3 The Outer Realm 1 (2/2)
Johan continued ”On our way in, we saw several Spirit beasts in human form near the market square, perhaps we could trade for more detailed information with them on the Arctine Range?”
”Let us shelve that idea for the time being. The timing is not yet right.” Aureus replied.
Johan nodded then began reporting again ”With regards to the barbarian tribes, all indications points to them originating from the defeated barbarian tribes of the core realm. The good news is that there is no unity amongst the various tribes scattered throughout the outer realm. There has not been a barbarian king level figure that appeared within the tribes since their relocation to the outer realm. In fact, they war against each other on a regular basis, thus reducing their threat levels.”
”The bad news is that most of them are belligerent, having little to no love for the various superpower holdings in the outer realm. They often conduct raids on various settlements. In recent years, they kept civilian casualties to the minimum because of retaliations by the various powers. Although the frequency of raids decreased ever since the beast tides increased in intensity.”
Tarin snorted ”Probably too busy dying to the wee beasties.”
The room echoed with a series of chuckles.
Aureus turned towards Calvus and Denter, ”Comments?”
Calvus spoke up first ”Highness, if the miners from the further holdings can be relocated to areas nearer to Everdawn , our patrols can be withdrawn from the further areas into bolstering the areas around Everdawn making our patrols more comprehensive and stronger. In addition, we would need less manpower to patrol the routes the caravans use for carting the ores back to Everdawn.”
Denter then added ”Highness, I skirmished on various occasions with the barbarians before. They are tough foes. They have higher stamina and strength compared to the average person. If it were not for their equipment holding them back, I believe our forces would have suffered greater losses over the years.”
Aureus nodded and turned towards the maps once more. This time, his gaze stayed on the map depicting the outlying areas of Everdawn for a few minutes before he spoke.
”Gentlemen, considering the time you worked with governor Pictor, where do you think his strengths best lie in?”
This time, Denter's face scrunched as if he had constipation while Calvus's face remained neutral.
”I suggest adhering to Tribune Calvus's opinion in this matter. He has worked closest with the governor all this time.” Denter said without any hesitation.
Aureus had a mental image of an arrow flying like a fireball from Denter to Calvus.
Calvus shot a look that could have melted ice to Denter but Denter appeared oblivious to any such looks.
Tarin and Johan were smiling in a strange manner by the side.
Aureus turned around to face them. As if aware of the interactions that took place, he smiled and said ”As you two well know, I am here to take over the duties of governorship. ”
”Regardless of my impression of Pictor, he would have been transferred as it is my belief that no resources be wasted. I wish to find a place where his talents may best be used.”
”Welcoming foreign dignitaries and intelligence gathering on political figures.” Calvus ventured after a moment.
”I see, those flower girls were on a full-time basis then. I was wondering how Pictor rounded up so many people to throw flowers. That is an important skill a governor should cultivate.” Tarin piped up.
Both Calvus and Denter had to exert some measure of self control to prevent themselves from laughing.
Aureus shot a mild disapproving glance mixed with slight amusement at Tarin.
”Highness, I am old. My mind wanders on occasion and along with it my tongue. I am glad that I am in a place where freedom of speech is not curtailed.” Tarin continued in a deadpan manner.
Shaking his head, Aureus decided that he had better battles to fight.