39 Rathes Offer (1/2)

”That's enough of that, how about I tell you some things about the territory while we're out here.” Rathe became carefree and loose like his usual self. ”You already know our territory is on the border, but do you know what that means?”

Thinking back to the map, Oli said, ”That there's a lot of conflict with bandits, right?”

”Ha, you're not wrong but there's more to it than that. Not only are there bandits, they usually come from the other side of the border and quickly return to their side after grabbing what they could. That's the real problem, that we can't cross the border and just exterminate them. We're allowed to cross the border but if we attack anyone, even bandits, it can spark a war between regions. And since this border is between prefectures, it's even worse.”

”How big is a prefecture anyway?” asked Oli.

”Too big, if you ask me. Our territory is one of over one hundred in the Elusive Black region and the Elusive Black region is one of who knows how many regions in the prefecture. There are thousands of territories under one prefecture, and that's just too much power to give someone,” said Rathe.

”What's our prefecture called?”

”Don't know, don't care. I've never had to worry about that and won't ever need to,” Rathe was always ignorant of anything involving politics.

”Ha, I guess it's good that Vloz is helping you out. You may know how to lead troops but you're a terrible chief sometimes,” joked Oli.

”Huh?” Rathe smiled, ”That's only for now brat. Just wait till you get older and I can finally let you take over. Then, I'll be free to enjoy life and do whatever I want.”

”Oh yeah…”

”But till then, you're lucky to have us. We'll take care of everything for now, but after hearing your thoughts and ideas for the village, I do have one thing I want to ask you.” Rathe grew solemn for a moment.

Alarmed at the change in atmosphere, Oli turned to Rathe and asked, ”What do you need, Uncle Rathe? Just remember, I'm still just a kid.” Oli didn't want too many responsibilities; he was busy enough thanks to his need to cultivate so many techniques and battle arts.

”You may be young, but you're one of the smartest gorillas in the whole clan, maybe even more so than Vloz. That's why you're going to be my official advisor! How great is your Uncle to offer you such a position?” Rathe laughed.