Fic Update Thread: 56th edition

[Mamorien]

Threads of Destiny (the other OEX meat) 422 Shenglu 1 (Sanfrecce 3).

"Bulk storage rings would reduce the load, but they are a frivolous expense at this point in our development," Cai Renxiang agreed. "For now, the main task is a proper propitiation of Snowblossom Lake, if you feel you have recovered enough."

Ling Qi thought of her confrontation with the Weeping Mother, and then the somewhat alien but warm curiosity she had encountered in her first contact with Snowblossom Lake's spirit.

"I see. Yes, I am. I would have thought you would want to develop the administration more first."

"It does pain me to leave it aside, but the cost savings are less valuable than the stability the populace will feel knowing that proper rites have been laid down for something so central to the settlement's future economy."

"Understandable. Although, what is the actual purpose of the central granary and taxation plans? it's not as if we have any need for their grains."

"At this stage, insurance against poor conditions. Each farm household will pay a tithe into the central storage, and this will be used to distribute aid should any one household be struck by a poor harvest. In the future, it will be used to provide a certain baseline of nutrition for the population not working in food production. Something similar can be arranged with the fishers, but more preservation efforts will be needed before then."

"That does not match my experience at all."

"It is one of Mother's innovations. It is easier to fulfill in Xiangmen, but I do not find it credible that mortals will become decadent and unmotivated without such insecurity, as many insist they will," Cai Renxiang said. "I wish to see if it is possible under less optimal circumstances."

Ling Qi did remember Xiao Fen's friend, Liu Xin, saying something about there being places to go in the rootways to receive a meal and sleep safely, even after he had been driven out of his father's house.

How luxurious.

https://www.royalroad.com/fiction/21188/...-shenglu-1