Volume 6 Chapter 2 The Path Of Wheat 2️⃣
The day after the meeting, Cain and the others gathered to discuss the area outside the town's walls for cultivation. If they used the land visible from the gate, it would be a vast field, but planting seeds haphazardly would lead to wasted effort and poor management. Besides, the land visible from the gate couldn't be plowed and prepared for planting in just a few days.
"Gardy, we never planned to build anything on this plain, right? What if we just turn it into farmland and plant as many seeds as possible?"
"That makes sense... Having plenty of crops in stock would be reassuring. Since organizing everything will take time, why not get started?"
Cain and Gardy spoke quietly while casting glances at Barvish and the Head of the Maintenance Bureau behind them. They were spread out over a map, pointing along the town's roads and discussing details.
"Alright, let's do it."
Cain gently nudged Gardy to stand behind him, shielding their conversation from the others. Then, he began circulating his Mana slowly, focusing his energy. Since the recent incident where his Mana control had surged, Cain felt confident in testing just how much his capacity had grown.
As he circulated Mana through his body, he noticed it flowing more smoothly and with less resistance than before. The speed of his Mana circulation nearly doubled, and before long, the expected amount had gathered. He lowered his hands to the earth.
He let his Mana seep into the soil, the energy spreading evenly throughout the land meant for cultivation. Barvish and the others, noticing the sudden change, paused their discussion and started searching for Cain.
"I have to hurry... By my will... [Earth Dig]."
Cain whispered the spell, and the plain before him began to churn as if alive. The soil turned fluffy and well-tilled in moments, stretching as far as the eye could see.
"Wow... even I'm surprised. How far has the magic reached?"
Shielding his eyes from the sun, Cain scanned the horizon but still couldn't see the edge of the field. Excited, he started to bounce lightly on the spot.
"Sir Cain," a voice called softly.
"Huh? Barvish? What is it...?"
Cain turned calmly toward the voice. Barvish stood there with a cheerful smile that didn't quite reach his eyes—his gaze was sharp with frustration.
"Sir Cain, I've told you before—please consult me before taking action! Why do you keep forgetting?"
Barvish stepped forward, his tone firm but not harsh.
"Huh? I talked it over with Gardy...?"
Cain glanced at Gardy, who looked uncomfortable and avoided eye contact.
"Sir Cain... I'll discuss things properly with Gardy later. For now, let's decide the next step. Gardy, what's next after plowing?"
"After plowing, we sow the seeds."
"What? No fertilizer? Don't humans even know how to grow wheat properly?" Sasha muttered, disbelief clear in her voice. Cain shared the same thought.
"Sasha, if you have ideas, please share them," Barvish encouraged.
After a moment, Sasha explained, "Before planting wheat, we spread straw ash and mix it into the soil. It prepares the field for healthy growth. In the World Tree Forest, we also bless the fields with spirit magic to protect against disease and boost vitality and yield."
"That's elven wisdom for you. Could you bless our seeds as well?"
Cain asked, impressed by Sasha's knowledge. Sasha glanced at Cain, opened her mouth to refuse, then widened her eyes and stepped back slightly.
"Well... alright. Just this once, as a special favor. But in return, you owe me some dessert. I know you've made shortcake before, Sir Cain."
Though Sasha's tone was teasing, Cain was thrilled she agreed.
"Deal. I'll make it for you after we finish sowing the seeds. I'm glad you're here, Sasha."
Blushing faintly, Sasha muttered, "As long as you remember that." Barvish and Gardy exchanged tired sighs, clearly amused.
After that, Cain and the others returned to the mansion to learn more about wheat cultivation from Sasha. Since it was almost noon, they decided to eat there as well.
Don't just throw seeds anywhere. Think, prepare, and work smart before you start. Good results come from patience and care, not from rushing or hoping for luck.
Notes:
• Barvish - A slave dwarf with a muscular, compact physique, intended as Cain's retainer/bodyguard, brought via magical contract.
• Sasha - Female. A young and energetic warrior. She has a confident demeanor and wears a short sword at her waist. Her appearance is typical of an elf, with pointed ears and a slender build. She is determined to prove her strength and has a playful rivalry with her seniors. She admires Sir Cain and is responsible for waking him gently in the morning.
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