At that moment, the curtain was lifted, and Brian led Velin into the tent.
"Velin, come, sit down. You really made a name for yourself this time—you even earned the title Child of Frost." Olcott rose to greet him.
"The young eagle has begun to spread its wings. The military merits you earned this time are nearly catching up to mine." Edgar also stood and praised Velin.
Velin said somewhat awkwardly, "Uncles, please don't mention that title. It's too embarrassing."
"Hahaha, come, sit."
The four of them sat around a low wooden table, which was laden with food and wine for them to enjoy.
"Come, let's have a drink—to celebrate the fact that we all survived."
At Brian's suggestion, the four raised their bowls and drained them.
After some casual conversation, Olcott looked at Velin and said gratefully, "Velin, the three of us have to thank you this time. If it hadn't been for your letter, we would've suffered a heavy loss. We might even have been seriously weakened."
Velin said modestly, "Uncle, even if I hadn't reminded you to stockpile grain, wouldn't there still have been the kingdom's relief grain?"
"Velin, you're still too young." Edgar shook his head. "Relief grain still costs money."
"The kingdom's grain aid for the west requires us to pay for it?" Velin asked in confusion.
Then Olcott revealed the truth. "Without money, the grain might disappear halfway here."
Velin looked at his cousin Brian in disbelief. Even Brian, who was usually so honest and straightforward, fell unusually silent.
"There are too many interests involved, so we'd better not discuss it. But you did the three of us a great favor this time. If there's anything you need, just say it. As long as it's within our ability, we'll certainly help." Olcott changed the