From here, Oink knew that the people who had taken his mission very likely had more connections and resources than most people. Perhaps he could sign a long-term deal with them?!
Oink did not have a chance to host these mercenaries, though.
When he had returned from admiring his new loot, those mercenaries had already left!
Althea and her group did not stay a minute longer than necessary. After all, they were working against the clock. It was also still early, and there was no need to replenish anything yet.
As for other things like investigation of resources, potential partnerships, and alliances, they had people assigned to handle those. Each partnership and alliance had to be done with care.
Introducing goods up North would definitely attract not just customers, but also petty enemies who'd be greedy for their resources.
