Chapter 190

Of course, for Lennok, the most important harvest was none other than the dozens of Malabest roots carefully stored in his pockets.

Although there were many twists and turns to acquire this item after hearing from Yakson that Malabest was needed, it was more than satisfying to have successfully plundered the Drug Lord’s assets.

If the massive amount of rare medicinal herbs stored in his warehouse were converted into money, their value would also be considerable.

Once he received confirmation from Lapis for the settlement of all these affairs, Lennok’s work in the autonomous region would be considered done.

He was curious about Akasha’s whereabouts, but a wizard of her caliber wouldn’t have been unable to protect herself; he would have an opportunity to meet her again later.

With that thought, Lennok shoved the bread he was holding into his mouth and stood up.

He observed Amon, who had also ceased eating and risen from his seat.

“There’s no need to follow me; I’m going to see Lapis.”

“No, let’s go together.”

Amon replied promptly, gathering his attire.

“I’ve been asked to guide you whenever you wish.”

The two of them proceeded directly to Lapis’ office.

Upon their arrival, Lapis warmly greeted them, though she had been sighing over a towering stack of paperwork, almost her own height. She said, “Welcome, I’ve been waiting for you.”

“You look busy.”

“Yes, I have to deal with cooperation measures during the cleanup of the floating island’s wreckage, as well as rights for researching Homunculus corpses. It’s a matter that can’t be entrusted to anyone else since I have to directly coordinate opinions with the government.”

At a subtle signal from Lapis, Amon nodded and promptly exited the room.

His demeanor had completely transformed from the previously sluggish one.

“Quite loyal. Has he always been like this?”

“Amon is a survivor of a destroyed martial arts family. We took him in after he lost everything to the ‘White Lion,’ fueled by his desire for revenge.”

“White Lion?”

“A notorious murderer known as a member of the Pandemonium. He’s a highly wanted criminal with a particularly cruel modus operandi and a bizarre taste for human flesh, someone who tends to establish vengeful relationships.”

“Hmm...”

In a world with crocodile-headed and eagle-headed beings, the existence of lion-headed individual didn’t seem unusual.

“Anyway, we intend to settle your contributions to this matter.”

“A settlement?”

“Since you haven’t formally joined the Eyes of Blue, you’re an outsider. It’s only natural to compensate you accordingly.”

Lapis rose from her chair.

“Rather than talking about it here, it would be better to show you and explain. Come with me.”

She then led Lennok directly to the basement of the lighthouse.

After passing through guest rooms on the basement’s first floor and navigating through cluttered, dimly lit rooms and warehouses on the second floor, they reached the third floor. A massive iron door awaited them.

Lapis touched the door and channeled mana into it, causing it to swing open, revealing the interior.

The room emanated a gentle warmth and a distinct fragrance, a blend of various magical energies.

It reminded Lennok of when the wizard Raul had displayed his collection of artifacts.

It’s akin to the essence of alchemy, which is the condensation of the mystical into a single form.

If he studies this essence alongside his existing foundational knowledge of alchemy, mastering the art of alchemy wouldn’t be too daunting.

With these thoughts in mind, Lennok followed Lapis up to the lighthouse.

At the summit of the colossal lighthouse, half of which lay in ruins.

Amidst the debris from the fallen stone walls scattered on the observation deck, Lapis turned toward Lennok, her face braving the wind.

“You’ve really gone through a lot this time. I originally just wanted to have a simple chat, but I’ve inadvertently received a lot of help.”

“There’s no need to think that way. I wouldn’t have even tried if the odds were against us.”

While physically exhausting, there was no denying the tremendous gains made.

Lennok had obtained benefits, both magical and financial, that exceeded everything he had accomplished thus far.

From the development of unique fire-based magic to innovative magical research.

Not just a few Malabest roots but all the assets seized from the drug lord’s storage.

And the Charm of Earth’s Embrace that Lapis had given as a token of gratitude for his involvement in this affair.

Certainly, this information about the drug lord being comatose would prove highly valuable when he returned to the Vulcan.

Even though he had been tirelessly navigating the autonomous region without proper rest for days, Lennok was content, knowing he had gained more than he had invested.

“What are you planning to do going forward?”

“I plan to leave the autonomous region for a while. Although we’ve successfully subdued the drug lord, it would be wise to step back and monitor the situation with Pandemonium.”

“......”

“Not just Pandemonium, the Guuido Church is also showing unusual movements. Unlike Pandemonium, who plans to use monsters from the sea, they are genuine zealots serving the apocalypse, so we need to be even more cautious.”

Lennok tilted his head as he observed Lapis from behind.

The bright sunlight cast a shadow on her face as it radiated from behind her.

“Aren’t you going to ask me to join the Eyes of Blue anymore? You’re being quite generous.”

“Isn’t it enough that I’ve realized I can’t persuade you with just a few words?”

“......”

“I am content with keeping the relationship like this for now.”

Lapis’s demeanor seemed much more relaxed than before. She must have adjusted her approach after witnessing Lennok’s handling of the drug lord.

“Whenever you can gauge what we can achieve, please visit us again. That will be enough.”

“You speak well. But what if I really don’t show my face after saying so?”

Rather than responding directly, Lapis offered a gentle smile.

Unable to resist, Lennok also chuckled.

“Fine, good. I was planning on going back to the Vulcan anyway. I can put off what comes next. Let’s see how well you can keep your word until then.”

“I will not give up. Shouldn’t you go through nine thresholds to get a good spear?”

“......Is that how you use proverbs here? Whether it’s a spear or a sword, it doesn’t matter, think as you please.”

He gave a slight shake to the rosary bracelet on his wrist.

“I’d rather not repeat yesterday, but I’m always open to gifts like today.”