Chapter 1131 - The Third Academy (2/2)

The replies from the pair were consistent with the report. Before the Giant Armored Scorpion had appeared, they had walked a few hundred meters until they had reached the “tablet wall”. They had no idea as to what was behind it.

In other words, they might have only found a very small portion of the “tablets”.

According to the murals, there should have been tons of bodies.

Roland was also very concerned about the natural environment in the cave and the legendary Flowers of Providence that should have been extinctive a long time ago. According to Simbady, the natural environment in the cave was very similar to that of Silver Stream Oasis.

If the vast meadows had indeed gone through a desertization after the departure of the Three Gods Emissary, so should have the underground cave underneath the Endless Cape.

Perhaps, the legend was not exactly accurate. There might be some other hidden secrets.

Roland could not wait to explore the desert.

After the meeting, Roland had a private talk with Rex.

“Your diving suit is very interesting. The discovery of the ruin would definitely be a part of our history,” Roland said while sipping his tea. “To be honest, I’m surprised that you actually applied the steam engine to your invention. Most people have no idea how to use it unless provided with instructions from our tech guys, let alone transforming it. I believe you’re already halfway to the honor of being titled a lifetime honorary explorer.”

“Th-thank you,” Rex stammered in excitement. “It took me half a year to figure out how this machine works. I can offer you a discounted rate for my diving suits, if that pleases you — ”

“No, you misunderstood me. I don’t need your diving suits,” Roland interrupted him with a smile. “I can certainly make a better one if I want.”

Rex blinked in confusion, apparently astounded at Roland’s reply. He summoned a really forcible grin and said, “Your Majesty…”

Roland talked over him, “I don’t really care about whether you think I’m boasting or not. What I really want is — the Society of Wondrous Crafts.”

Momentarily stunned, Rex said hesitantly, “I… don’t quite follow you…”

“I know what you’re trying to prove, and I can help you get what you want,” Roland said flatly. “There are only two academic schools at present: alchemy and astrology. I believe what you’re doing is very similar to alchemy. Both you and alchemists are creating new things for the mankind. So, why don’t we set up another academic school for wonderous crafts and establish a society for this industry?”

Rex suddenly felt breathless. He instantly took the implication behind these words. If this was an offer from someone else, Rex would definitely think he was talking sheer nonsense or making fun of him. Compared to the prominent Society of Alchemists and Astrology Association, the Society of Wondrous Crafts was frivolous. Nonetheless, powerful and distinguished as the King of Graycastle was, he might be able to achieve what he had just promised.

He swallowed hard and asked in a coarse voice, “And what do you need from me?”

The king must want something from him if he planned to improve the reputation of the Society of Wondrous Crafts.

“Everything.”

“What?”

“Ahem, no, I mean that you work for me,” Roland corrected himself while clearing his throat. “Move to Neverwinter and become a resident of Graycastle. I take all credit for your work and will have the right to sell and use your inventions. You’ll, on the other hand, gain fame and wealth, as well as an optimal research environment in return.”

“I…” Rex did not know what to say. Although his work had been constantly criticized by the public and treated with utmost contempt, he viewed his every invention as his own baby. Most members of the Society of Wondrous Crafts would probably feel reluctant to abandon their research to someone else.

“I understand you need more time to think about it. Take a rest and think it over,” Roland said as he rose to his feet and passed a book across the table. “Let me know your final decision three days later.”

“Your Majesty, this is…” Rex asked in confusion as he took the book.

“Your reward for the discovery of the ruin,” Roland answered with a faint smile.