The Detailed Survey of the Land

Two months later, the survey report finally arrived.

Calling it a report felt generous.

The stack that landed on Ernest's desk that morning looked less like a document and more like a weapon. Bound folders, rolled maps, mineral charts, field sketches, soil notes, and sample tags covered the entire oak surface until barely a corner of the desk remained visible.

The first volume hit the table with a heavy thud.

Hollen stared at it.

Then he stared at the exhausted surveyor standing in front of them.

Then he looked back at the mountain of paper.

"Is that the report?"

The surveyor gave a tired nod.

"Part one, Master Hollen."

Hollen's face slowly changed.

"Part one?"

"There are four more volumes being copied."

The forge owner lowered himself into the nearest chair with unusual care.

"I suddenly understand why kings need ministers."

Ernest couldn't help smiling.