"Recently, the family has been facing a resource shortage, which I believe everyone here is well aware of. However, uncles, you need not worry—Lacey and I have already devised a solution."
As soon as the topic of resources was confirmed, everyone's attention shifted to Lacey. Yet, what puzzled them was why such a prime opportunity had been handed to Maier instead.
"Recently, we invited Mr. Xu Que from Country Z to join us. I believe many of you are familiar with him, or at least have acquired equipment from him."
The group nodded in agreement. This master craftsman was no stranger to them, and many sought to strengthen ties with him. After all, a single B-class piece of armor could be a lifesaver in critical moments.
"I've reached preliminary agreements with Ratersan and Melron to trade high-value resources for our equipment. However, during the negotiations, they expressed a strong interest in purchasing weapons as well. Thus, I am bringing this matter forward for everyone's decision."
Upon hearing that the companies wished to acquire weapons, the group began murmuring among themselves. Truthfully, they were not in favor of the proposal. After all, with 45 seats remaining on the *Divine Weapon Leaderboard,* even distributing C-class weapons for rewards would be immensely profitable.
Seeing the ongoing discussion, Maier cleared his throat and gestured for silence. "Gentlemen, I understand your concerns. However, before we delve deeper, I'd like to ask Mr. Xu Que: when do you plan to deliver the weapons?"
The sudden shift in focus took Xu Que by surprise, though he was well-prepared. He directly initiated a trade request with Maier.
"What's this supposed to mean?" Maier asked in confusion, though he opened the trade interface nonetheless.
"You only asked me to forge the weapons; there was no deadline specified. So, naturally, I've been keeping them in reserve," Xu Que replied with a helpless smile.
It was only after Xu Que's explanation that the group recalled no formal handover of weapons had been arranged. Unlike the others, Maier was stunned by the sheer quantity of items Xu Que had prepared—it was his first time seeing so many C-class weapons.
"You... You actually forged fifty-two C-class weapons?"
The revelation left everyone wide-eyed, stunned beyond belief. They had been regularly requesting armor from Xu Que, and yet he had managed to stockpile such an arsenal.
"My task is complete. How you handle these weapons is entirely up to you," Xu Que said with a smile as he took his seat.
In an instant, the group's eager gazes shifted to Maier. They all aspired to claim these weapons and secure spots on the *Divine Weapon Leaderboard,* which promised double rewards.
However, Maier ignored their expectant looks and instead turned his attention to Lacey and their grandfather, Majello. This unexpected outcome left him utterly astonished yet thrilled—after all, Xu Que was his ally.
"Proceed with your proposed plan," Majello said in a deep voice.
"Thank you for your support, Grandfather," Maier replied gratefully before tearing off the top page of his notes.
"Uncles, the time has come for you to bring glory to the Chaisfield family," Maier declared with a triumphant smile.
With the mass distribution of weapons, six members present instantly secured spots on the *Divine Weapon Leaderboard.* Shortly thereafter, external family members rushed to the storage facilities, retrieved weapons, and claimed the remaining leaderboard slots.
By the time the event concluded, the Chaisfield family had secured an astonishing fifty-one of the top rankings, shocking the entire Blue Star community. Discussions erupted across global networks, yet Maier and his team paid no heed. To them, Xu Que's value far exceeded expectations.
Among the observers, however, one woman harbored doubts. In her eyes, Xu Que was concealing something significant.
"Everyone, please settle down. The meeting is not yet over," Maier said, suppressing his excitement.
The group snapped out of their reverie, reminded that today's agenda centered on resource strategies.
"The earlier plan was Lacey's idea. Now, let us discuss my collaboration with Melron," Maier began, his tone carrying a subtle jab at Lacey.
Yet Lacey remained impassive, as though unaffected. She knew all too well that this was simply Maier's nature.
"Melron has proposed trading a C-class territory in exchange for five C-class weapons. It's a generous offer, which I've agreed to. However, before that, we must first sell them 300 units of B-class armor. For this, I hope each of you can contribute your surplus armor."
When it came to armor, Maier refrained from turning to Xu Que, knowing that his uncles had been frequenting Xu Que's workshop to stock up.
"Maier, what's the price they're offering for 300 units of B-class armor?" Uncle Jeff asked.
Rather than answer, Maier glanced at Majello, who gave no indication of approval. Maier firmly replied, "Uncle Jeff, this is a resource exchange. All I can say is that the rate is below market value."
The group exchanged puzzled glances. To them, armor was invaluable, and surrendering their protective gear felt like a personal risk.
"Would 150 units suffice?" Uncle Karo suggested.
"Apologies, Uncle Karo, but this is the agreed-upon deal," Maier said with a regretful smile.
Before Karo could argue further, Majello interjected in a stern tone. "Each of you will contribute fifty units."
Though reluctant, the uncles had no choice but to comply.
Seeing no further objections, Maier smiled. "Gentlemen, there's no need to worry, for I bring you excellent news."
The announcement reignited their curiosity, and all eyes turned to Maier.
"Our company, *Legendary Enterprises,* currently operates six assault teams within the nation. After consulting with Grandfather, we've decided to expand by adding two more teams. As for the new captains, I nominate Uncle Ronning and Uncle Mikey."
The uncles were perplexed—how was this good news? But Maier's next statement left them elated.
"With the additional teams, resource exchange rates will increase by 20%. Furthermore, any team successfully completing a raid will receive 40% of the acquired resources."
"I've also extended our reach to Meixi River Town. That land rightfully belongs to us, and it's time we reclaim it."
Hearing that they would seize new territory, the group erupted with enthusiasm. This was a long-standing ambition, hindered only by official restrictions. With Maier's approval, they now had the green light to act.
"Next, I'll distribute the restructured assault team rosters," Maier said.
As the lists were handed out, Xu Que's brows furrowed slightly. Glancing at Peter's list, he noticed something shocking—Maier had handed him a complete copy.
"Xu, this is a list of key members from both our country and M Nation. I trust you to craft specialized equipment tailored for them," Maier said solemnly.
"Of course, boss. You can count on me," Xu Que replied enthusiastically.
And why wouldn't he be? After waiting nearly a month for this list, Maier had finally handed it over without hesitation.