"That's fine. Those that are close can support the military, they are about to begin a major operation and could use more healers. Of course, only those that are willing need to help out. Now that you have joined, anyone who wants it can get the procedure. Also, those who want to can relocate to any of the cities or towns under our control and receive protection."

Krukel says "Of course we can help! Not only do all my people have healing skills, we also have a large stockpile of healing items that we can provide."

"Sorry, but what do you mean by healing items?"

Krukel says "We make healing potions, salves, and even medicated bandages."

"So, you have developed alchemy?!"

Krukel says "I'm sorry, I'm not familiar with that term."

"It's a term that refers to mixing chemicals and herbs to brew potions."

Krukel says "That sounds about right. We just call it brewing."

"Whatever you want to call it, it will definitely come in handy. Not only can the military use them, but they can also be sold. They will make a good export product for the nation."

Krukel says "Our stockpile can last for a while, but I doubt our output can match what you are thinking. The herbs used are hard to find in enough quantities."

"That's fine. We have already planned to start cultivating herbs. Later, I will introduce you to Pol, my merchant, and you can discuss it with him."

Krukel says "Sure."

"Myria, you've been quiet?"

Myria says "I was planning to wait and discuss that comment in private."

"Uh, okay."

To put that off, I take my time to introduce Krukel to all the other chiefs. We have lunch together and I fill Krukel in on the current and future plans. Myria stays by my side, but she also stays quiet which makes me fairly nervous.

Eventually we finish talks and the food is gone, so the chiefs leave to take care of their matters. Myria stays quiet and follows me to my room, but once the door is closed she kisses me. It is a pleasant surprise to say the least and quite enjoyable while it lasts.

Myria says "I am glad that you are back safely. Before we get into things, where is Lin? I need to talk to her first."

"She is in the tower, in the library. Or at least she was when I left and I doubt that she has moved."

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Myria says "Then I will head to the tower. When I get back, we will have dinner together and have a long talk, alright?"

"Sure."

Myria gives me another kiss and a hug, then she leaves to head to the tower. I feel like I should be nervous about the two of them talking, but for some reason, I don't. Then again, they have been plotting together from the beginning so it is nothing new.

To keep from thinking about it, I head out once Myria leaves to find Pol. As soon as I find him I give him the items I made as well as the wagons Yui gave me. Before I leave, I tell him about Krukel, his people, and the products that they can produce.

Of course, hearing about new products to sell makes him very excited. In fact, he can't wait to run off and find the chieftain to get more details. I go ahead and let him, then I head over to the military base to deliver the rest of the wagons.

Leonarr isn't around, so I take some time to meet and interact with some of the troops. The only ones around are some new recruits and their trainers, but that makes sense. Leonarr probably took everyone else to get ready to attack the empire in a few days.

After talking with some of the recruits, I head back to the palace to wait for Myria. There is nothing else that I need to do and if Myria hadn't come back I'd be heading to Illium. While I wait for Myria, I think about what I need to do in Illium until she returns.

Myria says "So, do we eat first, or talk first?"

"Welcome back. It's up to you, I am fine either way."

Myria says "Then let's talk first. I won't leave you to suffer through a meal while worrying."

"You really do know me well. Alright, where do you want to start?"

Myria says "Let's start with business. The bunny tribe doesn't have too many combat personnel, but those that we have are already on their way to join Leonarr. What should I do with the rest of them? Do you want them to migrate to the cities as well?"

"Yes, unless there is a reason for them not to. The cities will become the heart of the nation, having them more occupied will help. Living in a city will help to change the mindset of the people faster."

Myria says "What do you mean?"

"Well, having a permanent home is a lot different from moving around constantly. People think differently when they have a permanent place to call their own. It will also help if all the tribes are living together and interacting with each other."

Myria says "I can't really say for sure since I have never had a permanent home either, but I will take your word for it. As for interacting with each other, have you assigned someone to keep the peace?"

"Not yet, but don't worry, I know that I will need to. I was thinking of asking some of the elves to do it. They should be able to be completely impartial. That will be important when it comes to settling disputes between tribes."

Myria says "That's actually a really good idea. Do you think that they will agree to do it?"

"I think that there will be some. I'm just not sure if there will be enough. They just got a new home so I plan to let them settle in a bit before I ask them."

Myria says "Do you have a backup plan?"

"Yes. If there aren't enough elves, I will make golems that can do the job."

Myria says "I guess that would work."

"I am aware that there are going to be issues and I am planning for as many of them as I can. Any others that come up we will just have to deal with when they happen."

Myria says "Ash, you have changed. You are more mature now and I feel like it is a good thing for all the beastmen. I really like this new you!"

"Thanks, I guess."

Myria says "What is that supposed to mean?!"

"Well, if you are saying that I am mature now, then you are also saying that I was childish before!"

Myria laughs, kisses me, and says "Yeah, I am! You were totally childish and irresponsible!"

"Oh, like you were any better!"

Myria says "That's besides the point, I wasn't the leader! No one was looking to me for what they were supposed to do."