Chapter 47 Travel back part 3

Their brief but fulfilling visit to Hollowtree Town concluded, Tatsuo and Ahtris spent a peaceful night, resting and preparing for the next leg of their journey. The morning dawned bright and clear, promising a pleasant day for travel.

With the 200 Tiger Guard forming their usual protective cordon, they set off for Riverbend Town, a vital trading hub located along the county's major river. The journey was smooth, the landscape gradually changing as they approached the river, the air growing fresher and the sounds of flowing water growing louder.

As they entered Riverbend Town, they were greeted by the sight of bustling docks, laden with goods from various regions. The town was a hive of activity, merchants haggling, dockworkers loading and unloading cargo, and sailors preparing their ships for departure.

Mayor Faelar Stonehand, a sturdy man with a weathered face and calloused hands, approached them with a respectful bow. "Your Highness, Princess Ahtris," he said, his voice deep and resonant, "Riverbend Town welcomes you. We are honored to have you grace our town with your presence."

Tatsuo smiled, pleased by the warm welcome. "Mayor Stonehand," he replied, "it is good to see Riverbend thriving. Your town is a vital artery for Dragonsden County."

Ahtris, her eyes taking in the sights of the bustling docks and the river, was visibly impressed. "This town is a testament to the importance of trade," she said, her voice filled with admiration. "It is truly a hub of activity."

Mayor Stonehand, eager to showcase the town's prosperity, led them on a tour. He pointed out the newly constructed warehouses, the expanded docks, and the thriving marketplace. He explained the town's trade routes, highlighting the various goods that flowed through Riverbend.

"Our town has become a key trading post," Mayor Stonehand said, his voice filled with pride. "We facilitate trade between Dragonsden County and other regions, ensuring the flow of goods and resources."

Tatsuo was particularly interested in the town's naval capabilities. He inquired about the number of ships, the skill of the sailors, and the effectiveness of the town's defenses against river-borne threats.

Mayor Stonehand provided detailed information, highlighting the town's growing fleet and the training of its sailors. He also showcased the town's defenses, including watchtowers and river patrols.

"We are prepared to defend our town and our trade routes," Mayor Stonehand said, his voice firm. "We will not allow any threats to disrupt our prosperity."

Ahtris, observing the town's defenses and the skill of its sailors, was impressed by their preparedness. She recognized the strategic importance of Riverbend Town and its role in protecting Dragonsden County's trade.

As they continued their tour, they visited the marketplace, where merchants displayed goods from far and wide. They saw exotic spices, finely crafted textiles, and sturdy tools. The marketplace was a vibrant tapestry of cultures and goods.

Tatsuo and Ahtris interacted with the merchants and the townspeople, listening to their stories and learning about their lives. They were struck by the resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit of the people of Riverbend Town.

As the day drew to a close, they returned to the mayor's residence, their minds filled with impressions of Riverbend Town. They discussed the town's strengths and its strategic importance, their minds already formulating plans for further development.

Their brief but insightful visit to Riverbend Town concluded, Tatsuo and Ahtris spent a peaceful night, resting and reflecting on the town's vital role in Dragonsden County's economy. The next morning, they prepared to embark on the final leg of their journey, towards Blackwood Town.

As they travelled, Ahtris observed the tranquility of the countryside. There were no signs of bandits or other disturbances, a stark contrast to the tales she had heard of lawless territories. She turned to Tatsuo, a curious expression on her face.

"Tatsuo," she asked, "I've noticed that our journey has been remarkably peaceful. There have been no bandits or other threats. How do you maintain such order in your county?"

Tatsuo smiled, pleased by her observation. "Dragonsden County is a safe place," he replied. "We have dealt with the bandits and other lawless elements. Those who were not killed in combat were imprisoned. We have a strong military and an efficient law enforcement system."

Ahtris nodded, impressed by his efficiency. "That's quite an accomplishment," she said. "It speaks to your leadership and the effectiveness of your forces."

They continued their journey, the landscape gradually changing as they approached Blackwood Town. The dense forests that surrounded the town gave it a secluded and somewhat mysterious air.

Upon their arrival, they were greeted by Lady Elara Blackwood, the acting lord and mayor of the town. She was a woman of quiet strength, her eyes reflecting both grief and determination. She bowed respectfully to the couple.

"Your Highness, Princess Ahtris," she said, her voice soft but firm, "Blackwood Town welcomes you. We are honored to have you visit."

Tatsuo smiled, his expression filled with sympathy. "Lady Elara," he said, "thank you for your welcome. We are here to see how Blackwood Town is faring."

Lady Elara led them into the town, pointing out the changes that had taken place since her husband's death. The town had become a hub for forestry and woodworking, supplying the county with high-quality lumber and crafted goods.

"We have focused on developing our natural resources," Lady Elara explained, her voice filled with quiet pride. "The people of Blackwood Town are skilled craftsmen, and their work is highly valued."

Ahtris was impressed by the town's resilience and the determination of its people. She saw the workshops where skilled artisans crafted furniture and tools, and the lumberyards where logs were processed into timber.

"You have done an admirable job, Lady Elara," Ahtris said, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "Blackwood Town has become a valuable asset to Dragonsden County."

Lady Elara smiled, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Princess," she said. "It is my duty to ensure the prosperity of our town."

Tatsuo and Ahtris spent the day exploring Blackwood Town, interacting with the citizens and observing their daily lives. They visited the workshops, the lumberyards, and the marketplace. They saw the hard work and dedication of the people, and the strong sense of community that bound them together.

As the day drew to a close, they returned to the mayor's residence, their minds filled with impressions of Blackwood Town. They discussed the town's strengths and the challenges it faced, their minds already formulating plans for further development.