Know your place

In the barren lands of the Beastmen, where life continued as usual despite the many changes happening across the world, a man sat upon his throne. Estoa the Beast Emperor remained still, his gaze fixed upon the ten Beastmen standing before him, each one dressed in expensive clothing and carrying the presence of individuals who held considerable power within the kingdom.

The meeting room was filled with silence as several documents were placed upon the long table before them. Reports regarding weapons, resources, magic stones, and military preparations had been gathered, and Estoa had been studying them for several minutes before finally raising his head.

"Increase the production of steel, magic stones, and any other weaponry," Estoa ordered.

One of the Beastmen standing before him hesitated before speaking. "We can, sir, but the location where most of the magic stones are found is currently owned by Merchant Apeq."