"Crow, the merfolk merchants will arrive in Transia in a few days. They're important guests, here at Governor Hood's request to open up trade routes. I've arranged a welcoming banquet at Treasure Bay. As our partner, you should come along."
Boss Huo's voice came through the communication orb, interrupting Crow, who was hard at work.
With a helpless sigh, he looked away from the dwarf mythology tome in front of him and replied:
"I don't have time, Old Huo. I've got quite a few patients these days. After the Evernight Calamity in East Prussia, especially, many people developed severe nervous disorders. Apparently, the shadow cast by the Lord of Darkness awakened the darkness in their hearts, causing them to lose control. Things got pretty ugly in Rapids Fortress.
Taipal invited me to take a look, and I can't get away anytime soon."
"I know you're busy, but this is related to the big plan we've been working on."
Boss Huo explained:
"Remember how we said we'd pull the wool over the financial officer the Wolf Girl sent here?
This time, we'll use the undersea trade as a cover to put all his concerns to rest. With the Great Reef Province and the Merfolk Kingdom backing us with their reputations, there's a good chance he'll feel safe enough to invest the Wolf Girl's wealth, too. With her reputation behind us, sweeping across Kahofka and even the surrounding regions won't be a dream."
"That's a business matter, and I'm not exactly an expert. I'd only be there to follow your lead."
Crow politely declined again:
"So I'd rather focus on doing something useful. I'll stay out of your discussions, but I'll show up when it's time to act. Also, I have to warn you not to spread yourselves too thin. The operation's