Arthas had been at the seaside for a week, and a busy week it was. He spent his days scouring the mountains and fields for herbs and minerals, then personally smithing, forging, and brewing alchemy potions.
From time to time, he would also inspect the Gnoll territory to coordinate the handover between the Gnolls and his soldiers.
The Gnolls expanded their territory in the forest and were forbidden from attacking humans. They scavenged for items that were difficult to forage and brought them to merchants in exchange for grain. The complex forest was far from safe, and only the Gnolls could consistently find resources that were considered precious in the eyes of humans.
Similarly, the Naga directed the murlocs to collect pearls and other marine specialties. Arthas even had artisans build a large house by the sea—a factory, a cannery. It was a factory for making canned fish. Transporting large quantities of sea fish was inconvenient, and the nobility disliked eating fish, considering it food for commoners. If they were to eat it, it would be far too beneath them!
It would be a terrible shame to waste so many marine resources. Thus, making canned fish was the best option. Not only would it prevent losses from spoilage, but it would also make transportation and storage more convenient. Whether for civilian business or military supply transport, it was exceptionally useful.
The only drawback was the initial time required to build the factory and gather materials and ore. But these were not problems, they just needed time.
A small incident did occur in the meantime. A group of pirates tried to raid the farm, but they happened to run into a Naga patrol. The result was that the new follower, Hailey, eager to prove herself, had them all captured by the Naga. Ashvane's fleet had already departed, taking goods to trade elsewhere.
"Someone hired pirates to kill me?" Arthas stroked his chin. Who could have hired pirates?
"Was it the Horde?"
"No, it was your Lordaeron's old Count Shangke." Vashj's smile was playful; she was clearly delighted to see someone in trouble. (TN: I forgot if he had another name!)
"For what reason?" Arthas knew the Naga had spells to probe memories. As for whether the subject of the spell was still well afterward, that was anyone's guess.
"You beat his son half to death. He only has one son, so he doesn't care if you're a prince or not," Vashj said, elegantly sipping her seaweed tea. She had been in a good mood lately. Thanks to their cooperation, the future looked bright, which naturally put her in high spirits.
"Roden?"
"That's right."
Alright, that was a bit foolish. If a son dies, just have another one. But provoking a prince, the sole crown prince at that, was very unwise. Count Shangke's ancestors had followed Lordaeron's founding monarch to conquer these lands, and the title had been passed down through generations, making him a member of the old nobility. His domain was near Stratholme, a very prime location. Everyone coveted such a piece of land, with its lakes, forests, and proximity to the High Elves' territory. Situated at a crossroads, one could make a fortune from trade and smuggling.
"Hand the men over to me. It seems I've been too soft, letting people walk all over me." Arthas was so angry he almost laughed. He hadn't even started to deal with those noble lords who hoarded resources while doing nothing, and they were already coming after him. They really didn't take him seriously, did they! Not treating a prince like a prince? Then he would show them what it meant to be the Prince of Lordaeron!
Vashj didn't even ask. She had been busy coordinating Naga affairs recently. Cooperating with humans was not so simple. There were many among the Naga who held grudges against humans, and these had to be changed through forceful means. She was willing to shed the blood of her own kin for this cause.
As long as they could dispel the curse and return to their status as Highborne, anything they did was acceptable. Not just Vashj, but Azshara herself was waiting with bated breath. However, ten thousand years had taught her how to remain composed. No matter how anxious she was, she showed no sign of it on the surface.
When Arthas returned to the farm, Brigitte hurried over and handed him a magical letter. "Your Highness, it's a letter from Lordaeron, from His Majesty the King."
Taking the letter and opening it, Arthas read the contents and revealed an "as expected" expression.
"I understand. I'm leaving this place to you, Brigitte. Keep a close eye on my investments here. If necessary, you can ask the Gnolls and Naga to help you. This is all our future start-up capital. The size of our domain will depend on how much these factories can produce. What's mine is yours, and what's mine is yours," he said, squeezing her small hand.
"Your Highness, I will definitely guard this place." A blush flashed across Brigitte's pretty face. Even as one of his many consorts, she felt no jealousy. Since even the Black Dragon Queen had become the Prince's consort, why would she mind? Besides, the one who should really be worried was probably Jaina! She was the future Queen of Lordaeron, yet before they were even married, her fiancé had already taken several consorts. This was a provocation to any woman.
"Good. Something has come up in Lordaeron that I need to handle, concerning the High Elves. Marlene will be leaving with me this time. You get some good rest. Once I've dealt with these matters and eliminated the threat of the Horde, we'll set off to conquer the new continent and create our own legend." Arthas wrapped his arm around Brigitte and gave her a light kiss on the lips. "I will be responsible for you, I promise!"
"Mm, I believe you, Your Highness," Brigitte replied, her face red.
Vashj did not go with him, but she gave Arthas a conch shell. As long as he blew it by the sea or a river, she would rush to meet him.
In the royal palace of Lordaeron, the usually gentle Queen Lianne fiercely stabbed an apple with a dagger. Even in her anger, she looked so regal, elegant, and refined.
"That old fox has lost his mind! Trying to scheme against my son! Hmph, I'm afraid you won't be able to bear the price!"
Evidently, Count Shangke had already begun his activities, spreading rumors among the nobility that Arthas had taken a fancy to his son's woman, not only stealing her but also crippling his son and framing him for treason. To treat a law-abiding noble in such a way, there was no guarantee he wouldn't do the same to others. All nobles, great and small, had to unite!