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.
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."
Brandt's expression showed understanding as he responded, "The elves will appreciate seeing the strength of our forces up close. It's not just about the marriage-it's about trust. This will give us time to further the discussions and assess their situation as well."
Vincent tapped the edge of his desk, thinking. "Draft a letter and make it clear that I respect their offer but need time to consider it fully. Extend an invitation for them to come here, where we can talk in person."
Brandt rose from his seat. "I'll get that prepared immediately, sir."
As he moved toward the door, Vincent added, "And ensure the island's defenses are heightened for their arrival. We don't know how close the demons are to their borders, and I don't want any surprises. The elves are facing serious attacks, and I won't risk endangering our position by allowing their enemies to follow them here."
Brandt gave a firm nod. "I'll see to it, sir. The island's security will be on full alert. We'll be ready for their arrival whenever it comes."
***
The Elven Kingdom's towering trees, bathed in the soft glow of enchanted lights.
Deep within the heart of the forest, in a majestic hall carved into the largest tree, Princess Elara sat among her advisors, the weight of the recent demon attacks etched in her every decision. Though the kingdom had been mostly isolated for centuries, the time for such isolation was long over.
An Elven courier entered the room quietly, carrying a letter sealed with the distinctive mark of Akarios Island. Princess Elara's gaze sharpened as the letter was presented to her. She knew this letter would determine the next phase of her kingdom's future. She broke the seal, her long, graceful fingers making quick work of the wax.
Her eyes scanned the contents, and her expression remained calm, though there was a flicker of something else-relief, perhaps. She folded the letter neatly before looking up at her advisors.
"Vincent has responded," she said, her voice calm and steady.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om
"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.