Reincarnated as Selim III

After having breakfast, I walked to the royal library to find books that are related to the alchemy field. Moments came by, I saw a long row of books that were filled in a detailed manner, organized with science related books. I looked at the book one-by-one, and it took me half an hour, finally find the book.

In original history, Selim III focuses his hobby on the art of poetry in his free time. But this time, with myself as him. I'd like to try another hobby, creating new things, especially items from the modern times, like revolvers and so on. But having sidearms is indeed efficient, effective and reliable in times of emergency since we can use it, if there's danger ahead.

I walked to nearby tables and did some reading, and yet it's true, the part mentioning the metallurgy is indeed limited.

"Hmm, alchemy huh, that's quite unique for a young child to read" A mysterious man behind me, looking at the book.

"Oh my…no peeking okay?" I was pretending to be shocked.

"My apologies," the man said with a small bow, his voice deep and steady. He was older than me, perhaps in his mid-20s, with sharp eyes that seemed to gleam with both intelligence and caution. "It's rare to see someone, especially of your status, delving into a subject as intricate as alchemy."

I smiled faintly and gestured for him to sit across from me. "Curiosity knows no boundaries, does it? Knowledge is universal, regardless of one's status."

The man hesitated for a moment before pulling out a chair and taking a seat. "Indeed, though not many would agree with such a sentiment. Alchemy is often dismissed as either folly or mere superstition, though its principles are far more complex."

"You seem to have a strong opinion on the matter," I said, closing the book gently and resting my hands on its leather-bound cover. "Are you familiar with alchemy yourself?"

He nodded slightly, his expression guarded but intrigued. "Familiar enough to know that its value lies not in turning lead to gold, as many would believe, but in understanding the properties of matter and the changes of elements. It's a study that requires patience, precision, and... a certain open-mindedness."

I leaned forward, my interest piqued. "You speak as though you've practiced it. Are you a scholar of the subject?"

He chuckled softly. "Not quite. I am merely a librarian here, tasked with preserving the knowledge contained within these walls. But in the process, I have read much—perhaps more than is prudent for someone in my position."

"A librarian with the mind of a scholar," I mused. "How fortunate for this library."

The man inclined his head slightly, his expression unreadable. "Forgive me, my dear boy, but may I ask—what draws you to alchemy? It's not the most common interest for someone of your status as royal prince."

I considered his question for a moment. It wouldn't reveal my true intentions outright. "Alchemy offers possibilities," I said carefully. "It bridges the gap between science and philosophy, between the tangible and the abstract. In times like these, when the empire faces so many challenges, wouldn't it be prudent to explore every avenue of knowledge? Also alchemy have contributed to the various aspects. Like the usage of gunpowder, our basilica cannon (From 1453 event), and traditional fertilizers."

The man's eyes narrowed slightly, as though weighing my words. "Thats quite impressive, young man. Yet alchemy is not a field that yields quick results. Its truths are buried beneath layers of experimentation and failure."

I smiled, picking up the book and flipping through its pages. "Sometimes, the pursuit of knowledge is as valuable as the knowledge itself. Don't you agree?"

He nodded slowly. "I do. And if I may be so bold, I would suggest that if you truly wish to understand alchemy, you must also understand its limitations—and the fields it intersects with. Metallurgy, chemistry, even philosophy."

"Metallurgy, you say?" I asked, feigning casual interest.

"Yes," he replied. "The principles of alchemy often overlap with those of metallurgy, particularly when it comes to the refinement of materials and the creation of alloys. It is a field where theory meets application, though it requires considerable skill and resources."

"Resources are not an issue," I said with a light chuckle. "But skill—now that's something harder to come by."

The man seemed to consider this for a moment before leaning back in his chair. "If I may, my prince, there are texts here that delve deeper into the practical applications of alchemy. They might be of interest to you."

"I'd appreciate that," I said, genuinely intrigued. "And perhaps you might guide me through them? It's rare to find someone with such insight."

He hesitated, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his face. "Well sure, young boy."

For a moment, there was silence between us, broken only by the distant murmur of footsteps and the rustle of pages. Then, the man gave a small nod. "Very well. If it pleases you, I will assist in any way I can."

"Good," I said, standing and extending a hand. "Let us begin with introductions, then. I am Shehzade Selim."

The man gasped quickly attempting to kneel..but countered. "It would be no need, it is also my fault, to discreetly, going here" while making 'tee hee' stances.

He hesitated briefly before taking my hand. "I am Cemil Esad, at your service."

"Not at my service," I corrected with a smile. "At the service of knowledge."

Cemil's lips twitched into a faint smile, the first I'd seen from him. "As you say, my shehzade."

~~~

In the hours that followed, Cemil led me through the library, pulling out books and scrolls that expanded on the subjects of alchemy and metallurgy. His knowledge was remarkable, and as we delved deeper into the texts, I found myself increasingly impressed by his understanding and ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms.

We discussed the principles of various aspects. From the possibilities of great versions of fertilizers, which we can yield and preserve soil nutrients, possible minerals that can be introduced to the use of ammunition and formulas that can be used to optimize iron. Yet, for all his knowledge, Cemil remained cautious, often reminding me of the challenges and limitations of these pursuits.

"Theories are one thing," he said as we pored over a particularly dense text. "Application is another. Even with the finest minds and resources, progress is often slow."

"Slow is better than stagnant," I replied. "The empire cannot afford to stand still."

Cemil nodded, though his expression remained thoughtful. "True. But I believe that alchemy is a field that requires great commitment not just from the people but also from the empire itself."

I leaned back in my chair, regarding him carefully. There was no doubt in my mind that Cemil could be a valuable ally in my efforts to modernize the empire, though I would have to tread carefully. His loyalty seemed to lie with knowledge above all else, and winning his trust would require more than titles or power.

"Cemil," I said after a moment, "if you could change one thing about the way knowledge is used in this empire, what would it be?"

He looked up from the text, his eyes meeting mine. "I would make it accessible. Knowledge locked away in libraries or hoarded by the elite serves little purpose. It must be shared, taught, and applied."

I smiled. "An idealist, then."

"Perhaps," he said with a shrug. "But ideals are where change begins."

"Indeed," I agreed, feeling a spark of determination. "And with allies like you, perhaps those ideals can become reality."

Cemil regarded me for a moment, his expression unreadable. "What do you mean by becoming reality?"

I answered, "What do you think, an education system, where no matter you are a commoner or bloodline of nobility, whether you are the son of farmers, artisans, or even the beggars, they can attend the schools for free, from the lower stage to the highest stage of education."

Cemil was shocked with the statement, "My shehzade, that would be a revolutionary or they can change the status quo in the empires, where everyone became educated and knew the differences. But wouldn't that be backfired to the governing bodies, especially the royals?" 

"Which is why we the royals must be even greater, technically to be the greatest from the greatest."

Cemil smiled, "That would be a golden moment to witness."

"Which is why I need your help , to continue to contribute in knowledge as a man of sciences. Of course to enhance our alchemy capabilities to a new horizon, experiment new things and discover new material. You know what I mean?."

Cemil's eyes widened as Selim stated his request. "My shehzade, and what creation would it be for? The powerful forces to be reckoned with? The tool to help the people? Or just to pursue the interest of self?"

I contemplate, looking at the roof, "Hmm let me think, well it would be for my pursuit, I want to prove that this alchemy can contribute to the empire in its own way, because it can be unique."

Cemil's eyes widened. "My shehzade." He automatically kneels. "I shall pledge my allegiance and loyalty to you, Shehzade Selim."

"Thank you, Cemil-effendim, I'm looking forward to the future." I hold my hand.

Cemil smiled and answered it with a firm handshake.

As the day wore on, I realized that I had not only found a mentor in Cemil but also a kindred spirit—someone who valued knowledge as much as I did and who might help me turn my vision for the empire into reality.