Miguel was sitting at the table in his room at the inn, surrounded by piles of papers and some rudimentary writing tools. The window next to him let in the soft morning light, illuminating his work. He was focused, jotting down everything he knew about this world and the technological level he had observed.

“This world is very similar to the Middle Ages,” he thought as he wrote. “But there are significant differences: magic, magical beings, monsters, and various intelligent bipedal species.”

He paused to organize his thoughts. Miguel knew that understanding these differences was crucial to adapting his engineering ideas and knowledge to the new environment. He wrote about the technologies he had seen so far: windmills, wooden and stone buildings, basic agricultural methods. All this mixed with the presence of magic and magical creatures, which added a layer of complexity to the world.

When he finished his notes, Miguel took a clean piece of paper and began sketching a new project that had been on his mind for some time: a more efficient plow for the fields in his barony. He knew that improving agricultural efficiency was crucial for the survival and prosperity of his people.

Carefully drawing, he began to sketch the plow. “A plow that can till more land in less time and with less labor will be revolutionary,” he thought. He imagined sharper blades and a structure that could be pulled with less force, yet still perform efficiently.

As he traced the lines on the paper, he thought about the available resources and construction techniques that could be used. He wanted to ensure that the plow was something that could be easily built with local materials and skills. “This will not only increase crop productivity but also free up more people for other important tasks,” he reflected.

Time passed quickly as he worked, immersed in his project. When he finally looked up, the sketch was complete. He looked at the drawing with satisfaction, feeling proud of what he had created.

“I will give this project to Elnar as well,” he decided. “He can help implement this here and, hopefully, spread the idea to other parts of the kingdom. This will benefit not only my barony but also other places facing similar difficulties.”

With the sketch finished, Miguel gathered his papers and prepared to meet Elnar again. He knew that this new project could make a big difference and was eager to share it with Elnar and start working on the next phase of his improvements.

***

Another day passed. Today, Miguel was at the construction site of the new windmill, overseeing the progress of the beastmen. He was impressed to see how the foundation and stone base had already been built. The stones, though unshaped, were of medium size and stacked efficiently and solidly. The foundation looked robust and stable, ready to support the windmill’s structure.

Elnar, who was beside Miguel, noticed his interest. “Would you like to see how we make the wooden parts?” asked the stag.

Miguel nodded enthusiastically. “Yes, I’d love to see.”

Elnar took Miguel to a shed where several carpenters were working. The shed was spacious and well-organized, with different areas dedicated to various stages of woodworking. As he entered, Miguel noticed the diversity among the beastmen. There were beings resembling cats, dogs, rabbits, and even small bears, all working together harmoniously.

He found it fascinating but at the same time a bit strange to see animals with humanoid characteristics. Sometimes it was a bit unsettling, but he quickly pushed those thoughts aside, deciding to focus on the work being done.

Miguel watched as the carpenters cut and shaped the wood. The technique was quite similar to what he had learned in engineering and architecture history classes. The tools they used, though rudimentary, were handled with skill and precision.

Elnar followed Miguel’s gaze and noticed his detailed analysis. “Our carpenters are very skilled. They work quickly and with great precision,” he said proudly.

Miguel agreed. “They are indeed efficient. But I notice that their tools could be better. Look, many of the axes are clearly rusted.”

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As he observed the carpenters' work, Miguel began to think. “In this world, have they figured out how to make metal alloys?” he pondered. He knew that better-quality tools could further increase the efficiency and productivity of the beastmen.

“Maybe I should check this with the blacksmith in my barony when I return,” Miguel thought. “If we can improve the tools, it would benefit not only the windmill’s construction but many other activities.”

Determined to explore this idea later, Miguel turned his attention back to the carpenters’ work. He watched every movement, every technique, absorbing as much knowledge as possible. He knew that the windmill's construction was just the beginning and that many other improvements could be made with the right time and effort.

***

Four days had passed since the beastmen began building the windmill. Miguel was impressed to see the remarkable progress. They had finished. The wooden parts of the windmill were like a giant puzzle, fitting together perfectly like Lego blocks.

All the members of the beastmen’s council and Miguel’s entourage were present for the inauguration. The lion, Ruidahr, gave a brief speech, thanking the workers and Miguel’s entourage.

“We are here today to celebrate not only the completion of this windmill but also the collaboration between our peoples,” began Ruidahr. “I thank our tireless workers and Miguel’s entourage, whose knowledge and dedication made this possible.”

The stag, Elnar, held a sharp knife, ready to cut the rope that held the windmill’s blades. These blades were made from a special plant whose leaves are light and durable, similar to skin. Each leaf is at least one meter long. The beastmen had sewn several leaves together, creating a strong and durable surface.

To lubricate all the gears, Miguel instructed the beastmen to use vegetable oil. He didn’t see soy but the beastmen’s crops, so he had to be creative and find plants that could substitute. He easily found and instructed them on how to extract oil from the plants.

With a precise cut, Elnar released the ropes. The wind quickly took action, making the blades spin smoothly. The sound of the wooden gears, now well-lubricated and adjusted, began to fill the air. The blades turned gracefully, moving the grains and starting the milling process.

Everyone watched with satisfaction as the windmill operated. It was a symbol of cooperation and innovation. The lion turned his attention to Miguel. “This may be just the beginning of a good relationship between our cities,” he said, with a tone of hope.

Ruidahr then called Grimnir, the bear. “Provide all the necessary things for Miguel and his people. We will sell each kilogram of food at a very low price. And there’s no need to pay for everything now.”

Miguel thought to himself that this whole journey had really been worth it. This was the only place nearby that could offer help; other baronies were either in the same precarious situation or simply ignored all requests for help. Now his concern was different: the rescued little girl. Who could have attacked her village?

As everyone excitedly discussed the success of the windmill and future plans, a soldier from the wall appeared, hurriedly. “Sorry to interrupt,” he said, with an urgent tone. “There is a human knight at the gate. He says he is a messenger from the Drakmoor Barony.”

Everyone looked at each other confused. The unexpected arrival of a messenger from the barony brought new tension to the celebration. Miguel and the council members exchanged worried glances, uncertain about what the message might contain. And he began to feel a strong chill run down his spine... Looking at Ricardo, Miguel saw the same face of uncertainty and anger... Why would these bandits be attacking the barony right now? And there was only one answer... His brothers.

---1 day earlier in Drakmoor Barony—

Thomas was in the mansion’s office, focused on organizing some important documents. The silence of the room was abruptly interrupted by a soldier who burst in, panic etched on his face.

“Lord Thomas!” exclaimed the soldier, trying to catch his breath. “There’s a small army outside the barony walls. We estimate there are between 200 to 500 armed men. From their clothes, they seem to be bandits or mercenaries.”

Thomas felt a shiver run down his spine. He knew that the hooded man was part of something larger and hoped he was mistaken about it.

He immediately stood up, his mind racing to think of a strategy. “Prepare all available soldiers,” he ordered. “We need to be ready for anything. We don’t have time to lose.”

The soldier nodded and quickly left to carry out the orders. Thomas knew the barony only had 100 soldiers, and some of them were with Baron Miguel on his trip. The situation was critical.

Before leaving the office, Thomas decided he needed to send an urgent message to Miguel. He grabbed paper and quill and began to write rapidly:

“Dear Baron,

A small army, estimated between 200 to 500 men, is outside the barony walls. They appear to be bandits or mercenaries. We are preparing for defense but need reinforcements and your leadership. Please return as soon as possible.

—Thomas”

Thomas sealed the letter and called another soldier. “Prepare a messenger immediately. He must cross the border and find Baron Miguel. Deliver this letter to him without delay. GO!”

The soldier took the letter and left to prepare the messenger. Thomas knew there was no time to waste. He took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. Although he was just a butler, he understood the gravity of the situation and knew he needed to act with determination.

As he walked, he observed the barony’s residents, many of whom seemed oblivious to the impending threat. The responsibility of protecting them weighed heavily on his shoulders.

When he reached the walls, he climbed the stairs leading to the top, where the soldiers were organizing themselves. They greeted him with serious expressions, aware of the gravity of the situation. Thomas looked out at the horizon and saw the small army approaching. They were numerous, armed with swords, spears, and bows. The sight was intimidating.

Thomas turned to the soldiers around him. “We are at a numerical disadvantage,” he said, his voice firm. “But we need to stay calm and be prepared for anything. Our priority is to protect the barony and its residents.”

The soldiers nodded, their expressions showing a mix of determination and apprehension. Thomas knew many of them were nervous, but he needed to keep morale high.

As he watched the enemy army, Thomas considered possible strategies. He knew that trying to directly combat such a large group would be a mistake. He needed to find a way to negotiate or, at the very least, buy time until Miguel and the reinforcements arrived.

“If they are bandits,” Thomas thought, “perhaps we can convince them not to attack. Maybe we can give them what they want willingly and avoid a bloodbath.”

Thomas remained atop the wall, his eyes fixed on the approaching army. He knew that every decision he made now could determine the fate of the barony. Considering all the possibilities, he sought a way to persuade these people not to raid his city. The weight of responsibility was overwhelming, but he was determined to protect the barony until the end.