Goblin Dependency-Chapter 692 - 347: The Lavish Tycoon (Part 2)

Although the height difference between them meant that Xia Nan could only reach the dwarf’s head if he stretched out his hand, which might seem a bit impolite, he settled for patting Soldin’s shoulder in return, causing some awkwardness.

However, he felt Soldin’s heartfelt welcome.

He rescued them from the Purgatory Flames of the Devil, saving the Oathkeeper Blackwood Squad as well.

Though he subsequently received a share of the mission reward, Xia Nan had undoubtedly become a trusted friend for the straightforward dwarf, who was also well aware of his capabilities.

Even if they were just temporary teammates for ten or twenty days, it was enough to make Soldin feel jubilant and excited.

Standing a bit further back was Margaret, who didn’t express her feelings verbally or through actions, yet her face visibly relaxed upon seeing Xia Nan, indicating her inner tumult.

Thinking back, it’s quite amusing.

When they parted in the Association hall, Xia Nan heard her say, "I hope we have a chance to cooperate in the future," as courteous conversation, which made him jokingly consider it best for them not to have such an opportunity, given his track record of teammates’ survival rate since his crossing.

To his surprise, less than a month later, there was indeed another "cooperation opportunity."

This time, it seemed to be a regular escort mission with no significant risks.

Xia Nan arrived at the station just in time, placing his luggage in the carriage as the convoy was preparing to depart and the team members were having their final conversations.

His gaze swept over, carefully observing the convoy’s details.

Most strikingly, protected at the center, was a large four-wheeled box carriage, seemingly custom-made, fitted with reinforced spring suspension and wide oak wheels.

It was slightly larger than the surrounding carriages, painted a deep, dark green, with a subtle golden line on its side depicting an ear of wheat—symbolizing that the convoy belonged to "Golden Wheat Commerce" and was under its protection.

All the metal parts on the carriage, including the door handles, hinges, and frames, were made from rust-proof brass and polished to a shine; even the horses pulling the carriage appeared more robust, with sleek, shiny coats.

This carriage undoubtedly belonged to the convoy’s owner, Mr. Horak, a merchant and a member of Golden Wheat Commerce.

Although it was unclear why someone of his status and wealth was personally involved in the transport process,

his presence clearly added a touch of richness and opulence to the entire convoy.

All freight compartments far exceeded the market average standards, uniformly sized for easy loading and unloading, covered with taut waterproof canvas; the goods inside were securely fastened with ropes and padded against collisions, making the overall setup solid and durable.

The personnel were efficiently organized:

The convoy manager was a stern, experienced, lean middle-aged man, reputedly Mr. Horak’s trusted assistant, responsible for coordinating the convoy’s journey, rest, and camp setups.

The private drivers were skilled, the guards dressed in matching durable studded leather armor, equipped with standard-issue good machetes and crossbows, displaying strict discipline and sharp eyesight, seemingly all from military backgrounds.

Additionally, there were several accompanying servants handling miscellaneous tasks and attending to everyone’s daily needs.

In contrast, Xia Nan and Margaret’s group, wearing distinctly styled "exotic outfits," appeared relaxed and easygoing, somewhat out of place.

However, the reality was the opposite.

As veteran experts, they were the primary means for the convoy to tackle specific problems, their status second only to Horak and his assistant.

Regardless of whether it was the drivers, servants, or those guards with a suspected military background, they showed significant respect towards them, never daring to slack off.

Upon Xia Nan’s arrival at the station, Mr. Horak himself, informed by the servants, cheerfully exited his luxurious carriage to greet him.

"Ah!"

Before approach, a sincere and enthusiastic exclamation echoed from the air ahead.

"You must be the renowned ’Gray Sword’ Mr. Xia Nan of River Valley Town?"

In view was a slightly plump, rounded, and well-off middle-aged man.

Approximately forty or fifty years old, sturdy yet upright, exuding a sense of plumpness and largesse from indulgence and composure.

His congenial, rosy face bore the unique warm and sincere smile of a seasoned merchant possessed of great affinity.

He was wearing a dark green goose down robe matching the carriage, seemingly tailored, cut fittingly to complement his physique without appearing tight, while the collar, cuffs, and front edge were embroidered with wheat-like golden patterns, once more highlighting his identity as a member of Golden Wheat Commerce.

Mr. Horak appeared utterly unconcerned by anyone coveting his wealth, displaying it in a near "showy" manner.

On his left hand, all five fingers gleamed with the luster of wealth.

A family-crest-imprinted, gold-base, dark red jadeite ring; a commerce ring with a transparent blue gemstone; a wide gold ring intricately carved; a ring made entirely of translucent amethyst...

And on his right wrist circled two bracelets made of gold thread with different radiant small stones—Xia Nan had seen many similar sparkling stones on the shelves of the "Fairy Wind" Grocery Store, their prices starting in double-digit Gold Coins.

"Really brave..."

Xia Nan secretly clicked his tongue, marveling at his courage.

Daring to flaunt wealth in River Valley Town, teeming with adventurers and a mixed crowd—indeed not afraid of trouble.

Just from what Xia Nan observed, during Horak’s short journey from the carriage to him, at least five malicious gazes crossed him.

However, thanks to the carriage’s unique "wheat" symbol and the presence of guards and Xia Nan’s team, all they dared was merely gaze without approaching.

"Previously heard from the two adventurers of the Oathsworn Blackwood Team that a capable professional would accompany us."

"Unbelievable to see you are so young."

"That’s great indeed!"

Despite his somewhat "nouveau riche" style, Horak himself seemed particularly affable, far from the high-handed magnificence often associated with employers.

His emotional intelligence was exceedingly high.

In a few words, he expressed respect for Margaret and Soldin while warmly flatteringly Xia Nan, without casting any doubt over his youthful appearance.

"Meeting for the first time, without much preparation..." Horak’s face brimmed with a pleasant smile, like a kindly elder,

casually took a silver chain pocket watch with a pearl-decorated casing from his waist and pushed it into Xia Nan’s hand.

"A small token, I hope Mr. Xia Nan takes care during the journey."

Not quite buddy...

The corner of Xia Nan’s eye caught the lustrous glow from the pearl, feeling the warm touch of the metal case in his palm.

For a moment, Xia Nan almost failed to maintain his composure.

Despite generating ample income, occasionally needing funds for equipment forging after his crossing, he rarely worried about daily living expenses.

But encountering someone for the first time and getting an obviously valuable pocket watch as a gift inevitably caused some inner turbulence.

Thankfully, his control over his body muscles allowed him to maintain a polite and calm demeanor facing Horak’s generosity.

Thoughts swiftly raced through his mind.

He and Horak have no connections, so such sudden lavishness might be a character trait...

Nevertheless, it inevitably made Xia Nan harbor some doubts internally.