Novel All
Chapter 86: Contract Signed
Chapter 86: Contract Signed
"Your Majesty...I don't think we can give you what you are asking for," Vincent replied.
"Why can't you?" King Thandor's brows furrowed, confused as to why Vincent wouldn't agree to his request.
"Because it's not something that we can easily hand over," Vincent explained, choosing his words carefully. "Ghostrider is a highly advanced piece of technology, far beyond what we've shown you today."
King Thandor's eyes narrowed. "I understand its value, Vincent. That's precisely why we need it. The threats we face are growing, and our current capabilities are not enough."
Princess Elara stepped forward, her gaze intense. "We have seen the destruction caused by the flame dragon. Our people are vulnerable, Vincent. We need something that can ensure our survival."
"You guys are asking too much," Vincent said. "There is no chance of me giving you a gunship."
"There is really no chance for us? Even if we traded something more valuable than enchantments?"
Vincent's interest was piqued. He leaned forward slightly, curiosity evident in his eyes. "More valuable than enchantments? What could that possibly be?"
King Thandor exchanged a knowing glance with Princess Elara before turning back to Vincent, a faint smile playing on his lips. "We have something ancient, something sacred to our people. It's a treasure that has been guarded for centuries and has immense power. But its true potential can only be unlocked by someone with a pure heart and noble intentions." Vincent raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And what is this sacred treasure?"
King Thandor gestured to one of his advisors, who promptly disappeared into a nearby building. Moments later, the advisor returned, carrying a large, ornately carved wooden box. The box was adorned with intricate elven symbols and radiated a soft, ethereal glow.
"This," King Thandor said, as the advisor carefully placed the box before Vincent and opened it, "is the Heart of Sylara."
Inside the box lay a crystalline artifact, roughly the size of a human heart. It pulsed with a gentle, soothing light, its surface covered in ancient runes that seemed to shift and change as Vincent watched.
"The Heart of Sylara is a powerful artifact," Princess Elara explained, her voice reverent. "It was created by our ancestors long ago and is said to contain the essence of the forest itself. Its magic can heal, protect, and even enhance the abilities of those who are worthy."
"Okay...sounds like you need aether to activate it. So it's useless to us," Vincent said.
"No, this artifact doesn't require aether. Like I said, it only needs a pure heart and noble intentions to unlock its power," King Thandor clarified. "Its magic can work on anyone who meets those criteria."
"Are you sure you are not saying that just to convince me to part with the Ghostrider?" Vincent asked, skeptical.
King Thandor shook his head. "I assure you, Vincent, the Heart of Sylara's power is genuine. But if you have doubts, you can take your time to verify its potential. Our offer stands."
Vincent looked at the glowing artifact, deep in thought. The Heart of Sylara sounded incredibly valuable and potentially game-changing. But handing over the Ghostrider was a big step. "I'll think about it," he finally said. "For now, let's focus on the main negotiation - the pistols and assault rifles."
King Thandor nodded, understanding Vincent's hesitation. "Very well. Let us proceed with the primary negotiation. Let's head back to the council chamber where we will discuss the contract in detail."
The group began to move back towards the grand hall, the Heart of Sylara still on Vincent's mind. As they walked, Vincent conferred briefly with his special forces team, ensuring they were prepared for any questions or demonstrations that might arise.
Once inside the council chamber, everyone took their seats.
"Vincent," Thandor began, "we have seen the capabilities of your pistols and assault rifles. We are convinced of their potential to enhance our defenses. Let us discuss the terms of our agreement."
Vincent nodded, leaning forward slightly. "Our offer stands as follows: we will provide a substantial number of pistols and assault rifles, along with the necessary ammunition and training for your soldiers. In return, we ask for your enchantment tomes and the services of your enchanters."
Princess Elara interjected, "How many weapons are you willing to provide, and what volume of ammunition?"
Vincent considered for a moment. "We can supply you with 100 pistols and 100 assault rifles to start with. Each pistol will come with 10 magazines, and each assault rifle with 15 magazines. We can also provide ongoing resupply based on your needs."
King Thandor and his advisors exchanged nods, satisfied with the initial offer. "And the training?" Thandor asked.
"We will send a team of our best instructors to train your soldiers," Vincent explained. "The training program will last four weeks, during which your soldiers will learn everything from basic handling and maintenance to advanced combat tactics."
One of the elven advisors leaned forward, his expression thoughtful. "And the enchantments? How do you propose we proceed with that exchange?"
Vincent replied, "We will require your enchanters to work with our engineers. They will
integrate enchantments into our existing technology, enhancing our equipment's
effectiveness. We believe this collaboration will benefit both our forces."
Princess Elara looked impressed. "That sounds like a comprehensive plan. But what about the timeline? When can we expect the first shipment of weapons?"
Vincent glanced at his team before answering. "We can begin the first shipment within two or three days. Our instructors will arrive simultaneously to commence training. The enchantment integration will start once our engineers and your enchanters have established a working protocol."
King Thandor nodded in agreement. "Very well. This arrangement seems fair and beneficial for both sides. We shall proceed with the contract."
The advisors quickly drafted a written agreement, outlining the specifics of the deal. Once completed, both parties reviewed the document thoroughly.
"Everything appears to be in order," Vincent said, scanning the final version. He looked up at King Thandor and Princess Elara. "I am ready to sign."
King Thandor nodded and gestured to an elven attendant who approached with a small, ornate box. Inside were a series of slender, silver needles and a small vial of clear liquid.
"In our tradition, we seal important contracts with a blood pact," King Thandor explained. "This ensures that both parties are bound by the agreement in a very real and personal way." Vincent watched as King Thandor took a needle, dipped it in the liquid, and then pricked his thumb. He pressed his thumb against the bottom of the contract, leaving a small, blood-red print. Princess Elara did the same, followed by the elven advisors.
Vincent hesitated for a moment, then took the needle handed to him. He repeated the process, feeling a brief sting as the needle pierced his skin. He pressed his thumb against the contract, leaving his mark next to the others. As soon as he did, the parchment began to glow softly, the light spreading from the blood prints and covering the entire document.
"This glow signifies that the contract is now sealed," King Thandor said, his voice solemn. "It is a binding agreement between us."
Vincent watched as the glow faded, leaving the contract looking just as it had before, but with
a faint, magical aura around it.
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Vincent said respectfully. "We look forward to a prosperous and mutually beneficial alliance."
King Thandor smiled warmly. "As do we, Vincent. This marks the beginning of a new era for
our people."