"As for the evaluation criteria, you have all seen them, so I will not go into further detail."
The group looked at one another, then turned to their lord, waiting for his next instructions.
Velin did not leave them waiting anxiously and directly announced the roster. "The department remaining at Lake of Star Prayer for construction will be led by Belder. Its members will be Cassius, Imogen, and Orion, with three companies of soldiers retained. All remaining troops will be assigned to the pioneering department, led by Orlando. Aside from Raimondo, all Silver Knights will be assigned to this department."
"Two-thirds of the territory's weapons and equipment, one-third of its food and supplies, and one thousand residents will be assigned to the pioneering department."
"An evaluation will be held this time next year to determine the winner."
"I hope you can give me an answer sheet that satisfies me."
"Please rest assured, my lord. We will certainly give our all and complete our respective tasks." The fourteen people stood and spoke loudly to Velin, their voices filled with determination.
With such generous rewards, no one was willing to give up.
"All right. Other than Raimondo, everyone else may leave and make your preparations." Velin waved his hand, dismissing the meeting and sending everyone else out.
A short while later, only Velin and Raimondo remained in the spacious hall.
"Raimondo, how is the merchant caravan coming along?"
"My lord, the caravan has been assembled. We have twelve carriages, eighteen packhorses, and three warhorses. As for personnel, there are twelve drivers, fifteen hands, fifteen caravan guards, two cooks, and one physician with a basic understanding of medicine. Including me, there are forty-six people in total."
"Mm." Velin nodded and said, "I will give you two days to select some goods. Then I