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.

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."