Chapter 11.2 Manpower

The number of 2,000 prisoners had risen to 10,500, as they went to every corner of the islands. At the same time already, the next day, a second group of soldiers managed to arrive, again 2,500, however, 100 soldiers went back with the ships; they were to take the children, some 1,200, back to White Harbor. These would then be taken to Barrowton itself, straight to the schools to teach them the greatness of Dustin House.

"What should we assign the rest to?" commented Hubert, who had arrived in the second batch of ships, to conduct the more administrative business.

"The children will be going to school, so naturally it would be ideal to give them more specialized jobs. Perhaps have them work with Catelyn Stout in the hospital. Although everyone's health has improved because of the improved hygiene conditions, they are still a bit overwhelmed by the large population."

"Some might go on to join the Gestapo," Hubert replied to Wolfgang, to which the young man nodded.

"We would have to see if there are any trained ones, but yes, that is an option as well. Regarding the rest... my initial idea was to take them to the mines, have them do riskier jobs to reduce accidents in our population, but I see it difficult."

"Of course, most of the men died in the fighting. What's left are almost purely women or old men."

"And sailors too. The fishermen were the city's only source of food, along with trade, so they were considered very valuable assets, this implies that they were not part of the army."

"Oh, I see. As always your wisdom is astounding, My Lord. These fishermen will be a great asset to House Manderly, especially since many of your sailors are still training our people to handle the incredible ships built in Barrowdock."

"Regarding the women, they still have use. We can put them to tailoring different things. Ander was opening quite a few workshops, to increase the making of artifacts with gold. We could have them working on that."

"And the elders? They have neither the strength of men nor the precision of women. Nor are their minds moldable like children's."

"The elders I'm afraid...will feed the sharks."