fragrance.
"Big brother, do you think the iron mine can really make our family stronger?"
Cashel asked as they walked, his eyes flickering with curiosity and anticipation.
Wulfrik smiled and nodded. "Of course. Iron ore is a precious resource that can be used to forge higher-quality weapons and armor, enhancing our family's military strength."
Though Albert couldn't understand much, he nodded along with his brothers, as if grasping something important.
"However, all of this requires time and effort."
Wulfrik's tone shifted as his expression grew serious. "Mining and operating the iron mine isn't a simple task. We need careful planning to ensure every step is taken steadily."
"At the same time, we must guard against the covetous interference of other powers."
Hearing this, Cashel's expression also grew solemn. "Big brother, don't worry. I'll work hard to learn swordsmanship and horsemanship to protect you and our family in the future!"
Though Albert was still young, he followed his brother's example, saying in his childish voice, "I'll work hard too and become big brother's helper!"
Wulfrik was moved by his two brothers' innocence and determination. He gently patted their shoulders. "Good. Let's work together for our family's glory and future!"
...
A few days later, news came from Black Mountain. After careful exploration by several mining officials, the iron mine discovered at Black Mountain was actually a large deposit with amazing reserves, and it was an easily accessible open-pit mine.
Upon learning this news, Wulfrik was overjoyed.
This discovery undoubtedly injected powerful momentum into the Sowerbright family's future.
Wulfrik immediately summoned several key family retainers, including Military Commander Sir Renard, Mining Supervisor Arnold, and Financial Officer Solanke, to jointly discuss the iron mine development plan.
The meeting room's atmosphere was heated yet tense.
Wulfrik stood at the head of the table, holding a detailed mineral report. His gaze swept over everyone present as he said gravely, "Gentlemen, this report in our hands means we're about to control an iron mine capable of changing our family's destiny."
"But equally, this places us at the center of attention. We must proceed cautiously."
Sir Renard spoke first. "Young master, I suggest immediately forming a specialized guard unit responsible for the mine's security and maintaining order during extraction."
"Meanwhile, we should strengthen patrols in the surrounding area to prevent any unwanted visitors."
Mining Supervisor Arnold said excitedly, "Young Master Wulfrik, according to preliminary exploration, this iron mine contains extremely high-quality ore, and the veins extend very widely."
"If we mine at full capacity, we estimate we can produce over two hundred tons of refined iron monthly!"
Financial Officer Solanke immediately pulled out his ever-present ledger, his fingers trembling as he calculated. "Excellent! This way we won't need to spend large sums purchasing iron ore from outside anymore."
"At current market prices, we can save about ten thousand gold coins monthly."
"Not to mention, any excess iron ore we could sell for profit."
Hearing this, Wulfrik raised his hand to interrupt Solanke, his eyes revealing wisdom and composure beyond his years. "Iron ore is an extremely important strategic resource. Even if we can't use it all, we must store it for future needs. We absolutely cannot sell it externally for a bit of profit."
As Wulfrik's words concluded, the meeting room fell into brief silence.
Solanke was slightly stunned, then nodded in agreement, realizing his shortsightedness. His respect for Wulfrik grew even more.
But this wasn't really Solanke's fault—as the Sowerbright family's financial officer, his duty was to increase the family's financial income while reducing expenditures.
"Young Master Wulfrik is absolutely right," Arnold agreed.
"Iron ore isn't just the foundation for forging weapons and armor—it's a symbol of family strength."
"Storing it not only strengthens our own power but also prepares us for whatever the future might bring."
Sir Renard also nodded solemnly. "The young master's consideration is very thorough."
"Once the iron mine begins operation, it will inevitably attract attention from surrounding powers and even invite covetous glances."
"We must not only guard against external enemies but also be wary of possible spies and betrayal from within."
Wulfrik nodded slightly, his gaze profound. "Sir Renard, I'll leave the guard unit formation to you."
"Be sure to select loyal and reliable warriors to ensure the mine's security."
"Yes, young master!" Renard solemnly accepted the command.
Mining Supervisor Arnold pondered for a moment, then added, "Young master, mining iron ore requires substantial manpower. We need to recruit miners and pay appropriate wages."
"Additionally, we need to purchase tools and construct mining facilities—all of this requires financial support."
Wulfrik smiled calmly. "Don't worry about funding. The family's current financial situation is sufficient to support the initial investment."
"Solanke, you're responsible for calculating the budget and ensuring every gold coin is used wisely."
Solanke respectfully nodded. "Understood, young master."
"As for the miner problem, send all those prisoners in the dungeons to dig at the mine—we might as well make use of waste. We can recruit externally for any shortfall," Wulfrik continued to instruct.
Solanke quickly caught on, nodding in agreement. "The young master's wisdom—this saves recruitment costs while effectively utilizing resources."