A testament to the wealth accumulated in the Mana market, the trading hub for all tribes in the region.
The reserve of war coins had reached an astonishing magnitude, surpassing even that of the larger tribes, particularly in comparison to the copper bull's monetary stockpile.
This revelation sparked a thought in Fongo's mind.
If he could establish a market of his own, might he not achieve similar prosperity? Having received the final payment and with no new orders from the copper bowl, the two exchanged a few casual words before parting ways.
Funhow summoned Bolton to assist in loading the chest brimming with war coins onto the cart.
As they exited the chieftain's hall, a towering robust demon orc approached them clad in a voluminous robe.
His thick fingers were adorned with numerous gem encrusted rings and a gold chain as thick as a thumb glinted in the sunlight dazzling the eyes of onlookers.
He epitomized the image of a nuvo ree flaunting his wealth.
Good afternoon, my human friend.
I did not expect to see you again.
The orc greeted warmly.
Fonggho scrutinized him closely.
He found it challenging to distinguish the various appearances of the Orsish race without unique features.
One could easily mistake them for one another.
However, as he stepped out of the chieftain's hall, he sensed that this orc had been waiting for him.
Good afternoon.
Is there something you wish to discuss? Fongghow inquired with curiosity.
The orc cleared his throat, slightly rotating the large ring on his finger and leaned in closer.
Speaking in a hush tone, "My friend, how do you find a taste of the rabbit folk? Quite delightful, I trust.
" Fongo's brow furrowed as he recalled the orc.
He was the very slave trader who had exchanged a iron sword for Eure.
"What do you want from me?" Fong stepped back, wary of his intentions.
"Ah, my friend," the orc chuckled.
I have just received a new batch of goods, all with proper documentation.
Would you care to take a look? Surely, a man of your stature would require more than just one rabbit.
Compared to the orc, Fonggha's frame seemed almost frail, and the orcs knowing smile made his intentions clear.
After a moment's contemplation, Fong Hao acknowledged the lack of manpower in his territory.
"Bolton, bring a few men along.
Let's see what he has to offer," he instructed softly.
Yes, my lord," Bolton replied respectfully, promptly selecting 20 men to accompany Fong Hao, while the others remained to guard the treasure chest.
The slave trader, upon hearing Fongo's agreement, beamed with delight.
"Please follow me," he said, leading the way towards the market.
"My friend, you may not be aware, but the goods our team offers are highly esteemed in this region.
Many tribes engage and trade with us year round.
If you have any needs, we could deliver the merchandise directly to your territory.
The orc chattered incessantly as he guided them forward, demonstrating an ample supply of goods.
They also offer home delivery services.
Such slave traders are never mere small factions of three or five individuals.
Behind their pervasive ability to capture slaves lies a formidable force.
In fact, it may even constitute one of the primary enterprises of a substantial tribe.
Do you engage in trade with humans? Fongghao inquired, following closely behind.
Having entered this realm, he had encountered orcs, vampires, and the undead.
Yet had yet to meet any native humans.
"Indeed, we do," the orc replied, casting a glance at Fong Ho.
"However, rest assured, we do not sell humans.
" "He, you can be at ease.
" Seemingly lost in thought, he suddenly felt the need to clarify.
As they continued onward, they soon arrived at the location where the slaves were held.
The dilapidated warehouse was filled with a nauseating odor reminiscent of stepping into a sewer.
Instinctively caused one to cover their mouth and nose.
The warehouse was expansive, lined with black iron cages, their tops draped with grimy burlap that obscured visibility.
Dozens of fully armed orcs stood guard at the entrance, vigilantly overseeing the area.
esteemed friend.
Please take a look, the orc said as he briskly lifted the covering burlap.
Chapter 95.
The purchase of slaves.
The orc slave trader abruptly yanked aside the tattered cloth that concealed the iron cage, revealing a rusted, grimy enclosure housing a group of rabbit women.
These females, clad in ragged fabric that barely covered their most modest areas, huddled in a corner, trembling with discomfort.
The orc, boasting with a sense of pride, declared, "My friend, these are all carefully selected young and healthy rabbit folk.
Whether for labor or as pets, they are an excellent choice.
Obedient and industrious slaves are hard to come by.
" Wouldn't you agree? The slave trader was all too aware of the true intentions of humans purchasing rabbit girls.
If one truly sought capable laborers, they would not opt for these frail creatures.
Fonggha remained silent, circling the cage.
Observing the rabbit women who appeared numbed and bore faint scars, he inquired, "Are you certain these are all healthy?" The slaves before him did not seem particularly well, lacking the vitality of ear.
Upon hearing this, the slave trader seized a stick and struck the iron bars with force, cursing, "Get your spirits up.
If you don't sell, I'll bury you all tonight.
" The harsh clanging echoed, causing the huddled bodies to stir slightly.
"You see, my friend, in order to keep them docil, we cannot feed them too well.
They're merely hungry, not ill," the traitor continued his explanation.
"To prevent the slaves from becoming too spirited.
Their food supply was strictly controlled, ensuring they remained in a state of starvation without being allowed to perish.
" My friend, these slaves are both young and obedient.
When you no longer need them, you can resell them without a loss.
And besides, the trader incessantly promoted his wares.
Originally, these slaves were meant to be transported to human cities for sale at a good price.
But recent news of impending war from the eastern tribes had compelled them to alter their plans and expedite the sale of these slaves.
While lingering at the Mana market, they encountered the same human who had purchased rabbit women previously, and their attention turned to Fonggha.
No matter the cost, they were determined to ensure this human bought the current batch of slaves.
Otherwise, they would incur significant losses.
So, what do you say? Would you like to buy these rabbit girls? The orc slave trader parched and desperate, licked his dry lips and pressed the question once more.
Fong scrutinized the rabbit women in the cage, then glanced at the trader, his expression betraying hesitation.
What is the price? He the old price 60 battle coins per individual.
The trader replied with a smile.
When selling ear, the exchange was made for 60 shorts swords and he now offered the same price.
Believing Fongo would find acceptable based on their previous transaction.
However, Fongo shook his head slightly, stating, "If you're asking 60 battle coins for a single slave, then there is no point in discussing it further.
You may keep these slaves for yourself.
The exchange of iron swords and battle coins is distinctly different.
60 iron swords merely represent the consumption of one sword in Fong How's view.
Whereas each battle coin is unequivocally genuine.
Observing Fong Ha's pronounced reaction, the slave trader was momentarily takenback.
The previous transactions had adhered to this price.
Why the sudden change of heart? Look, this has always been the price.
These slaves are undoubtedly worth it.
The slave trader continued to assert.
Fongghao remained unyielding, stating firmly, "A fixed price, 10 battle coins per person, totaling 400 coins for all 42 individuals.
If that works for you, splendid.
Otherwise, let's not squander each other's time.
" "This is unacceptable.