In the audience hall, Aldis and his party were kneeling before the King. Having conquered the unexplored Bottom of the world, it was easy for them to have an audience with the King.
The aged king was in a good mood as he was thanking Yggdrasia for its efforts.
“…So what can I do for you? Is there anything you wish to do?” (King)
“I would like to teach at the Adventurers’ Guild here in the capital. We are special class adventurers ourselves, and we don’t want to neglect training the next generation of adventurers.” (Aldis)
“That’s fine, but if it’s the Adventurers’ Guild, you should make that offer to them directly.” (King)
“The Adventurers’ Guild may be called an extraterritorial organization, but it is His Majesty’s domain. It’s only logical that we should go through the right process.” (Aldis)
“I see, that’s very generous of you. So, what do you want from me?” (King)
Clarine stifled a yawn, and Zhul held back a laugh, thinking that this was the only place he would see Aldis like this, and that the royal family would be impressed by it.
“We would like to request the right to use some of your facilities and to dispatch personnel.” (Aldis)
“Won’t that be too much for a simple task?” (King)
“The raising of the adventurers’ level will bring great benefits to this country in turn. A half-hearted effort would lead to disrespect for His Majesty.” (Aldis)
“Hmm… let me hear the details first.” (King)
It went so smoothly that Aldis chuckled inwardly. He was reminded that achievements, not allies, were what he needed to have.
But then a certain man entered the King’s Chamber and said.
“Well, well, well, Yggdrasia and company. I am impressed with your greeting to His Majesty.” (Redner)
“Ha! I apologize for the delay in greeting you, Grand Duke Redner.” (Aldis)
Redner looked down taking advantage of his huge body, as if he was scoping out Yggdrasia’s party.
“…Your Majesty. It sounds like something complicated is being discussed?” (Redner)
“Yes, it is. It may involve you as well. I would like to leave a part of my forces with Yggdrasia.” (King)
“What?” (Redner)
Redner’s eyebrows did not even twitch as he listened to the King’s detailed proposal.
Aldis was not pleased with the arrival of Redner. His presence here was no coincidence, but rather blatant timing.
“Such a thing…I see. Well…Aldis, I will accept your proposal.” (Redner)
“Ha! Thank you!” (Aldis)
“I have heard about Yggdrasia’s success. It’s a great achievement, even from a young age.” (Redner)
Aldis stood up and shook hands with Redner, but Aldis immediately grunted.
“Uh… ughh! What the…!” (Aldis)
“What’s wrong?” (Redner)
“Ugh! Nothi…” (Aldis)
Redner gripped Aldis’s hand with a brute force. Although Aldis was not physically as strong as Dorland who was a first-class fighter, he was still a special class himself. Yet he was sweating and gritting his teeth.
After some time, Redner finally released Aldis’s hand when it broke.
Clarine wondered if she should restore Aldis’s hand, but decided not to do so because it may irritate his pride.
Moreover, using magic to heal the hand in front of the King would be disrespectful and embarrassing, given that it was a normal handshake.
“Your Majesty, I will gladly cooperate with him. I will dispatch the Amphisbaena squad to him later.” (Redner)
“I’m counting on you.” (King)
Aldis glared hatefully at Redner and analyzed his underlying strength. His power was at least equal to or greater than his own, and that was considering the fiery energy that was being transmitted.
