Chapter 1207 - A New Idea (1/2)

In Neverwinter, Graycastle.

Since the Longsong Cannons were not portable, the Artillery Battalion had become exceptionally unoccupied these days compared to the Gun Battalion that had set out for the Kingdom of Wolfheart and the Kingdom of Everwinter to execute Roland’s immigration plan. Apart from the daily training and the harvest, off-duty soldiers all went back home to spend time with their families.

Van’er also chose to go home. As the battalion commander, he rarely had free time these days, so Van’er treasured this rare opportunity to unite with his families. He also took the advantage of this break calling on neighbors and old friends. Since alcohol was expressively forbidden in the army, the only time Van’er could indulge in relvery was when he was off duty.

After years of development, businesses in Neverwinter were currently far more dynamic and diverse than those in the old king’s city. Under the influence of Roland’s commercial district plan, the premises on either side of the street had now been in extremely high demand. Two-story premises were soon let out to shop owners and foreign merchants and were subsequently transformed into hotels, restaurants and taverns. Commodies from various parts of world were being constantly shipped to Neverwinter for sale. These shops supplemented the Convenience Market that mainly provided citizens with life necessities and staples.

Van’er was impressed with the king’s foresight as he wandered about on the street while surveying peddling vendors. The city was busy but not congested. Everything was in a strict order: peddlers set up their booths in a designated area; pedestrians walked on the walkway paved with slabs; carriages ran in the middle of the road.

Van’er remembered that someone had raised questions as to why they needed to broaden up the road in the beginning the construction work. Many people questioned about the necessity to create two respective lanes for pedestrians and wagons. Now, it appeared that it was quite a wise decision. Van’er suspected that Roland might have foreseen the future beforehand.

After passing two main driveways, Van’er reached his destination, the tavern “Lucky Shell”.

As soon as he entered the store, a person limped up to him from behind the bar and greeted him. “Sir, there you are!”

“Just Van’er. This isn’t the army,” Van’er said smilingly while pulling the bartender into a crushing hug. “How’s your business going? It looks good, eh?”

This person was known as “Iron Crutch”. Half a year ago during that fierce night battle against the demons at Tower Station No. 1, a spear had penetrated Iron Crutch’s abdomen and leg when he had been charging at the demons to retrieve the artillery field. He lost his consciousness on the spot. Although Nana later saved him, he still lost his right leg and had to replace it with an iron stick. That was how he got his nickname.

Iron Crutch thus retired from the military service. He opened this “Lucky Shell” in the eastern city with the benefits received from the government and his salaries, and this tavern became where the First Army often met each other during their break.

“Since I’m a retired veteran, the rent is relatively low for me. I can manage,” Iron Crutch said while messaging his hands in excitement. “If only you could come here a little more often.”

Van’er replied, “Then you’ll have to wait for my retirement or when I’m like you. By the way, Are Rhone brothers here?”

“They’re both upstairs. Let me take you up there.”

“No, that’s fine. Don’t worry about me. Come drink with us when you aren’t so busy.”

“Sounds good,” Iron Crutch agreed pleasantly.

Van’er went up stairs and immediately saw his old friends sitting at a round table. Jop. Cat’s Claw, Rodney and Nelson were all there. These people used to shudder at charging knights when the Artillery Battalion had first been founded. Now, they had all elevated themselves to military officers that the whole Artillery Battalion relied on. Because each of them had their own duties, they had not drunk together in the tavern for a while.

Van’er joined them. They exchanged opinions on various matters ardently. The most frequent topic of discussion was naturally the army and the upcoming Battle of Divine Will.

According to the king, this would be an unprecedentedly massive war that would involve the entire continent. They were not certain whether they could see each other again after the war ended.

“We’re actually quite lucky. At least, we don’t need to fight those monsters directly,” Rodney drained his glass and sighed. “If the artillery is defeated, then we pretty much lose the battle.”