“Dead people receive more flowers than the living ones, because the regret is stronger than gratitude. I regret nothing.” Days later, a new erected a tombstone can be seen on outskirt of the mermaid settlement,

Wanderer and his mercenaries settled in the outskirts of the Mermaid settlement, busy recruiting and fixing their vehicles.

Mermaid, noticed the presence of the mercenary group. Curiosity and concern swirled within her. It was clear that Wanderer and his men were planning something, especially after their recent losses. Determined to understand his intentions and prevent any potential conflicts, she decided to take the initiative and contacted him for a conversation.

Wanderer accepted the invitation, and they arranged to meet in an open area of the settlement—a restaurant that served as a neutral ground. As they met, nearby civilians gathered, their eyes filled with intrigue as they witnessed this historic encounter between two leaders.

Mermaid arrived at the restaurant, The open-air restaurant was simple – rough tables, mismatched chairs, and a canvas awning providing scant shade from the midday sun. her demeanor serious yet friendly. She crossed her arms and began, “Wanderer, it’s good to see you again. I appreciate you accepting my invitation to meet. I have to say, your presence here has caused quite a stir among the populace. They’re quite intrigued by your sudden appearance.”

Wanderer smirked. then shift on food at table. Shelpek a Flatbreads with various meat and a Qatiq , type of yogurt. he then dip the bread on the white liquid and munch it.

“Hmhm... yes, your tone is different when your people are watching, isn’t it? I wonder what they’ll think when they see the real you, that arrogant woman.”

Mermaid chuckled, unfazed by his jab. “Ah, my dear Wanderer, perhaps I should take that as a compliment that I know how to present myself to different groups. And your comment about my arrogance might be true, but it doesn’t change the fact that you brought a mercenary force into our town. I want to know what your intentions are. You can’t blame the people for being hesitant about strangers entering their land, especially with the weapons you possess.”

Wanderer nodded, his expression serious. “Yes, I’m here to resupply and recruit, just like in the past. But the situation in the wasteland is a bit tense nowadays, so it’s better for people like us not to increase the aggro. My other intention remains the same: I advise you to stop the flow of weapons in your market.”

Mermaid’s suspicion was evident, but she remained calm. “I understand your reasons, Wanderer. It’s good to be cautious in our world. But you say your other intention is the same as before, which makes me curious—what exactly is that intention? And how am I supposed to convince my people to give up their weapons when they’re using them for self-defense? Your mercenary group possesses the most weapons; it’s a bit hypocritical, wouldn’t you say?”

“Limit and forbid are two different things, don’t you think?” Wanderer replied, raising an eyebrow.

Mermaid considered his words, her expression thoughtful. “That’s a fair point, Wanderer. There is indeed a difference between limiting and prohibiting something entirely. So, you suggest we limit the supply of weapons instead? That’s an interesting proposal. But I have to ask, why should I trust your advice on this matter? After all, you’re a mercenary, and your expertise lies more in warfare and violence rather than diplomacy.”

“Why should you trust me? Well, ask your own people. They flock to my ranks even for less payment. They trust me, and I trust them as well. There’s no reason for me to betray my own kind. I know the importance of your settlement—Rayaskent, as you call it. It’s a trade hub and an oasis for the commoner and the outcast,” Wanderer explained,

Mermaid pondered his words, her expression softening slightly. “Alright, let’s say I entertain your proposal to limit the flow of weapons for now. But I warn you, Mr. Wanderer, if your people cause any trouble in my town or to my people, my mercy will be short-lived. You and your mercenaries are guests here, and I expect you to behave accordingly. Understand?”

“Yes, but I really want to see you show your true colors someday,” Wanderer replied with a hint of a smile. “For now, yes, I’m a man of my word.”

Mermaid chuckled, her tone turning mocking once again. “Oh dearest Wanderer, you’re really determined to see me at my worst, aren’t you? It’s almost amusing to hear such a request from a cold-hearted mercenary like yourself. However, as much as I enjoy this lively banter, let’s return to practical matters. I’ll consider your proposition about limiting the weapons flow in my market, but I want guarantees that your mercenaries will not cause chaos and unrest. You know how sensitive our people in Rayaskent can be. Can you give me your word on that?”

“I know the backlash if I betray. I’d lose my reputation and the trust of the people, who are my potential recruits, workers, and merchants. I’m not some mindless brute,” Wanderer assured her.

Mermaid nodded, acknowledging his words. “I see your point, Wanderer. Maintaining your reputation and trust is important for your mercenary group and your personal gain as well. I’ll trust your word that you won’t betray or cause chaos in Rayaskent. But let me make it clear—you’re here on probation. If your people cause any problems or threaten our way of life, our agreement is over. Understand?”

“Good,” Wanderer nodded while continue on his food,

Mermaid crossed her arms, her tone serious. “Now, with our agreement in place, I have one last request, Mr. Wanderer. It would be best if you and your mercenaries kept a low profile during your stay here. No need for excessive displays of force—it would only cause unnecessary anxiety among the people. Our settlement is peaceful, and I’d like to keep it that way.”

“Oh, and don’t bother trying to recruit me or offer me a position in your mercenary group. It’s not going to happen,” she added, a smirk playing on her lips.

Wanderer smiled, a glint of mischief in his eyes. “Why? Afraid someone more popular than you might come along?”

This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

Mermaid let out a sarcastic laugh. "Oh, please, Wanderer. Popular amongst the people? You mean those individuals who see wealth and power as everything? Well, yes, perhaps you have more clout with them than me. But let me tell you, you don't intimidate me in the least. In fact, your arrogance makes me feel sorry for those mercenaries under your leadership."

With a smirk, she continued, "So no, I'm not in the market for a group of mindless thugs. My interests lie elsewhere."

Wanderer chuckled softly, leaning back slightly. "Hehe... yes. What’s your goal anyway? Mmh? Teach... more basic liberty? People are already free-roaming around. What’s your goal behind those... sermons?"

Mermaid sighed, "My goal? Well, Wanderer, if you really must know, my goal is to help shape a better future for my people in Rayaskent and the Wasteland as a whole. I aim to provide them with a moral backbone and hope for a future beyond conflict and despair. But I suppose you wouldn't understand that, given your mercenary background and your view of the world." She raised an eyebrow. "What about you, Wanderer? What goals do you have other than making money and causing chaos?"

Wanderer paused, his expression contemplative. "You might not believe it, but my dream is to... form some sort of law in the desert. It might seem weird to you, but I see myself as a punisher to those who do damage to this world."

Mermaid chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Well, well, Mr. Wanderer, you have quite the ambition. Forming a law in the desert and acting as a 'punisher' to those who cause harm. It sounds almost like a dream for a mercenary like you. I must say, it's amusing to hear such ideas from someone who thrives on death and destruction."

She paused for a moment, then looked at him with a challenging gleam in her eyes. "Very well, I shall humor you. What are your ideas for this law you wish to create?"

Wanderer met her gaze. "People think the wasteland is a place where they can do whatever they want without consequences. A place where they can turn back to the cave era, where the only rule is to be strong and crush the weak. My appearance here is not just about money. If I wanted money, I would rule a city and create a monopoly like you do. But no, I do the real work."

Mermaid's eyebrows raised in surprise at Wanderer's response "Oh, Wanderer, you surprise me. Your aim isn't merely for wealth or power; it's for a sense of justice that goes beyond your mercenary work. You believe in making a difference in the Wasteland. I must admit, I find your perspective... intriguing, to say the least. Perhaps there's more to you than I initially thought. Tell me more, Wanderer. How do you plan to bring order and fairness to the desert?"

"Yes, for now, I give a message to all by crushing the savage mutants. They think all that matters is power. I show them what true power is by destroying their ego. So far, so good. They are now less threatening than their first appearance. They are starting to realize that there are some rules they can't break, even in the wasteland. As for the rest of the races, that is my future problem."

Mermaid listened attentively. "Wanderer, I must say, your philosophy of bringing order through strength is unique. It's true that in a lawless society, strength is often viewed as the ultimate deterrent. By defeating the mutants, you are effectively establishing a hierarchy of power in the Wasteland. I'll admit, it's a bold and unconventional approach."

She leaned back in her chair, contemplating his words. "Tell me, Wanderer, does your vision of order extend beyond just defeating the mutants?"

"Hmhm... yes, perhaps. My messenger will spread more. If the source of this power dominance comes from material dependency, the majority of people think that more wealth means power, and less wealth makes them a minority. This sort of behavior doesn't exist in the caliphate, where wealth distribution is fairer. But since all people in the wasteland roam around thinking liberty is the number one in their life, that idea needs to be refined."

Mermaid pondered for a moment, her eyes locked onto Wanderer's. "Wanderer, you make a valid point. Wealth distribution plays a significant role in power dynamics. the Zakat on Caliphate, and Your goal to 'de-materialize' power and emphasize unity over wealth is quite unusual for a mercenary, but it's also refreshingly different. The idea of shifting power away from those who amass wealth and toward a shared sense of purpose is, indeed, intriguing."

"Yes," Wanderer replied,

Mermaid smiled, appreciating Wanderer's insights on the matter. "Wanderer, I must say, your unique blend of pragmatism and idealism is quite intriguing.It's a bold approach, and I'll be keeping a close eye on your progress."

She looked at him thoughtfully. "Tell me, Wanderer, how do you plan to start reforming this system in the Wasteland? What are your strategies to implement this change?"

"First, controlling the flow of items and violence... and minds," Wanderer stated, his tone serious.

Mermaid nodded, her eyes narrowing with curiosity. "I see. Controlling the flow of items and violence, as well as the minds of people. An interesting approach, to say the least. Controlling items allows you to have leverage and influence, while controlling violence ensures a degree of stability for your vision. As for minds, that seems to imply that you also want to shape the beliefs of people through either force or persuasion—or perhaps a combination of both."

She then looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "Wanderer, do you aim for unity or subjugation?"

Wanderer closed his eyes for a moment before meeting her gaze. "Both. I realize some people are too stubborn to listen, and I realize too that some people might know the truth but are too afraid to join what is right."

Mermaid tilted her head slightly, a hint of a smirk playing on her lips. "Unity and subjugation, huh? That's certainly an ambitious goal, Wanderer. You believe that people must be made to change, one way or another. It's a ruthless tactic, but sometimes, extreme situations call for extreme measures." She crossed her arms, pondering his words. "Wanderer, do you believe that absolute order can truly be achieved? Are people truly willing to give up their freedom for the promise of stability?"

Wanderer met her gaze, his expression unwavering. "You call me ruthless? Then what are you in your own mirror?"

Mermaid laughed softly, her eyes studying the mercenary before her. "Wanderer, we're all ruthless in our own ways. I'm not denying my ruthless tendencies, just as I don't deny yours. It takes a certain level of ruthlessness to lead a settlement in the Wasteland and maintain order amidst chaos." She paused for effect, her smirk returning. "The difference is, Wanderer, I believe in guiding people toward a brighter future rather than forcing them. But then again, like you said, sometimes extreme situations call for extreme measures. So, perhaps we're more alike than we think."

"Yes, I actually want to call it if we are the same coin with different sides, but I'm too cringe to admit... if... you... someone like.. you..." Wanderer replied,

Mermaid couldn't help but let out a little chuckle. "Oh, Wanderer, you have a way with words that's both charming and ironic. Who would have thought that a ruthless mercenary would want to consider himself the 'other side of the coin' with someone like me? I must admit, the idea is entertaining, yet surprising."

Wanderer smirked,. "Yes, I almost feel humiliated in the same position as cultists like you."

Mermaid leaned forward, her eyes locking onto Wanderer's. "Almost humiliated, eh? Well, Wanderer, sometimes a little humility can be healthy for the soul. It's easy to get lost in our own beliefs and ambitions, but a touch of self-awareness helps keep us on track. And as for the comparison with those cultists, I'm quite different from them, I assure you." She shrugged with a hint of amusement.

"You all are the same, using religious manipulation to get what you want... or teaching so-called manifestation to each individual. You want them to believe in themselves rather than in God," Wanderer shot back,

Mermaid raised an eyebrow. "Ah, 'religious manipulation,' you say? What an intriguing accusation, Wanderer. You certainly have a way of simplifying complex matters, don't you?" She paused, a thoughtful expression on her face. "I do believe in helping people find their own inner strength and belief in themselves. But let me ask you, Wanderer, is encouraging self-belief inherently wrong? Do you think everyone should solely rely on external forces?"

"Balance is important," Wanderer replied, rising from his chair without finishing his meal. He started walking away but paused to meet her gaze once again. "We are aware that God created our bodies and gave us the ability to choose what we want. But we must also be aware that there are little things we can do about change, fate, time, and the unpredictability God offers us."

Mermaid observed Wanderer as he spoke, her expression thoughtful. "Wanderer, how profound. You speak of balance between self-reliance and acceptance of the unknown—quite philosophical of you. It seems you have a deeper understanding of life than your rugged appearance suggests." She continued, a hint of a smile on her lips. "I must admit, Wanderer, you're not the man I thought you were. Perhaps there's more to you than meets the eye. Our conversation has been rather enlightening."

"Now you might understand if the people who follow me are not mindless individuals who like money and adventure. And the women who are in my embrace are not because I'm some sort of bad boy," Wanderer said with a smile,then order the waitress to package the leftover on table. he then give mermaid last a smirk on his lips as he began to walk away.

Mermaid watched as Wanderer walked away after took his meal, leaving his words hanging in the air. She couldn't help but be somewhat amused by his subtle attempt at making some kind of romantic innuendo. "Well, Wanderer, you certainly have a way with words. Your ability to provoke and intrigue me is quite... intriguing."