After bidding farewell to the remarkable General Cai E and his impressive militia, Gustave made his excuses to Lin Jiu and Zhang Zhiwei before returning directly to the Bamboo Staff. The scope of what he'd witnessed—and the opportunity it represented—demanded immediate action.
In his private quarters aboard the ship, Gustave spread out paper, ink, and every reference book he could access through the ship cross-world internet connection. The Moral Lord's network modifications had proven invaluable for research, allowing him to draw upon historical precedents, economic theories, and military innovations from multiple worlds.
If I'm going to advise someone attempting to rebuild a nation, he thought with determination, then by God, I'll give him counsel worthy of the task.
What followed was one of the most intensive intellectual efforts of Gustave's life. Drawing upon his knowledge of both history and the industrial developments he'd witnessed in other worlds, he crafted a comprehensive policy framework that addressed every aspect of Cai E's ambitious modernization program.
He wrote about infrastructure development that went beyond simple railway construction—proposing integrated transportation networks that could support both civilian commerce and rapid military deployment. His economic sections detailed not just industrial policy, but the financial institutions and regulatory frameworks necessary to sustain long-term growth.
The educational recommendations were particularly detailed, drawing inspiration from the most successful academic systems he'd encountered across various dimensions. He proposed merit-based advancement, practical technical training alongside classical studies, and exchange programs that could bring international expertise while sending students abroad for specialized knowledge.
His military analysis was equally comprehensive, incorporating lessons from conflicts he'd observed in the One Piece world. The section on airborne forces was particularly innovative—he'd witnessed enough aerial combat to understand both the tactical advantages and logistical challenges such units would face.
By dawn, he'd produced over thirty thousand words of detailed analysis and recommendations. The electromagnetic enhancement of his nervous system had allowed him to work through the night without fatigue, but even so, the mental effort had been considerable.
I could easily write another twenty thousand words, he mused, reviewing his work with satisfaction, but this should provide enough direction to keep the general busy for months.
Since time flowed synchronously between the Bamboo Staff and Lin Jiu's world, it was indeed the following day when Gustave returned to find Zhang Zhiwei waiting for him at the charity cemetery.
"Ready for another visit to our revolutionary friends?" Zhang Zhiwei asked with obvious anticipation.
"Sure," Gustave replied, patting the leather satchel containing his policy paper. "I have a feeling today's conversation will be even more interesting than yesterday's."
The journey to the militia camp proceeded smoothly, with Platoon Leader Zeng once again providing their escort. However, as they approached the command tent, they could hear animated conversation from within—more voices than had been present the previous day.
"Master Ren?" Gustave said with surprise as they entered to find Ren Fa engaged in enthusiastic discussion with General Cai E.
The wealthy merchant's face lit up with genuine joy upon seeing Gustave. He leaped to his feet and seized the chef's hands in both of his own.
"Master Gustave!" Ren Fa exclaimed, his voice thick with emotion. "Over a year has passed, but you remain as distinguished as ever! If not for your intervention that terrible night, I wouldn't be alive to enjoy my family's current prosperity!"
"Its okay, My friend," Gustave replied warmly, patting Ren Fa's shoulder. "What happened that evening was simply good fortune—yours for surviving, and mine for being present to assist."
General Cai E observed this reunion with interest. "Master Ren knows Master Gustave?"
"General, this is the very Taoist I mentioned during our earlier discussions," Ren Fa said with reverence bordering on awe. "The one who appeared at the crucial moment to save my life and restore my family's fortunes! His powers that night... truly, he and Master Zhang are like gods descended to earth!"
"Fascinating," Cai E murmured with a knowing smile. "Fate has a remarkable way of connecting the right people at the right moments, doesn't it?"
"Indeed it does," Gustave agreed. "But what brings Master Ren here today? I hope all continues well with your various enterprises."
Ren Fa's chest swelled with pride. "Master Gustave, I bring the most wonderful news! The tractor factory that General Cai E and I established together has completed installation of all machinery and equipment. We'll begin production within days!"
The significance of this announcement wasn't lost on anyone present. A domestically produced tractor represented far more than agricultural improvement—it was the foundation for an entire mechanical industry that could eventually produce everything from trucks to tanks.
"Congratulation!" Gustave said with genuine enthusiasm. "The first tractor factory—what an extraordinary achievement! Your family's name will be remembered alongside this historic milestone."
Ren Fa beamed at the praise, though he was unaware of just how prophetic Gustave's words might prove to be. The merchant had undergone a remarkable transformation from feudal thinking to capitalist innovation, guided by both his daughter's progressive education and General Cai E's modernizing vision.
"Now then," Ren Fa continued curiously, "what brings Master Gustave to our military camp today?"
"Yesterday's conversation with General Cai E was most illuminating," Gustave replied with a slight smile. "I was so inspired by his vision that I spent the entire night composing some strategic recommendations. Consider it my modest attempt at homework submission."
General Cai E practically leaped from his chair. "You've completed the policy analysis already? Where is it?"
"Here you are," Gustave said formally, presenting the leather portfolio with both hands. "Please, take your time reviewing it—I believe you'll find it quite comprehensive."
The general accepted the document with obvious excitement and immediately began reading, completely absorbed despite the presence of his guests. For over an hour, the only sounds in the tent were the rustling of pages and Cai E's occasional murmurs of approval or surprise.
Finally, he looked up with shining eyes. "Outstanding! Absolutely outstanding! Master Gustave, this analysis illuminates so many issues I've been struggling with. You've provided clear direction where I previously saw only confusion!"
He turned to specific sections with evident enthusiasm. "Your proposals for airborne forces, for instance—I can already envision our soldiers descending behind enemy lines like divine warriors from the heavens! Such tactics could revolutionize warfare entirely!"
Gustave had deliberately emphasized aerial capabilities, knowing that Zhang Zhiwei might not have fully explored this aspect of modern military doctrine. The general's reaction confirmed that the suggestion had struck home.
"Here is the thing" Gustave cautioned diplomatically. "While airborne forces offer tremendous tactical advantages, their establishment requires significant resources—most importantly, aircraft capable of transporting substantial numbers of troops."
Cai E's grin was confident and slightly mysterious. "Master Gustave, that particular challenge may be less daunting than you imagine. Among the specialists I'm collecting from Germany are some of Europe's finest aircraft designers and manufacturers!"
The implications hit Gustave immediately. If Cai E could establish domestic aircraft production capabilities, combined with the advanced training methods Zhang Zhiwei had suggested, they would possess military advantages far beyond anything other factions could match.
"Remarkable," Gustave said with genuine admiration. "Your recruitment efforts have been even more successful than I realized."
After their strategic discussion concluded, General Cai E carefully secured Gustave's policy paper in his personal files, instructing his adjutant to guard it as classified material of the highest importance.
They shared lunch at the militia camp—simple but well-prepared food that spoke to the unit's excellent logistical support. The conversation ranged from immediate tactical concerns to grand strategic visions, with all present contributing insights born of their diverse experiences.
As the afternoon drew to a close, they prepared to depart. Ren Fa, however, seemed reluctant to see Gustave leave.
"Master Gustave," he said hopefully, "surely you could spare time to visit my home? It's been so long since we've had the opportunity to offer proper hospitality. And I must mention—Tingting speaks of you often. She would be absolutely delighted to see you again."
The invitation was clearly well-intentioned, but Gustave felt no particular interest in romantic entanglements at the moment.
"Master Ren, you honor me greatly," he replied diplomatically, "but I fear my schedule is rather demanding at present. Perhaps another time, when circumstances are more conducive to proper social visits."
Ren Fa looked disappointed but didn't press the matter further. After exchanging final pleasantries with General Cai E and Colonel Lu, Gustave and Zhang Zhiwei began their journey back to the charity cemetery.
Upon their return, Lin Jiu greeted them with news of his own. "Brother Gustave, perfect timing! I've just received word that my junior brother Simu will arrive tomorrow evening. He's invited Zhang Zhiwei and me to visit his current residence for a few days, and I thought you might enjoy meeting him properly."
"My pleasure," Gustave replied immediately. "I'd very much like to see more of this world and meet your fellow disciples."
Zhang Zhiwei, however, looked troubled. "I'm afraid I won't be able to join you this time, my friends. Intelligence reports indicate that several rival warlords have begun employing dark sorcerers and malevolent spirits against General Cai E's forces. My abilities may be needed to counter such supernatural threats."
He paused, his expression growing more serious. "Moreover, if the general departs as planned, I intend to accompany him. There are aspects of this campaign that will require my personal attention."
Gustave nodded understandingly. The political situation was clearly more dangerous than their pleasant lunch had suggested, and Zhang Zhiwei's unique capabilities made him an invaluable asset for protecting their modernizing ally.
"In that case," Gustave said, "I'll represent both of us during the visit with Simu. It will give me a chance to learn more about Maoshan traditions while you handle these more pressing matters."