At the border of Two Rivers County, it was already August, the height of summer, and the weather had turned scorching.
At a construction site, all the workers were toiling in a sweat. Just as everyone was finding the thirst unbearable, a clapper suddenly sounded.
Everyone stopped what they were doing and looked toward the sound. More than a dozen carts were being pushed over, carrying several enormous wooden barrels.
When the carts stopped, the men pushing them shouted, "Water! Water! His Lordship the Marquis has taken pity on you lot and specially had people prepare heat-relieving water infused with herbs.
Drink this, and you'll be able to work better. Everyone can also receive a fragrant slice of white bread, without even a trace of sawdust in it.
If not for His Lordship the Marquis's kindness, how could you possibly eat something like this?"
All the workers stopped their work and gathered around, lining up under the overseers' supervision to collect their water and food.
A laborer who had just received his water took a sip, and his eyes suddenly lit up. He said to the coworker behind him, "It's sweet."
That laborer also took a sip, and his eyes lit up as well. "It's not just sweet, it's salty too!
His Lordship the Marquis actually put sugar and salt in the water, along with medicinal herbs."
After all the laborers had drunk the water, they began thanking the Marquis for his grace where they stood.
Some even knelt on the ground and kowtowed in the direction of Woodfort City in thanks.
One overseer wanted to stop them, but his companion held him back. "They should thank His Lordship the Marquis. Besides, it doesn't cost us anything. Let them finish thanking him, eat quickly, and get back to work!"
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