Chapter 135 Langten's development\

Chapter 135 Langten's development

A delicate snowflake gently landed in Henry's wooden bowl, cooling the brown stew nestled within. Henry took a sip, savoring the comforting warmth spreading from his lips down his throat, bringing a known taste.

"They are enjoying themselves" - the king observed, his gaze scanning the scene before him.

The flames of the bonfire defiantly fought against the falling snow, as natives and soldiers mingled around it, sharing laughter and drinks. Henry even noticed some of his soldiers flirting with willing females. The alcohol gave them the courage to act shamelessly in front of the king, much to Leier's disapproval.

The protective guard caressed her sword's hilt, pondering if a few deaths would be an obstacle to the king's objectives. The intent was palpable, even to the injured Henry.

"Let them enjoy themselves, Leier" - Henry serenely said, taking another sip of the stew, chewing the small pieces of meat - "And, there is no danger around, no need for such vigilance. You should sit down and taste this stew, it's really good."

Leier remained standing, her gaze sweeping the surroundings - "We must remain vigilant, my liege. An assassin may be lurking around" - she said, refusing to sit. She wouldn't risk the king's wellbeing. n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Henry sighed, deciding not to press the matter. He continued to sip his stew, its flavors reminding him of Earth, while he and Leier kept watching the group of soldiers and residents. Following Luna's prescription, he couldn't drink any alcohol until he healed from his injures. The stew was the only thing left.

Henry glanced at the joyful scene of soldiers and residents - "Langten has five thousand villagers and was plagued by bandits, whom Iosif dealt with months ago. We need to do more." - he said, meeting the old man's eyes. Raising a finger, the king continued- "First, I'll send two literate individuals to open a school here and teach everyone to read and write. Second, I'll send Snowfire Horses for breeding, which will be used to transport people and goods. We need to connect the village to other parts of the kingdom, beyond the capital."

The old man listened intently as Henry raised another finger - "Third, I'll establish a Sun God Company outpost here to boost commerce with the help of the horses. Fourth, I'll send master masons to assist with building and infrastructure. We need to develop the living conditions here and also raise defenses."

"Lastly..." - Henry's tone was firm and unshakable, allowing no objections - "you will remain village chief, but I'll assign a lieutenant and troops to oversee the area and report to me. The lieutenant will represent me during his stay. You will continue as a central figure, but the last saying will go through the lieutenant."

The old village chief looked at the king, who inquired - "Are we clear?" - The words parted from the king's lips, and the old man felt an invisible weight on his shoulders, prompting him to respond immediately - "I understand, my liege!" "Good," Henry smiled, patting the old man's shoulders. "Now, go enjoy yourself; you're old but not dead."

The chief nodded and bowed his head before stepping away. His steps appeared feeble, as if he had just completed his first military training session, his legs barely able to support his own weight.

"He's quite the smart man" - Henry couldn't help but comment. "Perhaps he'll be of some help in the future."

"At least he has manners, unlike the others"- Leier remarked, her eyes drifting toward the crowd around the fire.

"Sure, sure!"- Henry chuckled - "Now, get a bowl for yourself and pour me some more stew."