Chapter 188: Invitation to Akarios

Chapter 188: Invitation to Akarios



Vincent sat in his office, his gaze fixed on the letter from the Elven Kingdom resting on his desk. He'd been mulling over the offer for hours, trying to think through every angle. The decision wasn't something to be made lightly, and inviting Princess Elara and her advisors to Akarios Island felt like the right move-at least for now. He needed more information before making a choice that could change everything for his forces, the elves, and the world at large.

He reached for his radio. "Colonel Brandt, report to my office."

There was a brief crackle on the other end before Brandt's calm voice responded, "On my way, sir."

Vincent leaned back, his fingers tracing the edge of the letter absentmindedly. The Elven Kingdom was powerful, and their knowledge of magic could greatly enhance his side in the ongoing war. But marriage? It wasn't a decision to rush, especially when so many lives were intertwined with the outcome. Elara's proposition showed that she was serious about uniting their forces, but Vincent needed more time to consider how far he was willing to go.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

A soft knock on the door interrupted his thoughts, and Colonel Brandt stepped in. He gave a respectful nod before taking a seat at Vincent's gesture.

"Colonel," Vincent started, his tone thoughtful, "I've decided that before making any final decisions about Princess Elara's offer, we need to bring them here, to Akarios Island."

Brandt raised an eyebrow slightly, listening intently.

"We'll send a formal letter back, informing them that I'm considering her proposal, but I need more time to think. In the meantime, I'll invite them here for further discussions. It's better to assess the situation in person, and this will give us an opportunity to solidify the alliance-regardless of whether the marriage happens."

Brandt nodded. "That's a smart move, sir. Showing them what we've built here will strengthen their confidence in our capabilities."

"Exactly," Vincent continued. "We've made significant progress with the dwarven minerals and our new technologies. If we can show the elves that we're serious about working together, it will solidify our position. But I won't be rushed into a personal decision like marriage without knowing all the details."

"And what has the human commander decided, Your Highness?" One of them asked.

Princess Elara set the letter on the table before her, her eyes thoughtful. "He's considering the proposal. He hasn't refused it outright, but he wishes to meet in person on Akarios Island to discuss the terms of our alliance further."

The room grew quiet as her advisors processed this. The political weight of her proposal had not been lost on any of them. An alliance forged through marriage was a rare and powerful bond-one that could not be undone easily.

"It seems Vincent is as prudent as we expected, Your Highness. He seeks more information before committing to such a union," one of the advisors said.

Elara nodded. "That is understandable. A decision of this magnitude requires careful thought. He has invited us to Akarios Island, where we can discuss the alliance in person. I believe this is the best course of action for now."

The eldest of the advisors, Eldren, a figure of deep wisdom, spoke next. "An invitation to Akarios Island is no small matter. Vincent wishes to show us the strength of his forces and his advancements with the dwarven technology. It is a strategic move to earn our trust."

Princess Elara allowed a small smile. "It is also an opportunity for us to assess their strength firsthand. The human commander has proven himself a formidable leader, and their technological advancements could tip the scales in our favor against the demon threat."

The advisors exchanged glances, all seeming to agree with her assessment. "Prepare the royal entourage," Elara commanded. "We will travel to Akarios Island at once. The demons are growing bolder by the day, and we cannot afford to delay."

"As you wish, Your Highness. The preparations will begin immediately."

As her advisors moved to execute her orders, Elara remained seated, her eyes lingering on the letter from Vincent.

"Thank you for inviting me," Elara muttered under her breath.