Afterward, the two brothers headed together to the reservoir east of North Wind Town.
It had been personally planned and supervised by Ang when he first established North Wind Territory. The reservoir had since undergone several expansions. Its lake surface was vast and shimmering, while waterfowl skimmed across it, stirring ripples in their wake.
Neat flagstone paths lined the shore. Villagers occasionally came to fetch water or wash clothes, creating a scene of peaceful tranquility.
The two walked slowly to an open pavilion by the reservoir and sat down.
Gazing at the distant lake, Ang asked softly, "Has everything in North Wind Territory been going smoothly?"
Aida nodded and answered earnestly, "Operations are running well at present, and trade between the villages and towns has gradually returned to normal. The guard camp maintains strict discipline, and tax revenue has increased by ten percent compared to last year. Only the grain routes to a few remote villages have been a little strained lately. I've already sent people to coordinate matters."
Ang listened carefully, nodding now and then. In the end, he could not help raising a thumbs-up. "Well done, Aida. You can truly stand on your own now."
Aida smiled, but his expression soon turned solemn. "Big Brother, regarding the current situation in North Wind Territory... are you planning to leave it like this?"
"Geographically speaking, north of North Wind Territory lies the Northern Savage Lands." Ang's gaze grew grave. "The tribes farther north have no time to concern themselves with us right now. Beast Mouth Fortress is still standing, so it can at least hold them back for a while."
"If that's the case, then shouldn't we seize this opportunity to develop aggressively while they aren't attacking?" Aida voiced his doubts.
Ang shook his head, his tone darkening. "This isn't