Chapter 57: Embrace the Shame, Claim the Glory
The most exciting development in the camp was undoubtedly Ah Shou's livestock farm.
After a period of quiet, Ah Shou finally revealed his gift as the "Child of Nature." He tamed a herd of 300 fiery red horses, known as Chi Huo Ma, a breathtaking sight.
The Chi Huo Ma were a type of magical beast. Unlike typical magical creatures, they were more intelligent and could be tamed—though it was still a difficult and dangerous process. Once fully grown, their power was nearly on par with the Body Refining realm, far surpassing that of ordinary horses. They made for the perfect mounts.
A fully grown Chi Huo Ma was worth at least 1,000 gold coins—more expensive than standard weapons or armor—highlighting their rarity and value.
With a wave of his hand, Ronald ordered, "Give a horse to every brother." The men cheered, their smiles wide enough to last through their dreams.
In addition to the horses, Ah Shou also tamed a large herd of migrating wild yak. These creatures could not only produce wool but also milk, and they were strong enough to carry heavy loads or plow the fields. With the city in need of labor, the yaks quickly proved invaluable.
The livestock farm also housed numerous hens and quails. Once they reached full scale, the residents would enjoy fresh eggs and milk every morning—a small luxury that brought comfort to the hard-working people.
Despite the grueling work over the past month, the citizens of the city fared well. They had enough food to eat three hearty meals a day and could rest after a long day's work. But for the prisoners, it was a different story.
They were tasked with the dirtiest, most dangerous jobs. Originally, there had been nearly 5,000 prisoners, but after a month, their numbers had already decreased by 300. At this rate, within two years, they would all be dead. But Ronald didn't care. These bandits were nothing more than bloodstained criminals—if they died, they could always be replaced.
He seemed well on his way to becoming the kind of tyrant who ruled with an iron fist.
At the Administrative Center, the Council Hall
Ronald had been staring at the massive map on the wall for nearly half an hour, lost in thought.
"What's this? Are you planning to take over Yunlan City?"
The voice that spoke was clear, crisp, and utterly charming.
It was the voice of Princess Emile, a captive of the elven race. Since she had been taken as a prisoner, Ronald hadn't allowed her to live without purpose. As he lacked a personal maid, he had assigned her the role—though it was clear she didn't do so willingly.
He turned to her and smiled faintly. "Princess, what do you think the next step for Ming City should be?"
Emile turned her head away, refusing to answer.
Ronald wasn't offended. He simply smiled again. "Go and fetch me a cup of tea."
She scoffed. "Aren't you worried I'll slip poison into it?"
"Poison?" Ronald raised an eyebrow. "Even if you did, with so many brothers around, do you think you could harm me? You're a princess—what would you risk that for?"
Emile faltered at his words, giving an annoyed grunt before she began to walk out, the chains around her ankles dragging behind her.
Though she appeared delicate, the princess wasn't someone to be underestimated. Her power was at the third level of Body Refining, just slightly stronger than Ronald's. If she wanted to cause trouble, it would be a challenge for him to restrain her—especially without her chains.
Just as she was about to leave, Fan Qingyue entered the room. Seeing Emile, she gave a quick, respectful bow before walking briskly toward Ronald.
"Master, Black Dragon reports that the annual Hundred Tribes Auction will be held in the spring next year, at the city of Chaos."
Ronald nodded but kept his focus on the map.
As the princess returned with the tea, Fan Qingyue glanced at her with a look of sympathy and softly murmured, "Master, she is—"
Before she could finish, Ronald waved his hand. "It's fine. I have my plans."
"Understood, Master."
Fan Qingyue nodded, gave a quick glance to Emile, and then left the room.