Times had grown difficult. The town was expanding, houses rising, and more mouths needed feeding. Bakers worked tirelessly, kneading dough from dawn to dusk. But as the town grew, so did the sanitation problems. Temporary shades for workers from nearby villages had been set up. People were living crowded together, and hygiene was slowly declining. The smell was strong, but people were used to it. What they didn't notice was how fast disease could spread in such conditions. I could not afford a plague in Orshek.
I called Oswin and the cabinet. "Everyone must maintain sanitation. Each worker and townsman will keep a bucket for human waste. Dump it into pits prepared daily. Ten men will dig the pits, a little distance from residences. This must happen every day."
He nodded. "Understood. I will enforce it."
I turned to Natalia. "We need plants that can absorb waste, grow quickly, and help disinfect the soil. I have a few ideas—Ashleaf, Verdant Root, and Silverstem. They can thrive on these pits and reduce bacterial growth."
She looked intrigued. "We can start tonight?"
"Yes. Elias, come. Tonight, we plant."
That night, Natalia, Elias, and I worked quietly, planting the disinfectant crops around the waste pits. These plants were unique—they would grow fully in ten days, and their fruits and leaves could later be used in research and medicine.
Construction continued. The houses were strong, capable of supporting rapid population growth. We made soil paths on both sides of the Roman road and implemented a drainage system to channel extra water into the nearby river. It took time, but every step was necessary.
Still, some people fell ill. Two or three townsmen developed fevers and weakness. I knew it was the bacteria and viruses growing in cold, damp conditions. Oswin reassured me. "Do not worry. It is normal."
After a few days, I learned one of the sick had died. It was tragic, but in this world, death from illness was common. We buried him respectfully, making sure the rest of the workers were cautious.
Ten days later, the disinfectant plants had grown tall, their fruits sticky and bright. I collected some for research, taking notes on their absorption and antiseptic properties.
Meanwhile, Oswin reported another problem. "Crime is increasing. Thieves and minor clashes have been reported."
I took this seriously. "Call 15 of my bodyguard knights to the town circle. Full authority. Restore law and order. Punish as necessary."
In the circle, I addressed the townsmen. "Crime will not be tolerated. These knights have authority to enforce the law. Anyone caught stealing or fighting will be punished. Stop now, or face consequences."
The people nodded, murmuring agreement. I could see the effect. If I wanted the town to grow as I envisioned, law and order had to be strict.
As the month neared its end, more messages arrived. Villagers were preparing to move into Orshek. Houses were still under construction, but the new structures were large enough to hold 7–10 people per family, accommodating around 1,200 new residents.
I instructed Oswin, "Shift the original townsmen into these new houses first. They deserve priority in choosing a good house. New citizens have two options:
Move into new houses but accept a slightly lower salary until the house is paid off.
Stay in old houses, which are still good, and receive equal salary."
I emphasized fairness. "This prevents clashes between old and new residents. I plan to build more houses, so no one will feel deprived."
Gerreth returned with the village chief. "We've spotted strange men near a village southwest, very close to town. Bandits waiting for the spring harvest."
I gave instructions. "Start spying. Build a wooden barn south of town."
They asked why a barn. I explained, "It's a distraction. The bandits will see it as storage. Fill it with hay, rocks, and soil as decoys. When they come to harvest, our archers and infantry will be ready."
Spring harvest would occur in the mid-third month of spring, Verdantus. The barn and defenses had to be ready.
The second month ended. I issued salaries to all workers. Their reactions were priceless. For the first time, they had money of their own. They discussed what to buy, what food to save. No shortage plagued them. I smiled quietly, letting them enjoy the small freedom they earned.
That evening, I took a small break. Natalia and I rested in bed, enjoying a moment of peace. The town was still growing, still dangerous, still full of work—but for a few hours, there was quiet and comfort.
I looked at her, at the flickering light from the candles, and felt hope.
By the end of the second month, the town's livestock had increased noticeably. Cows, goats, pigs, and chickens filled their pens, healthy and well-fed. I watched the workers move among them, tending the animals with care, their faces tired but determined. After a long month of construction and labor, I decided they deserved a small reward. That evening, I arranged for a taste of meat from some of the livestock. People gathered in the square, sharing the simple feast with laughter and relief. Seeing them enjoy the meal, I felt a rare sense of peace. Orshek's growth was hard, but moments like this made it worthwhile.