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“You, you mean…”

“If you want to amass a fortune, that’s a trifle for me to achieve,” Bailuo continued, “As for the first thing you must do, it’s to take this crop and propagate it throughout the world.”

Bailuo intended to turn potatoes into the staple food of this world, gradually making its prolific yield a sustenance people depended on for survival.

“I will also provide you with enough spices to ensure your capital remains stronger than anyone else’s.”

Spices as precious as gold were worthless in Bailuo’s hands, not even meriting a single coin.

So money wasn’t a problem; with Bailuo around, Handlebar Mustache would have endless capital.

“And what I want first are those superfluous populations.”

Once the world’s population increased, the slave trade would become more relaxed and simple, providing Bailuo with an abundance of slaves.

Some might ask why, if food was plentiful and life was better, there would still be slaves?

First, with more food, the population would also increase. Disasters and turmoil could still produce refugees.

Second, never underestimate the greed of those in power. The world’s problems have never been about a shortage of resources but their unequal distribution.

“I intend to support you in wresting control of that so-called Three-Headed Dog Commerce Guild.”

“Besides, that name is quite unpleasant,” Bailuo added, “You’ll change it when the time comes.”

“You…”

Handlebar Mustache didn’t understand why he had to sell crops abroad.

But if the great god demanded it, Handlebar Mustache would oblige.

“Rest assured, I shall not disappoint you!”

Immortality and perpetual enjoyment—such deals had never been done by his father or grandfather.

“Keep looking for slaves for me.

“As your power grows, so will my need for slaves.”

Bailuo said, “Life is too hard, and they are being persecuted. We, in Yatun, are willing to open a gate of convenience for them.”

Yatun Island lacked population. A large base number was essential to better select the Child of Miracle.

The most surplus population in other countries was precisely what Bailuo needed most.

In a nutshell, if you wish to come, I will aid your migration. I want all of you!

“Take this.”

Bailuo tossed a ring to Handlebar Mustache, who caught it, puzzled. “You can regard it as a Divine Artifact, capable of absorbing damage and, even in the face of fatal attacks, preserving your life.”

“This!!”

Handlebar Mustache was stunned; such things existed in this world.

“But this is contingent on your absolute loyalty to me.”

“Should there be thoughts of betrayal…”

“I wouldn’t dare!”

Handlebar Mustache reaffirmed his resolution to cling to Bailuo’s coattails and never let go.

Betraying him would be foolish.

Being favored by a deity was such fortune that one would be a fool not to seize it.

“He still has little loyalty.”

Lilith commented, “With the ring in his possession, he’s as good as useless.”

“I know.”

Bailuo was well aware that changing ingrained attitudes in such seasoned adults was not impossible but rather not cost-effective.

So Bailuo never planned on truly winning over Handlebar Mustache.

He was simply using him.

If successful, it would be for the best, benefiting Yatun with an experienced merchant.

Otherwise, should Handlebar Mustache betray him one day, it would be of little consequence.

Kill him and replace him, seizing everything he owned.

That was Bailuo’s backup plan.

If you betray me, then everything you have will merely be making a bridal gown for someone else.

“Alright, let’s put this fellow’s matter to rest.”

“If he succeeds, he’ll have wealth and honor; if not, we’ll replace him.”

Wealth and honor were cheap in the eyes of the current Yatun Duchy.

The next day, at noon, at Harbor Town on Yatun Island.

“I need to make a long trip. While I’m gone, you all must strive to do well.”

Hailbo bid farewell to Ina and Silly Tiger. The Silly Tiger, not understanding, simply said, “Hailbo brother, come back soon, I’ll treat you to baozi. They’re so delicious.”

“Okay.”

Hailbo laughed, “But Tiger, you shouldn’t kick off your blankets at night. I won’t be here, and who knows how you’ll end up sleeping.”

Hailbo was worried about Silly Tiger, so he had him move in to live together.

As a brother, he was wholly devoted and responsible.

“Hehe.”

Hailbo was quite concerned about Silly Tiger.

But Bailuo was a wise king; he wouldn’t mistreat the Silly Tiger.

Moreover, as long as Hailbo made a few more diplomatic missions, the military achievements gained from diplomacy would bring him more resources and attention.

As for Ina…

“Ina, you are very clever, but I’m still worried about you.”

“Why?”

Ina’s self-esteem was improving gradually; she was becoming more confident lately.

“Recently, an old gentleman taught me many things—it was like a sudden enlightenment.”

Although Hailbo had only been with his uncle for a few days, what he saw and learned astonished him.

To his embarrassment, Hailbo was so moved that he knelt down.

He knelt directly in front of his uncle, pleading to be taken on as a disciple.

Even if it meant becoming a mere apprentice, Hailbo would be content to join his teachings.

‘Though I’ve only taught you for a few days, you have a natural gift in this domain.’

The uncle gave him many of his own writings, saying, ‘After reading these, if you have insights, you may claim to be my student in the future.’

Being able to call himself the uncle’s student, Hailbo was so moved he almost cried: ‘What merits do I possess, teacher!’