Chapter 162: The Hunter’s Plea for Help
The addition of a large number of magic-patterned knights significantly accelerated the Star Alliance's external expansion. Almost every month, the areas marked on the military map in Sunan's study would expand.
Indigenous tribes discovered during exploration either succumbed to the Star Alliance's might or surrendered to become slaves. However, Sunan offered these tribes a glimmer of hope. Those who contributed significantly to the Star Alliance could rise from slavery to citizenship, gaining equal status and rights as the sphinxes and vampires.
While the Star Alliance's exploration strategy was in full swing, Sunan spent his days in the laboratory, focused on improving the secret puppet. With Dragon Forest managed by Steward No. 1 and the Star Alliance overseen by Karolaina, the Red Widow, and Xieman among other apprentices, Sunan only needed to steer the overall direction, leaving the details to be executed by his subordinates.
Apart from occasionally crafting magical items that only he could make, he was essentially a hands-off leader. This was how a mature power should develop. The day he could disappear for decades and the Star Alliance would still run smoothly would mark its true maturity.
Late at night, the silver moon hung high in the sky. Moonlight streamed through a small window, illuminating everything inside. Sunan sat at one corner of the long table, quietly waiting for the other members to arrive.
Since joining the Forest Cabin, he hadn't missed a single gathering. Even if he didn't buy anything, he attended every time. After all, no one knew what treasures might appear at the gatherings. Missing out on something valuable, like the Traveler and Black Forest had, could lead to deep regret.
Perhaps due to the lessons learned by the Traveler and Black Forest, subsequent gatherings saw full attendance from everyone except the Hunter. Even the previously elusive Traveler and Black Forest had become more frequent attendees.
This gathering was no exception; all eight members were present except the Hunter. Just as Night Owl announced the start of trading, a figure suddenly appeared in a seat.
It was the presumed absent Hunter.
"Everyone, I need your help!"
As soon as he appeared, the Hunter spoke, his tone unusually grave.