Chapter 954: Volume 30: The Emergence of the Empire, - 24: The Southern Front
Komer placed his hands together supporting his chin and listened motionlessly to the rather touching recount by the two men before him. However, this gesture made his otherwise serious face seem somewhat indifferent, as if the matter being narrated by the other party was irrelevant to him.
Both men felt a bit disappointed; they had braved risks to come together, but they had not anticipated that this fellow, who had become the true master of Nicosia, seemed to have little interest. Could it be because he had Nicosia in his grasp that he no longer completely relied on the Mountain People? Montrey thought somewhat nervously.
"Chief Woodleigh, Chief Montrey, until now, I still do not understand the precise purpose of your visit. You both have prattled on about the situation on the South Cordillera Wilderness, suggesting that all is well. The trade between Flanders and the tribes you lead is bustling, and the Caron and Cabo Tribes had made it through last year’s winter with ease. The surplus food stored this year should ensure a safe winter for your tribes as well, and the prospects for Flanders’ development are looking good. Isn’t everything going smoothly? As for the dissatisfaction from the Carlo Tribe and the Sanwa Tribe towards the close relationship between the Caron and Cabo Tribes and Flanders, hasn’t that always been there? Besides, the Caron and Cabo Tribes are large tribes within the Mountain People Alliance, and along with your closely related Sanya Tribe, couldn’t these issues be resolved through the alliance’s internal coordination mechanisms?"
Komer asked, puzzled, smacking his lips.
Woodleigh was frustrated; after talking so much, it seemed that Lord Komer was completely unaware of the gravity of the situation. If a peaceful solution were possible, would he and Montrey have traveled all this way, weathering the dust and wind?
"Lord Komer, the situation is quite serious. The Carlo Tribe and the Sanwa Tribe are likely to have a hard time this winter. They don’t have much surplus food, and if they wish not to starve, they will have to find another way."
"Chief Woodleigh, are you suggesting they might go to war? Against the Iberians or the Shimaina?" Komer inquired, rolling his eyes.
"No, no, Lord Komer. This time, their goal is likely us and Flanders."
"You’re saying they will attack you and Flanders?!" Komer exclaimed in surprise, "Give me a reason! I cannot comprehend why they would not attack the Shimaina and the Iberians instead of turning on their own people. Aren’t you Mountain People always very united?"
Woodleigh and Montrey both wore embarrassed expressions. Should they tell him that the Iberians and the Shimaina have now formed an alliance and established a group of mages? Or say that compared to the Caron and Cabo Tribes, they were more vulnerable to exploitation?