Chapter 87: Possible Mishaps?
After the contract signing, the atmosphere in the council chamber lightened considerably. The seriousness of the negotiations gave way to a more relaxed and celebratory mood. King Thandor, clearly pleased with the outcome, extended an invitation to Vincent and his team to join him for a lavish lunch prepared by the elves.
"Now that our business is concluded," King Thandor said with a warm smile, "let us celebrate our new alliance with a meal."
Vincent nodded appreciatively. "We would be honored, Your Majesty."NewW novels updates at novelhall.com
The group was led to an ornate dining hall. The long table in the center was laden with an array of dishes which were just the dishes they prepared for them during the celebratory banquet.
Vincent and his team ate what their stomach could handle and after that, they retreated to their room.
"I must admit, the elves do really know how to cook," Vincent commented.
Alpha 3 nodded in agreement, a satisfied grin on his face. "You couldn't say it any better, sir." Alpha 1, who had been quiet throughout the meal, chimed in, "It's not just the food. The way they've treated us, the hospitality...top notch. I'd rate them five stars."
"Settle down now," Vincent said as he waved his hand to calm them down. "Let's discuss our next steps here. We will stay here in the Elven kingdom for a couple of weeks where we will train the Elven soldiers with our weapons, after that, we will leave and head towards the Dwarven Kingdom. Now the problem is we are going to need to bring the 100 M4 Carbine and pistols. How am I going to bring it here when we are being watched from all corners."
"We are getting watched from all corners?" Eamon repeated, dumbfounded at Vincent's words.
He made his way towards the King's residence and once inside the grand halls of the palace, Lorian was ushered into the throne room where King Thandor and Princess Elara were still discussing the recent negotiations. Their conversation halted as Lorian entered, and they both turned to face him.
"Your Majesty, Your Highness," Lorian began, bowing deeply. "I have urgent news."
King Thandor's expression shifted from curiosity to concern. "Speak, Lorian. What have you learned?"
Lorian straightened, his tone serious. "The humans are aware of our surveillance. They know we have been watching them, and they are discussing ways to bring in weapons to fulfill the contract. But something was off and I couldn't puzzle it out. It's something about them possibly not being able to meet the end of their bargain."
King Thandor leaned forward, his brow furrowed in thought. "So you're saying Vincent Stryder is having logistical issues? That he might not be able to deliver on his promise?"
Lorian nodded. "Yes, Your Majesty. It seems they are concerned about how to bring the weapons here without us noticing. They mentioned being under constant surveillance and seemed worried about how we might react if they fail to deliver."
Princess Elara exchanged a glance with her father. "This could complicate things. If they can't bring the weapons as promised, it could undermine the entire agreement."
"And put themselves in a very precarious situation, especially Vincent Strider," King Thandor finished. "I want Vincent summoned here. I wish to discuss this matter directly with him."
Lorian bowed. "At once, Your Majesty." He turned and swiftly exited the throne room to carry out the king's command."
Princess Elara watched him leave before turning back to her father. "Do you think they intended to deceive us, or are they genuinely struggling with their logistics?"
King Thandor sighed, leaning back in his chair. "It's hard to say. Vincent Stryder seems honorable, but we cannot afford to take chances. If they fail to deliver, it means that they are just like other humans. And I wish they weren't."