Chapter 10

The distribution from Lord comes once a month. It's the day when several officials arrive with carts. The distributed items include several types of vegetables, dried meat, tools, and clothes.

The vegetables distributed are all irregular in shape, the kind that can't be sold as merchandise. They are small or misshapen. I think this is how they keep the costs down, but there is a good amount of them.

I think it benefits the farmers and the merchants. After all, Lord buys the unsold goods due to their irregular shapes. Lord is smart, managing to keep costs down while also contributing to the sales of farmers and merchants.

The tools and clothes are mostly used. I think they buy second-hand items from the residents at a low price and distribute them. There are no shoddy items, just mostly items with noticeable wear. It's still a blessing to receive anything.

Thanks to Lord, this refugee settlement can continue to exist. It's really great that Lord is a good person. I've never heard anyone in the settlement say anything bad about Lord.

"The distribution has arrived."

"Clear the way."

"Spread out more. There's no space for the carts."

A large crowd gathered in the usual square. Men took the lead in organizing the crowd, and in no time, a third of the square was cleared.

Then, the sound of carts approaching could be heard from a distance. I saw two carts coming down the narrow road. Each cart had a driver and an official, and the distribution items were covered with large cloths.

When the carts stopped in the cleared space, two officials got down from the driver's seat. After a brief discussion, they turned to face us.

"We are officials sent by Lord Rubek to deliver the distribution. We know the refugees are living a hard life, but Lord Rubek will not abandon you. Here are this month's distribution items; please receive them with gratitude."

As the official loudly recited the usual speech, the refugees bowed deeply and began to express their gratitude. I also bowed and expressed my thanks.

"Thank you."

We really rely on the distribution, Lord. When you feel genuine gratitude, you naturally bow your head.

After everyone showed their gratitude, the official looked around and nodded in approval.

"I will convey your gratitude to Lord. Now, please receive the distribution items."

"Everyone, lend a hand."

"I'll get on the cart and remove the cloth."

"Someone, open the warehouse."

"Alright, leave it to me."

As soon as the official finished speaking, the refugees sprang into action. Faces that usually looked listless transformed when faced with the distribution items. It's understandable; the distribution is what keeps us alive. I feel the same way.

People split into those who would get on the carts and those who would wait below. I, of course, joined the group waiting below. As I waited in line, the person in front of me received vegetables from the cart and walked to the warehouse. It was my turn.

"Don't drop it."

"Okay."

We carefully passed the vegetables. I received a carrot and had to be careful not to drop it. I walked cautiously, keeping an eye on my surroundings as I headed to the warehouse.

When I reached the warehouse, someone was there.

"Please take it."

"Sure."

After a brief exchange, I carefully handed over the vegetables. This moment is a bit tense; if I drop them, I might get scolded. I can't stand still; I need to get back to the cart before the line backs up.

Not all the refugees, but everyone cooperated to unload the carts. No one dropped any of the distribution items. Even though it was just unloading, there was a bit of tension. By the time we finished, I was mentally exhausted, even though I wasn't physically tired.

After the unloading was complete, the refugees didn't disperse. They gathered in front of the two officials. When the refugees turned to face the officials, one of them spoke.

"Everyone, thank you for your hard work. Now, we will discuss relocation."

The discussion about relocation began. It's very considerate of them to recommend relocation. I wonder if anyone will leave this settlement this time.

"The relocation destination is Yorm Village, located southeast of here. Yorm Village is an agricultural village that grows various vegetables and is currently recruiting new farmers."

"The reason for the recruitment is the outflow of young people and a decrease in the population. There are many fallow fields, and the village's tax revenue is not good, so we need to take urgent action."

"Is there anyone here who wishes to relocate?"

After the officials finished speaking, the refugees began to chatter. Well, I can't do anything, so I just watch.

Hey, those people are having a very serious discussion. As I watched them, one of the men raised his hand.

"Can I ask a question?"

"What is it?"

"Is it okay if a few families go together?"

"It's possible, but we can't accept too many."

After this exchange, the refugees had a brief discussion and then all nodded strongly.

"Then, the three families here, 13 people, will go to Yorm Village."

The other refugees murmured in surprise. It's very rare for three families to volunteer for a new agricultural village.

Living in a new village, mixing with the existing residents, and cultivating the land while learning to grow vegetables by trial and error is very challenging. But these three families raised their hands, knowing the risks. If there's a reason, it might be that having fellow refugees can help in times of trouble. I see, that's one way to do it.

"Is there anyone else who wishes to relocate? ... It seems no one else does. We will come to pick up those who wish to relocate in three days, so please prepare your belongings."

"Then, that's all for today. Stay healthy until we come again."

After the officials gave their closing remarks, the refugees bowed to show their gratitude. Of course, I also bowed deeply to express my thanks.

Despite so many people being here, my parents are nowhere to be seen. From what the women say, it seems they are really in danger. Something might happen to my parents soon. I need to do what I can to protect myself.