Rome Must Perish

"Good." Maximus nodded, then looked at Scapula: "We have a construction team in the Supply Camp, whose current responsibility is to build camps and roads. In the future, I hope it can also construct bridges, siege weapons, and even water wheels, water mills, and lifting equipment for civilian use. We urgently need experienced engineers like you. Would you be willing to serve as the engineer of this construction team and also act as deputy leader?"

Scapula was somewhat surprised and couldn’t help asking: "Why does Leader Maximus want to build things like water wheels and water mills, which have nothing to do with warfare?"

Maximus straightened up and said with unprecedented seriousness: "Initially, we fought for survival. We were forced to rise in rebellion against Rome, garnering the support of countless slaves and impoverished people, and our forces have grown stronger. However, the might of Rome’s national power, you should know better than I, so this war will likely last a long time...

In fact, our ultimate goal is not to annihilate Rome but to gain complete freedom and find a piece of land to settle on and build upon...

I hope that by then, we can build water wheels to automatically irrigate fields, water mills to grind our grain, and cranes to help us construct houses and transport goods more effortlessly... With these machines, we won’t need slaves and can build our homeland well on our own, don’t you think?"

Spukala, Quintus, and Oluus exchanged a deep glance. They had initially adapted to the peaceful life in Lukelia, but having killed so many Pompeii nobles, they were forced to join the rebel army. Knowing Rome’s strength, they were somewhat despairing about the future, but Maximus’ words seemed to bring them hope again.

Quintus’ expression was no longer calm, and he asked solemnly: "Is this the idea of all your leaders?!"

Maximus saw their expressions and candidly said: "This is just my personal view, but I believe the other leaders have similar thoughts."

The three exchanged glances once more, and Spukala quickly said: "Building camps, roads, and bridges was something I often did in the army camp. I also frequently made siege towers, siege carriages, and other siege weapons, including cranes. I’ve seen water mills and water wheels but never made them. If I have to make them in the future, I’ll need some time to figure it out, but I should be able to make them."