The Vastness of Magical Destiny
Chapter 468: Volume 10: Thunderous Movements and Winds Rising, - 3: Wicked Dragon Reappears

Chapter 468: Volume 10: Thunderous Movements and Winds Rising, Chapter 3: Wicked Dragon Reappears

Komer’s sharp gaze quickly detected the trap hidden in the other party’s words.

Unlike metal mines such as iron and copper, the mining and processing of gem mines were not nearly as complex and difficult, nor did they have the high transportation requirements of coal mines. Gems and other precious materials like diamonds, amber, jade, and agate had always been major exports for the barbarians in exchange for food and other essential goods for production and life.

Such a mine should never be thrown out as a thing to be used, even if they needed his support badly.

However, this fellow was actually so generous as to offer shares in the gem mine in exchange for concessions on his military supplies quota, which could not but arouse suspicion.

"Hmm, the gem mine is indeed a big temptation for the merchants of the Caucasus, but the nobles who own the gem mines are fully capable of mining it themselves. Why then would they offer such generous terms to outsiders? I’m a bit puzzled by this,"

Komer cleverly avoided directly expressing the intentions of the Caucasus Lord’s Mansion. In the eyes of the merchants, the gem mine might seem like a chance of a lifetime, but there’s no such thing as a free lunch, and these things often hide secrets unknown to others.

Volen had never intended to deceive the other party on this issue, and this was the main reason he and Solos came to the Caucasus seeking help.

"Lord, not to deceive you, our Sanjia Tribe, no, the entire Mountain People Alliance, has encountered some troubles, but it’s more serious for our Sanjia Tribe." Licking his thick lips, Volen did not bother to disguise his words further, "This gem mine was discovered by a Dwarf professional miner we hired, and both the deposit and the ore quality are very satisfying. But we encountered some trouble while mining. Two Wicked Dragons took a liking to this mine. They have settled here, driving away our miners, preventing us from mining. Despite trying everything, we still can’t drive them away."

After pausing, Volen seemed to consider something for a while before he continued, "Volen can sense that you might be somewhat dissatisfied with the small number of Earth Dragon Cubs we’ve given to you, but please understand that this was never our intention. The Earthwalking Dragons living at the foot of the Baden Gold Mountain mate only once a year, laying one to two dragon eggs, and each female Earthwalking Dragon will guard and incubate only one of them. The extra egg is then acquired and hatched using special methods by our tribes, and the cubs trained to become Earth Dragon Warriors’ mounts for the Mountain People."

"However, Earth Dragon Eggs emit a special luster before they hatch, which attracts the Wicked Dragons that like to collect various jewels and luminous objects, making the eggs their prey. Our Sanjia Tribe has lost at least fifty dragon eggs over the past few years. That is to say, our Sanjia Tribe has lost at least fifty Earth Dragon Warriors. Facing beasts like Wicked Dragons, we Mountain People warriors have an innate fear, and given the dragons’ staggering power, we’ve come here to seek your help, Lord, hoping you can help us drive away these two Wicked Dragons from the region."

So that was it! It was only now that Komer finally understood. No wonder the offer was so generous; they wanted him to snatch food from the dragon’s mouth. But Wicked Dragons have always lived at sea, how could they have behaved against their nature and invaded deep into the Continent? And two of them at once.

Noticing the doubt in Komer’s eyes, Volen hastily added an explanation, "Sir, these two Wicked Dragons don’t seem fully grown. According to our observations, they are still in their adolescence. Uh, these two dragons also seem more like a couple, which is why they appeared together. Our gem mine is located on the eastern foothills of the Baden Gold Mountain Range, not too far from the sea, which isn’t much distance for a Wicked Dragon."

"Mr. Volen, I think you’re overestimating me. A Wicked Dragon is hardly something Komer would dare to contend with. Heh, it’s no ogre. Compared to it, an ogre is like a baby to a strong man. Who would dare to provoke its scales?"

Shaking his head, Komer firmly refused the other’s request, finding the approach a bit naive, appealing to him with such childish lures.

He knew of the Wicked Dragon’s might from Mihailovich and Rebry. For many years, numerous merchant ships and caravans had perished at the paws and jaws of the Wicked Dragons of the Southern Nether Sea, with no one daring to challenge them. Now facing two Wicked Dragons at once was even more out of the question.

"This isn’t even an adventure, it’s pure suicide. I don’t believe anyone would dare to risk making enemies with two Wicked Dragons at the same time and fight them. Although I love gems and dragon eggs, I cherish my life even more," Komer said, resolutely refusing.

Hearing Komer’s resolute refusal, Volen was not disheartened. It was basic common sense that no one dared to challenge the Wicked Dragons lightly. If the other party had agreed outright, Volen would have doubted their sincerity instead.

"Lord, these two Wicked Dragons are not as dangerous as you imagine. First of all, they are still underage, lacking many of the powers that adult Wicked Dragons possess. Secondly, these dragons weren’t born here; by rights, they should be living over the sea. Yet for some reason, they came here a few years ago. If we can show that we pose a certain threat to them, as a couple in the throes of love, they are unlikely to let their mate take risks lightly. They would more likely choose to leave, and all we’re asking is for them to do just that."

The normally reticent mountain man was also trying his best to show off his oratory skills. His words might have been simple, but sometimes it’s that very simplicity that can be more moving.

"Mr. Volen, you seem to underestimate the power of the Wicked Dragons. They have lived here for several years and, by your own account, should have collected quite a number of gems and dragon eggs. Would they give up such a nest that they have found with such difficulty? And, if it was as simple as you say, your mountain people could have driven the dragons away with your own strength. Why come to the Caucasus for help and still have to pay such a high price?" Komer was unmoved by the other’s words and retorted coldly.

Volen could not help but give a bitter smile. It seemed the Lord was quite cunning, not willing to be taken advantage of or duped easily; persuading him to join the fray was not going to be easy.

"Sir, you are well aware that even though our mountain warriors are the bravest and fiercest on the Continent, against divine creatures like the Wicked Dragons, martial power alone cannot solve the problem. Not to mention that our warriors naturally fear such divine creatures. The dragons can fly at will and cast magic spells, which is unfathomable for our warriors."

"But you are different, you were born a great Mage. In your battle against the ogres, your power was equal to that of the Wicked Dragons, and I have heard you have some friends living in the castle who ought to be Mages. With their help, what need you fear or worry, Sir? You could earn the friendship and respect of our Sanjia Tribe and all the benefits you deserve. Besides, I know that in the vicinity of the Baden Gold Mountain Range, there seem to be ruins of a civilization left by your mortals. I know you and your friends are very interested in these; if luck is on your side, you might gain a great deal."

The mountain man’s eloquence grew as he relaxed, and while his words were not smooth or seductive, the hints of temptation and flattery were quite alluring to Komer’s ears—a legend casually mentioned becoming bait for luring him into a trap.

If even the simple mountain people had fallen to such depths, Komer could not imagine any race that could maintain their purity amidst the various vices of mortals.

While benefits were essential, Komer had no intention of getting involved. Fighting with the Wicked Dragons was an incredibly risky affair, and at least for now, he had no such plans. As for Mihailovich and Rebry, their adventure to Damarlinsk Castle was not yet finished, and the next phase required more preparation. They did not have additional time and energy to spare.

The two Dark Knights’ crucial task at present was training their Self-defense Army. Even if he was willing to take the risk, there was no one to assist him, but then... a sudden inspiration flashed through his mind.

With a spark in his eyes, Komer seemed to remember something, a secretive smile crossing his face unnoticed, "In that case, Mr. Volen, I will consider your request. Regarding the details of a cooperation on benefits, I think it would be best if you and Mr. Solos talk them over with my Administrative Officer Puber. Perhaps we can find a solution that both parties can accept."

Volen and Solos had not expected the steadfast Komer to suddenly take such a drastic turn, and for a moment, they were almost unable to accept it. Even Volen’s expression became hesitant, "Sir, unless I am mistaken, are you accepting our proposal?"

"No, no, let me put it this way, I am keenly interested in your plan and offer, but we need to discuss the specifics further. I also need to consult with my friends about your Wicked Dragon proposal, yet I believe we can come to a satisfying conclusion. I would like to help our neighbors overcome the difficulties and trouble you’re facing," Komer said, his possibly insincere words sounding sincere and touching to the straightforward mountain folk.