Chapter 12.2: The Journey North (II)
Year 0003, Month VIII-X: The Imperium
---
Day 24.1: Ledgers and First Declaration of Earnings
The flickering candlelight cast dancing shadows across the worn parchment as Marcus carefully tallied their earnings for the final time. His quill scratched methodically against the ledger, each stroke recording their growing prosperity with meticulous precision. The numbers told a story of success that even he found difficult to believe: 4,337 local gold coins, 7 local silver coins, and 140 local bronze coins. This substantial sum represented their remaining profit after all expenses from their recent trading ventures were excluded.
The night had grown deep and quiet around their modest lodging, with only the occasional distant sound of night guards making their rounds through the cobblestone streets of Bono. Marcus rubbed his tired eyes, feeling the weight of responsibility that came with managing their finances. Tomorrow would bring new challenges as they planned to visit the Merchant Guild stationed in this prosperous trading town.
As dawn broke over the horizon, painting the eastern sky in brilliant hues of orange and gold, the world began to shed its cloak of darkness and welcome the promise of a new day. August, ever the early riser, had already begun his daily routine. His disciplined approach to physical conditioning had become a cornerstone of his morning ritual, and today was no exception.
The young man moved through his well-practiced exercises with fluid grace, his muscles responding to the familiar motions with practiced ease. Each movement was deliberate and controlled, a testament to months of dedicated and consistent training from his physical body to combat drills. His breathing remained steady and rhythmic as he progressed through stretches, calisthenics, and strength-building exercises that would prepare his body for the day's demands, including an illusionary training against human and beast combatants that only he could see.
After completing his daily routine, August set out for his customary run around the town's perimeter. The morning air was crisp and invigorating, carrying the mingled scents of baking bread, wood smoke, and the wind carrying the earthy aroma of the nearby river. His feet found their rhythm on the cobblestones, and he settled into a comfortable pace that allowed him to observe the town as it slowly awakened.
Five complete circuits later, August returned to their shared lodging, his body pleasantly warmed and his mind sharp and focused. He found his two companions, Uncle Andy and Mister Marcus, already in the midst of their own morning preparations. The three men moved with the efficiency of seasoned travelers, each understanding his role in their small but growing enterprise.
Their first priority for the day was the crucial visit to the Merchant Guild, where they would officially register their recent transactions and submit their earnings for proper documentation. Following this administrative necessity, they planned to return to Master Henry's armor shop to inquire about the skilled and trustworthy individual he had mentioned during their previous visit.
Marcus had spent considerable time finalizing their account ledger, ensuring every transaction was properly recorded and cross-referenced. This document would be scrutinized by a guild accountant who would verify the accuracy of their records before logging the information into the guild's magical data storage system. This process was essential for proper taxation and maintaining their good standing as legitimate merchants.
An interesting complication arose from Marcus's current status within their organization. He was not yet an official employee of their traveling merchant group, which had recently adopted the formal name "Maya's Traveling Mercantile." The group now possessed an official emblem that beautifully represented their origins and aspirations: an ancient tree with balanced scales hanging from its branches. This symbol paid homage both to the Forest of Lonelywood, which August and Andy called home, and to their commitment to fair and honest trade. The balancing scales, which Marcus had suggested adding to the design, represented their dedication to the art of commerce and their pursuit of prosperity through legitimate means.
After a hearty breakfast of fresh bread, local cheese, and strong tea, the three companions made their way through the bustling streets toward the town center. The cobblestone thoroughfares were already alive with activity as merchants, craftsmen, and townsfolk went about their daily business. The commercial district, with its impressive concentration of business establishments and trade guilds, occupied the heart of Bono and served as the economic pulse of the region.
The Merchant Guild building stood as an imposing testament to the prosperity of trade in this part of the kingdom. Its stone facade was decorated with intricate carvings depicting various aspects of commerce and the different flags of merchants associated with this town's Merchant Guild, and the heavy wooden doors bore the guild's official seal, a ledger with a balancing scale.
Upon entering, they were greeted by the efficient bustle of clerks, accountants, and fellow merchants conducting their business.
They approached the reception desk, where a professional-looking woman greeted them with practiced courtesy. "Good morning, gentlemen. How may the guild assist you today?"
Andy stepped forward, his natural merchant's charm evident in his manner. "We would like to request an accountant to review our ledger and store the information in the guild's archives, if you please."
The receptionist nodded and consulted an appointment schedule. "Certainly. Please have a seat in our waiting area, and I'll arrange for an accountant to meet with you shortly."
The lobby was well-appointed with comfortable seating and displayed various notices about trade regulations, market prices, and guild announcements. Several other merchants waited for their own appointments, creating an atmosphere of professional anticipation. The diverse group represented the cosmopolitan nature of Bono's trade network, with clothing and accents suggesting origins from across the known world.
After a reasonable wait, the receptionist approached their group with a pleasant smile. "The accountant is ready to see you now. However, our policy requires that only officially registered members of a merchant organization may attend the review session."
This policy meant that Andy would meet with the accountant alone, while August and Marcus remained in the waiting area. Marcus's unofficial status within their organization temporarily excluded him from this particular aspect of their business operations.
Andy followed the receptionist down a corridor lined with portraits of prominent guild members and entered a well-lit office. The accountant, a middle-aged woman with sharp eyes and an air of professional competence, gestured for him to take a seat across from her desk.
"Good day, sir. I understand you have ledgers for review?" she inquired, her tone businesslike but not unfriendly.
"Indeed, miss. You may call me Andy," he replied, settling into the offered chair. "Here is our account ledger for your examination."
The accountant accepted the ledger with practiced efficiency and immediately began her review. Her movements were precise and methodical, clearly the result of years of experience in this specialized field. As she progressed through the pages, her expression shifted from professional neutrality to one of growing surprise and interest.
This relatively new merchant group, barely a few weeks old, had already achieved remarkable profits within a single month. The scope of their success was impressive even by the standards of more established trading operations. The accountant examined each entry with meticulous care, noting the variety of merchandise they had sold and the diverse clientele they had cultivated.
After completing her initial review, she nodded approvingly. "Your records are exceptionally well-maintained. Every transaction is properly documented, and the details are clear and comprehensive." She began copying the information onto official guild forms, her handwriting neat and legible.
"It appears you have conducted profitable business here in our town under the grace of Lord Bono," she continued, referring to the local nobility. "I'll need just a few more minutes to scan this information into our magical storage system."
The accountant departed briefly to use the guild's magical recording device, a sophisticated piece of enchanted equipment that could preserve and organize vast amounts of shared information through the Merchant Guilds in the Empire of Elms-Arkanus and its allies. Upon her return, she signed her name to the ledger and pressed her blood-sealed fingerprint to the document, officially certifying that the accounts had been thoroughly reviewed and found accurate.
"Everything appears to be in perfect order," she announced, returning the original ledger to Andy. "Your organization has made an impressive start in the world of commerce." Making a blood imprint to signify the person who checked the ledger.
Andy thanked her graciously and returned to the waiting area, where August and Marcus had been observing the steady flow of merchants and guild officials. During Andy's absence, they had taken the opportunity to submit their organizational logo for official registration.
Andy had entrusted his copper merchant's plaque to August before entering the accountant's office. This plaque, which served as his official identification within the guild system, was returned to him with impressive new additions. The simple copper disc had been transformed into an elegant piece bearing their chosen emblem: the ancient tree with balanced scales, accompanied by the formal name of their trading group and the names of its registered members.
With their guild business concluded successfully, the trio departed the building and made their way toward Henry's armor shop, their next destination in the day's carefully planned itinerary.
---
Day 24.2: Meeting With a New Companion: the Village's First Recruit
The armor shop buzzed with intense activity when they arrived, presenting a scene of organized chaos that spoke to the urgency of current orders. The rhythmic sounds of hammering, the hiss of hot metal meeting water, and the shouted instructions of craftsmen created a symphony of industry that filled the workspace.
Master Henry stood at the center of the operation, his powerful frame glistening with sweat as he directed the creation of armor for the local lord and his retinue. His apprentices and journeymen moved with practiced efficiency, each man contributing his specialized skills to the complex process of crafting protective gear. The sight was impressive: muscles bulging with exertion, sparks flying from forge fires, and the steady progress of raw materials being transformed into works of functional art.
So absorbed were the craftsmen in their work that they failed to notice the arrival of their visitors. However, the front of the shop was staffed by a woman who immediately drew their attention. This was Mathilda Derby, Henry's wife, a woman whose warm demeanor and evident business acumen suggested she played a crucial role in the shop's operations.
"Welcome, gentlemen," she said with genuine enthusiasm. "What can we do for you today?"
Andy stepped forward to respond, his merchant's instincts recognizing a fellow professional. "Good day, madam. We're looking for Master Henry. We have a prior arrangement to return today after concluding some business yesterday."
Mathilda's expression brightened with recognition. She had clearly heard about their previous visit from her husband, who had spent the evening enthusiastically recounting his encounter with the grandson of a grandmaster craftsman. Her gaze swept over the group, taking note of the addition of a new member who had not been present during the previous day's transaction.
"Ah, then you must be the fine gentlemen my husband couldn't stop talking about last night," she said with a knowing smile. "Please, make yourselves comfortable while I fetch him for you."
While waiting for Henry's arrival, the group took the opportunity to examine the impressive array of armor pieces displayed throughout the shop. Each piece demonstrated the master craftsman's exceptional skill and attention to detail, from simple leather reinforcements to elaborate full suits of plate armor designed for nobility.
The variety was remarkable: lightweight pieces designed for scouts and messengers, heavy battle armor suitable for frontline warriors, and ornate ceremonial pieces that balanced protection with aesthetic appeal. The quality of the craftsmanship was evident in every joint, every curve, and every decorative element.
After several minutes, Master Henry emerged from the workshop, his appearance testament to his dedication to his craft. Sweat and grime covered his muscular frame, and his hands bore the permanent stains of his trade. Despite his disheveled appearance, his eyes sparkled with professional pride and genuine pleasure at seeing his visitors.
"Ah, my friends have returned!" he exclaimed, wiping his hands on a leather apron. "Please forgive my appearance – duty calls, as you can see. But you're still interested in meeting the person I mentioned yesterday?"
August nodded, his curiosity evident. "That is indeed our plan, Master Henry."
"Excellent! I'll have my son guide you to him," Henry replied. "But remember my warning – he's quite an unusual fellow, particularly during first meetings. If that settles matters, I must return to my work. These orders won't complete themselves!"
A few moments later, a young boy appeared accompanied by his mother. The child, perhaps eight or nine years old, possessed the serious demeanor of someone accustomed to responsibility beyond his years.
"Robert, can you lead these gentlemen to that fellow we discussed?" Mathilda asked her son. "Be good and stay safe, all right?"
The boy nodded solemnly and gestured for the group to follow him. August addressed Mathilda with characteristic courtesy: "We'll bring him back safely, Mistress Mathilda."
As they departed the shop, following young Robert through the streets of Bono, they discovered that their destination lay outside the town proper. The skilled individual they sought resided in the riverside village of Sibon, a smaller community that served as a dockyard-satellite to the larger town and trading center.
Their journey took them along well-maintained imperial roads that connected the various settlements in the region. The walk provided an opportunity to observe the river countryside, with its patchwork of cultivated fields, grazing meadows, and patches of woodland. The peaceful rural scenery contrasted sharply with the bustle of the town they had left behind.
The difference in height and apparent age between their young guide and August was striking. Robert, at perhaps five feet tall, possessed the typical build of a boy his age, while August stood six feet tall with the lean, well-developed musculature of someone much older. From a distance, August could easily be mistaken for a young adult, though his facial features still retained hints of his actual youth.
After approximately an hour of walking, they arrived at the village of Sibon. The settlement was smaller and more rustic than Bono, with wooden buildings and simpler construction reflecting its dockyard, fishing and agricultural focus. The entrance required no toll fees, accepting instead the wooden plaques issued by the larger town as proof of legitimate travel.
The group presented their wooden plaques to the village guards, who examined them briefly before waving them through. The security was more relaxed here, reflecting the peaceful nature of the rural community and its close relationship with the larger trading center.
Robert led them toward the river, where they encountered a scene that challenged their expectations. An old, weathered shack stood near the water's edge, and outside it sat a man who appeared at first glance to be a vagrant or hermit. His clothing was worn and patched, his hair unkempt, and his general appearance suggested someone who lived on the margins of society.
However, closer observation revealed details that contradicted this initial impression. The man was well-built beneath his shabby clothing, with the kind of muscular development that spoke of physical competence rather than weakness. Various trinkets and tools hung from his belt and clothing, suggesting interests and abilities beyond mere survival.
Most intriguingly, he appeared to be engaged in some form of conversation with himself, singing and muttering in what initially sounded like gibberish. But as they listened more carefully, the seemingly random sounds began to resolve into recognizable patterns. These were not the ramblings of a madman, but rather complex formulas and construction methodologies being recited from memory.
This individual was clearly far more than he appeared to be, and August found himself increasingly intrigued by the contradiction between appearance and apparent knowledge. His companions shared this fascination, though they remained cautious about approaching someone who seemed so unpredictable.
The man appeared completely absorbed in his fishing, his eyes focused on some distant point that only he could perceive. His concentration was so complete that he seemed unaware of their presence, despite their proximity and the fact that they had been observing him for several minutes.
August approached Robert and thanked the boy for his service, pressing a local silver coin into his small hand. "Please wait here patiently while we speak with the gentleman," he requested. "We shouldn't be too long."
With their guide settled comfortably nearby, August approached the mysterious fisherman with cautious curiosity. His initial attempts at conversation were completely ignored, as if he were invisible. The man continued his activities without any acknowledgment of the newcomers' presence.
After several minutes of being ignored, August was beginning to question the wisdom of this encounter when the man suddenly spoke without turning around.
"What do you want?" The voice was sharp and irritated. "You've been staring at me and your group for quite some time now. It's honestly quite irksome. If you don't have anything important to say, please leave and stop disturbing my meditation."
August was surprised by the sudden outburst, but also intrigued by the man's obvious awareness of their presence despite his apparent inattention. "Well, sir, a man named Henry Derby recommended you to us. We have a proposition for you, if you're willing to listen."
He paused, hoping for some response or sign of interest. When none came, he began to wonder if he was being ignored again. The silence stretched uncomfortably, broken only by the gentle sounds of the river and the man's continued fishing activities.
"You know," the man said finally, his tone filled with exasperation, "I've been patiently waiting for you to continue with whatever proposition you mentioned, but you're beginning to annoy me. If you're not going to explain what you want, I suggest you leave my personal space immediately."
August was taken aback by this revelation. The man had been waiting for him to continue? There had been no indication of attention or interest, and August had assumed he was being ignored again. Remembering Henry's warning about the man's odd behavior, August decided to proceed with his explanation despite the unconventional circumstances.
He shared his story carefully and comprehensively, explaining his origins in a remote village and his ambitious plans for recruitment of skilled, trustworthy individuals who might be willing to join their growing yet at the same time dying community. He spoke of his vision for the future and the opportunities that might await those willing to take risks for potentially great rewards.
Throughout his explanation, the man continued fishing without any visible reaction. No nods of understanding, no questions for clarification, no signs of interest or disinterest. When August finished speaking, the silence returned, punctuated only by the sounds of nature and the man's continued activities.
The lack of response was frustrating and puzzling. August had presented what he considered a compelling opportunity, but the man's indifference was complete and seemingly impenetrable. After waiting several more minutes for some kind of acknowledgment, August's patience finally reached its limit.
Rising from his position near the dock, August felt a mixture of disappointment and annoyance. The man clearly possessed knowledge and skills that could be valuable, but his impossible personality made collaboration seem unlikely. The investment of time and effort required to work with such an individual might not be justified by the potential benefits.
As August rejoined Andy and Marcus, his expression clearly conveyed his frustration. "I don't think our friend over there has any interest whatsoever in what we're offering," he said, his tone reflecting his disappointment.
They began to walk toward the village gate, ready to abandon this particular recruitment effort and seek more cooperative individuals elsewhere. However, young Robert made an unexpected observation that gave them pause.
"You know," the boy said thoughtfully, "if you had just waited a little longer, you might have received the answer you were looking for. Uncle Sibus was meditating, as you heard, and you were disturbing his concentration. But whatever – let's go."
The group was startled by this insight from their young guide, but August remained too frustrated with the man called Sibus to reconsider his decision. He was confident that the world contained many capable individuals who would be more reasonable and cooperative partners.
As they approached the village gate, however, they heard footsteps behind them and turned to see Sibus approaching with his meager possessions. He called out to get their attention, his voice carrying a tone of mild exasperation.
"Wait! Don't be so hasty!" he shouted. "I haven't given you my response yet! Honestly, you're quite unbearable!"
August nearly lost his composure at being called unbearable by someone whose behavior had been so trying. He forced himself to remain calm and gave Sibus an opportunity to explain himself, though his patience was clearly strained.
Andy, observing the interaction with growing amusement, recognized the dynamics at play. This Sibus character wasn't merely odd – he seemed to deliberately provoke reactions from people to observe their behavior under stress. It was an unconventional approach to evaluating potential associates, but perhaps effective in its own way.
"Well then, go on," August said, his tone still carrying traces of annoyance.
Sibus nodded, his manner suddenly more serious and businesslike. "I've decided to accept your offer. I'm bored with my current situation anyway, and if Henry sent you to me, then what you've told me must have some merit. That man has excellent instincts about people – it's essential in his trade. If you are who you claim to be and can accomplish what you've described, then I'm willing to demonstrate my abilities when the time comes. You'll be providing food, clothing, and shelter, I assume?"
August studied Sibus carefully, his expression carefully neutral. "Yes, if you prove capable of the things I suspect you can do, then investing in your potential wouldn't be disadvantageous for us. I hope that when we reach our current lodging, you'll explain your abilities to us properly or provide some demonstration of your skills. We won't be returning to my village until next year, so you'll have time to prove yourself during our continued travels."
Sibus nodded his agreement and gathered his few possessions: a pair of worn sandals, a leather sling bag, a weathered hat, his collection of trinkets, and his fishing rod. Together, they departed the village of Sibon and returned to the town of Bono, their group now expanded by one potentially valuable but certainly eccentric new member.
---
Day 24.3: Sibus Dino
The story of Sibus Dino was one of remarkable achievement followed by devastating loss, a tale that explained both his exceptional abilities and his current reduced circumstances. Born into a family of considerable means and social standing, Sibus had enjoyed advantages that many could only dream of: excellent education, access to the finest materials and resources, and mentorship from some of the most skilled professionals in his field.
From an early age, Sibus had displayed an extraordinary aptitude for construction and engineering. His mind worked in ways that allowed him to visualize complex structures, understand the intricate relationships between materials and forces, and devise solutions to problems that stumped more conventional thinkers. By adulthood, he had mastered numerous disciplines related to construction and had earned a reputation throughout the land as one of the most innovative and capable architects and engineers of his generation.
Nobles and wealthy merchants regularly sought his services, commissioning him to design and oversee the construction of their grand estates, defensive fortifications, and commercial buildings. His reputation was built on a foundation of successful projects, each one adding to his growing fame and the demand for his services.
The commission that would ultimately destroy his life came from an ambitious young viscount in the central continent. This nobleman, eager to secure his territorial borders and establish his reputation, contracted Sibus to design and build a fortress that would serve as a crucial defensive position. The location was strategically important – a natural choke point that controlled access to the viscount's lands.
Sibus threw himself into the project with characteristic dedication and thoroughness. His design was magnificent: a complex fortification that incorporated the latest advances in defensive architecture while taking advantage of the natural terrain. The fortress would be capable of withstanding prolonged sieges and repelling even the most determined attackers be it man or beast.
The construction proceeded according to plan, and the completed fortress was a testament to Sibus's skill and vision. The viscount was delighted with the result, confident that his borders were now secure and his reputation enhanced. For a time, it seemed that the project would be remembered as another triumph in Sibus's distinguished career.
However, disaster struck approximately one year after the fortress's completion. A massive monster raid erupted from one of the great forests, led by a Commander-rank Arborwyrm of exceptional power and cunning. Thirty of these fearsome creatures descended upon the fortress, their combined assault representing a threat that few defensive positions could hope to withstand.
The viscount, confident in his fortress's strength, chose to personally lead its defense rather than retreat to safer positions. His decision proved fatal. The fortress, which should have been capable of repelling such an attack, crumbled under the assault with shocking ease. The viscount, his retainers, and ultimately the entire population of his viscounty were slaughtered in the resulting massacre.
When allied forces arrived to render assistance, they expected to find the fortress still standing and its defenders holding out until reinforcements could arrive. Instead, they discovered only rubble, blood, and the scattered remains of what had once been a thriving community. The fortress had fallen so quickly and completely that it had provided no meaningful resistance to the attackers.
The investigation that followed revealed the horrifying truth behind the fortress's failure. The viscount, driven by greed and the desire to maximize his profits from the project, had substituted cheaper, inferior materials for those specified in Sibus's design. The money saved by this deception had gone directly into the young nobleman's personal coffers, while the fortress's defensive capabilities had been fatally compromised.
Had the proper materials been used as originally specified, the fortress would have been capable of withstanding the Arborwyrm assault long enough for relief forces to arrive. The tragedy was entirely preventable, the result of one man's avarice and dishonesty.
Unfortunately, the viscount's father, an Earl of considerable influence and resources, refused to accept that his son's greed had caused the disaster. Consumed by grief and rage, he demanded that someone be held accountable for the deaths of his son and the destruction of the viscounty. Despite the clear evidence of material substitution and the son's financial malfeasance, the Earl's wealth and political connections allowed him to redirect blame toward the project's architect.
Sibus found himself accused of negligence, incompetence, and even deliberate sabotage. Despite his protests and the clear evidence supporting his innocence, the Earl's influence proved overwhelming. Sibus's family fought the accusations in court, spending their fortune on legal fees and expert testimony, but the political deck was stacked against them.
The legal battle destroyed everything Sibus had built over his lifetime. His reputation was ruined, his family's wealth was exhausted, and their social standing was obliterated. His parents, unable to bear the shame and financial ruin, eventually succumbed to grief and stress. Sibus found himself alone in the world, stripped of everything he had once possessed.
From celebrated architect to social pariah, from wealthy professional to destitute vagrant, Sibus's fall had been complete and devastating. Yet his brilliant mind remained intact, even if his circumstances had been reduced to begging and subsistence living. His intelligence and capabilities were too remarkable to be completely suppressed, even by such overwhelming adversity.
When August spoke of his vision for the future and the opportunities that might await skilled individuals willing to take risks for potentially great rewards, Sibus recognized a chance for redemption. The young man's passion and determination reminded him of his own younger self, before tragedy had derailed his life. The prospect of contributing to something meaningful again, of using his abilities for constructive purposes, rekindled a spark of hope that had been dormant for years.
August's description of his village's needs – the lack of proper buildings, the infrastructure challenges that needed to be addressed, the opportunities for creative solutions to practical problems – spoke directly to Sibus's professional interests and personal desires. This could be the fresh start he had been unconsciously seeking, a chance to rebuild not just structures but his own sense of purpose and self-worth.
His awkward social manner and apparent arrogance were largely defensive mechanisms, ways of protecting himself from further disappointment and rejection. Beneath these barriers lay a fundamentally kind-hearted and curious individual whose greatest desire was to contribute meaningfully to the world around him.
The opportunity to work with August represented more than just employment or even professional redemption. It offered him a chance to reclaim his identity as a creator and problem-solver, to once again use his gifts in service of something larger than himself.
---
Day 24.4: Buying a Beast of Burden
After returning to Bono, the group's first priority was addressing Sibus's immediate needs. His appearance, while not necessarily offensive, clearly marked him as someone living on society's margins. If he was to travel with them and eventually integrate into their community, he would need clothing appropriate to his new status.
They visited a well-regarded clothing store that specializes in practical, comfortable garments for working men. The proprietor, a skilled tailor with an eye for quality, helped them select appropriate items for their new companion. They purchased three complete sets of clothing: shirts, undergarments, and trousers, along with a sturdy pair of boots and a serviceable bag for storing his belongings.
The total expenditure of ten silver coins was a reasonable investment in Sibus's future role within their organization and village. The clothing was well-made and durable, suitable for the rigors of travel and the practical demands of their eventual settlement work.
Returning to their inn, they arranged for Sibus to bathe and change into his new clothing. The transformation was remarkable – clean and properly dressed, he looked like a different person entirely. His natural intelligence and competence became more apparent when not obscured by the trappings of destitution.
They also arranged with the inn's proprietor to add an extra bed to their shared room, paying five local copper coins for the accommodation. Since they planned to depart the following day, the additional expense was minimal and the arrangement temporary.
Before concluding their preparations for the day, August raised an important practical matter that had been on his mind for some time. "We should purchase a beast of burden to pull our wagon," he suggested. "We can't continue to rely on Master Marcus's Six-Legged Horse. We've been imposing on him in that regard for too long."
Andy immediately agreed with this assessment. While Marcus had generously offered the use of his mount for their trading activities, they all felt uncomfortable continuing to take advantage of his generosity. The success of their trading ventures had provided them with the resources to purchase their own transportation, and it was time to make that investment.
Marcus, understanding August's character and recognizing the wisdom of the suggestion, offered no objections. He had come to appreciate the young man's consideration for others and his practical approach to problem-solving.
The town guards, when consulted about where to purchase beasts of burden, recommended a stable located near the farming fields accessible through the east gate. The establishment, they assured them, specialized in providing exactly the kind of animals they would need for their purposes.
The walk to Stevens Beast Farm took them through a different section of Bono, one more closely connected to the agricultural activities that supported the town's prosperity. The countryside here was more open, with fields and meadows stretching toward the horizon, interrupted by occasional farmsteads and storage facilities.
Stevens Beast Farm was an impressive operation, clearly the result of years of careful development and professional management. The facilities were well-maintained, the animals appeared healthy and well-cared for, and the overall organization spoke to serious expertise in animal husbandry.
The current owner, Ruthy Stevens, was unlike anyone they had encountered in their travels. Despite her obviously feminine features, her physical development was extraordinary – muscles that would have been impressive on a man were clearly visible beneath her practical working clothes. At the moment of their arrival, she was engaged in what appeared to be a wrestling match with one of the farm's more unruly bulls.
The spectacle was remarkable to witness. The bull, a massive four-horned specimen easily weighing several tons, was clearly agitated and determined to assert its dominance. Ruthy, despite being dwarfed by the animal's size, was holding her own through a combination of technique, leverage, and raw strength that was genuinely impressive.
The confrontation lasted for several minutes, with neither participant gaining a decisive advantage. The bull's power and aggression were met by Ruthy's skill and determination. Finally, through a combination of superior positioning and precise application of force, she managed to bring the massive animal to the ground in a controlled manner that demonstrated both her strength and her understanding of animal behavior.
The spectators, including August's group, erupted in applause and admiration for the display. Even August, whose own physical capabilities were extraordinary, found himself impressed by Ruthy's performance against an opponent so much larger than herself.
After the excitement died down, they approached Ruthy to discuss their business needs. She proved to be as professional and knowledgeable as she was physically impressive, clearly having inherited both her father's expertise and his dedication to the family business.
"Good afternoon, miss!" Andy began, his natural charm and diplomatic skills evident. "We're hoping to purchase one of your beasts of burden. We heard from the townspeople that this is the place to go for quality animals. Your performance against that bull was exceptional – beyond what any of us could manage, except perhaps August here."
Ruthy's interest was immediately piqued by Andy's reference to August's capabilities. Her competitive nature and professional curiosity were clearly aroused by the suggestion that someone in their group might possess physical abilities comparable to her own.
"Is that so?" she said, studying August with new interest. "Perhaps we should test whether your assessment is accurate. How about a wager, gentlemen? If your man can match my performance against that bull, I'll give you a substantial discount on your purchase. If he fails to meet expectations, you'll pay full price. What do you say?"
Andy's merchant instincts immediately recognized the opportunity. His confidence in August's abilities was complete, based on numerous previous demonstrations of the young man's extraordinary strength and physical control. He was more than willing to stake their negotiating position on August's performance.
"I'm agreeable to those terms," Andy replied with a confident smile. "But let's make the stakes more interesting. If August succeeds, we get not just a discount, but one animal completely free. If he fails, we'll pay full price without complaint."
Ruthy was delighted by the escalation of the wager. Her competitive spirit was fully engaged, and the prospect of a genuine challenge was irresistible. "Agreed! But I'll add my own terms to make things more interesting. If my bull wins, I'll marry your champion. If he wins, you get your free animal plus the discount."
She spat on her hand and extended it for a handshake to seal the agreement. Andy, caught up in the moment and confident in August's abilities, accepted the terms without considering the potential complications.
August wanted to protest the arrangement, but the wager had already been sealed. His only option was to win convincingly and avoid the potentially awkward consequences of defeat. The system's encouraging voice echoed in his mind, though with a decidedly teasing tone.
[MANAGER DOROTHY: YOU CAN DO IT, MASTER! HEHEHE!]
The bull pen was prepared for the contest, and the same four-horned bull that had just wrestled with Ruthy was released into the enclosure. The animal was still agitated from its previous encounter and clearly ready for another confrontation. Its massive frame, easily twenty tons of muscle and bone, represented a formidable challenge even for someone of August's capabilities.
August entered the pen with calm confidence, his movements deliberate and controlled. The dusty arena seemed to hold its breath as he stepped forward, his young frame casting a surprisingly imposing shadow across the weathered ground. The bull, a massive Four Horned Moo Beast weighing nearly twenty tons of pure muscle and bones, sensed a new challenger and began its aggressive display immediately—huffing through flared nostrils, pawing the earth with hooves the size of dinner plates, and positioning its muscular bulk for a devastating charge.
The gathered crowd pressed closer to the fence, their excitement palpable. Whispers rippled through the onlookers as they watched this seemingly ordinary boy face down one of the most formidable beasts in the region. Even Ruthy, who had seen countless encounters in her family's beast farm, found herself holding her breath.
When the charge came, it erupted with the full force and fury of an animal defending its territory. The ground trembled beneath the bull's thunderous approach as it barreled forward like a living battering ram. Its four horns, each as sharp as spear points and capable of piercing the finest armor, were aimed directly at August's center mass. The speed and raw power of the attack would have been overwhelming for any normal human being—a force that could crush bone and render flesh to pulp.
However, August was far from normal. As the bull made contact, one of his passive abilities, [Fear the Beast], activated automatically. The enormous animal's charge, which should have sent him flying across the pen like a broken doll, instead met what seemed to be an immovable object. August's feet remained planted firmly in the dirt, his body absorbed the tremendous impact without yielding even an inch, and his muscles bulged visibly with the effort of containing the bull's devastating momentum.
The bystanders who had witnessed countless beast encounters were struck speechless, their jaws slack with disbelief. The impossible scene unfolding before them defied every law of physics and common sense they knew. Even Ruthy, with her years of experience handling powerful beasts, and the newcomer Sibus stood frozen in total shock, unable to process what their eyes were telling them.
After August had weathered the full frontal assault of the twenty-ton Four Horned Bull, he demonstrated strength that bordered on the mythical. With movements that seemed almost casual, he twisted his body and hoisted the massive creature, gripping one of its colossal horns with apparent ease. The bull found itself lifted clean off the ground, its enormous bulk helpless in the boy's grip, before being slammed back down with earth-shaking force.
The impact sent tremors through the ground that could be felt by everyone watching the encounter. The very foundations of the nearby buildings seemed to quiver, and several of the more unsteady bystanders tumbled to their bottoms from the mini-earthquake that rippled outward from the point of impact. Dust clouds billowed up around the stunned bull as it lay dazed and defeated.
August straightened up and casually dusted off his hands and clothes, wiping away the light sheen of sweat that was the only evidence of his exertion. His breathing remained steady, as if he had done nothing more strenuous than lifting a sack of grain.
Ruthy, who had been desperately searching for a man to marry, felt her heart race for entirely different reasons than fear. Her boyish mannerisms and work on the family farm had made her unsuccessful in finding a potential partner, but here, right in front of her, stood the embodiment of her childhood dreams—a person stronger than herself who could wrestle a bull into submission with apparent ease.
"You! What is your name? Would you like to become my husband?" Ruthy asked with startling bluntness and boldness, her usual reserve completely forgotten in the face of such an impressive display.
A sudden chill ran through August's entire being at the unexpected proposal. Andy, meanwhile, burst into uncontrollable laughter. "Hahahaha! That's just too funny, miss, but I'm sorry—my companion here is only twelve years old. He's not ready for that kind of arrangement yet. And that certainly wasn't part of our original deal, was it?"
Ruthy was thunderstruck. This incredibly powerful individual standing before her was only twelve years old? The revelation left her dumbstruck and speechless, her mind reeling as she tried to reconcile the boy's apparent age with his superhuman abilities. After recovering from her initial shock, she offered a deeply embarrassed apology to August, her face flushing red beneath her weathered features.
"I'm terribly sorry, young sir, for my inappropriate behavior earlier. I had no idea you were still so young," she said, clearly mortified by her impulsive proposal.
To save face and redirect the awkward conversation, she quickly shifted to business matters. "Let's move on from that unfortunate exchange and discuss why you're really here. You're looking for a beast of burden, correct? What specific purpose do you have in mind? That will help me recommend the most appropriate creature for your needs."
Andy, having recovered from his amusement and adopting his professional merchant demeanor, responded thoughtfully. "We're a traveling merchant group that recently started operations. We have a wagon with a carrying capacity of twenty-five short tons. We need a beast that can pull that weight effectively, traverse difficult terrain without trouble, and possess both speed and stamina for long journeys. What would you recommend?"
Ruthy considered their requirements carefully. "Based on those specifications, I'd suggest either a Four Horned Moo Beast like the one you just saw, or a Six-Legged Horse. Both can handle the job you've described, though the Six-Legged Horse commands a higher price due to its additional capabilities. It's faster than the Moo Beast and can serve as a combat mount if you need to abandon your wagon. A fully mature Six-Legged Horse costs five local gold coins each, while a Four Horned Moo Beast runs two gold coins. Since I clearly lost our wager, I'll honor our agreement and provide one beast free of charge, along with care instructions and a supply of feed."
After brief consultation among themselves, they reached a consensus. "We'll take two Six-Legged Horses, miss. We'll return tomorrow to collect them, as that's our final day in town before we continue traveling north."
They handed Ruthy ten local gold coins, but she waved away payment for one horse, honoring their wager by accepting only 4 local gold coins total.
The group returned to town to prepare for their journey and inform Sibus of their travel plans. They spent the remainder of the day exploring Bono's sights and sounds, savoring their final evening in the peaceful settlement. As darkness fell, they retired to their beds, knowing that tomorrow would bring new adventures on the road north.