The ledgers did not lie

Alvin had originally thought the banquet would last little more than an hour.

Once they truly began talking, however, the conversation continued late into the night.

This was mainly because Shien could contribute something to almost any topic.

When Alvin discussed warehouse donations from the Most Holy Church, Shien spoke of the duty to provide relief in its teachings, then moved on to the distribution of Sacred Flame supplies.

When the Knight Commander brought up seating arrangements at noble banquets, Shien could also explain the differences in etiquette between the Eternal Night Wall and the secular Kingdom.

And when the conversation returned to the Third Outer Warehouse, Shien had his own views on stock rotation, vehicle dispatch, and emergency requisitions. Some of his methods could even solve problems Alvin had encountered before, giving him plenty to learn from.

Alvin listened with increasing attention, even taking the initiative to ask several questions. Shien answered each without hesitation, as though he understood it all.

Gradually, Alvin stopped looking down on Shien for his age. This young man did indeed possess the ability to justify Governor Yasol entrusting him with the affairs of the Reconstruction Institute.

By the time the banquet ended, it was well past midnight. Alvin had drunk quite a lot and fell asleep soon after returning to his room.

Early the next morning, a knock at the door woke him.

The steward stood outside, sweat beading on his forehead and a folded list clutched in his hand. "My lord, the Reconstruction Institute's people investigated all night."

Alvin took the list and frowned.

The steward spoke urgently, almost on the verge of tears. "They also retrieved records from the way stations, stables, and vehicle repair shops. They even sent people to inspect the workers' lodgings and wounded-soldier transfer points.

"The list