"Chairman, we've lost contact with the first trade caravan."
A mage in black robes stood before Joyce, looking uneasy as he kept his voice low.
Joyce's half-closed eyes snapped open, his gaze settling on the Black Mage as his brow furrowed slightly.
"What happened?" His voice was low, carrying a hint of displeasure.
"Of the five trade caravans we sent out, the second through fifth have completed their transactions and returned. Only the first caravan is still overdue." The Black Mage lowered his head, anxiety in his voice. "According to the plan, they should have returned three days ago."
Joyce's brow furrowed deeper as he slowly straightened in his chair.
"The first caravan was assigned to the area around the Wind Cry Scale Shepherd Tribe, wasn't it?" Joyce's voice was quiet, yet it carried an oppressive force.
"That's right. The Wind Cry Scale Shepherd Tribe has always maintained good relations with us. There has never been any conflict." The Black Mage nodded.
Joyce pondered for a moment, lightly tapping his fingers against the armrest.
The room fell silent, with only the steady tapping echoing through the air.
"Send people to find them immediately." Joyce suddenly spoke, his tone leaving no room for doubt.
"Chairman, we've already sent people." The Black Mage replied quietly.
"Send out everyone we can spare." Joyce's gaze turned cold as he gave the order in a low voice.
The Black Mage hesitated, uncertainty appearing on his face. "Chairman, if we send everyone out, the defenses of our base may..."
"Do as I say." Joyce suddenly glared at him, his voice rising sharply as pressure crashed down upon him.
The Black Mage shuddered and hurriedly lowered his head to accept the order. "Yes! I'll make the arrangements at once!"
He withdrew in a hurry, not daring to