Hobart possessed mature concepts of political economy. Investment and construction could not stop for even a moment.
Since it was difficult for this remote and impoverished place to attract outside investment, the Lord would simply keep investing himself.
Hobart planned to spend the more than 9,000 pounds he had saved up earlier, converted into over 11,000 Gold Lire, before anything else! If that was not enough, he still had gold, as well as so many Extraordinary Characteristics. In short, he had to keep investing while improving the territory's economy.
After observing things for some time, Hobart found that the pollution from the lake was much as Bishop Simpson had described. Now that he had the "Ocean Pendant," he planned to explore the lake within the next day or two.
Philip reminded him, "The territory is running low on many construction materials. We need to purchase them elsewhere."
Hobart nodded. "Go call Wayne!"
While waiting for Wayne to arrive, Hobart went to the Study for several minutes, then returned holding an exquisite sword.
He handed the sword to Shier. "You handled the assignment well. This is your reward."
Hobart was referring to how well Shier had done at calling people to the Lord's Manor during the household registration.
Overjoyed, Shier accepted the sword with both hands. "Thank you for your reward, Lord."
Hobart added, "From now on, you are my Captain of the Guard. Organize seven or eight helpers. You will take turns standing watch outside the Lord's Manor."
Shier hurriedly knelt to pledge his loyalty.
"Get up." Hobart smiled. "Your first task as Captain of the Guard is to make a round through the town and villages. Warn the people that bandits have recently slipped in. If they see any unfamiliar faces, they must immediately report them to the Lord's