Chapter 732
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Chapter 732
It barely took any effort at all to set the old fellow Botros up with a series of ever more difficult to move crates. Anton watched as the man pushed himself to his limits, and frankly beyond them in unhealthy ways. It wasnt really fair to require this of him for the promised wages, but Anton didnt intend to leave him with just monetary payment.
You see now why I needed assistance with this? Anton asked as he approached the man. He was struggling with a crate absolutely not meant to hold iron bars in it, one with far too much volume for such dense goods. I cant do all of this on my own. Anton made a show of struggling with another crate- and indeed it was a little bit difficult to move if he completely cut himself off from natural energy. Maybe I should hire some of those bulky young fellow Anton mused.
N-no, Botros groaned. I can do it. It was difficult for an older man such as him to even get consideration for any job, and he seemed to be unqualified for much other than manual labor.
Botros swapped to a different crate, before returning with Anton to look at the one that had stumped him. If we move it together I think we can accomplish it
With my back? Anton asked. I think its better to not. But if you want to try, I did hear of a little trick. Might take a bit, though.
What is it? Botros asked. I think my stance is fine
If it wasnt, youd have thrown out your back for certain, Anton agreed. Lets see what was it Anton frowned. First, take your stance. Concentrate, not on what you intend to lift, but your own body. Anton was actually slightly conflicted. If Botros was a few decades younger, he might have tried to set him up with something like Western Steel Body. He actually seemed quite suited to it. However, beginning any sort of focused body tempering method like that would almost certainly lead to disaster at his age. Regular energy cultivation could still cripple the man- especially with the mediocre natural energy levels in the area- but Anton could help with that. Feel the pulse of blood in your body, the twitching of your muscles. Breathe deeply, drawing in from all around you.
Botros had wasted no time, not waiting for Anton to finish. Anton was wondering how to make excuses for his knowledge and how to explain the last steps but he seemed to get it. Anton did flood the area with extra natural energy, but when Botros absorbed some of it he naturally channeled it into his muscles. Anton would need to play around with his tasks so he would form a proper foundation instead of directly transitioning to muscle tempering, but Anton could also show him a proper cultivation manual when he asked about it.
For the moment, however, Botros managed to lift the crate that was just beyond the edge of his muscle and pure willpower. Some of the natural energy would be consumed for the task, while the rest would augment his muscles in the long term. Except it would also tire out the old man.
Its about time for lunch, Anton announced. Come on then.
Dont need any, Botros said stubbornly. Ill keep working here.
Anton shook his head, You wont know where I want that stuff. Youll just have to move it again. Come on then. Anton knew the man had no lunch, as he led him into a side room that was barely an office, previously lit by a smoky torch before Anton came about. He spread out the food on the table between them as Botros sat down. Ah, look at that. Packed too much food again. I guess its stale bread for dinner again, cant just waste it Anton looked at Botros. Or you can help me eat it. That way I dont feel guilty and can get something better for dinner.
I did not think one of your stature would be concerned about waste Botros said slowly, clearly interested in the food.
You dont grow wealth by wasting money, Anton said as he pushed some of it towards Botros. Speaking of which, youll work faster with some of this in you. Im sure youll work up enough of an appetite by evening to still eat with your family.
The man took Antons offer, perhaps in anticipation of his stomach growling. Anton shared bread, meat, cheese, and vegetables with him. All with small traces of natural energy. Partly because Botros body wouldnt be able to stand more, and partly because there really wasnt much better available.
He worked the old mans muscles in various ways for the rest of the afternoon, and sent him home early with the promised wages. For the first days- perhaps even months- Botros would be exhausted as his body got used to the changes happening. And if Anton let him continue to work, he would hurt himself.
Good, Anton said. Start with the ones along that wall. Anton wondered if Botros would notice that hed taken crates out of the core of one area. Not that most were so recognizable individually. After Botros went off, Anton was left there looking at the young Nasima peeking around the corner of some crates. So, what are you doing here?
Um I- I heard you needed some strong fellows to help you in your warehouse, she said, puffing herself up as large as possible and flexing. Her clothes were such that she could be mistaken for a young man by some.
Anton could feel she had some actual muscle but Too scrawny, he declared.
Im stronger than I look! she protested. Just let me try.
Well I suppose I can. This other fellow can show you the ropes. I doubt you can move much, but if you can manage to move these, Anton pat a mid sized and not too densely packed crate. I can pay you half wages. He grinned. Hey Botros!
Nasimas eyes widened. Umm, actually I-
But it was too late for her. Botros was swift to answer Antons call. Yes, sir? he said, making his way over. Then he saw Nasima. You
Anton interrupted whatever was going to happen there. This fellow wants to try the job. You know em? Anton asked. Kinda scrawny, but I was thinking maybe the young one could move the smaller crates. Nasima tried to look away. Botros frowned. So, what do you think? You know each other?
We do, Botros said.
What would your judgment be, strong enough?
... Botros hesitation was a good thing. He didnt immediately say no, at least. He didnt want to discourage his granddaughter, after all. Might need some explanation of proper technique.
Alright then, Anton said. Thats your job for today. Good luck with that.
... What? Botros asked.
Just come find me when the young fellow can move a decent crate, Anton gestured. I have some business to attend to.
Some of that involved sneakily adding lighter crates to the group Botros had been working on while they werent near that side of the warehouse, and the other was increasing the size of his lunch once again. Meanwhile, he kept some of his senses on the pair. Not because he was worried they would do something or be lazy, but because he wanted to see how the interaction went.
This isnt a light job, Botros said. Its likely still best for you to find work elsewhere. Nasima didnt say anything, but also didnt seem ready to back down. But I suppose you wont. So first thing to do is lift one of these. As she stomped up to the crate, he stopped her with a hand on her shoulder. Theyre not as easy as youd think, he said. You have to use proper technique.
First he started with the basic, physical positioning that made it easier. But that wasnt quite enough. Anton didnt have a perfectly weighted crate just lying around, of course. He might have put his finger on the scales a little bit. Either way, Botros tried his best to explain the same meditative use of natural energy Anton had taught him- something he naturally did for the single crate hed already moved. Nasima didnt quite get it, but Anton still let her lift the crate. He would have some practical advice for them later, but he hadnt expected a youngster to instantly pick up on the mental aspect of things. Though if he wasnt wrong, it shouldnt take more than a day or two to get started.
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Chapter 732
It barely took any effort at all to set the old fellow Botros up with a series of ever more difficult to move crates. Anton watched as the man pushed himself to his limits, and frankly beyond them in unhealthy ways. It wasnt really fair to require this of him for the promised wages, but Anton didnt intend to leave him with just monetary payment.
You see now why I needed assistance with this? Anton asked as he approached the man. He was struggling with a crate absolutely not meant to hold iron bars in it, one with far too much volume for such dense goods. I cant do all of this on my own. Anton made a show of struggling with another crate- and indeed it was a little bit difficult to move if he completely cut himself off from natural energy. Maybe I should hire some of those bulky young fellow Anton mused.
N-no, Botros groaned. I can do it. It was difficult for an older man such as him to even get consideration for any job, and he seemed to be unqualified for much other than manual labor.
Botros swapped to a different crate, before returning with Anton to look at the one that had stumped him. If we move it together I think we can accomplish it
With my back? Anton asked. I think its better to not. But if you want to try, I did hear of a little trick. Might take a bit, though.
What is it? Botros asked. I think my stance is fine
If it wasnt, youd have thrown out your back for certain, Anton agreed. Lets see what was it Anton frowned. First, take your stance. Concentrate, not on what you intend to lift, but your own body. Anton was actually slightly conflicted. If Botros was a few decades younger, he might have tried to set him up with something like Western Steel Body. He actually seemed quite suited to it. However, beginning any sort of focused body tempering method like that would almost certainly lead to disaster at his age. Regular energy cultivation could still cripple the man- especially with the mediocre natural energy levels in the area- but Anton could help with that. Feel the pulse of blood in your body, the twitching of your muscles. Breathe deeply, drawing in from all around you.
Botros had wasted no time, not waiting for Anton to finish. Anton was wondering how to make excuses for his knowledge and how to explain the last steps but he seemed to get it. Anton did flood the area with extra natural energy, but when Botros absorbed some of it he naturally channeled it into his muscles. Anton would need to play around with his tasks so he would form a proper foundation instead of directly transitioning to muscle tempering, but Anton could also show him a proper cultivation manual when he asked about it.
For the moment, however, Botros managed to lift the crate that was just beyond the edge of his muscle and pure willpower. Some of the natural energy would be consumed for the task, while the rest would augment his muscles in the long term. Except it would also tire out the old man.
Its about time for lunch, Anton announced. Come on then.
Dont need any, Botros said stubbornly. Ill keep working here.
Anton shook his head, You wont know where I want that stuff. Youll just have to move it again. Come on then. Anton knew the man had no lunch, as he led him into a side room that was barely an office, previously lit by a smoky torch before Anton came about. He spread out the food on the table between them as Botros sat down. Ah, look at that. Packed too much food again. I guess its stale bread for dinner again, cant just waste it Anton looked at Botros. Or you can help me eat it. That way I dont feel guilty and can get something better for dinner.
I did not think one of your stature would be concerned about waste Botros said slowly, clearly interested in the food.
You dont grow wealth by wasting money, Anton said as he pushed some of it towards Botros. Speaking of which, youll work faster with some of this in you. Im sure youll work up enough of an appetite by evening to still eat with your family.
The man took Antons offer, perhaps in anticipation of his stomach growling. Anton shared bread, meat, cheese, and vegetables with him. All with small traces of natural energy. Partly because Botros body wouldnt be able to stand more, and partly because there really wasnt much better available.
He worked the old mans muscles in various ways for the rest of the afternoon, and sent him home early with the promised wages. For the first days- perhaps even months- Botros would be exhausted as his body got used to the changes happening. And if Anton let him continue to work, he would hurt himself.
Good, Anton said. Start with the ones along that wall. Anton wondered if Botros would notice that hed taken crates out of the core of one area. Not that most were so recognizable individually. After Botros went off, Anton was left there looking at the young Nasima peeking around the corner of some crates. So, what are you doing here?
Um I- I heard you needed some strong fellows to help you in your warehouse, she said, puffing herself up as large as possible and flexing. Her clothes were such that she could be mistaken for a young man by some.
Anton could feel she had some actual muscle but Too scrawny, he declared.
Im stronger than I look! she protested. Just let me try.
Well I suppose I can. This other fellow can show you the ropes. I doubt you can move much, but if you can manage to move these, Anton pat a mid sized and not too densely packed crate. I can pay you half wages. He grinned. Hey Botros!
Nasimas eyes widened. Umm, actually I-
But it was too late for her. Botros was swift to answer Antons call. Yes, sir? he said, making his way over. Then he saw Nasima. You
Anton interrupted whatever was going to happen there. This fellow wants to try the job. You know em? Anton asked. Kinda scrawny, but I was thinking maybe the young one could move the smaller crates. Nasima tried to look away. Botros frowned. So, what do you think? You know each other?
We do, Botros said.
What would your judgment be, strong enough?
... Botros hesitation was a good thing. He didnt immediately say no, at least. He didnt want to discourage his granddaughter, after all. Might need some explanation of proper technique.
Alright then, Anton said. Thats your job for today. Good luck with that.
... What? Botros asked.
Just come find me when the young fellow can move a decent crate, Anton gestured. I have some business to attend to.
Some of that involved sneakily adding lighter crates to the group Botros had been working on while they werent near that side of the warehouse, and the other was increasing the size of his lunch once again. Meanwhile, he kept some of his senses on the pair. Not because he was worried they would do something or be lazy, but because he wanted to see how the interaction went.
This isnt a light job, Botros said. Its likely still best for you to find work elsewhere. Nasima didnt say anything, but also didnt seem ready to back down. But I suppose you wont. So first thing to do is lift one of these. As she stomped up to the crate, he stopped her with a hand on her shoulder. Theyre not as easy as youd think, he said. You have to use proper technique.
First he started with the basic, physical positioning that made it easier. But that wasnt quite enough. Anton didnt have a perfectly weighted crate just lying around, of course. He might have put his finger on the scales a little bit. Either way, Botros tried his best to explain the same meditative use of natural energy Anton had taught him- something he naturally did for the single crate hed already moved. Nasima didnt quite get it, but Anton still let her lift the crate. He would have some practical advice for them later, but he hadnt expected a youngster to instantly pick up on the mental aspect of things. Though if he wasnt wrong, it shouldnt take more than a day or two to get started.
Chapter 732It barely took any effort at all to set the old fellow Botros up with a series of ever more difficult to move crates. Anton watched as the man pushed himself to his limits, and frankly beyond them in unhealthy ways. It wasnt really fair to require this of him for the promised wages, but Anton didnt intend to leave him with just monetary payment.You see now why I needed assistance with this? Anton asked as he approached the man. He was struggling with a crate absolutely not meant to hold iron bars in it, one with far too much volume for such dense goods. I cant do all of this on my own. Anton made a show of struggling with another crate- and indeed it was a little bit difficult to move if he completely cut himself off from natural energy. Maybe I should hire some of those bulky young fellow Anton mused.N-no, Botros groaned. I can do it. It was difficult for an older man such as him to even get consideration for any job, and he seemed to be unqualified for much other than manual labor.Botros swapped to a different crate, before returning with Anton to look at the one that had stumped him. If we move it together I think we can accomplish itWith my back? Anton asked. I think its better to not. But if you want to try, I did hear of a little trick. Might take a bit, though.What is it? Botros asked. I think my stance is fineIf it wasnt, youd have thrown out your back for certain, Anton agreed. Lets see what was it Anton frowned. First, take your stance. Concentrate, not on what you intend to lift, but your own body. Anton was actually slightly conflicted. If Botros was a few decades younger, he might have tried to set him up with something like Western Steel Body. He actually seemed quite suited to it. However, beginning any sort of focused body tempering method like that would almost certainly lead to disaster at his age. Regular energy cultivation could still cripple the man- especially with the mediocre natural energy levels in the area- but Anton could help with that. Feel the pulse of blood in your body, the twitching of your muscles. Breathe deeply, drawing in from all around you.Botros had wasted no time, not waiting for Anton to finish. Anton was wondering how to make excuses for his knowledge and how to explain the last steps but he seemed to get it. Anton did flood the area with extra natural energy, but when Botros absorbed some of it he naturally channeled it into his muscles. Anton would need to play around with his tasks so he would form a proper foundation instead of directly transitioning to muscle tempering, but Anton could also show him a proper cultivation manual when he asked about it.For the moment, however, Botros managed to lift the crate that was just beyond the edge of his muscle and pure willpower. Some of the natural energy would be consumed for the task, while the rest would augment his muscles in the long term. Except it would also tire out the old man.Its about time for lunch, Anton announced. Come on then.Dont need any, Botros said stubbornly. Ill keep working here.Anton shook his head, You wont know where I want that stuff. Youll just have to move it again. Come on then. Anton knew the man had no lunch, as he led him into a side room that was barely an office, previously lit by a smoky torch before Anton came about. He spread out the food on the table between them as Botros sat down. Ah, look at that. Packed too much food again. I guess its stale bread for dinner again, cant just waste it Anton looked at Botros. Or you can help me eat it. That way I dont feel guilty and can get something better for dinner.I did not think one of your stature would be concerned about waste Botros said slowly, clearly interested in the food.You dont grow wealth by wasting money, Anton said as he pushed some of it towards Botros. Speaking of which, youll work faster with some of this in you. Im sure youll work up enough of an appetite by evening to still eat with your family.The man took Antons offer, perhaps in anticipation of his stomach growling. Anton shared bread, meat, cheese, and vegetables with him. All with small traces of natural energy. Partly because Botros body wouldnt be able to stand more, and partly because there really wasnt much better available. He worked the old mans muscles in various ways for the rest of the afternoon, and sent him home early with the promised wages. For the first days- perhaps even months- Botros would be exhausted as his body got used to the changes happening. And if Anton let him continue to work, he would hurt himself.Good, Anton said. Start with the ones along that wall. Anton wondered if Botros would notice that hed taken crates out of the core of one area. Not that most were so recognizable individually. After Botros went off, Anton was left there looking at the young Nasima peeking around the corner of some crates. So, what are you doing here?Um I- I heard you needed some strong fellows to help you in your warehouse, she said, puffing herself up as large as possible and flexing. Her clothes were such that she could be mistaken for a young man by some.Anton could feel she had some actual muscle but Too scrawny, he declared.Im stronger than I look! she protested. Just let me try.Well I suppose I can. This other fellow can show you the ropes. I doubt you can move much, but if you can manage to move these, Anton pat a mid sized and not too densely packed crate. I can pay you half wages. He grinned. Hey Botros!Nasimas eyes widened. Umm, actually I-But it was too late for her. Botros was swift to answer Antons call. Yes, sir? he said, making his way over. Then he saw Nasima. YouAnton interrupted whatever was going to happen there. This fellow wants to try the job. You know em? Anton asked. Kinda scrawny, but I was thinking maybe the young one could move the smaller crates. Nasima tried to look away. Botros frowned. So, what do you think? You know each other?We do, Botros said.What would your judgment be, strong enough?... Botros hesitation was a good thing. He didnt immediately say no, at least. He didnt want to discourage his granddaughter, after all. Might need some explanation of proper technique.Alright then, Anton said. Thats your job for today. Good luck with that.... What? Botros asked.Just come find me when the young fellow can move a decent crate, Anton gestured. I have some business to attend to.Some of that involved sneakily adding lighter crates to the group Botros had been working on while they werent near that side of the warehouse, and the other was increasing the size of his lunch once again. Meanwhile, he kept some of his senses on the pair. Not because he was worried they would do something or be lazy, but because he wanted to see how the interaction went.This isnt a light job, Botros said. Its likely still best for you to find work elsewhere. Nasima didnt say anything, but also didnt seem ready to back down. But I suppose you wont. So first thing to do is lift one of these. As she stomped up to the crate, he stopped her with a hand on her shoulder. Theyre not as easy as youd think, he said. You have to use proper technique.First he started with the basic, physical positioning that made it easier. But that wasnt quite enough. Anton didnt have a perfectly weighted crate just lying around, of course. He might have put his finger on the scales a little bit. Either way, Botros tried his best to explain the same meditative use of natural energy Anton had taught him- something he naturally did for the single crate hed already moved. Nasima didnt quite get it, but Anton still let her lift the crate. He would have some practical advice for them later, but he hadnt expected a youngster to instantly pick up on the mental aspect of things. Though if he wasnt wrong, it shouldnt take more than a day or two to get started.
