Chapter 244: Emergency

Chapter 244: Emergency

Chishan Town

The atmosphere among the five knight squads of the Fifth Knight Order at Wushan Fort, stationed in the area, had become increasingly tense recently.

They had observed a steady increase in the enemy's forces in the town of Kassir. Even during the day, the enemy cavalry could be seen clearly riding out of the town, visible from the high mountains.

Not only had the enemy set up several camps outside the town, but they had also deployed scouts and other personnel to survey the terrain and topography along the mountain road, evidently preparing for an attack.

War could break out at any moment.

"How was the evening?"

Deputy Captain Hahn climbed the slope and asked the captains of the two knight squads on duty that night.

He squinted, his eyes scanning the distance.

The soldiers of Kassir Town had already built several camps outside the town and were lighting bonfires, showing no respect for the defenders of Chishan Town.

But the crucial point was that the enemy had not dared to take the initiative.

On one hand, their strength was still unclear.

On the other hand, there had been ongoing communications and negotiations.

However, the most important reason Hahn felt the situation was manageable was because of the fortifications, which he believed were strong. It would be foolish to rush into a fight now.

"Compared to yesterday, there's one more bonfire. It seems there are more troops arriving," one captain reported, pointing toward the campfires to the right. "It looks like they've been sending reinforcements."

Another captain added, "Lord Hahn, I think we should transfer the other knight squads here as soon as possible to prevent any unforeseen emergencies."

"Yes, I've already informed Corrin about this. His five knight teams are en route and are expected to arrive by tomorrow morning."

Hahn's brow furrowed. The results of the negotiations over the past two days had been disappointing. The enemy had demanded 40% of the iron ore share for free, and their attitude was extremely arrogant.

Neither Hahn nor Corrin had agreed to such terms. If the situation continued like this, an actual conflict might erupt.

Though Hahn hoped for a warlike atmosphere, he didn't want an actual war to break out.

"These damn guys!" He muttered, narrowing his eyes as he stared across the valley. Suddenly, a cold light flashed in his line of sight.

"What's that?"

Hahn's heart skipped a beat.

Soon, shouts echoed from below, followed by the activation of battle armor.

"Not good!"

The expressions of the three men changed instantly.

May 25th: Luo Ning's Birthday

The chefs and servants of Wushanbao were carefully preparing for the event.

Though there were fewer guests this year than at the beginning, some still attended.

Among them were Luo Ning's sister and brother-in-law, Sir Kabir and Lady McKinney of Brilliant City, who arrived with their son, Martin Pedersen.

Additionally, some knights who had interacted with Ronin in the past were invited, including Toru and Galil, the political officer Albert, the financial officer Curry, and the Garman Knights, whom Wiggins had planned to arrange for escorting supplies to Chishan Town.

Typically, when Wushanbao hosted a banquet, they were considered part of the "logistics" and didn't usually count as guests, so they valued the opportunity to attend today's event.

"Hello, little Martin! Long time no see."

In the courtyard, Luo Ning greeted his nephew with enthusiasm.

Perhaps due to inheriting McKinney's delicate features, Martin was a striking child.

However, his height seemed to come from his father, Kabir. At four years old, he already stood at 1.2 meters, suggesting he wouldn't be short in the future.

"Martin, give your uncle your blessings quickly," McKinney reminded.

The child, obedient as ever, immediately offered a series of blessings to Ronin, causing him to smile and thank the boy.

Not far away, Kabir sat leisurely under a parasol, enjoying some afternoon desserts with Wiggins while observing his wife and son playing with Ronin.

His thoughts wandered to last August, when some speculated that Luo Ning would meet his end in Shanlin Town.

Now, with the possibility of Bretton inheriting the title, Kabir hoped that, if the Hyde family grew too bold, his son Martin could unite forces alongside McKinney to challenge Earl Orson.

After all, Martin carried half the bloodline of the Wushan family.

At first, Kabir had hesitated. This offer was a huge temptation for the Pedersen family, who had yet to establish themselves fully as aristocrats.

However, he chose to remain silent and observe the situation unfold.

Now, looking back, Kabir felt his silence had paid off. Ronin's rise had been swift after being sent to a remote place like Shanlin Town, and not only had he become a sensation, but he had also regained the Marquis' trust.

Kabir's father had been a mid-level knight in the Knights of Wushanbao, and his mother was an ordinary freeman. His rise to power, securing the title of Jazz and marrying McKinney, was due to a combination of opportunities from his father and his own hard work.

Today, Kabir was not only the leader of the Second Knights, but also the head of Brilliant City, making the Pedersen family an emerging force in Wushanling.

As an emerging force, Pedersen valued steady progress and refrained from rushing into personal gain, a philosophy that aligned with his cautious character.

Now that Ronin had risen to prominence, Kabir didn't need to worry about future issues. Additionally, Lulans and his father-in-law Wiggins were still active, so the future of Wushanling seemed unpredictable.

After spending some time with Martin, Ronin sat back in his chair and sipped some tea.

"Father, I've thought about this for a long time. There are two things I hope you can help me with."

Wiggins, who had been dozing behind a book, now sat up with a smile.

Luo Ning's words likely signaled that he would be going to Chishan Town on Wiggins' behalf.

"Go ahead, Luo Ning. As your father, I'll help you in any way I can."

Kabir, sitting beside them, also grew curious.

"First of all, Wubei Territory is undergoing a major development, and I need a large workforce. Could you arrange for people to help me, whether they're free people or slaves, as long as they're able-bodied?"

Wiggins waved his hand dismissively. "This is a small matter. Wushan City has a large population, and there are many towns and manors nearby. I can easily send you 10,000 or 20,000 people, whether they're free citizens or serfs."

He then turned to Kabir, "The population in Brilliant City is not small either. Kabir, you should assist Ronin as well."

Roning looked at Kabir in surprise, not expecting to drag him into the matter.

Kabir was also taken aback but quickly smiled. "No problem, I'll make the arrangements tomorrow."

Although Kabir was technically only the acting lord of Brilliant City, the real authority belonged to Wiggins. Still, in recent years, Wiggins had delegated almost all government affairs to Kabir, only overseeing the revenue from the city.

Today, Wiggins had asked Kabir to help with personnel deployment to Wubei Territory. This was Kabir's first official task as lord, and thankfully, the population in Wushan City and Cuican City was large enough that sending a few groups wouldn't be an issue.

"Thank you so much, Kabir!" Ronin said gratefully.

"Don't mention it. It's my duty to assist you."

Kabir spoke truthfully, as he genuinely wanted to see Wubei thrive.

"Now, what's the second request?" Wiggins asked with a smile. "It'll cost tens of thousands of gold coins to send so many people. Please don't ask me for any more gold. I don't have much left in my purse."

Roning could see that Wiggins valued money, the more tangible kind. He had mentioned it twice now, once last night and again today.

"Don't worry, this second request of mine can actually bring you some benefits," Ronin said with a smile.

"Oh?"

Wiggins' eyes gleamed with interest. "Tell me more."

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