Chapter 161: Refugees 1
TL: Etude
Today, an unusual tension pervaded the atmosphere in Kas Village, located near the southern border of Alda.
On the main road south of the village, several roadblocks made of wooden fences were set up, thoroughly obstructing the path.
Sergeant Makarov, who had been promoted to the rank of corporal, led a hundred militiamen to form a vigilance line, facing south in readiness.
Today was the day the refugees were expected to arrive, and the staff headquarters had ordered them to line up here to welcome them.
However, their method of welcoming was quite unique. Many were armed with swords, spears, and other weapons, and those without weapons carried farming tools like pitchforks and hoes.
Each persons face was taut, as if they were about to go into battle.
At the entrance of the wooden fence, several tents were set up with tables and chairs inside. In each tent, two people were dressed in full gear, wearing large masks and gloves, with only their eyes visible.
Sergeant Makarov shouted at the militiamen, Be alert when the refugees arrive!
Remember, be stern! Look as intimidating as possible, you must instill fear in them, create a strong psychological pressure.
Dont let them think they are here to enjoy themselves! Did you all get that?
The militiamen responded in unison. Yes, sir!
Susan, who was in one of the tents, was speechless at this. Is this necessary? Those foreigners have suffered enough from the war and displacement. Shouldnt we offer them the warmth of family?
She, her teacher Dr. Wade, and several other doctors who had attended a medical training in Lakeheart Town were conscripted by the Administration Council to conduct quarantine checks on the refugees.
Her tent was specifically responsible for examining women, while her teacher conducted checks on men in another tent.
A militiaman ran over from the south.
Report, Sergeant Makarov!
After saluting, he said, The refugees have arrived.
Makarov raised his hand. Everyone, be ready!
Soon, a large group of people appeared on the road leading south. They were the refugees received by the Administration Council in the south.
As they approached, the militiamen saw that the refugees were emaciated and ragged, even more destitute than the beggars in Northwest Bay.
A few on horseback dashed out from the group of refugees, racing to the barricade to salute Makarov.
Sergeant, we leave these people in your hands. We must return to Lakeheart Town to report. This is the first group, a total of 357 people.
Josh stood firmly blocking the entrance, shouting, Line up properly! Once the doctor has examined you, youll get to eat.
But his voice was quickly drowned out by the noise of the crowd.
Sir, weve been eating almost nothing but pig food for nearly half a month. No, not even pigs would eat that stuff.
Yes, and theres so little of it every day. Were starving.
More and more refugees gathered in front of the barricade, with many attempting to climb over.
Seeing the situation getting out of hand, Makarov shouted, All units, attention! Prepare!
Fifty militiamen had been standing by his side, each holding a long wooden stick, wrapped at the front end with thick cloth.
They lined up neatly in three rows. On the sergeants command, they extended their sticks forward, with the second and third rows reaching through the gaps in the front row.
At the ready, charge! Makarov commanded.
They jogged forward, the sticks quickly reaching into the crowd of refugees.
The refugees near the barricade were taken by surprise and a large number were knocked down.
Cries and pleas filled the air.
The militiamen turned around, directing their sticks at the remaining stunned refugees.
Please, sirs, have mercy! the frontmost refugee knelt down in supplication.
Seeing one kneel, the others followed suit.
Makarov stood in front of them, tall and imposing, his hands clasped behind his back, his face muscles taut.
Unlike the militiamen, the sergeant, who had personally killed many pirates, exuded a murderous aura.
He glanced at those still groaning on the ground.
Reform the line within 10 minutes! he ordered.
Those who were at the barricade just now, move to the back of the line!
His fearsome voice echoed, assaulting everyones eardrums.
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