The fading Rift brought Annan and Olmedo's brief reunion to an end.
Annan planned to invite Olmedo to Star-Moon Bay next time. As for why it had to be next time...
"Ingrid, have the Artisans gather at the Lord’s Manor." Annan passed the ugly wooden huts that shamed him and returned to the City Lord’s "Lord’s Manor."
The uneasy Artisans arrived soon after. Thanks to the Ogre's foresight, the Big House did not feel crowded at all.
"On behalf of Star-Moon Bay, I welcome you all." Annan began with the customary pleasantries, but did not keep them up for long. "You've seen what Star-Moon Bay is like... What do you think?"
The Artisans hesitated. Then an opportunist stepped forward. "I've never seen houses so unique. It's like stepping into the Dream Realm, one filled with childlike wonder and art... The entire territory is at one with nature—"
Most of the Artisans looked disgusted. A few regretted not speaking first.
Annan looked thoughtful. "You think they're good?"
The Artisan with the neatly trimmed goatee said fawningly, "They're works of art."
"What's your name?"
"Grosso, my Lord!"
Annan turned to the Guard Captain by the door. "Remove Grosso from the house-design team. Give him an Axe and send him to cut down trees."
The pale-faced, goateed Artisan was led out of the Big House. Annan swept his gaze over the Artisans, who stood frozen in silence.
"I don't want flattery or extravagant praise. It was already late autumn when I arrived at Star-Moon Bay. There wasn't time to build houses that were both attractive and practical, so I let the residents put up their own for the time being."
Having shifted the blame, Annan continued, "I invited you here to build fine houses for Star-Moon Bay. If you can't, that's all right.