Chapter 8

In the previous task, the two individuals were positioned as a forward and a defender, thus they had few opportunities to converse

The effect of that arrow is indeed strong, but the material of the arrow you initially gave me is only slightly better than that of a regular arrow, which significantly reduces its power. Moreover, each time it is used, its effectiveness diminishes upon retrieval for reuse, so you must be cautious in your usage

It is merely a kiss, what is there to make such a fuss about

That child is remarkable! At such a young age, they possess this kind of ability and courage. Their actions are swift and agile, and even after achieving their goal, they remain calm, not even quickening their pace.

Do you really think you can continue like this forever? Would you like to do some work for me?

This is also an unavoidable situation; not every female soldier possesses the same skills as a few of us, so we have to resort to other methods to earn more money

However, this method is indeed very creative; it is akin to donning a suit of platinum scales. If it weren't for the fact that wearing it continuously would be too heavy, I would also want to make one for myself

Everywhere there are exquisite statues and reliefs of figures. Unlike the ornate and splendid attire of Eastern figurative sculptures, Western sculptural artworks emphasize the physical beauty of the figures themselves, presenting a different aesthetic and style

( Truly regretful! Had I known earlier, I would have bought something else! Giving such an expensive item might spoil the child )

Hello! I am Jane Crilan, you can just call me Jane

Bezi happily gestured for Andy to get in the car, as Mu had just mentioned that they would have more opportunities to learn the secrets of marksmanship from him in the future

After completing their guard duties, it was already evening, so the mercenaries stayed overnight in Kalen City.

"Have you all been obedient? Have you caused any trouble for Miss Kelin?" asked the boy standing at the street corner

After speaking, Mu handed over a piece of paper, "This is a very effective recipe for a healing ointment. The materials can be found in the nearby area; you can gather and prepare them. When the time comes, you can sell it to supplement your living expenses"

However, if someone is treating, everyone is happy to take advantage of it

Andy's expression had become resolute, no longer reflecting the indecisiveness of the previous day

As he passed by the pastry shop, Mu recalled the girls from Marusia, who were only about fourteen or fifteen years old; at that age, they should still have a fondness for sweets

Mu handed three gold coins to Zhen, who hesitated for a moment before accepting them

Originally, Zhen cut a large portion of smoked meat for the guests, but Mu Tui said he had a poor appetite and only ate some dark bread and soup, distributing the portion of smoked meat to the children who were still growing.

It turned out that Mu had sewn a layer of white coins into the lining of the vest.

Then the Eastern person walked over to the smallest child and patted his head, saying to Andy: "I didn't expect you to have so many younger siblings! You were in such a hurry just now; I still had a lot to say to you!"

There are 30,000 Sony inside, and with this, you can sustain your and your children's living for two years

The children widened their eyes in excitement at the sight of what Andy took out

Indeed! However, it is not about the fact that you paid 30,000 for the Sony, but rather that you actually carry such a large bag of money with you.

Originally, this operation involved no actual combat apart from a few arrows from Muna and some intimidating gestures, and there was nothing to celebrate

After having a few drinks, Mu got up and returned to his room to rest, as he did not enjoy such a noisy scene

Only after hearing the previous statement did others realize that those arrows were crafted by Mu.

If I am not mistaken, the war should begin after the autumn harvest. Therefore, you need to stockpile food at the start of the autumn harvest; otherwise, when the war begins, food prices will increase significantly

Meanwhile, Andy beside him wore a perplexed expression, unable to fathom what this person truly intended to do

When most of the people from m.hetushu.com were either passed out or resting in their rooms, the women they had called for finally emerged from the room. Upon seeing Mu leaning against the corridor, the red-haired woman, her face pale, stopped in her tracks and signaled for her companions to go ahead.

"I tell you, today I will let you witness the power of my spear." That voice belonged to Bi Zi

One of them suddenly shouted, "It's Andy, Andy has returned!"

"Carrying money like this without depositing it in a trustworthy bank or exchanging it for smaller gemstones or high-value currency, if an accident occurs and it gets lost or stolen, then it would be a total loss, which is why I say this!"

As the door opened, Mu appeared in the corridor. "Ah!" someone exclaimed in surprise

However, he does not wish for Kangbo to have overly high expectations of these poisoned arrows; if one were to overestimate their power and become careless, it could be a matter of life and death

"You need not worry, Miss Kiran. These items are earned through my own efforts, not from any dubious sources," Andy replied.

Without any rebuttal, the youth acquiesced.

I have heard that the East places great importance on women's chastity and looks down upon prostitutes, yet you seem to be different.

"By the way, how can you be so sure that there will be a war after the autumn harvest? I do believe there will be a war, but I cannot be certain about the timing" Reyne raised a question

When Andy saw that person, his face suddenly turned pale, while Kiran was surprised that an Oriental person would come to this old street

When the first child was about to take the candy, a furious shout of "Don't take it!" instantly froze the excited children as if they had been turned to stone

Watching Zhen pray with the children, giving thanks to the heavens for this meal, Mu followed suit, even though normally no mercenaries would pray before a meal

"Is this really happening?!" This was the first time he had heard of such a thing

What is the matter? Aren't you coming over?

Considering the aforementioned matters, it can be inferred that the war is likely to occur around that time. Furthermore, from now on, military supplies such as timber, iron, and leather will gradually increase in price due to national procurement, at which point it will be possible to ascertain the accuracy of my judgment

As soon as Mu returned, everyone understood who the host was, and they hurriedly flattered him to take a seat and poured wine for him

Perhaps it is also possible that Zhen said something to him

Kang Bot, there is one thing I need to remind you

Upon entering the store, I selected several types of candied fruits, and only when I was about to check out did I recall the prices of sweets in the West

Indeed, many people think this way, noticing the blush on Zhen's face (suspicious!)

Zhen asked with concern, "What is the matter?" He noticed that the guest had two swords at his waist, indicating that this person was not an ordinary tourist.

As the young man slowly turned into a nearby alley, Mu finally turned his head back, watching his figure disappear into the alley

It is a pleasure to meet you for the first time. I forgot to prepare gifts for the children, so please accept this small token of goodwill to provide some nutrition for them

The two men each embraced a woman, and the conversation that just took place is already quite clear.

"War!" Upon hearing this, the red-haired woman felt a sense of terror, as she had suffered greatly from it

Based on past experience, the children quickly lined up to receive their share of the candy

"If you don't want to be a mercenary, then what do you plan to do? Become a pickpocket? Do you think the next person will give you such an opportunity?"

Is that so? You really don't know! Those women who sell their bodies do not kiss their clients; that is their last shred of dignity. Only those whom they truly like can receive their kiss

So this is the reason! Mu finally understood the expression from earlier.

However, it was only after meeting that group of children and Zhen that he decided to give this youth the opportunity to change his fate with the * picture * book, and this opportunity might soon expand.

Since last year, our economy has become increasingly strained. In order to support my children, I recently started this line of work through a friend's introduction. To avoid being discovered, I only accept clients from out of town, but unexpectedly, I still encountered issues.

Just as he admired the surrounding statues like an art enthusiast, a brown-haired youth walked past him

"One can only hold on to what is currently in hand; eventually, these things will be lost. Only by letting go can you have the opportunity to grasp more." After saying this, his figure gradually faded into the night.

Rein was a bit surprised when he caught it, as the garment he had grasped was unexpectedly heavy. After feeling the vest, he began to laugh heartily

Mu threw a bag that he had been holding in his hand to him. Upon opening it, he found it filled with white coins. Looking at these items, the woman's face was filled with astonishment.

"Look down upon? Why is that? Is it for your own fleshly desires? For the enjoyment of life? Or do you simply want to experience the taste of indulgence? If not, why should I look down upon you?"

Andy was taken aback; the person in front of him had followed him here yet did not expose him, and even asked such a question. What could be their intention

"Who is afraid of whom? I want you to know the power of my great sword." The speaker is likely a squad leader from the Third Brigade

Upon returning to the inn, the mercenaries were drinking and reveling.

There are also street performers playing music, where Western music presents a different timbre compared to Eastern music, which is quite novel and pleasing to him

Lein is indeed qualified to say that Mu does not manage finances well, as he went to arrange work for the return journey yesterday while Mu was still shopping, escorting some merchants to several towns along the way to increase some income

Thank you!" After saying this, the young woman left with a flushed face

"You ...? ... Are you a thief?" Andy's voice trembled slightly

These two fools, did they get into a fight after drinking too much, to the point of needing to draw real swords and guns

You just don't know! In the team, apart from the sub-teams directly under Phyllia and Wenji, every women's sub-team has had members who have done this kind of side job to varying degrees, even my own direct sub-team has.

Ha ha ha, this is so funny, unexpectedly... unexpectedly there is someone... walking while wearing a piggy bank.

Mu only waited until now to speak to him because if he had taken the person from Biz at that time, someone might have pressed their ear against the wall to eavesdrop

This is already unavoidable; all we can do is to end it as soon as possible and minimize the damage

Upon realizing this, Mu quickly got up to intervene

The young man was still hesitating, and Mu continued, "Are you worried about your martial skills? I will naturally train you in various martial arts. If you come to me, you can also help them earn a little more income"

However, judging from the previous eagerness to reach an agreement and the means employed, it is evident that neither side is yet prepared for war. Therefore, the most likely time for conflict to arise would be after the autumn harvest

"We are obedient." "I am very well-behaved," the younger children eagerly said to the boy named Andy.

However, what he took was not a purse but rather candy, which made Mu feel that something was amiss. Therefore, he decided to assess the situation, and if necessary, he would directly destroy him

The voice came from a woman nearing thirty, with long red hair. Her brows were furrowed in anger, yet it was still evident that her usual appearance must be that of an attractive and mature woman

On the second day, after the group was ready, they were set to return to Aimeila; however, the number of people departing was greater than when they had arrived

"Your own strength? It wouldn't be achieved through any improper means, would it?" Krelan looked at him with a skeptical gaze.

This new recruit will first be assigned to your team. In the future, I will arrange for him to train with you all. I will speak to the commander about this.

I will be staying at the White Deer Inn tonight and will not be leaving until tomorrow morning. If you make a decision, come find me there

"Captain, would you like to join us? We just need to add a bit more money; the two of us will treat you." Biz said, patting his chest.

"A thief? My previous job was somewhat similar to that of a thief, but instead of stealing gold and treasures, I took land and cities. As for now, I am just a mercenary"

"Yes! Wait for you and the other older brothers and sisters to go eat candy! I have something to say to Andy!" The person replied, looking at the child with a gentle gaze.

The host, who is none other than the poisoned arrow of Comport, is well aware that this meal is essentially a hush money.

Sugar is already not cheap in the East, and it is even more expensive in the West, costing ten times the price of butter by weight

"In fact, this is how I do it," said Mu as he took off his vest and threw it to Rain.

While some people still looked at Mu with skepticism, the convoy began to move, and the group set off towards Aimeila City

These children are orphans created by war. Originally, there was another person who helped Zhen take care of them, but after that person passed away in an accident last year, their situation became even more difficult

Mu was inherently skilled at lying, and with Andy also doing his utmost to avoid revealing the truth, Zhen naturally had no suspicions.

However, when he saw the chilling gaze of Mu, he immediately fell silent. Since sitting down, Mu's hands had been crossed in front of his face, revealing only his intimidating eyes.

Good! Here! This is a reward for you.

Seeing that expression, the person being kissed appeared somewhat surprised. Considering what had happened before, was it really necessary to be so shy about just a kiss?

Ah! I am truly rude! I have not yet introduced myself to Miss Kiran. My name is Mu Light, and I am a friend of Andy

After leaving the old street for a while, Mu looked around and saw that there were not many people, so he found a spot to sit down

Having acquired these formidable weapons, he naturally does not wish to flaunt them to avoid inciting envy in others

A dilapidated street flanked by old houses, where a dozen or so children are playing, ranging in age from thirteen or fourteen to six or seven

The dark-haired woman looked at the two with concern and hesitated for a moment before leaving

The child asked, "Are you Andy's friend"

In the room, he conducted a thoughtful analysis of the recent news and circumstances. Based on previous events, it is highly likely that Morning Star will become embroiled in war in the future

All the children nodded in unison.

Why are you doing this

Hearing the other party turn around and say this, Andy understood that his situation was akin to a frog being targeted by a snake, and he had no choice but to reluctantly follow along

Upon hearing Mu's words, the red-haired woman shed tears

In terms of financial management? Why? Are you referring to that 30,000 Sony?

"I didn't expect you to have such a clear understanding of the situation, but you are quite foolish when it comes to financial management," said Rain after a moment of thought.

Mu went out shopping before the sky was completely dark, wanting to see if there were any special things in this city

After dinner, Zhen could not keep the guests due to other commitments in the evening, so Mu stood up to take his leave, and Andy accompanied him to the street corner

Clutching her purse tightly, the woman's tears flowed once more. He leaned in and pressed his lips against Mu's lips

Mu stood up, his gaze softened as he looked at the child who had just stopped in front of them, still panting, and asked, "What happened?"

Indeed, I want him to join the mercenary group and train him to become a warrior capable of standing on his own. There may be a war coming soon, and this is his best opportunity

Before he finished speaking, Mu interrupted him, saying: "You can't let go of Zhen and those children, can you?"

Seeing everyone enjoying their drinks, Mu also had a few glasses

Miss Kiran said she would like to invite the guests to stay for dinner, and she asks you all to return together

After all, Karen is the capital of a nation, and the scale of its streets surpasses that of the major trading port, Aistrah, not to mention a small town like Aimeira

Perhaps recalling yesterday's events, as she looked at Mu Shi, Zhen unexpectedly blushed again

"So you are looking for Andy for ... ... "

Among them, almost every woman under the command of the cavalry captain, Vidiann, is like that; their captain herself is no exception.

The only certainty is that the other party is not simply here to reclaim something; rather, what they seek must be something of greater value

Mu also told the children several Eastern stories, and the atmosphere during dinner was very pleasant. Except for Andy, who had something on his mind, the children were all very happy

As Andy got into the car, Zhen bowed to Mu and said, "I entrust this child to you, Mr. Light"

Where did those things come from

Mu merely reminded him of the key points to pay attention to, which eased Kang Bot's mind considerably. However, he soon began to regret why he hadn't given Mu the finest arrows from the very beginning

Biz and another person saw Mu's smile and thought to themselves that the vice-captain is also an understanding person, able to grasp the situation at a glance

At that time, in addition to having just received sufficient military provisions, there was also enough time to complete the mobilization of garrisons from various regions, the collection and preparation of weapons were nearly finished, and it was also possible to mobilize farmers during the off-season to form militias

The two men are accompanied by women who appear to be in their twenties. One has long red hair and was the one who just screamed, while the other has long black hair and a full bosom

From the conversation at the table, it is evident that Jane is an extraordinary woman who, with minimal assistance, supports the livelihood of this group of children

It's candy!

"I didn't expect you to be so skilled with women!" The speaker is Rain.

"You want me to be a mercenary?" Andy's fear instantly transformed into surprise, "How is that possible? In my current state, how could I possibly be suited to be a mercenary... I..."

This is also considered disreputable in the West, but I have no objections; even within the troupe, there are some women who engage in side jobs selling their bodies

Why did he create the legendary weapon? Because Mu remained silent, naturally no one dared to force him to speak, and this matter became a mystery in the hearts of those present

At that moment, Mu saw two people appear before him, one was Andy and the other was Zhen

"It is already very late, hurry back! Perhaps the children are waiting for you." The gentle gaze from earlier reappeared in her eyes.

At this moment, Mu suddenly recalled something he had not considered in detail before; the recently concluded guard duty was a sign that perhaps war would soon break out.

Noticing the change in the boy's expression and believing that he had already exerted enough pressure on him, Mu spoke again

When initially following Andy, Mu's thoughts were entirely different.

It is possible that because both lecherous individuals were drunk yesterday, coupled with their different appearances, Zhen was not recognized by Biz, which means Mu's worry was unfounded.

However, Diane is an exception, purely because of his inherently lecherous nature

I will.

After the two repeatedly expressed their agreement, Mu returned to his room, closed the door, and continued his contemplation

But I ... ...

Andy is the oldest among these children, yet he is only fifteen years old. Occasionally, he takes on some odd jobs with the other older children to supplement his income, but the earnings are not substantial

You must look down on me a lot

The boy following behind also came to a stop, and thus the two of them gazed at each other.

Upon seeing the dishes for dinner, the children excitedly fixated on the large piece of smoked meat, as it is usually quite difficult to have meat except during festive occasions

He believed that if that young man, at such a tender age, had reached this level, he would surely become a great villain in the future, provided he did not perish by the wayside

Given Galante's attitude towards this escort mission, it is likely that they may be employed by the Kingdom of Pawiru or the Kingdom of Prussia in the future

"Having a colleague like you is truly delightful; I look forward to your guidance in the future" said Reine, unable to stop laughing.

It was I who gave it to him, miss

"Perhaps it is because I was once an adopted war orphan as well!" As he spoke these words, Mu looked at the young woman with a hint of affection in his eyes

Hearing the sound, the two turned their heads together and saw an Eastern person with long braided hair standing there

From the perspective of our security work, the two countries are engaged in some form of negotiation, which has reached the final stage, hence the need to dispatch important personnel for discussions

You may come out now

"What do you want to do in the future?" Without answering, Mu instead asked him this.

He had not previously conducted an in-depth study of musical arts, but he had encountered various forms of art at different banquet occasions in the past, and he could still appreciate various artistic works

When Zhen inquired about Mu's reason for seeking Andy, Mu lied, claiming to be a member of a trading caravan who was impressed by Andy's clever skills and wanted him to join his caravan as a worker

Really

While he was still contemplating, sounds of a dispute came from outside the door

When Mu clearly saw the scene before him, a smile appeared on his face, which only happened during moments of intense mental change

However, having witnessed the lethal power that could seal one's fate in an instant, not a single person thought that it was not Hitler's arrow

Upon hearing Mu speak, Kang Bot hurriedly leaned closer. He had been worried that obtaining the item would be too easy, and he wondered whether Mu might have second thoughts or propose additional conditions.

"Do not worry, Zhen, what I want to discuss with Andy is about his future." After saying this, Mu walked towards the street corner

In the past, child laborers sometimes were as young as around 10 years old, and even during the early stages of the Industrial Revolution, there were miners who were only 10 years old.

The shout of "Hey!" interrupted the conversation between the two, as a child ran over, waving his hand and panting.

The cost of these few pounds of candy exceeds the monthly living expenses of a moderately well-off family

This is our captain. Do not be misled by his appearance; he is indeed a formidable warrior capable of single-handedly slaying three ogres. Biz, in his attempt to flatter, deliberately omitted the title's secondary words and exaggerated the facts a bit.

Then, Andy, let's find a place where we won't be disturbed to talk

Both individuals had just consumed some alcohol, and their speech still carried a hint of inebriation

Upon further reflection, he increasingly felt a sense of fear. This was the first time he had encountered such a person, and he began to regret that when he first saw the other party's sword, he should have realized that this individual was not an ordinary tourist. Why did he still choose to target such a person

What is the situation in the West

"Biz."

Upon hearing this sentence, all the children turned to look.

Upon exiting the pastry shop, Mu admired the scenery of the streets, noting that the cultural and artistic atmosphere of Karen City clearly surpassed that of the Western cities Mu had previously visited

What do you want to do now? Andy broke the silence first

At this moment, Mu had returned to his usual expression. After considering for a moment, he said: "You all have fun! Just don't go overboard, as we will be setting off back tomorrow."

When the shout was heard, Mu realized that something was amiss, and upon hearing the shout, Bi Zi poked his head out of the car

Do you really think that your current situation can continue indefinitely? Just by looking at Zhen and those children's clothing, one can understand the circumstances. If a natural disaster or man-made calamity occurs, will you still be able to maintain a basic standard of living?

This is very disadvantageous for the other party, so they send people to obstruct it with all their might. When such an event occurs, the obstructed parties will not simply let it go!