Light's Dawn of Azeroth

Chapter 281, Section 38. Diakum! Is this the cunning bestowed upon you by the Void? - Bonus Chapter [315]

(Bonus chapter for "Huo Zheng Ting Hao" [3/15])
"Have they regained their senses?"

In the cabin of the Exoda, Diakum found Nellie waiting for him with two lunches in her hands. The archbishop's sharp eyes were still scrutinizing Dick's face and neck, seemingly searching for any suspicious "traces".

but no.

The sage was clean as if he had just taken a hot bath or wiped his face with a very vulgar handkerchief.

"They released the Holy Light Oath that suppressed their emotions and shifted their path from the Pure Light Oath to the Twin Light and Shadow. Auress was already skilled in using Holy Light and Fire in combat, so the shift in her path didn't affect her much. However, the part of Saloras's spellcasting talent related to darkness seemed to have been unexpectedly awakened."

Diakum sat down next to Nellie with some concern, picking up a spoon to drink his soup as he spoke:

"She is still a Lightforged, but may become a rare Lightforged Shadow Priest, following in my footsteps in the shadows. Her mental powers have been perfectly honed over twenty thousand years, which destined her to become the most powerful Shadowwalker among the stars."

But I can't be sure she won't be too deeply corrupted by the void.

Perhaps I should observe more closely in the future.

"Yes, keep her by your side. She can help you with your daily work and, when necessary, warm your heart."

Nellie gnawed on a bone and drawled out a sentence, which made the Watcher turn to look at her.

"None of what you're imagining happened."

"Shhh."

The archbishop touched Diakum's lips with his finger, and she shook her head, saying:

"I won't have any worries as long as I don't care. Every Eredar woman will encounter this kind of trouble sooner or later in her life. After all, our leaders are practically using aphrodisiacs on men and women to increase that pitiful population."

You and I are both leaders, as we discussed before at the Temple of Karabor.

Don't worry, I just can't control my mouth, it doesn't mean I actually have a problem with it.

Moreover, I would love to be by your side, but once the Dark Portal is established, communication between Azeroth and Draenor will require a high-ranking archbishop to oversee it. Velen spoke with me before he left, and he hopes I will serve as the 'Uk'rei Alliance Diplomat'.

Nelly sighed and said:

“The other archbishops all have important matters to attend to, and there’s that ‘divine object’ that’s been placed in Draenor. I’ve had enough of this long period of selfish wandering with you, having abandoned my duties.”

The people still need us.

"Isn't Yura doing a pretty good job in her position?"

Diakum put his arm around Nellie's waist and said:
"What if I lose my way in the light or am seduced by the shadows again if you are not here?"

Something's not right! Something's definitely not right!

Nelly suddenly looked at Diakum suspiciously. The eternal ranger quickly spotted the blind spot and said:
"You're usually as stiff as a block of wood, never saying such sweet nothings. You're being so proactive today, is it because you feel guilty? But I believe your moral standards will restrain your wicked thoughts. So, what did those two do?"

"I just said some things that would make people blush. You know, emotions suppressed by vows always rebound once they are released."

Dick said somewhat awkwardly:

“They really didn’t do anything else. They are leaders too, Nelly. They talk about freedom, but in reality, they have the same heavy ‘leadership burden’ as us. Too much time has passed. We who were young back then now carry too many burdens, making us always restrained even if we want to let loose.”

"Explaining so much and trying to sound profound, it's obvious that this is an old man who's not good at lying forcing himself to lie."

Nelly laughed, leaned in and gave Dick a good kiss on the face, then patted his thick tail and said:

"There's no need for that. They're different from me. Although I've been lonely for over 20,000 years, at least I have people by my side. The twins have been leading the Holy Light Legion in battles against demons for almost 20,000 years. I guess the reason they suppress their emotions is because they're afraid of being affected by loneliness."

They are much worse off than me.

let it go.

Don't take the initiative, but don't reject either. That's how we eccentric Eredas handle relationship issues.

"Hurry up and eat something, the Exodar is about to set sail."

Diakum nodded. Although Nellie's suggestion sounded rather "scummy," she was right. That's how the Eredar people handle relationship issues, so...
let it go.

While drinking his soup, he glanced at the character card and noticed that the number of members in the "Lightforged Chapter" was increasing rapidly. It seemed that the more than two thousand Lightforged who had come with the Twins had all chosen their new home.

Now, I finally have my own military team.

As the number of Lightsworn and Shadowchaser in the Lightforged faith faction gradually increases, Diakum's influence on both the Light and the Void will continue to grow. Diakum is really curious about what form he will take in the future.

------

The situation in Gadgetzan is much better than it was two weeks ago.

Thanks to the help of that kind "mysterious man," the goblins in the city have finally escaped the influence of the plague for the time being. Although they will have to find a way to get some seeds to save their lives when the plague reappears next month, at least they can enjoy themselves for the time being.

The world situation is in utter chaos right now. Given the goblins' ways, they'd be cursed by the god of wealth if they didn't take advantage of this period of chaos to make a killing.

Therefore, after the shadow of the plague had faded slightly, Hot Sands Harbor became lively again, and the Hot Sands Consortium's merchant ships resumed their usual operations. It was said that a strange organization called the "Holy Gold Coins" Chamber of Commerce had chartered a ship to transport a potion that supposedly could cure the disease of intellectual degeneration to the now chaotic Treasure Bay.

The wealthy businessman Rivigas personally oversaw the transport, as he was ambitiously trying to reclaim his lost commercial territory. He had even hired the infamous "Cape Boss" of Hot Sands and his lieutenant, Mr. Heavy Fist, to escort his goods.

This looks like they're about to make a big splash.

Diakum did not bring anyone else into Gadgetzan.

The Exodar was, after all, a starship. Although it could fly within the atmosphere, it was still too conspicuous. Therefore, the Lightforged were resting in the stratosphere. The Vigilantes only brought their treasurer Marin Noggenfogger, Archbishop Nelly, and the black dragon princess Onyxia with them.

As soon as Nelly entered Gadgetzan, she saw the casino where she had lost all her money that night. She was furious and rolled up her sleeves, ready to try her luck again and see if she could win back her losses.

She was to return to Stormwind Kingdom to serve as the diplomatic ambassador for the Kourei Alliance, so she decided to treat this as the last bit of entertainment during her vacation.

The Vigilant didn't stop him. After all, as long as the Noggenfogger potion sold well, he would receive a generous share of the profits. Although most of it would be used to support the development of the Lightforged Order and the Warband, it wouldn't be a big problem to set aside some for his girlfriend's expenses.

"Prince of the Hot Sands awaits you at the 'Roadside Warrior' tavern in Gadgetzan, sir."

Noggenfogger went to speak with a few goblin bodyguards, and upon returning, told Diakum:
"He's booked the entire tavern; only you are allowed in."

"It might be a trap."

Onyxia, clad in heavy spiked armor, reminded him:

"If you encounter danger, use that strange teleportation spell you used before to send your loyal warriors to your side. A single charge of two thousand Lightforged will be enough to destroy this pathetic goblin city."

"Stop joking! If I really encounter a trap that threatens me, sending you guys there would just be suicide."

Lord Lightsworn waved his hand, not thinking that the most intelligent of the goblin merchants would cause him any big trouble. So he straightened his clothes in human form and stepped into the tavern protected by bodyguards.

This usually bustling tavern is only hosting one guest today. Gadgetzan's best old bartender is carefully mixing fine drinks for the distinguished guest, and even the drinks served on the side are specially provided by Prince Hot Sand from his own collection.

Clearly, this powerful goblin trading tycoon had no intention of letting tonight's distinguished guests savor "goblin flavors."

Hot Sands is a typical goblin.

His pampered lifestyle over the years had made him a bit fatter than the average goblin, but not to the extent of being "obese" like Gallywix. He wore an exaggerated top hat with red and blue stripes and a very luxurious fur coat, the kind of attire only a goblin merchant would have.

But in reality, the faces of the Goblins are not that impressive, perhaps because in the eyes of other races, all Goblins look the same.

"Please have a seat, distinguished guest."

The goblin trade prince chuckled and jumped off his chair, personally pulling out a seat for Diakum. He pointed around and said:

"I could have entertained you on my airship, but I made my first fortune by trading black market materials in Undermae's bar, so the bar is a very important place to me. I usually only entertain my business partners here when we are discussing big business deals."

I believe the opportunity you've offered me will benefit the Hot Sands Consortium for at least two hundred years! This is definitely a huge business opportunity.

Diakum smiled and glanced at Prince Hot Sand's fingers.

His green fingers were covered with rings of different styles, something only nouveau riche would do, but these rings actually complemented Hot Sand's successful businessman attire, giving him a somewhat "icing on the cake" look.

"The simple Supreme Ring symbolizes the poverty of a poor boy, the luxurious Supreme Ring represents the joy and ostentation after becoming rich, and the restrained and gloomy Supreme Ring tells the story of the low-key extraordinary nature and bloodthirsty instinct of financial tycoons."

You have excellent taste.

Collecting this complete set of rare magic rings proves your incredible luck.

He commented:

"With this magical ring in hand, there are very few people in the mortal world who can threaten your safety. No wonder you dare to go without bodyguards."

"Wow, this is the first time someone has discovered my secret."

Prince Hotsago grinned, snapped his fingers with a flourish, and told the bartender to quickly serve the distinguished guest drinks.

He enthusiastically stroked the three rings on his finger and said:

"I obtained the One Ring from the junkyard of Endermay when I was at my lowest point. It was this worthless brass ring that gave me the confidence to persevere."

At the height of my success, I was scammed by my business partners. They colluded to kick me out of the business and gave me only a pitiful severance package. At that time, I was drunk on Kozan Island and spent all my money on the black market to get the Supreme Ring.

This luxurious and elegant ring gave me the confidence and courage to make a comeback.

Just as my Hot Sands Consortium finally crushed and annexed other consortia with ruthless methods, dominating the South China Sea's trade system by stepping over the 'corpses' of countless losers, I discovered the Supreme Five Rings in a remote island ruin.
you're right!

These three rings symbolize three different stages of my life. They are like jewelry tailor-made for me, and more like a warning and a reward from the god of wealth.

Being able to recognize them shows you have a keen eye, and I appreciate partners with foresight.

The prince picked up his wine cup, raised it to Diakum, and said:
"Then, I wish us a pleasant cooperation and that we may make a fortune together."

"Hmm? Aren't you going to discuss the details with me?"

Dick picked up his glass and said:

"This is a matter of national importance; one wrong move could wipe out the wealth you've accumulated over most of your life."

“I no longer do business based on profit, sir. I don’t invest in boring numbers, but in people! People like you, and people like Anduin Lothar.”

Prince Atsuna waved his hand dismissively and said:

"I haven't been idle during this time either. I used my connections to investigate this business, and I found that Lothar has the full support of Quel'Thalas, not to mention his base in Stormwind Kingdom."

Most importantly

The goblin merchant held the wine glass to his eyes, observing the world through the pink liquid. He grinned and said:
"The Northern Frontier is about to descend into chaos! Mr. Diakum, the Hot Sands Consortium has robbed twenty-one of its thirty-seven trading posts in the Northern Frontier, and the rest are preparing to temporarily close. That godforsaken place is now rife with cultists creating chaos, and the king and lords simply cannot suppress them!"

This is normal.

The chaos caused by the plague, coupled with the interference of demons, made me realize that the northern border of the eastern continent had become a real powder keg.

Now, just one spark away from that place exploding!

The era of division that had sustained the human kingdoms for 2,800 years was on the verge of collapse, and Anduin Lothar had just won a war.

He's a big shot in the limelight. As long as he doesn't do anything reckless, the rebuilding of the human empire amidst the chaos is only a matter of time. Thanks to your invitation, I'm able to offer my help at this perfect moment.

What I paid was a paltry sum of money, and what I received was almost everything a goblin could ever dream of!
With such a perfect deal, why bother discussing details?

Hot Sand raised his glass high and said loudly:

"If I hesitate for even a second, it would be disrespectful to my profession and my judgment. So, let's raise a glass, my partner, to this world that is about to be invaded by demons, to the victory we are destined to win, and to the delicious feast that the victors will devour!"

"boom"

The wine glasses clinked together, making a crisp sound.

Diakum downed the perfectly flavored drink in one gulp and said:
"I actually have another business deal here."

"Please speak, I am all ears."

Hot Sand has a low alcohol tolerance; one glass of wine is enough to make him slightly tipsy, but that doesn't rule out the possibility that he's faking it.

It stared at Diakum until the Vigilant recounted the Titan equipment hidden throughout the world and his plans to deal with the remaining Titan forces, completely captivating even a goblin merchant as wealthy as Hot Sands.

After Diakum finished speaking, it squinted its eyes and said:
"You mean you're going to sell me those Titan technologies?"

"To be precise, I'm hiring you to dispose of the 'spoils' I'll accumulate along the way."

Dick explained:
"Due to certain special reasons, I cannot use any Titan-related powers or weapons, but those technologies are definitely helpful to this world."

Azeroth has magic, but the engineering of goblins and gnomes will always shine. Someone has to take on the responsibility of spreading the power of technology; we can't really bury those dangerous things under the earth.

Since the Titans left them behind, let the world make good use of them.

I think you can help me solve this problem. More importantly, an outstanding businessman like you wouldn't be content to spend your whole life toiling on the ground.

Currently, a Naaru technology starship is floating tens of thousands of meters above our heads. It crossed the star sea a few days ago. Meanwhile, during the war between the Light Legion and the Burning Legion, the Voidwalkers' Astral Consortium is making a fortune by trading on both sides. They even have outstanding brokers in the Death Realm who operate their flying city, 'Veil Market,' for business.

Goblins are the commercial representatives of Azeroth; you can't wait until everything is settled before you think about entering the commercial markets of Azeroth.

"Well"

Prince Atsuna opened his mouth wide.

No matter how powerful it was, it couldn't imagine the scene outside the planet on its own, but in Diakum's few words, a vibrant, disordered constellation of stars appeared in the eyes of the great merchant.

As the most business-savvy goblin in the world, it immediately considered all sorts of possibilities.

"Could you introduce me to a business representative from the Star Realm Consortium?"

Prince Hotsand drank another large cup of wine, stroked his ring, and said:
“I always need to exchange experiences with outstanding peers in order to determine the next development path for the Hot Sands Consortium.”

"no problem!"

Diakum took full responsibility, saying:

"The Dark Portal will soon stand in Stormwind Kingdom, and one of our Eredar Starship clans will soon arrive in Draenor. It is said that a group of Starship merchants from the Consortium will be on board their starship."

You will definitely have the opportunity to meet your peers and hear them describe the business rules among the stars.

Of course, if you can offer them goods that interest them, you might just make a fortune too.

Titan Technology!

Hot Sand blinked, and the generous trade prince laughed heartily. His opponent said to Diakum:

“Alright! You’ll be the loot merchant for the Lightforged Chapter, right? I’ll take the job! By the way, does your newly established Lightforged Chapter and Order need any investment from the followers of the Holy Light?”

Don't let my goblin appearance fool you; I've actually admired the doctrines of the Holy Light for a long time.

I'm not kidding. Faith is a very precious thing in my eyes, and everyone should have faith!
That way, when we fall on hard times, we won't be completely destitute. So, if you find doing business with believers enjoyable, then I may be baptized now.”

Whether your pragmatic approach to faith will be accepted by the Holy Light remains to be seen, but investment... well, now is a good time to invest in the Lightforgers faction.

(End of this chapter)