Chapter 109: Anticipating the Future

Ram didn’t broach the topic of Nina, and Wu Qingsong, choosing discretion, didn’t ask either. Her demeanor appeared quite positive, suggesting that her journey was free from mishaps and that the goods she transported likely reached their destination without issue.

She relayed some recent news, predominantly commercial intelligence and reports of the Empire’s sweeping victories over northern beastfolk, southern fishpeople, and the scattered insectoids and lizardfolk. The insect infestation in the Esola Hills was part of this broader context. Yet beyond a hundred miles from the area, there was little concern about the casualties of this calamity. The prevailing narrative was of the Elven Empire’s grand victories across all battlefronts.

In a way, this overwhelming success cast a shadow of despair.

Wu Qingsong took the opportunity to introduce Feya to Ram. Her role in the recent battle was pivotal. Although her combat effectiveness might not match Liuli’s or even Ling’s, and she would be vulnerable in close combat, Feya’s ability to use her powers independently and sustain them over an extended period made her an asset in specific scenarios. This made her a valuable asset in Wu Qingsong’s eyes.

For reasons unknown, Wu Qingsong always felt something off in his interactions with the deergirl. Unable to pinpoint the exact issue, he left this matter to Ling and Liuli. However, Liuli and Feya’s relationship was strained, marked by Liuli’s peculiar hostility towards Feya, which was a source of concern for Wu Qingsong.

In handling interpersonal relationships, Ram was undoubtedly more skilled than the other two, so Wu Qingsong confidently entrusted her with the task of winning over the deergirl.

New Orgrimmar City was steadily being constructed. This time, Wu Qingsong implemented more meticulous planning, particularly emphasizing fire safety and defense. 

He separated the factories into a distinct zone, encircled by protective walls. The town hall and the mercenaries’ residences were centrally located, creating a buffer between the factories and the outer areas, where civilians and slaves lived.

He established a commercial area on the plains beneath the city, secured only by simple fences and deer antlers. While it currently had only a few basic establishments and not many mercenaries ventured there, Wu Qingsong was optimistic it would soon thrive.

Harold focused on tracking the Osaga Merchant Guild’s activities and More’s movements. He even tasked Ram with using her illusion skills to infiltrate the guild and gauge More’s genuine intentions. Despite their investigations, all indications suggested that the half-elf had accepted a partnership led by the Thirteenth Mercenary Group and wasn’t plotting anything covert.

Harold delivered a collection of jewelry with many features not easily identifiable, along with other valuables, to More. He also began to issue large grain orders to the Osaga Merchant Guild under Wu Qingsong’s name and allocated a portion of iron ingots for them to sell. Following this, the new Orgrimmar’s general and grain stores were handed over to More for management, establishing a superficially solid cooperative relationship between the two sides.

According to More’s remarks during his visit, the Merchant Guild’s headquarters, swayed by his accomplishments and bribery, seemed to have accepted the narrative that Benstem had ‘unfortunately perished in a bandit attack.’ More’s chances of becoming the manager of the Esola branch appeared promising.

The newly recruited houndman soldiers were gradually adapting to Wu Qingsong’s regulations. Like their predecessors, they quickly developed a sense of identity and belonging to the place, engaging earnestly in rigorous training.

While everything seemed to be progressing well, Wu Qingsong felt an undercurrent of unease amidst this calmness.

“I don’t know why, but I always feel that if we become complacent with the status quo, there will be significant problems in the future,” he confided.

“Why do you say that?” inquired Ram.

“Have you ever heard the saying, ‘A person without foresight will face immediate worries’? Although things in Orgrimmar are currently good, if we continue on this path, we’ll end up no better than another Dark Hand. A single insectoid wave or any other calamity could instantly destroy everything, and we might not even save our own lives. Besides, if we keep progressing at this standard pace, how long will it take to rebuild the Silver Moon Kingdom and return to your homeland in the Seville Valley?”

Ram gently held his hand, remaining silent.

“I’m planning to use this relatively calm period to explore the Batiz Desert, then head to Tannar,” Wu Qingsong said.

Not far to the south of Orgrimmar, a large crater created by magical bombardment had begun to collect water. However, it seemed it would take a few more years to fill completely.

Occasionally, Wu Qingsong rode to this spot as a reminder of the formidable power he was contending with. The only true counter to magic was even stronger magic.

For him, having no prospects of further advancement in martial training, this pursuit of greater magical power was the only way to enhance his own strength.

Their efforts to find someone fluent in the Batiz language had been fruitless so far.

Ram had learned that in the southern reaches of the Batiz Desert, at several oases, there were treasure hunters who specialized in discovering ancient ruins and treasures. They might know these languages, lost for centuries. However, establishing contact with these individuals, let alone convincing them to come to Esola, was a challenge.

If that were the case, their only option might be to seek out these people themselves.

“I think that guy wasn’t telling the truth,”  Wu Qingsong speculated. “He must have known the value of these things from the start, so there’s no way he would let others burn the magic books for light. Besides, how long can a book burn for?”

“Do you believe the remaining parts of the magic book are still in that mine?”

Wu Qingsong affirmed with a nod.

Although much remained to be verified, if the undead mage had indeed discovered those magical artifacts, scrolls, and books in that location, might it suggest the possibility of uncovering more such items there?

After a moment of contemplation, Ram nodded in agreement. “Whom do you plan to bring along?”

“You and Harold should stay here, Orgrimmar relies heavily on both of you, and Liuli will stay as well. Use Feya’s powers if necessary. In case of danger, prioritize your own safety, even if it means abandoning this place,” Wu Qingsong directed.

Liuli’s powers were potent, but she often became more of a liability, especially considering the lengthy dormant period following her power usage. This side effect could significantly impede their potential venture.

“I’ll take Ling and Beck with me, along with a few houndmen experienced in adventuring. Ling’s capabilities should be enough for most challenges, and Beck and his group can handle errands and deter any opportunistic robbers. If needed, I’ll hire local guides and guards there.”

“Okay,” Ram said, biting her lip.

Despite her hesitations, she recognized that Wu Qingsong’s thinking was sound and his plan was indeed the best option.

“I’ll send a message to Nina. That area falls within their operational zone. If there’s any danger, seek their help.”

Wu Qingsong was eager to ask if she had talked about their relationship with Nina and what the outcome was, but Ram’s passionate yet wistful kiss overwhelmed him, causing him to completely lose track of his question.