Chapter 66 - Aftermath (2/3)

Ben almost choked on his drink.

“You can’t be serious, he’s not even from the Mesolands!” Arthel exclaimed, shaking his head.

Ben put the tankard down on the bar table and held his chest to recover, taking some breaths to clear his throat. The entire story of what had happened at the Chateau had been explained, and once Alfred's new position had been revealed, the entire inn entered a deafening silence.

Le’Vieux motioned with his hand for the innkeeper to calm down. “Yeah, you’re right about that. But he’s the only person, apart from Hauxwell, who has experience running a fortified keep.” He motioned to Hauxwell, “This old coot wants nothing more than to pull his cows' udders and plant vegetables.”

Hauxwell smiled and nodded. “My days running around for military orders are over. My dream is to focus on my family and build the farm back to where it was. We’ll need the produce when more people start flocking back, unless you want them all to go hungry and start rioting. Don’t get me wrong, I will still support Alfred and ensure his men are adequately trained.”

“Indeed, he’s right about that. With the news of our victory, the people of Meso who left as refugees to the Hollow Lands will return. They will need places to stay and jobs to support what remains of their kin.” Le’Vieux explained.

“Well, that makes sense. We’ll soon have the marketplace cleared and new stalls built so people can start trading goods like they used to.” Arthel explained before turning to Ben, “I don't suppose you could take some in?”

Ben nodded. “We could always use more hands at the mine. I have an idea to create an industrial textile factory that will need a few workers. However, it will produce so much that we’ll need to export many goods beyond the Ferus Delta River.”

Le’Vieux gave Ben a thumbs-up. “In the coming weeks, I’ll meet with the leaders of the other orders and formulate a new trade plan to ease restrictions.” He finished his drink before standing up. “Truly, I want to thank you all for your bravery. You’ve made even the most honorable knights proud of your work. Now, while the rest of you enjoy yourselves, I must return to my commanders and make my way to the Hollow Keep.”

Everyone raised their tankards and cheered Le’Vieux before taking a sip. Hauxwell got up and embraced his friend, bidding him a heartwarming farewell, before Alfred did the same. Le’Vieux then waved everyone goodbye and left the inn.

“Always great to see happiness within these walls,” Arthel muttered with teary eyes. He then turned to Jerry. “What's the story with you then?”

Jerry shrugged. “You know, it’s always the usual with me. I will send word to my family and get them settled in the new workshop. We’ll be ready for full-scale production in no time. I’m sure Alfred and Quicksilver here would be more than willing to buy off me once I’ve got a decent stockpile.” He then turned to Ben, “Speaking of which, I’m itching to return to work. Shouldn’t we be heading back to the mine?

Ben nodded, “Aye, we should. I bet they all want to know the battle’s outcome.”

Arthel let out a huff. “Well, you'd better not be acting like strangers. Be sure to come by here once in a while, otherwise I’ll be getting all worried about all your sorry backsides.”

Ben finished his drink and got up. “I’m sure we will.” He turned to Hauxwell and Jerry, “Come on, I’ll give you both a lift back. I think Quicksilver and his warriors have that covered, seeing they can fly.”

Alfred patted them all on the back. “I’ll return to the Chateau and get things started there. I’ll send you all word when I’m ready.”

Everyone exchanged farewells before Ben, Hauxwell, and Jerry started their journey to the mine.