6. It Lies In The Soil

Reuben Whitlock lives in a grand estate, he is a prominent figure known far and wide for his vast agricultural company. His estate was a marvel, with lush pastures teeming with livestock and fields stretching as far as the eye could see.

Reuben's business was primarily focused on the breeding and processing of milk, an industry upon which many livelihoods in their state depended.

Yet, despite his prosperity, Reuben found himself grappling with a recent dilemma. The milk yield from his prized herd had overly plummeted over the past few months. The once steady stream of creamy milk had reduced, causing great terror among the workers and threatening the very foundation of his enterprise.

His workers were puzzled, unable to pinpoint the cause of the decline, and the local veterinarian had found no signs of disease among the cattle. Desperation grew on Reuben, who prided himself on his stewardship of the land and animals. 

In the heart of his anxiety, Reuben thought of William, a man whose reputation for hard work and ingenuity had become legendary in these parts. William was a farmer by trade, but his keen mind and tireless spirit had made him something of a local sage when it came to agricultural matters. Reuben knew that if anyone could help him navigate this crisis, it would be William.

He was able to discuss briefly, although not into details with William when they met at the previous council meeting.

William arrived at the estate the following day at noon as planned. He listened intently as Reuben detailed the situation, his sharp eyes taking in every word.

"William, I've tried everything I know," Reuben lamented, his brow furrowed with worry. "The milk yield continues to fall, and I fear for the future of my business and the families that depend on it."

William nodded thoughtfully. "We'll get to the bottom of this, Reuben. Let us begin by examining the herd and their environment."

They made their way to the barns, where the cows were housed. William moved among the animals with ease, his eyes scanning their coats, checking their feed, and noting their behavior. He asked the herdsmen numerous questions, his mind piecing together the puzzle. 

As the day progressed, William turned his attention to the fields where the cattle grazed. He knelt to inspect the grass, feeling the soil between his fingers and observing the plants closely. He noticed that the clover, a crucial component of the cattle's diet, appeared to be sparse and weak. The grass, too, lacked the lushness it once had. He took a small knife from his pocket and cut a sample of the soil, placing it in a small pouch.

"Reuben," William said, turning to him, "I believe the answer lies in the soil. Something is affecting the quality of the pasture, which in turn is affecting the health and milk production of the cows."

Reuben looked puzzled. "But what could it be? We've always prided ourselves on the quality of our pastures."

William smiled faintly. "Let us retire to your study. I have a theory, but I need to confirm it."

Back in the study, William spread out the soil sample on a piece of parchment. He examined it closely, using a small magnifying glass. After a moment, he looked up at Reuben.

"The soil is exhausted," he declared. "Years of grazing have depleted its nutrients. Without proper nourishment, the plants cannot thrive, and the cattle suffer as a result."

Reuben frowned. "How could we have overlooked this?"

"It is not uncommon," William replied. "Many farmers focus on the visible health of their animals, forgetting that the land itself needs care and replenishment. We must restore the balance of the soil."

"For the next few weeks, you will need to implement a series of measures to refresh the pasture," William noted.

"Hmm…I would like you to monitor this for me if you don't mind," Reuben responded. 

"That wont be a problem, I can make time to come around, to inspect if it's going as planned."

William also advised on diversifying the feed with supplements to support the cattle during the transition period. He introduced a schedule for regular soil testing and pasture management, ensuring that the land would remain fertile and productive for years to come.

Reuben felt more at ease. The worry lines on his face smoothed out, replaced by a broad smile.

"William, I cannot thank you enough," Reuben said, raising his hands to his shoulder. "You have saved my farm and the livelihoods of many."

William smiled modestly. "I am but a steward of the knowledge passed down through generations, Reuben. It is a privilege to help a friend and neighbor. 

They stood just outside the the front yard as they gasez to the sky.

"Oh, I have to take my leave now, my friend father is celebrating his Birthday this evening," William said.

"Thomas?". he asked.

"No, James….his Father owns a factory in the state."

"Oh, Mr Howard, a fine gentleman. Kindly extend my greetings to him and his family if you don't mind."

William walked up the winding path that led to James's house, the distant sounds of laughter and music growing louder with each step. The evening sky was a canvas of deep blues and purples, the first stars beginning to twinkle as he approached the front gate. 

The gate creaked open, and William found himself staring at a large, festively decorated house, and through the open windows, he could see guests mingling, their faces lit with joy. He took a deep breath, hoping the festivity might lift his spirits.

As he stepped onto the porch, the door swung open.

"William!" James's father, Mr. Howard, boomed, his voice filled with warmth. "Glad you could make it! Come in, come in."

William moved closer to him. "Happy birthday, Mr. Howard."

"Thank you, my boy. The more, the merrier. James is in the back with Thomas. Go on through."

William nodded, stepping into the bustling household. The scent of freshly baked goods and roasted meat filled the air, and he could hear the soft strains of a piano being played somewhere. He wove through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries and smiles, until he finally spotted James and Thomas in the backyard, engaged in an animated conversation.

"William, over here!" James called, waving him over.

William made a funny movement with his eyes and brow as he made his way to his friends. Thomas greeted him with a playful punch on the shoulder. "Where have you been, mate? We've been waiting for you."

"Just...had some things to sort out," William said, trying to keep his tone light.

James studied him for a moment, a flicker of concern in his eyes. "Everything okay?"

William hesitated, then nodded. "Yeah, just needed a change of scenery, I guess."

Thomas, sensing the need to change the subject, grinned. "Well, you're here now. Let's enjoy the party. Have you tried the punch? It's fantastic."

William laughed. "Not yet, but I'll take your word for it."

As the evening progressed, William found himself relaxing. The warmth of the company, the laughter, and the sense of belonging were like good to his soul. 

For some moment there, William had forgotten about the raiding issues at his farm.

Mr. Howard's party was in full swing, with people dancing, singing, and toasting to the birthday man. William marveled at how effortlessly the Howards brought people together, creating a haven of joy and warmth.

At one point, James pulled William aside, a serious look on his face. "I heard about the raiding," he said quietly. "It must have been tough."

William sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, it was. But I needed to move past it for the moment. Being here...it's helping."

James nodded. "You know we always got your back, right? You're like family."

A lump formed in William's throat. "Thanks, James. That means a lot."

The night wore on, and the party showed no signs of slowing down. William found himself caught up in a game of charades, teamed up with Thomas and a few other guests. They laughed until their sides ached, the weight of the past few days gradually lifting off William's shoulders.

As the clock struck midnight, signaling the end of Mr. Howard's birthday, William stood with James and Thomas, looking out at the sweetness of happy faces. For the first time in a while, he felt a glimmer of hope.

"Here's to new beginnings," James said, raising his glass.

William raised his own glass, his heart full. "To new beginnings."

The three friends clinked their glasses together, the sound ringing clear and true in the night air. As they drank, William knew that whatever lay ahead, he wouldn't face it alone. Here, surrounded by friends who were like family, he found the strength to believe in the future once more.