The next day was Saturday, early morning sunrays illuminated the bedroom and caused them to stir awake. Henry and Heather woke up groggily, last night’s passions had caused them to oversleep.
Henry turned head to see a smiling Heather looking back at him, looking deep into her eyes, he whispered “Last night was wonderful.”
“Which part?” she laughed sitting up.
“I think you know which part,” Henry teased.
They laughed together, before she turned serious, “What’s going to happen with Dustin?”
“He’s going to move out next month. He’s looking for places to live now, but all the apartments he can afford are far outside the city.”
“What about my room? I can sublet an apartment when I move in here. Annie’s going to hate it, but it’ll only be temporary.”
“They’re either going to hate each other or hate loving each other,” Henry barreled over in laughter.
“Stop, this might be good for both of them,” Heather said seriously.
Afterwards, they conversed about living together, work, Dustin, and Annie, and the Woodhaerst. They kept conversing until Henry dropped her off at her apartment following their workout and brunch. They kissed goodbye and promised to see each other soon in-game.
When Thaddeus materialized back in Woodhaerst, he appeared in his office chair. Normally, he’d spend the morning crafting Iron and Oak, but it was already long past two in the afternoon. On his desk, he examined the documents awaiting his signature. Most of the documents came from his A.I. city administrator\ celestial courier Alfred. The rest were bills from the Woodhaerst and Ironwood Town Councils. As he read and signed administrative and legislative papers, a knock came from his office door.
From the knock he it was the butler, most likely to bring him a pot of coffee. Not looking up from his work, Thaddeus ordered, “Come in!”
“Mr. Sawyer to see you, sir,” the butler announced.
Thaddeus had a feeling he’d show up, after unlocking the fairground yesterday. Putting down his pen, he informed the butler to escort him in and bring them a pot of coffee.
“Hi, Thad!” Sawyer said sitting down in a leather chair, Thaddeus' crafted. “Cargill and Deere were happy you finally unlocked the fairground. The bosses are anxious to exhibit their wares to the rest of the North American server. They want you to host a North American Farm Machine Show, the North American Livestock Convention, and the World Ag Expo. With your permission, I’d be happy to manage it all for you.”
Truth be told, Thaddeus never felt completely comfortable with his sponsors, but it provided jobs for people, and farm machinery, livestock, and crops, were major exports for Woodhaerst. There was also the matter of his lucrative contract.
“I’m fine with you managing the events, just as long as you hire extra security,” Thaddeus said negotiated.
“Deal! I’ll forward you the paperwork,” Sawyer smiled shaking Thaddeus’ hands. “Oh, one last thing, I almost forgot, the bosses want you to give a welcoming address. Don’t worry, you just need to read what they give you.”
As Thaddeus mulled over Sawyer's words, he recognized this was an opportunity. He’d use these farm exhibits to showcase the hard work, and spirit of his people and culture. Moreover, this would be economically beneficial for his towns. Saying a welcoming address, though cringeworthy, seemed like a small part to play for the overall benefit of his towns.
Weeks later, on April 1, thousands of players and people arrived via the jump gate to attend the inaugural North American Farm Machine Show. It was a sight to behold. Thaddeus stood on the battlements next to Captain Joseph, Vakdraen, Brand, and Priestess Thera overlooking throngs of people waiting to enter Woodhaerst.
Entrants were divided into four lines: participants, players, people, and nobles. The longest line was native people, and the shortest line was nobles. Two groups of people Thaddeus once thought of as A.I. constructs only to learn they were real people living on another planet. Now these people had sold out every inn and tavern in Woodhaerst and Ironwood. Nearby hamlets and villagers were happy to host the overflow. Some people in Woodhaerst even agreed to host people in the homes for money.
The Farm Machine Show was more than just an event; it was a celebration of Woodhaerst's agricultural innovation and a testament to the advances in-game farming technologies. Farmers, craftsmen, and innovators from across North America had gathered, to view plows that could till soil with unmatched precision, harvesters that glided effortlessly across the fields, and irrigation systems powered by renewable energy sources.
While John Deere was the focus, other farm equipment companies also showcased their products. New Holland, AGCO, KUHN, and CLAAS each had their display. But the machines were only part of the attraction. Agribusiness seminars provided invaluable insights into managing farms, from market strategies to financial planning.
As night fell, the fairgrounds lit up, transforming the farm show into a festive gathering. Music filled the air, and the aroma of carnival food added to the delight. In the evening, people cheered on tractor races and tractor pull competitions. There were even competitions for youths of all ages. Even Thaddeus and Sabrina enjoyed eating popcorn and watching the festivities.
Two months later, on June 1, they enjoyed festivities again at the North American Livestock Convention. Thaddeus and Sabrina served as guest judges for the breed show. Together they evaluated cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and horses. On two occasions Thaddeus happily took the podium to celebrate his blue ribbon of best cattle and goat.
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Livestock auctions were a highlight, attracting farmers eager to enhance their herds with superior genetics. Thaddeus enjoyed the tension and thrill of the bidding. Unlike most bidders who fought over fast horses, bulky bulls, or plump sows, Thaddeus bid on dairy cows and draft horses. It was no secret Thaddeus owned the largest cattle and goat herd. He also was the world’s foremost Clydesdale breeder. He owned over 800 goats and 18 Clydesdale horses. His old horses, Betsy and Carl had much with the new additions. Only at the convention was Thaddeus admired for being a rancher more than a crafter.
The convention also provided educational workshops on anything from feed formulations to advanced breeding techniques. These sessions were crucial for both seasoned farmers and novices, eager to implement the latest in virtual livestock care. Likewise, there were equipment demonstrations that showcased livestock milking, shearing, and butchering tools. Innovative technologies and methodologies advertisements promise to revolutionize animal husbandry, making it more sustainable and productive. Finally, youth livestock competitions drew enthusiastic participation.
Once again, the evening carnival culminated in the convention. Carnival games encircled the bandstand and bar-b-que stalls. On the last night, people gathered to watch a rodeo. The crowd applauded as cowboys participated in barrel racing, bull riding, and team roping events. Neither Thaddeus nor Sabrina had seen a rodeo before, but they enjoyed the feats of athleticism and bravery.
By the end of the convention, Thaddeus and Sabrina were exhausted and were certainly in no mood for the World Ag Expo in August. Despite their exhaustion, they mustered up the energy for the final farming exhibit. The World Ag Expo promised to be the grandest of all the events, bringing together the entirety of Heaven's Gate's agricultural community and players and people from all over the planet Xenia.
According to Sawyer, the expo showcased an even broader array of agricultural technologies, innovations, and practices. From state-of-the-art crop management systems to sustainable farming solutions and cutting-edge agri-tech startups, the World Ag Expo was to be a testament to the future of farming.
Seminars and workshops would be led by experts in agri-science, organic farming, and climate-resilient agriculture. These sessions would provide invaluable insights and spark discussions on pressing issues facing the global farming community, from food security to environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, there were events for the youth. The expo featured a special section dedicated to educational activities and competitions designed to inspire the next generation of farmers, scientists, and environmentalists.
As Baron, Thaddeus had a proactive role in kicking off the expo and ensuring the event's success. Standing behind a curtain, he waited for Sawyer to introduce him. In his head, went over the speech he was supposed to give. The notecards in hand were there in case he forgot the words. This would be his third time giving the same speech. His job was to welcome them to Woodhaerst, drum up excitement, and advertise his success working with Cargill and John Deere. After the speech, he’d visit the VIP guest to shake hands, and if a player, take a picture.
The whole thing was soul-draining and boring, but he kept reminding himself this was beneficial for his residence. The two exhibits alone brought in more money than Woodhaerst and Ironwood earned all last year. The amount of gold he earned was mind-numbingly staggering. His citizens openly celebrated the financial windfall, so Thaddeus felt he couldn’t complain too much. He was just happy this was his last speech for a while.
Minutes later, the curtains drew back, revealing Thaddeus to the expectant crowd. They jubilantly cheered seeing him. Between his livestream and his exhibits his popularity, his popularity had been on the rise. Thaddeus smiled and thanked the crowd for the warm welcome. Using his hands to settle the audience, he thanked Sawyer for the introduction.
As he began to speak, his voice carried clearly across the fairgrounds, “Ladies and gentlemen, Travelers, and esteemed guests, welcome to the World Ag Expo. I bid you welcome to Woodhaerst and Ironwood, in the heart of prairie. Today marks not just the opening of an event but the celebration of a journey I embarked on together—” Thaddeus’ voice stumbled as he noticed four Bearmen dressed in dæmon armor.
Clearing his throat, and trying not to sound robotic, he started again, “I embarked on together with Cargill and John Deere. Together we have achieved an agricultural and technological revolution. Our collaborations highlight the strength of our community and the boundless possibilities.”
Pausing on cue, he watched as the audience applauded. Seeing heads nod in agreement, he continued, “I invite you, to join us and stand at the forefront of a revolution in how we think about food, farming, and our environment. Together, we have the power to shape a future for our children and grandchildren.”
When he finished speaking, the enthusiasm in the crowd was palpable. They roared in applause. As they clapped, Thaddeus made his way down to greet VIP guests with a warm handshake, posing for photographs with players, and sharing words of gratitude. Each interaction, while draining, reminded him of the positive impact these events had on his community. Although he disliked doing this, it was evident the people he met appreciated the kindness and were thankful for the time he gave them.
After the meet and greet, Thaddeus navigated the expo, in search of the four Bearmen. As he entered the main hall, he heard a gruff antagonizing voice call out, “Is it true? Are you a half-bearkin?”
“It looks like all you got was the height?” mocked a second voice.
“Your muscles are so scrawny; can you even hold a weapon?” taunted a third.
The last Bearman looked Thaddeus angrily in the eyes, bloodlust emanated from his body, he seethed in anger, and every word came as a commendation, “How dare you claim to be my blood relative. If I had not been tasked to summon you, I would have killed as you stand!”
Thaddeus stood his ground, his heart pounding in his chest. The air around them is tense, thick with anticipation. Yet, Thaddeus was unflinching, his voice steady and clear, “Had you put raised your weapon, it would’ve been your head that fell first!”
Thaddeus polymorphed into an 8-foot tall brown bear draped in his dazzling dæmon, holding his massive mithril axe Warden’s Wrath. Casting [Rock Wall] and [Arrowhead] he hid them from the expo participants and created four rock bullets aimed at Bearman. Returning bloodlust he declared, “I don’t know who you are, nor whether you are my kin or not, but I will not deny my heritage. But I do know, this is my town, and you will respect me, or you will leave!”
The largest and most imposing of the four, whose body emanated with bloodlust stepped forward. His armor clanked with each step, the sound echoing in the expo hall. "Thaddeus Brown, Baron of Woodhaerst and Ironwood, you are hereby summoned by the Bearkin Council to certify your Bearington ancestry. Failure to adhere to this summons is a breach of imperial law.”
Smiling murderously, he added, “It a crime to impersonate being a member of the Major Bearkin family. When your fraud is unmasked, I’ll be the one to execute you. Now are you coming or not? I tire of the smell of humans!” He demanded.