Chapter 806 - This Game Is Too Realistic

Chapter 806: A Storm Triggered by a Batch of Weapons Mosquito believed he was making a fair offer by trading a goblin-brand excavator for a Conqueror X tank. Both vehicles ran on two tracks—was a one-to-one exchange truly outrageous? Not at all! He hadn't even accounted for depreciation. Moreover, the tanks from the Legion were mass-produced, lacking any eye-catching black tech. Their only highlight was the absurdly high equivalent thickness of their armor. His intended use for such a purchase was to sell it in Boruo Province. Aside from a few warlords there, likely no one else would be interested in such a thing. Unexpectedly, the Wielandian reacted ungratefully and shook off his hand angrily. "Get lost!" An excavator for a tank, and not just any tank, but a Conqueror X heavy tank! To him, this offer was downright insulting. Seeing the deal slipping away, Mosquito was anxious but not discouraged. He quickly reeled the man back in. "Brother, don't be so quick to refuse. Let me break it down for you. The cost to transport this equipment from the front lines to the rear could be used to manufacture more at the back. Even if you don't sell it to me, it's practically getting scrapped. Why not make a quick profit?" The Decurion couldn't help but burst out, "How is trading a tank for an excavator making a profit?! Couldn't I sell it myself?!" Mosquito chuckled. "Well, you need a place to sell it... You don't have ships or railways to move it far. Who else would buy from you? Plus, the excavators I'm offering are top-notch. Even when your site work here is done, you can take them to dig at other sites and easily earn back the cost of the tank!" The Decurion was momentarily bewildered by the rhetoric and struggled to grasp the point. "…What do you mean by taking it to other sites to dig?" Mosquito's mind worked rapidly as he explained, "Other sites, of course, mean other projects... Ahem! The Alliance plans to build ports and settlements nearby. They'll surely pay for the work. You have manpower and construction equipment, so you shouldn't worry about lacking employment. Even if you don't want to work, renting out the equipment can earn rental fees—it's just a question of how much." Upon hearing that the Alliance was planning construction nearby, the Decurion had a moment of realization. "So... you're from the Alliance, why should we work for you?" Mosquito, amused, replied, "Why can't you separate the issue of us being from the Alliance from money? Even if you don't like us, surely you don't dislike money, right?" The Decurion pondered for a bit. As much as he disliked the Alliance, he had to admit the silver coins were enticing and could buy many good things. Seeing the Decurion waver, Mosquito pressed on eagerly. "Look, the war is over. Those tanks and cannons are likely useless now, but your people probably won't be leaving soon. Why not make some pocket money to improve your situation?" After contemplating, the Decurion asked in a low voice, "How many do you need?" Suppressing his excitement, Mosquito smiled. "We'll take as many as you have! Not just tanks, but also planes, cannons, even rifles—anything you're not using right now. We'll buy them all at negotiable prices!" "I can't decide this... but I can ask my superiors. My name's Anthony, and you?" "Mosquito! Just call me Mosquito. Everyone in the Alliance refers to me like that." Mosquito grinned knowingly, handing over a pre-prepared purse, "A small token of appreciation." Weighing the purse, a broad smile spread across Anthony's face as he readily agreed. "Wait for my news!" With this promise, he gathered his squad just emerging from the ruins and headed towards their camp. Watching him leave, Mosquito chuckled, stubbed his cigarette, and walked towards the armored SUV parked under an abandoned building. This bulletproof SUV was produced by North Island Heavy Industries, and after discovering that its doors could withstand RPG armor-piercing rounds, he ordered an entire fleet. “Why not sell our products?” asked one of Mosquito's henchmen, "Reaper," currently idly waiting for him at the wheel. Mosquito shrugged it off dismissively, saying, "The money you earn from sales doesn’t compare to money you pick up easily." Sure, he sold his own arms, but that didn’t stop him from trading with the Wielandians. Besides, with the war over, starting a new production line wasn't ideal. From the management's moves in the southern seas, outer space exploration was clearly the next frontier! To stay ahead of the curve, you must anticipate future needs! Mosquito had it all planned out, seeing no issue in making a couple billion silver coins off this deal. He intended to invest it all in Goblin Technology’s new venture—the outer space equipment development project! As Mosquito indulged in his daydream, Reaper felt something was off, and finally couldn’t help but ask, "Is this deal reliable?" Mosquito waved it off confidently. "Relax, there’s a 90% chance it’ll go through!" But there’s still a 10% chance of failure... Reaper mused inwardly, and asked another question, "Where to now?" "To the port," Mosquito replied, already setting a coordinate on his VM, beaming with confidence, "I've arranged the buyer, a representative of General Jeha from Husao Province—a warlord. They’re waiting at the Dead Coast port—let’s not keep our VIP waiting!" Husao Province... that’s near Jingalen Port to the north? Reaper, unfamiliar with Boruo Province, located it on the VM map. Astonishing. Such a paradise seemingly removed from the wasteland's core crises could consume billions in armaments. “What are the warlords planning there, fighting the Legion?” Mosquito laughed indifferently, remarking, "Who cares? Even if they're battling our Burning Legion brothers, we should still sell. It'll give those guys something to do." Selling weapons wasn't against the player manual; weapons were the most sought-after commodity in the wasteland. The only prohibition was selling to forces declared adverse or embargoed by the Alliance. This transaction clearly didn’t fall into that category, nor did the buyers have the potential to attract Alliance scrutiny. “...” Reaper glanced at Mosquito, then back at the map. That spot was far larger than any oasis in the Luoxia Province. There were no infested hives, mutants, or chaotic messes. Though part of the wasteland, it was perhaps the closest thing to paradise—or at least the most ideal place for farming... After studying the map for a while, Reaper couldn’t help but remark, “... A shallow pond full of turtles.” --- At the North Island Hotel, in a lavish banquet hall, well-dressed guests mingled around a long table. Most in attendance were notable figures from the Alliance and the Southern Sea Alliance, including politicians, industry leaders, and academic stalwarts. There were shareholders of Baiyue Corporation, North Island Heavy Industries executives, field experts from expedition teams, and more. Additionally, survivor factions with harmonious relations with the Southern Sea Alliance were invited, such as Mammoth Province authorities with labor output deals, Jingalen Port officials tied to southern sea trade, and the Hump Kingdom, among others. The guests engaged in lively discussions, covering not only the new order post-Heaven War and Southern Seas Civil War but also the potential of the planned "trackless space elevator" and other collaborations. As the mysterious and affluent Duke Nihark from Boruo Province made his entrance at the banquet, he effortlessly stole the spotlight. Initially, the organizers were apprehensive about inviting both Duke Nihark and the representatives from Jingalen Port, but it quickly became apparent that such concerns were unfounded. Duke Nihark showed no resentment over past grievances and generously extended a 10 billion Seelan currency interest-free loan to Jingalen Port. His open-handedness drew gasps and applause from the crowd, and buoyed by the acclaim, he even extended 10 billion in loans to the Hump Kingdom. Observing this, Lao Bai couldn't help but comment from the corner of the banquet hall. "What's the highest denomination in Seelan currency? A billion?" Fang Chang chuckled. "I think it's 1,000. I can't quite remember." After a moment of silence, Lao Bai shook his head. "This is sheer madness." Though he didn't know the exact exchange rate between Seelan currency and silver coins, he had heard it was about 5:4 with the gallon, which in turn exchanged stably at 10:1 with silver coins. That 10 billion Seelan currency approximated to about 1 billion silver coins—money that could be converted into tangible goods. Seeing Lao Bai's puzzled expression, Fang Chang smiled gently. "Slave masters often spend with such abandon—it's not their money, after all. Eventually, it's the laborers who pay back the debts. Does he care? If I were him, I wouldn't." The rampant printing of money continuously dilutes tied debts. As long as there's a channel to convert Seelan currency into silver coins or credits, borrowing is a gain. Particularly when it's an interest-free loan. Even minimal investment—just converting it into silver coins and buying Alliance bonds—can accrue interest. As for potential losses from Seelan currency appreciation affecting exchange rates? With Duke Nihark's rapid spending, not even the empire's serfs could churn out enough sewing machines to halt the decline. Only two scenarios could leave the speculative "little sparrows" like the Southern Sea Alliance and the Hump Kingdom in the red: either their Alliance bond returns fail to outpace Alliance inflation, or the Empire's serfs somehow craft an antimatter reactor on their looms. While Fang Chang's words sounded dismissive, inside he felt a tinge of envy—especially watching the Hump Kingdom envoy secure an effortless 10 billion in interest-free loans with mere flattery. These people lacked the skill to grow the pie but were eager to carve it up. Absurdly, the pie was more eager to be sliced than the knives doing the cutting. Meanwhile, Fang Chang, the baker, could only earnestly bake his cakes. "There's no justice," he murmured, shaking his head as he walked away, trying to avoid further irritation. Unbeknownst to him, as he turned away, Duke Nihark's gaze settled on him with a cold, sardonic smile. Such foolish people. He'd nearly bought out all of the Alliance's partners within a single banquet, yet the Alliance remained oblivious as its edges were chipped away. Now, Seelan currency lined the pockets of the Wastelanders, just as the Alliance once filled theirs with silver coins. Just wait and see, he thought. These arrogant fools will one day fall to their own hubris! While Duke Nihark fantasized about the Alliance's collapse ten or twenty years hence, the Alliance's administrator was busy painting visions of their own ten- and twenty-year futures with his subordinates. "...We can't subsist on the remnants of the People's Federation; only by reclaiming outer space and the domains of the Federation can we create a future greater than the prosperous past!" Thunderous applause surrounded Chu Guang, who looked more like the protagonist than Duke Nihark himself. A future grander than the Prosperous Era! It sounded not only wonderful but almost fantastical. Faces flushed with excitement filled the room, though some displayed concern and worry. A minister from the Hump Kingdom's court raised a hand. Once he caught Chu Guang's attention, he nodded respectfully. "Honorable administrator, your plan is indeed grand... but I have a question." Chu Guang, maintaining a gentle demeanor, replied, "Please, go ahead." The minister gazed earnestly at him and continued, "When that time comes, where will we—the people of the Spirit of the Desert—stand?" Whispers spread among the crowd. Chu Guang's expression remained unchanged as he spoke in his usual calm tone. "The new era we aspire for is a collective decision of diverse peoples. You may remain wherever you choose, so long as you don't disrupt others in the same vessel. We're allowing time for those reluctant to move forward to ponder their place in the universe and decide when to take their final steps... This isn't about coercion." The minister visibly relaxed after Chu Guang's assurance, nodding and backing into the crowd with a word of thanks. Compared to other desert kingdoms, the Hump Kingdom was considered relatively enlightened, especially the residents of Silver Moon Bay who embraced new ideas with enthusiasm rivaling that of Dawn City dwellers. The Hump Kingdom's royal family feared not the birth of new ideologies under the Silver Moon's aegis but worried that the flames of progress might scorch their prosperity to ashes. However, from the administrator's response, it seemed the Alliance had no such fiery intentions—at least, not at this moment. They needn't fear being burned by this flame. After chatting with guests intrigued by the space elevator project, Chu Guang felt a sudden thirst and moved to fetch a glass of champagne from the long table. Likely due to unpleasant past experiences, he wasn't fond of alcohol, but he had no aversion to low-alcohol sparkling wines. While sipping alone, a young man approached him, offering a respectful greeting. "Honorable administrator, I am Veluru, a delegate from Mammoth Province. May I have a moment of your time?" Hearing the voice, Chu Guang set his glass down and studied the young man, detecting a hint of Shuyu in him—especially his bright, spirited aura. With a favorable impression of the polite young man, Chu Guang replied warmly, "Of course. What brings you here?" Taking a deep breath, Veluru respectfully stated, "I'd like to pitch—us." Chu Guang raised an eyebrow, smiling. "Interesting way to put it." "Since you find it interesting, I'll continue," Veluru pressed forward, eyes gleaming. "The Boruo Sea trade routes are crucial for Alliance foreign trade. Ships from Silver Moon Bay carry Alliance goods across the Midcontinent coast. Yet, the Alliance has just one military base along the Boruo Sea. Don't you think that's too few?" Chu Guang looked at him with interest. "And you propose?" Without pausing, Veluru continued, "The administration of Mammoth Province offers a coastal strip to the Alliance as a strategic foothold on the northern East Coast of Boruo Province. No fees, plus we'd cover part of the local garrison's logistical costs!" Goodness gracious. Were they aiming to use another's tool for their own ends? Chu Guang's eyes widened at the audacious offer, scrutinizing the young envoy. "Is this your idea or your administration's?" Veluru firmly replied, "It's our administration's idea!" Chu Guang offered a thin smile. "I understand your intent. Unfortunately, the Alliance military cannot assist in your internal conflicts; we have more pressing matters." Hearing this refusal, Veluru didn't relent but pressed on. "We won't ask you to partake in our wars in any way, and that I can assure you!" "But retaining the military port means we mustn't let you lose the civil war, correct?" Chu Guang dissected the underlying motive, tearing it apart without hesitation. Yet Veluru remained composed, undaunted in his persistence. "Why not? We are obviously a better investment than the Seelan Empire. Once we seize control of Mammoth Province, the first thing we'll do is abolish slavery! We'll enshrine it in our constitution, and upon conquering the entire empire, we'll implement it throughout Boruo Province!" Veluru asserted passionately. "It sounds promising," Chu Guang nodded thoughtfully, "but have you considered that if we intervene, you'll face more than just the empire?" Should the Alliance involve itself in Boruo Province's internal conflict, the Legion would promptly intervene. This would inevitably lead to a proxy war between the Alliance and the Legion over Boruo Province—a scenario Chu Guang was keen to avoid. He had myriad other priorities, including the Heavenly Ark's development and outer space exploration. Clashing with the Legion again wouldn't benefit either the Alliance or the Dominion. It would only plunge the hard-won unity among survivor factions back into strife. Seeing Chu Guang's lack of interest in Boruo Province's entanglement, Veluru grew anxious. "I understand you're wary of the Legion's involvement... yet the Valanters have already intervened, sending everything but troops to our borders—and some of it travels through your supply lines!" This revelation prompted a slight frown from Chu Guang. "My supply line?" Veluru bowed his head solemnly. "Indeed... they've used your railway to move military supplies from Weifu Wasteland to the Kingdom of Falcons, bypassing to the northwest of Boruo Province, ultimately delivering them to the Grey Wolf Army." Chu Guang met his gaze. "I was told those supplies were intended to be transported back to the Legion's homeland." Veluru countered immediately. "Clearly, they deceived you! They intend to arm the Seelan Empire with those weapons sent to the frontlines for 'the fate of all humanity'!" The military stockpiled at Weifu Wasteland was colossal, posing an issue if left unchecked. Therefore, when the Legion requested to use the Alliance's rail to transport these supplies back, Chu Guang readily agreed. After all, "providing return convenience to soldiers after the war" was part of the coalition's agreement. He even offered a discount on transportation costs, shared by both parties. However, it seemed that Mr. Banot had played a clever trick, diverting the weapons the moment they reached the Legion's territory. If true, it implicated more than just Mammoth Province. After a brief contemplation, Chu Guang nodded. "I see. I will verify the situation, and if it's confirmed, we'll offer you some compensation." Grateful for the response, Veluru wisely refrained from pressing further, bowing politely. "Thank you for your understanding... we await your reply." After Veluru's departure, Chu Guang quickly phoned Lü Bei, instructing the Guard Corps to investigate the claims. Then, he sought out Vanus at the banquet, relaying Veluru's concerns. Vanus pondered deeply, finally speaking. "It seems like something the civilian faction might do... they've likely reached an agreement with the Eastern Legion." Chu Guang frowned. "What scheme are they concocting this time?" Vanus hesitated before speculating, "Could it be about the space elevator?" Previously, the Alliance announced its intention to build a space elevator in the Southern Sea during the Dominion meeting. Corporations showed interest, academies remained aloof, while the Legion opposed the plan, arguing it shouldn't be discussed within the Dominion, and raised objections to the proposed location. Despite Chu Guang's openness to participation—inviting those interested, while not pressuring the indifferent—the Legion's representatives expressed dissatisfaction, challenging the Alliance's Foreign Minister. Given the ongoing military shipments to the empire, it couldn't rule out their intention to thwart the space elevator. After all, until the Death Coast port and the railway linking Haiya Province were complete, Silver Moon Bay and the Boruo Sea remained crucial maritime conduits for the Alliance. Agitating the Alliance was straightforward; stretching the conflict from Mammoth Province to neighboring Silver Moon Bay would suffice. Only a mountain range separated them by land, making execution feasible—befitting the empire's modus operandi. Realizing someone might be using his finances against him, Chu Guang's brow twitched as he made another call to Lü Bei. "How's the investigation I asked for progressing?" Lü Bei, puzzled by the call, hesitated before answering awkwardly, "Uh, sir, this might take some time. We're contacting the intelligence network within the Kingdom of Falcons; only they can ascertain where those weapons went after being unloaded there." Chu Guang nodded, instructing, "Keep at it... also, halt the transport of military supplies to the Kingdom of Falcons. If the Legion inquires, say there's a train malfunction needing repair, and have them contact me with issues." Lü Bei, without further inquiry, confirmed decisively, "Understood!" Within five minutes of Chu Guang hanging up, the entire rail system from Weifu Wasteland in Jinchuan Province to Bister Town in Luoxia Province hit pause. Except for in-transit trains, all munitions en route or set for delivery to Bister Town were redirected to nearby warehouses for safekeeping. The Alliance couldn't facilitate the Legion's weapon transfers from one frontline to another. Until clarity emerged, these munitions wouldn't budge. Later that day, Banot, the Legion's ambassador to the Alliance, learned of the hold-up from a fellow supply officer. Enraged, he stormed to phone the Alliance's Foreign Minister Cheng Yan, only to receive the nonchalant excuse of "train repairs." Recognizing his subterfuge exposed yet lacking concrete evidence, the Alliance opted for such crude "tit-for-tat" measures. The stockpiled arms at Weifu Wasteland's base could equip thirty thousand-man units to Eastern Legion standards. So far, less than a sixth had been moved; the rest were stuck in Weifu Wasteland and along the Alliance's logistic routes. If the Alliance discovered the deceit, disposing of the stocks would be their problem. Imagining the logistics of moving mountains of gear without Alliance rail support made Banot's head spin. Hindsight revealed he should've stockpiled within the Kingdom of Falcons, transferring to the empire only after the goods left Jinchuan. But it was too late for regret. He telegraphed the Falcons, urging evidence destruction, while contacting Li Um, a Legion captain front-lining via airship, for aid. As the Alliance and the Legion clashed over arms transport, Mammoth Province, the eye of the storm, welcomed distinctive guests. These visitors shared historical ties with the Moonfolk resistance... (To be continued)