Chapter 2996
Nathan led Fang and the other generals back to their headquarters in the South that afternoon.
Zach and his subordinates were already awaiting Nathan's return at the port.
However, they shouldn't be making a huge fuss about the Battle of Daragon Island, so Zach only brought along military personnel, and there was no press in sight.
Even the news that day only mentioned the battle in passing. It wrote that Eurasian fishermen had chased Jetroinian fishermen away from Daragon Island after a dispute between both parties.
When Nathan led Fang and the rest down the fishing boat, Zach welcomed them exaltedly, "Sir, generals, congratulations on your triumphant return."
Nathan embraced Zach intimately before smiling. "Admiral Hill, it was thanks to the solid backup your troops provided that enemy troops dared not act recklessly. You did great too."
Zach chuckled. “Don't mention it, sir. Your triumph should have been widely celebrated, but we aren't allowed to make it public, so we only prepared a simple feast at the naval base canteen. Let us enjoy together with you and our brothers-in-arms."
Nathan smiled. “Great. It's good to keep a low profile. Come on, let's talk after we get inside."Please check at N/ôvel(D)rama.Org.
Soon, they entered the naval base.
The canteen was set up into a venue for their banquet.
Served on the table were various delicacies and South Army Special Wine.
Nathan attended the banquet alongside the generals, including Fang, Destroyer, Heptakill, Colin, and Myron.
Other than Zach and other navy generals, they were also accompanied by the other political leaders of the South.
Almost all of the attendees were from the government, but it was not without exceptions.
A few country squires of the South also showed up at the banquet, seated at the tables at the end.
Although they were seated at the end, they were still extremely elated.
After all, it was their honor to be able to feast alongside the likes of Fang, Zach, and Colin, who were all army commanders.
They hadn't only gotten lucky. Heck, they thought it was glorious.
Of course, there was a reason those squires were invited.
They didn't only hail from prestigious families but were also outstanding leaders of the fishing industry in the South.
Many fishing boats were requisitioned for the Battle of Daragon Island, and they were all provided by the squires.
Thus, they had made their contributions and were allowed a seat at the banquet.
Among the squires, the one who had the most fishing boats requisitioned was Wylder, who was also known as King of Fishermen.
During the banquet, the other
fishermen were discreetly flattering him, showing admiration as they spoke. "Mr. Zarnowski, your family offered up the most fishing boats in support of the Battle of Daragon Island. Mr. Cross must appreciate that a lot and will probably praise you later on. We wish for that honor too!"
Blushing, Wylder could only keep the truth to himself.
Nobody knew that he had initially refused the military requisition of his fishing boats and even asked for a lot of money.
Nevertheless, his son flirted with Penny, which got the Zarnowski family on Nathan's bad side.
He was also chided by Nathan.
To once again secure Nathan's favor, he went all out and offered up most of his family's fishing boats to the Southern Fleet to be used in battle. When he was invited to the banquet, he felt rather uneasy.
After all, he was worried that instead of celebrating their success, Nathan only invited him to settle scores with him.
Just as he was ruminating, a
Pet
National Guard walked up to him. "Mr. Zarnowski, Chief Cross mentioned the Zarnowski family's major contribution of offering up most of your fishing boats. He thus requested the honor of your
presence so as to offer
you
a toast
to show his appreciation."
Upon hearing that, Wylder was surprised and delighted by the gesture.
He never would've thought that Nathan would be as benevolent as to applaud him despite their recent disagreement.
Under his fellow fishermen's fawning stares, he got up and followed behind the guard cockily.
Nathan was drinking with Zach, Fang, and the others. When he noticed Wylder approaching them, he stood up with his wine in hand to greet the latter smilingly. "You're here, Mr. Zarnowski."
Wylder bowed at him right away. "Greetings to President Cross and the generals."
Nathan replied with a smile, "No need to be so formal. Your major contribution this time deserves some credit. Let us toast each other."
Wylder was awfully excited when he raised his glass and was trembling as he toasted Nathan before downing his wine in one fell swoop. Nathan chuckled before doing the same, showing Wylder full respect.
"Mr. Zarnowski, you did well. Please make sure your family will carry on with this legacy. With great capabilities come great responsibilities. Work to contribute to the country and build up our society. By all means, refrain from of your
doing anything un
status and wealth," Nathan said
casually.
Shuddering, Wylder promised, "I will etch your preachings into my mind, President Cross."
Nathan smiled. “Great. Go back to drinking with your friends and have fun. I'll have someone send an award to the Zarnowski family as commendation."
Wylder's eyes went wide as he yelped, "Thank you! Thank you!"