Chapter 123: New Recurits
It's good that we had built both residential buildings.
The timing couldn't have been better. Twenty-five subjects would have strained a single structure beyond reasonable comfort levels. Two buildings provided adequate space while maintaining the morale benefits of proper shelter.
Ramsay, their chef, took immediate advantage of the expanded population. More mouths meant more opportunities to showcase his culinary talents, while the increased workforce provided additional hands for food preparation.
"Fresh scorpion stew tonight!" he announced cheerfully.
The mages clustered around Lyra.
Roland organized his tanks into a defensive unit that could coordinate with the existing archers and warriors. Shield walls backed by ranged support created possibilities for holding defensive positions against superior numbers.
As evening approached, the expanded population settled into the residential buildings. Conversations echoed across the territory—planning discussions, tactical debates, and the simple social interactions that built unit cohesion.
Vincent remained where Ethan had left him, the limbless torso propped against supply crates in deliberate isolation. His presence served as a constant reminder of what awaited them if they failed to prepare adequately.
Fourteen hours until herb harvest. Sixteen hours until enemy investigation begins.
The next day arrived with the sun's golden ascent over desert dunes, painting the territory in warm light that promised both opportunity and danger.
His subjects had implemented the new rotation system overnight. After careful consideration, they'd abandoned the exhausting four-hour shifts in favour of eight-hour rotations between two balanced teams. The extended periods allowed for proper rest while maintaining constant vigilance.
It was a smart adaptation. After they had told Ethan, he had agreed without hesitation.