Magnate's Blood Crown

Twenty Eight

Joss watched Nanon from a distance as he labored diligently in the fields alongside the people of the tribe. Four days had passed since Nanon began working on the ingenious mechanism for sugar production using bamboo and sugarcane. Additionally, he assisted in designing and planning a small canal to divert water from a nearby village to the fields, thus facilitating irrigation. The tribal people had taken to the task with enthusiasm. No longer was there any discontent towards Nanon; instead, they were grateful for his presence and had nearly elevated him to the status of their chief's right hand.

Nanon had also engaged in conversations with the wise elders about the possibility of schooling for the children and even the younger generation. His words, manner of speech, and overall demeanor, combined with his appealing looks and amiable personality, had endeared him to the tribal people.

However, Warit remained the sole dissenter, his eyes constantly fixed on Joss's reactions whenever Nanon was within view. Warit's ire intensified whenever he observed Joss smiling at the sight of Nanon teaching the children despite the language barrier. While the elders could comprehend Nanon's speech, the children struggled. Nanon had ingeniously resorted to using signs and objects to communicate with them.

As Joss approached Nanon, he cleared his throat to announce his presence. "Ahem..."

Nanon turned to face him. "Chief Sangngern! How may I assist you?" he asked formally, stepping back slightly.

"I will be departing the land tomorrow to meet with Mr. Thirat, who supplies us with necessary trade goods. Despite his actions towards you, I cannot sever ties with him," Joss stated.

"Why do you inform me of your decisions?" Nanon inquired, a frown of confusion marring his features.

Joss pressed his lips together, momentarily stung by the question, but he maintained his composure. "I... uhh... simply wanted to ask if this canal requires any materials from the market."

"I do not believe so. In truth, I am not sufficiently skilled to foresee such needs. I will inform you as the work progresses," Nanon replied, turning back to the plan he had sketched on a piece of tree bark.

Joss examined the plan and smiled at Nanon, noticing the latter's skin turning pink under the sun's relentless heat. He moved to stand on the other side, shielding Nanon from the harsh rays.

Startled by Joss's proximity, Nanon stepped back into the sunlight. "Anything else?" he asked curtly.

"Would... you like something from the market?" Joss inquired, causing Nanon to pause and look up at him.

Nanon met Joss's gaze but seemed momentarily lost in thought, as if recalling something distant.

"My dear..." Ohm whispered into Nanon's ear as he embraced him from behind.

Nanon gasped, startled, but quickly smiled and shook his head. "You scared me, Chief General."

Ohm smiled, nuzzling his nose into the crook of Nanon's neck. "I apologize," he murmured, planting a gentle kiss on Nanon's shoulder. "But I was leaving for a night stroll with the guards. I will return as early as possible. Do you desire anything from the market?"

Nanon pulled back and turned to face him. "We live in a palace, my dear husband," he said, animatedly spinning in a full circle. "It has everything we need. Do you think there is anything that Nuea and Arak can't procure for me here?"