Mr. Wadsworth noticed Alaric's expression after seeing Chaloem. However, he decided not to ask about it for now.
Instead, he invited him inside the Manor while one of the Super Soldiers took the horse to the stable.
As they led Sir Alaric into the Manor, Mr. Wadsworth started sharing a bit of information about the Springriver Manor and the fact that the Foreign Survivor who owns this place was absent at the moment.
Alaric listened attentively while also surveying his new home... He noticed that aside from the formidable wall, there were also barriers the naked eye couldn't see deployed on each wall.
He also liked that a stream of water was running through the estate. As long as this water was protected from any form of contamination or they had a method to filter it, then this shelter would certainly thrive.
He also noticed the orchard, the farm, the smithy, and various structures and felt really satisfied with this place.
"Now, can you tell me more about yourself? I want to ensure I'll be putting you in the correct task." Mr. Wadsworth said.
At this time, Bart and Kenneth had also arrived at the manor as they were curious about the new recruit.
"This is Bartholomew, our brewer... The man beside him is Kenneth, an educator..." Mr. Wadsworth calmly said as he introduced the two.
Alaric smiled and greeted them before he began to share his story.
"I was once a knight in a distant land, sworn to protect my people from the undead creatures. We faced many battles, but none as fierce as the one that nearly claimed my life. The zombies we fought had red eyes and moved with terrifying speed, crouching like hunting wolves. They were all fierce, and my squadron was almost annihilated."
He paused, his eyes distant as he recalled the traumatic battle. "There were only three of us left, fighting desperately to survive. Just when we thought all hope was lost, a monk appeared. He moved with incredible speed and power, annihilating hundreds of zombies alone. His name was Chaloem."
The three who were listening were in awe, their eyes wide with admiration. They didn't think that this person was connected to that powerful monk.
"How about us?" Bart asked.
"Haa... You just finished your meal. Wait for your dinner later. Right, give me three bottles of your wine, and I'll give one of the MREs..." Alexa said.
This MRE was directly given to her by Shane and wasn't owned by the Manor, so Mr. Wadsworth didn't mind it.
"Ugh... Two bottles!" Bart said to negotiate.
"Deal!" Alexa immediately replied.
***
After an hour had passed, Alaric had already started looking around the estate. He was accompanied by Lady Seraph, who was basically the leader of the patrol groups.
Though both of them were knights, they were apparently not colleagues as they were serving different lords.
As they were chatting about their possible connection in the past, a figure stepped forward and blocked their path to the orchard.
It was Monk Chaloem, his presence was calm and serene.
"It seems fate has brought us together once more, Alaric," The monk said with his gentle voice.
Sir Alaric's eyes widened before a smile curved on his lips.
"Sir Chaloem! I thought you didn't recognize me. I never thought I would see you again."
Monk Chaloem smiled, his eyes twinkling with warmth.
"The paths we walk are often mysterious, but they lead us to where we are needed most."