The journey passed without incident, much to the relief of Miguel and his entourage. As they advanced, the volcano began to outline itself on the horizon, an imposing presence that dominated the landscape. The mountain was enormous, its base vast and its steep slopes covered in volcanic rocks and sparse vegetation. Miguel couldn't help but feel a mixture of reverence and apprehension as he contemplated that monstrosity of nature, hoping it was inactive.

Hours passed, and the entourage continued advancing, the volcano growing larger in their view. The tension they felt about the possibility of dangers along the way began to dissipate, replaced by the expectation of the work ahead. The soldiers remained vigilant, but the path was quiet, allowing them to focus on the mission.

Finally, they reached the slope of the volcano. The close-up view was even more impressive, with dark, irregular rocks stretching in all directions. Miguel dismounted and looked around, absorbing the details of the terrain. He saw areas covered in volcanic ash, exactly what he was looking for.

"Let's stop here to rest and eat before we begin the work," ordered Miguel, his voice firm but calm.

The soldiers began to dismount and set up an improvised camp. The wagons were brought closer, and the empty sacks prepared for the work ahead. Ricardo supervised everything, ensuring every detail was attended to.

Miguel sat on a flat rock, watching his entourage as they prepared. Elnar approached with some supplies, offering Miguel a simple but nutritious meal. The baron accepted gratefully, realizing the importance of maintaining his strength for the hard work ahead.

"It's quite a sight, isn't it?" said Elnar, looking at the volcano with an expression of mixed fascination and respect.

"Yes, it's impressive," agreed Miguel. "And also an invaluable resource if we can use this volcanic ash to produce concrete."

While eating, Miguel took the opportunity to reflect on the next steps. He knew the work would be arduous, but he also knew it was essential for the safety and prosperity of his barony. He looked at Ricardo, who was checking the tools and instructing the soldiers, and felt grateful to have such a dedicated ally by his side.

After the meal, Miguel stood up, feeling rejuvenated. He observed the sky, noting that the sun was still high, giving them enough time to start collecting the volcanic ash. "Let's begin," he said with determination. "We have a lot of work ahead of us."

The soldiers nodded in agreement, ready to follow his orders. The entourage was prepared to face the challenge, with Miguel's leadership guiding every step. They knew the task would not be easy, but they also knew it was a crucial step in strengthening the future of the barony.

---

Some soldiers stood guard, along with Ricardo, while others helped Miguel fill the sacks with volcanic ash. The slope of the volcano was covered by a thin layer of ash that had accumulated in small depressions in the terrain. The wagons were strategically positioned to facilitate the transportation of the collected material.

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Elnar, beside Miguel, worked with a shovel, meticulously filling the sacks. His expression was one of curiosity as he watched Miguel work with determination.

"What is this concrete you talk so much about?" asked Elnar, breaking the silence with his deep voice.

Miguel laughed, appreciating the deer's curiosity. "Concrete is a mixture of volcanic ash, lime, and water that, when it dries, becomes extremely hard and durable. It's used to build strong structures, like walls and buildings."

Elnar frowned, trying to understand. "I see. It sounds really useful. It would be a revolution if it works as you say."

Miguel smiled, pleased with Elnar's interest. "It certainly will be. Imagine being able to build houses and fortresses without having to move huge rocks."

Elnar nodded, continuing to fill the sacks. "Our people build large buildings or temples similarly to humans. We take rocks and carve blocks to build. It takes a lot of work, and we often need great effort to move those rocks."

Miguel sighed, thinking about the work that must involve. "Exactly. If the concrete works as I hope, you won't need to move large rocks anymore. It will be much easier and faster to build anything."

Elnar looked at Miguel, admiringly. "That really would be a revolution. Let's hope it works."

They continued collecting the volcanic ash, working in silence. With each sack filled, Miguel felt closer to achieving his goal. He knew that this effort could mean a significant change for his barony and the beastmen. The idea of introducing such advanced technology into a medieval world filled him with hope.

The sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting long shadows across the slope of the volcano. The work was arduous, but Miguel and his companions' determination made every movement worthwhile. The soldiers maintained constant vigilance, ensuring everyone’s safety while they worked.

Miguel looked around, observing the progress they were making. He felt a sense of pride and gratitude for having such dedicated allies by his side. "We're doing well," he said, more to himself than to the others.

Elnar, noticing Miguel's satisfaction, smiled slightly. "Yes, we are. And soon we will see the result of our efforts."

Miguel nodded, determined. "Yes, we will. And when we return to the barony, we will have the foundation to build something new and lasting."

They continued to work, each shovelful of volcanic ash bringing them closer to a promising future. Night began to approach, but Miguel’s entourage was prepared to continue until they had enough for their needs.

---

With night falling, Miguel ordered the tents to be set up. Fatigue was starting to weigh on everyone, but the sense of progress gave them energy. Half of the sacks were already filled, and one of the wagons was completely loaded with volcanic ash. The anticipation of finishing the work the next day and returning to the barony was on everyone’s mind.

“Let’s rest now. Tomorrow morning we’ll finish the work and return to the barony,” said Miguel, his voice firm and encouraging.

Ricardo, ever efficient, organized the night watch. He assigned shifts to the soldiers, ensuring that security was maintained while everyone slept. He knew that despite the apparent tranquility, there was always the possibility of unexpected dangers.

Miguel stepped away a bit, observing the preparations for the night. He thought to himself about the next step. “Now we just need to find lime, and that probably won’t be difficult,” he reflected, feeling a slight relief. Roman concrete was getting closer to becoming a reality, and he couldn't help but feel anxious about what it would mean for the barony’s future.

The night passed quickly. The fatigue and hard work had taken their toll, and everyone slept deeply. When morning came, Miguel was the first to rise, followed by Ricardo and the other soldiers. The morning air was fresh, and the light of the rising sun painted the volcano with golden hues.

Everyone began to work immediately, with renewed determination. They spent the entire morning filling the last sacks with volcanic ash and completing the final wagon. The work was hard, but each filled sack was a step closer to their goal.

Miguel coordinated the efforts, encouraging and guiding when necessary. He knew that, although they were tired, the end was near, and this gave everyone a new burst of energy. Elnar, always by Miguel’s side, continued to collect ash with precision and care.

By the end of the morning, the last sacks were loaded onto the wagon. Satisfaction was visible on everyone’s faces. Miguel felt a deep pride as he looked at the work accomplished. “Good job, everyone,” he said, with a grateful smile. “Now we can return to the barony with the assurance that we are on the right path.”

Ricardo approached, adjusting his sword at his waist. “We are ready to depart, my lord. The wagons are loaded, and the men are prepared.”

Miguel nodded. “Let’s head back. We have much to do and little time to waste.”

With everything ready, the entourage began the journey back to the barony. The wagons loaded with volcanic ash represented more than just a construction material; they were a symbol of Miguel’s hope and determination to transform his barony into a prosperous and safe place. The journey was far from over, but with each step taken, Miguel knew he was closer to achieving his goal.