World of Iron and Blood

The senior librarian was about to continue his conversation with Alexander when their discussion was interrupted by quick, confident footsteps echoing through the library's quiet halls. Alexander and the librarian exchanged glances, immediately realizing that the person they had been waiting for had arrived. Within a minute, their assumption was confirmed: standing before them was Senior Monk Boris, followed closely by Junior Monk Savva.

Senior Monk Boris commanded respect with his austere appearance. His tall frame and sharp facial features bore the marks of a life full of hardship. His dark eyes, framed by a network of wrinkles, radiated determination and hidden fatigue, while his graying hair, tied in a knot, underscored his years of wisdom. A simple yet neat robe, complemented by a leather satchel at his side, completed the image of a man who had endured countless trials yet retained a clear mind.

He halted and bowed his head in a respectful gesture. His gaze remained calm but firm.

- Greetings, Prince. I hear you wished to see me? - Boris said in a deep, confident voice.

Junior Monk Savva bowed reverently and silently departed, as did the senior librarian, leaving them alone. Alexander looked at Boris intently, immediately sensing not only wisdom but also a certain inner strength within him.

- Yes, - Alexander replied, studying Boris closely. - I've heard that you're one of the few monks who keeps detailed records of our lands. You might know the exact locations of fertile lands, pastures, salt mines, iron deposits, and much more. Is that correct?

Boris bowed again, withdrawing a scroll from the folds of his robe and offering it to the prince with respect.

- Yes, Prince. Here is one of my scrolls. See if it contains the information you need

Alexander took the scroll and unrolled it. His eyes quickly scanned the lines, which detailed the richest salt deposits in the Galician lands (Solotvyno, Drohobych) and the southern regions, where salt was extracted from salt lakes and marshes. The scroll included information on the ownership of these lands, the number of workers involved, the locations of the mines, and the annual income.

Alexander finished reading and nodded. With this, he could begin planning how to utilize the salt resources strategically, but first, he needed to address the fields and pastures. His eyes moved from Boris to the monk's satchel, which, as he already suspected, contained even more valuable information.

- Yes, this is exactly what I need, - Alexander said succinctly, returning the scroll confidently, though his voice carried a barely noticeable note of impatience.

Boris, sensing the prince's interest, nodded slightly but added a mild warning in his tone:

- Prince, this information is kept in the strictest confidence. By order of Metropolitan Hilarion, I ask that all scrolls be returned after you have reviewed them.

- Metropolitan Hilarion, you say? - Alexander raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. - Could it be that my support for his plan to establish schools at the council impressed him so much that he decided to assist me with this information?

Alexander understood that a simple senior monk like Boris couldn't possess such precise and extensive information on his own. He pondered for a moment before deciding to clarify:

- And why would the Metropolitan decide to share such knowledge?

Boris paused for a long moment before replying. His gaze was steady, and his voice remained calm and assured. He carefully chose his words to sound convincing without revealing too much.

- The Metropolitan understands, Prince, that strengthening your rule also strengthens the Church. However, his generosity is never without a purpose

- I see, - Alexander nodded, immediately realizing that Hilarion intended to buy his favor with information. - I suppose Hilarion expects something in return?

- Yes, Prince. Metropolitan Hilarion hopes for your greater support. He wishes to show the people that the Church cares for them while you care for the principality, - Boris spoke calmly and confidently.

- Very well, - Alexander nodded. - And what exactly does he want? Another cathedral? More monasteries?

Boris shook his head and explained:

- Prince, to make your support appear less abrupt, the Metropolitan suggests encouraging Christian principles of charity. By donating to monasteries and churches that care for orphans, you will not only strengthen the people's faith but also create a positive image of a ruler

Alexander fixed his gaze on Boris and thought: - How many times have I seen noble intentions turn into means for personal enrichment for those hiding behind the guise of charity?

However, the man standing before him seemed entirely different. Earlier, the senior librarian had told Alexander about Boris's care for orphans and his upright character. Perhaps he could trust this man.

Alexander looked at Boris, his voice growing firmer and his eyes igniting with confidence:

- Why give money to monasteries where children are a secondary concern? Wouldn't it be better to build shelters - places where children can not only survive but also receive an education to eventually become valuable members of society? After all, the Lord teaches us: 'Let the children come to Me.'

- Additionally, I will organize the construction of separate wings for orphans at existing monasteries so that they supposedly do not interfere with spiritual practices. This way, the Church will receive its support, and the orphans will have a future

Alexander spoke with conviction, his gaze unwavering as it met Boris's. He sensed that Boris had yet to reveal his full intentions. Boris, on the other hand, remained composed, though there was a tension in the air.

When Alexander shared his idea, Boris paused, taking a moment to comprehend the proposal.

Boris had anticipated a standard response - that the prince would allocate a small portion of funds to support monasteries caring for orphans. Instead, Alexander's proposal was far more ambitious.

His suggestion seemed too good to be true. - He's so young, but he already speaks like an experienced ruler, - thought Boris. - Could there be something else hidden behind this confidence? Or is it a genuine desire to help?

- Prince, does the information in the scrolls truly warrant such efforts? - Boris asked cautiously.

Alexander could have simply allocated part of the treasury to monasteries without bothering with complex solutions. But he chose a different path. A faint smile appeared on his face, and his voice resonated with conviction:

- Children must not suffer, - Alexander declared with unwavering determination. - If I can save even one life, I will. Is that not the essence of our faith, Boris? The Lord teaches us not through words but actions. To turn away, knowing of their suffering, is to betray not only the people but also God

Alexander was not a fanatically religious man. He simply adhered to his principles of honesty, righteousness, and fairness. These qualities made his words so convincing, so deeply affecting. His gaze swept over Boris's face, searching for any subtle changes.

Boris was a man who cared for orphans - Alexander had been told this by the senior librarian. This seemingly minor detail turned out to be the key to understanding Boris and, potentially, earning his trust.

Alexander knew that helping children was the right thing to do, a matter of humanity. But he also understood that this could be the key to winning Boris over, securing his allegiance. It was a rare moment when good intentions aligned with political advantage.

Alexander inwardly smiled. Three birds with one stone - helping orphans, winning Boris's favor, and gaining access to critical information.

Boris slowly clenched his fists, striving to contain his emotions. He saw something in this young prince, something greater than a mere youthful ruler. Perhaps it was a reflection of the great Yaroslav, Alexander's father.

- I see, Prince, - Boris finally replied, carefully selecting his words. - Your intentions are genuine. I believe Metropolitan Hilarion will accept your idea. After all, his request was not for money's sake but for the orphans and the people's faith in both the Church and you

- Of course, he will, - Alexander nodded briefly, as if confirming to himself that he had made the right choice.

- But what you propose is significant, Prince. What guarantees can you offer that these shelters will function as you describe? Who will ensure order is maintained? - Boris agreed with the idea of building shelters but now questioned their fair management.

Alexander had anticipated this question. Smiling, he confidently replied:

- Boris, I see you are not only wise but also compassionate. I've heard that you care for children yourself, so why not become the overseer of these shelters? I will see to your appointment. You will be responsible for all the children, their upbringing, and their welfare within the monasteries and shelters

This time, Boris hesitated before responding. His gaze grew distant, as if lost in memories. After a moment, he raised his eyes and spoke:

- This is a great responsibility, Prince. I cannot promise an easy path. But if you trust me, I will do everything to justify your faith. These children deserve a chance at a better future. I will do all in my power not to let you down

- Excellent, - Alexander nodded, his smile fading into a serious expression. - I also want to see reports: every coin collected, every grain of food - everything must be accounted for. How many children there are, how they live, what they are taught. I will send my men to inspect regularly. And remember, Boris, if the children are mistreated, you will face my wrath. And not just you but also Hilarion

Alexander's last words struck like a hammer on an anvil. Boris, no stranger to firmness, still felt the weight of this warning. Bowing his head in respect, he responded firmly:

- I, Senior Monk Boris, will carry out your command, Prince. Everything will be under reliable supervision. If any problems arise, I will resolve them before you even hear of them, Prince. I promise you this

His words carried the weight of a vow. Alexander nodded, satisfied that he had found a reliable man ready to take on the challenge of safeguarding good in a harsh world.

Confident they had reached an agreement, Alexander decided to act immediately. He unrolled a blank scroll and began drafting a new plan for creating orphan shelters and constructing additional wings at monasteries. Boris silently watched as Alexander methodically and decisively articulated his ideas. Each stroke of his quill was deliberate, each word carefully chosen.

Alexander used his memories of the real-life Prince Olexander to quickly and skillfully outline a detailed document. The plan covered key aspects: objectives, specific steps, budget, responsible individuals, timelines, and reporting.

Objective: Support for the clergy. In accordance with "Let the children come to me" (Mark 10:14) and Jesus's teachings on helping the needy (Matthew 25:35–40), the creation of shelters for orphans and wings at monasteries.

Specific steps: Construction of wings at monasteries, establishment of the Mark and Matthew shelters, appointment of responsible individuals, allocation of funds.

Budget: Funding sources: a portion from the treasury, voluntary donations from the boyars, and Church funds.

Construction of 10 wings at key monasteries across Kyivan Rus (250 grivnas). Two standalone shelters in Kyiv (160 grivnas for the initial two, 240 grivnas for three more later). Annual maintenance for 500 children in shelters and monasteries (500 – 700 grivnas, partially covered by monasteries). Salaries for teachers and caregivers: 20 grivnas per year (free in monasteries). Administrative expenses: 20 grivnas.

Responsible individuals: Metropolitan Hilarion: Overall supervisor of the project and its spiritual aspects. Senior Monk Boris: Head of shelters, directly responsible for the care of children and management of the entire aid process. Advisor Stanislav: Inspector ensuring adherence to the prince's orders and accountability.

Timelines and reports: The treasury must provide regular updates on expenditures and progress.

Once the scroll was complete, Alexander affixed his princely seal, provided to him by Stanislav.

- It's done, - he said, nodding and handing the document to Boris. - Here is my sincerity and faith. Review it, Senior Monk

Boris accepted the scroll, feeling a faint tremor in his hands. He slowly read through it, carefully examining each detail. A flicker of approval passed through his eyes, though his expression remained calm. He had not expected Alexander to possess such deep knowledge of sacred texts.

Boris scanned the document several times, weighing each word. When he reached the mention of the Mark and Matthew shelters, his fingers tightened slightly. He averted his gaze from the scroll, closing his eyes momentarily as if gathering his thoughts.

- Prince, this is a good and ambitious plan. More importantly, it is righteous and aligned with our teachings. I believe it will be accepted by all involved parties. Here are the scrolls as agreed, - Boris carefully set aside the prince's scroll and began laying out his own before Alexander.

- Good, - Alexander nodded, studying the stack of scrolls Boris had placed before him. - But first, this scroll needs to be sent to the treasury to begin preparations

He paused, considering whom to entrust with such an important document. Boris, noticing his hesitation, offered assistance:

- Prince, my trusted subordinate can deliver the decree accompanied by one of your guardsmen. Meanwhile, we can begin reviewing the scrolls and surveying your lands, allowing you to stay focused

Alexander thought for a moment and nodded. After all, this document was crucial for both Boris and Metropolitan Hilarion, while the scrolls laid out before him contained the vital information he sought.

- Fine. I don't want to be running back and forth, but I also can't send just anyone with such an important decree

- Wise decision, Prince. Varlaam, come here, - Boris called out, and within moments, a monk of medium height with a focused expression appeared.

- Greetings, Prince, Senior Monk. How may I assist you? - Varlaam bowed respectfully.

- Here is the decree bearing the prince's seal. Take it to the treasury accompanied by one of the prince's guardsmen stationed at the entrance. This scroll concerns the lives of many children; do not lose it, - Boris instructed, his tone commanding and his gaze stern.

Something flickered in Varlaam's eyes as he bowed, accepted the scroll, bowed again, and departed. Alexander watched Boris with interest, noting how much significance he attached to the decree. The prince smiled, wondering where to begin.

- Hmm, where should we start?

- Prince, I believe you would first want to learn about the silver and iron mines, - Boris suggested, pulling a scroll from the stack and handing it to Alexander. - Iron ore is extracted in the river basins of the Dnipro, Pripyat, and Desna. Polissya and Volhynia also have deposits. Small silver and lead reserves are located in the Carpathians and western regions

Alexander studied the scroll carefully, noting key locations. He observed Boris watching him closely but not yet fully committing his loyalty. It seemed the monk needed more time before he could be fully won over.

Boris had no intention of offering full support to the prince just yet. Acting too hastily could be reckless. - I cannot trust him fully yet. Too many seek my head for the knowledge I possess. And what if the prince decides to betray me for the loyalty of greedy boyars? I must tread carefully. Only time will reveal whether he is truly worthy of my allegiance

Meanwhile, in the treasury, the atmosphere was tense and bustling with activity. Scribes bent over their scrolls, and treasurers debated current tasks. Suddenly, Monk Varlaam and Guardsman Myrnomyr entered, carrying the decree.

Chief Treasurer Radomyr, engrossed in carrying out the prince's previous orders, did not wish to be disturbed. But as soon as he heard they had brought a new decree from Alexander, he rose quickly and approached them.

Varlaam bowed and handed over the scroll bearing the prince's seal. Taking the scroll, Radomyr expected it to address matters like taxes, military financing, or trade posts. But as he read, he froze.

The plan outlined in the scroll concerned supporting the clergy and creating shelters for orphans. The young prince had chosen to allocate significant funds not to bolster his position but to care for the most vulnerable. It was an action Radomyr had not anticipated from such a youthful ruler.

His eyes instinctively met Varlaam's. Those eyes radiated unwavering faith and determination, laced with a subtle undertone of threat. Radomyr instantly understood that challenging the decree would not only be dangerous but foolish.

- We will begin immediately. Funds will be allocated, and a construction plan will be drafted as soon as possible, - he said curtly, feeling the weight of the responsibility.

- Senior Monk Boris will discuss the details with you after his meeting with the prince, - Varlaam replied briefly, bowed, and departed with Myrnomyr.

Left alone with the document, Radomyr felt his fingers tighten around the edges of the scroll. Varlaam was not merely a messenger monk. Radomyr recalled him from the time of Yaroslav the Wise when Varlaam worked with subordinates of the legendary hidden advisor and head of intelligence.

If this man now acted on behalf of Alexander, it meant the hidden advisor had allied with the young prince. To oppose him would be suicidal, especially now that he wielded the prince's authority and influence once again.

Radomyr, an experienced treasurer accustomed to seeking personal gain in every decision, found his gaze repeatedly returning to the lines about aiding orphans. For the first time in years, he felt something warm and long forgotten stir within him.

It seemed as though the words between the lines carried a voice from the past, reminding him of times when honor and justice mattered more than wealth. Sometimes, one must simply act as a human being - not seek profit, not think of gain, but do what is right.

He took a deep breath, calmly folded the scroll, and returned to work. Alexander had once again proven not only his strategic acumen but also his rare quality - humanity.

Radomyr resolved to redouble his efforts to ensure the reforms of the treasury, initiated by the prince's decree, were implemented as swiftly as possible. Now, he wasn't just following orders; he worked with faith that he served a truly worthy ruler who would one day become a great prince of Kyiv.

Meanwhile, Advisor Oleg was informed that the young Prince Alexander had visited the treasury and caused quite a stir. This news left him slightly puzzled:

- What has the young prince come up with this time? - he wondered, setting off immediately for the treasury.