Chapter 248: An Exciting Opportunity

Chapter 248: An Exciting Opportunity

After leaving Lu Lan's bedroom, Ronin pondered the two options presented to him.

Would he become a logistics officer or a commander?

Being a logistics officer seemed like nothing more than a way to gain "qualifications." It was akin to those who participate in competitions only for the prestige—when they win, they can add the achievement to their resume and promote it to the world.

But then again, Lu Lan had made this suggestion because he didn't truly understand Ronin's capabilities.

They still believed Ronin was merely a high-level peak knight and a junior magician, unaware that he had now reached the status of a dual-professional Level Five Transcendent.

Moreover, after allocating points over time, his knight level had progressed to 1096/1500, placing him firmly in the late Silver rank.

Although Golden Knights held a significant edge over Silver Knights, the gap wasn't insurmountable—unlike the nearly unbridgeable chasm between them and Meteor-level warriors. A Golden Knight could still be defeated under the right circumstances.

With his exceptional physical strength, honed combat skills, and the support of various magic spells, Ronin was confident that even if he couldn't defeat an average Golden Knight outright, he could at least hold his ground.

Furthermore, he had three extraordinary subordinates and a Level Six dragon at his command, allowing him to move freely on the battlefield.

Even if the Polante Thieves had backing from Moonlight Valley, and even if Jesus had a Meteor Knight under his command, it was highly unlikely that such a powerful figure would intervene.

Because once a Meteor Knight entered the fray, the conflict would escalate beyond mere bandit skirmishes—it would become a full-scale war, threatening not just the nobles involved but the entire balance of power.

In this war, Golden Knights were already the strongest combatants.

Thus, Ronin wasn't overly concerned about his own safety.

"In that case, let's go to the battlefield," he decided.

Choosing the battlefield meant that Wubei Ling could conserve manpower and resources.

Besides, Wiggins had already stated that he represented the Wushan Family and didn't need to bring many soldiers. At most, Ronin would only need one or two trusted men by his side.

As the flickering streetlamp cast dim light onto the castle roads, a shadowed figure caught Ronin's attention.

"Holwater?"

Ronin furrowed his brow. "What are you doing here so late?"

Judging from Hallward's stance, he appeared to be waiting for someone.

"Master," Hallward greeted with a slight bow. "The lord asked me to wait for you. If it's convenient, he requests your presence in his study."

An Unexpected Summons

Ronin hadn't expected Wiggins to call for him at this hour. He hadn't anticipated the man's enthusiasm for this war.

"Alright, let's go."

"Please, follow me."

Though the events of Chishan Town remained undisclosed, Hallward had already sensed changes in the noble circles.

The abrupt end to the banquet, followed by many nobles gathering at Lu Lan's residence, suggested that something significant had transpired.

Though Hallward was curious, he knew better than to ask. It was not the place of a butler to pry.

Soon, Ronin arrived at Wiggins' study.

"You're here, Ronin."

Wiggins motioned for Hallward to close the door before asking, "What did your grandfather say?"

Ronin sat down and recounted Lu Lan's words.

"Grandfather gave me two choices: I could either go to the front lines or handle logistics and avoid direct combat."

There was no reason to keep it a secret.

"So, what have you decided?" Wiggins asked immediately.

Ronin shook his head. "I'm still considering. I'll give Grandfather my answer later."

Wiggins nodded knowingly. "I understand your grandfather's concern. He's worried about your safety. But don't forget—the commander doesn't have to charge into battle. Look at me: I'm a high-ranking knight, and I've fought in dozens of wars over the years. I've never been in any real danger."

It was clear he wanted Ronin to take the role of commander.

"I'll think about it," Ronin responded, then shifted the topic. "But why did you call me here so late? Do you need something from me?"

Wiggins looked slightly displeased at Ronin's lack of immediate agreement but didn't press the matter. Instead, he got straight to the point.

"I want you to be the commander of this war!"

He didn't bother with formalities.

"I plan to mobilize half of the knight squads and soldiers from the four knight orders. Together with forces from other lords, we'll launch a large-scale attack—not just to drive the Polante Bandits out of Chishan Town, but to reclaim as much lost territory as possible!"

Wiggins' voice grew more passionate as he laid out his plan.

"If we win, your reputation and contributions as the coalition commander will not go unnoticed. I can use this as an opportunity to recommend you to your grandfather—and push for you to be granted the management rights to Chishan Town!"

He grinned knowingly.

"Didn't you ask me this afternoon for iron ore at a discounted price? Haha, if you get Chishan Town, you won't need to buy it from me—because the entire iron mine will belong to you!"

Ronin's heart pounded.

But why was Wiggins suddenly so invested in him?

"If I remember correctly, the management rights of Chishan Town are under Corian. That iron mine—"

"That was in the past!" Wiggins interrupted with a snort of disdain. "Corian is a disgrace. A knight order with over a hundred professional knights lost more than half its men! With such a humiliating defeat, he can no longer lead the Fifth Knight Order!"

His eyes gleamed with ambition.

"Chishan Town was lost under his watch. If we take it back, we won't return the management rights to him!"

A Lucrative Offer

Wiggins softened his tone, smiling.

"Your grandfather thinks highly of you now. If you win this battle and I push for it, you have an excellent chance of securing Chishan Town."

Raising four fingers, he added, "I won't ask for much—just 40%... no, 30%. Six thousand gold coins a year should suffice."

Ronin couldn't help but chuckle.

So that was why Wiggins was so eager—he wanted his cut of Chishan Town's iron trade. He couldn't bear to see the financial losses slip through his fingers.

But Ronin had to admit—it was an enticing opportunity.

With Wiggins gathering such a large force, reclaiming Chishan Town was entirely feasible. And if he played his cards right, he might indeed obtain the operating rights.

Even in a worst-case scenario, if he didn't secure full control, he would still be in a position to claim a share of the iron trade.

That alone would open a vital supply channel for Wubeiling to acquire iron ore.

"So, what do you think?" Wiggins grinned. "This is a golden opportunity!"

Ronin took a deep breath, then smiled. "Since you've already made all these arrangements, I'll give it a try."

Wiggins burst into laughter. "That's the spirit! You truly are my good son. Now, get some rest and prepare for battle. Leave the mobilization to me!"

Ronin left the room, a smirk on his face.

There was one thing he hadn't mentioned—the iron ore distribution.

Wiggins had his role in this, but taking 30% of the resources for mere logistical support? That was excessive.

However, now was not the time to negotiate.

Talking about splitting the spoils before even winning the war was a fool's move.

Ronin never underestimated his opponents—especially not the Polante Thieves, who had powerful backers.

Overconfidence could lead to disaster.

But still—this was an opportunity he couldn't afford to miss.

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