"It is inevitable that we allow the Wind Walker Chamber of Commerce to join us," Logan said with a determined look in his eyes. "They are a formidable entity with substantial influence and connections. Their involvement would deter the prying eyes of opportunistic rivals."
Fisher's face twisted with frustration, yet he couldn't deny the logic in Logan' argument. "Otherwise," Logan continued, "we not only risk offending the Wind Walker Chamber, but we also invite more and more major wine merchants to swoop in. When that happens, we'll be out of options to defend ourselves."
Fisher's grim expression softened slightly as he pondered Logan' words. The reality was harsh but undeniable; aligning with the Wind Walkers would bring significant benefits, even if it meant swallowing his pride. Compromise, however distasteful, was sometimes necessary for long-term survival.
"How much of a share do they want?" Fisher finally asked, his voice laced with concern. The Wind Walker Chamber was a giant, and he feared they might be too greedy, leaving his company with mere scraps.
"They initially demanded all the shares," Logan revealed, shaking his head. "Of course, I didn't agree to that."
Fisher's eyes widened in shock. "All?"
"Yes, but I negotiated," Logan said, a slight smile playing on his lips. "They settled for half of our monthly wine production."
Fisher's relief was palpable, though mixed with lingering apprehension. "Why didn't you agree to that?" he asked, surprised. Half seemed a considerable concession from the Wind Walkers.
"I have a different plan in mind," Logan replied, his voice thoughtful. "A closer form of cooperation."
Fisher's curiosity was piqued. "What do you mean by that?"
Logan leaned in, his tone conspiratorial. "I propose we form a joint caravan, me, you, David, and the elf, all under the banner of the Wind Walker Chamber of Commerce. All our wine and beverages would be transported and sold through this joint caravan. I would only take 10% of the total profits."
Fisher's mind raced as he processed this new idea. "And how do we divide the rest?" he asked, intrigued.
"That," Logan said with a knowing smile, "is up to you and the others to negotiate."
The genius of the plan dawned on Fisher. By affiliating with the Wind Walkers, their operation would gain a powerful shield, deterring competition and stabilizing their business. Meanwhile, Logan was cleverly angling for a piece of the lucrative pie Fisher's sales had become.
After a moment's contemplation, Fisher couldn't help but admire the cunning of it all. It was a compromise, yes, but one that promised survival and continued profit. And in the ruthless world of commerce, that was a deal worth making.
With their alliance solidified, Logan shifted the conversation to the state of affairs in the wasteland. Fisher learned that the northern wasteland, like the chaotic Silver Mane Tribe, was experiencing turmoil. Several large tribes were aggressively annexing smaller tribes and refugees, or waging resource wars, leading to widespread disorder.
In contrast, the southern wasteland appeared relatively peaceful, though Logan warned that this calm was only temporary.
Their discussion lasted less than half an hour before Jane's elder brother arrived. The door opened to reveal a tall, powerful werewolf with a striking resemblance to Fisher, though he exuded an even greater strength.
Logan quickly rose from his seat. "Brother!" he greeted the imposing figure warmly.
"You must be Logan," Gavas said with a smile, his gaze appraising. "Jane has told me much about you, and now I see she wasn't exaggerating."
"Please, have a seat," Logan responded, trying to mask his nervousness with a smile.
Jane, still clinging to her brother's arm, laughed. "See, big brother? Didn't I tell you Logan is more handsome than you?"
"Yes, yes, he's more handsome," Gavas conceded with a chuckle. "It's been a year since we last met, and now Jane has found herself a husband."
Fisher grunted, his tone teasing. "That ungrateful girl. She used to follow us everywhere, chattering nonstop. Now that she has a new lover, she forgets her brothers."
Jane pouted and quickly moved to Fisher's side, taking his arm. "You will always be my brothers," she said sweetly.
"Go away," Fisher said in mock disgust, trying to pull his arm free. "When you go out, there's no place for us in your heart."
Jane clung tighter, and Gavas laughed heartily at their playful bickering.
"By the way, big brother," Jane said, her curiosity piqued. "I heard from father that my sister-in-law gave birth to two more nephews for me?"
Gavas beamed with pride. "Yes, Lacey gave birth to two more healthy boys. If the journey weren't so long, I would have brought them back for mother and you to see."
Jane's eyes sparkled with joy at the news, and she hugged Gavas. The room was filled with warmth and laughter, a stark contrast to the harsh realities they often faced. It was moments like these that reminded them of the strength found in family and alliances.