Like a Hero

Saban didn't get angry at the curses below.

After quickly going over the intelligence about the surrounding areas from the newspaper, he continued, "The Island Master's Manor plans to popularize electric lights—lighting equipment like the streetlights—to provide illumination for shops and residents' homes. The Town Hall will conduct a public opinion survey afterward."

The patrons who had been casually listening suddenly froze.

"Survey what?" someone shouted.

Saban shrugged. "The newspaper didn't say. Someone should come down to investigate in the next few days. Everyone will know then."

The tavern fell briefly quiet before discussions broke out.

"Electric lights are like streetlights. They're both Magic Items, and they work much better than Illumination Stones."

"Streetlights are too bright. Who could sleep with one installed indoors?"

"Can't you put a lampshade over it? You have to cover an Illumination Stone when you sleep too, or it'll keep shining."

"Damn it! It's not like I've ever used an Illumination Stone."

"They probably won't give them to us for free, right? There are so many people."

"If they charge money, I can't afford one. Those are things only noble lords use."

"Yeah, we appreciate the Island Master's goodwill, but one of those things costs several Gold Coins. Who can afford it?"

The crowd below was in an uproar.

Compared to intelligence about the surrounding regions, matters involving themselves naturally drew more attention.

Electric lights were certainly good, but it depended on how much they cost.

If they really cost several Gold Coins each like Magic Items, who could afford one? Even if they bought one, they'd probably worship it at home like a treasure.

Of course, such things would likely be provided to shops first.

That would let them extend their business hours. After all, the island was just as lively at night.

Saban