Chapter 1731

Ernest quickly shook his head with a laugh. "No, no… I can't. There are way too many of us—if we all barged in, you'd be left with empty pots. I just swung by to say hi to Quintis. "You guys go ahead and eat. I won't crash the party. If I hang around too long, Quintis will just use it as an excuse to drown me in booze next time!" Hugh nearly broke into a cold sweat. Normally, it was the officials who got the first toast, with everyone else raising their glasses in respect. But with Quintis? He was the kind who'd turn it around and make the leaders drink until they were the ones struggling to keep up. Quintis, however, replied earnestly, "Ernest, since you're already here, why not join us for a meal?" Ernest was just as sincere in his refusal. "Nah, I really can't. I still gotta swing by and check in on a few families who could use a hand. Once things slow down, I'll carve out a couple of days just for you. And don't you dare tell me you're too busy when that happens!" Quintis didn