Chapter 518 - Bad Impression (1/2)
”Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” Caspar said his sentence slowly and firmly, so Alaric clearly noticed it. ”That is what Baron Acton said. And what he said is thoroughly accurate. Power tends to damage people, and absolute power will corrupt people absolutely until there is no hope anymore. Although you are a good person, absolute power will damage you to the core. I really hope you don't take that road.”
”You can't stop me,” Alaric answered with a shrug. ”I have everything to realize my goals.”
Yes, of course, Alaric felt that he didn't need Caspar's support. He had begun to take over the media, technology, and even the automation systems in everyday life, which would soon be implemented en masse. He would be able to use all that to control humans.
”Uhm... What you want to do outside our people is your business, but as long as I am the leader of the clan, I will not let you bring the Alchemists to rule other humans.” Caspar put down his cup and looked at Alaric with a disappointed look.
He had hoped to resign from the position of the clan leader if Alaric would be the candidate to replace him, as supported by all the big families. But after seeing Alaric's arrogant attitude, he felt it was too dangerous to give the young man extra power with Caspar stepping down as the clan leader.
This can't be allowed, he thought. He must be able to persuade Nicolae to come forward in his place.
”I understand,” Alaric said expressionlessly. ”I still respect you as the clan leader and will not argue. But in ten years, when the support of all the members of the clan has turned to me, you will not be able to do anything.”
Finland saw the tension between the two men and hurriedly lifted the plate of cookies in front of Caspar and Alaric, ”Eh... Please taste the cookies. This is a special creation from the best chef in Scotland.”
Alaric nodded towards Finland and then stood up. ”Thank you for your kindness, Mrs. Schneider. I must go.”
Without another word, he then went out.
”Ugh... How arrogant! I didn't expect Lauriel's nephew to be that arrogant.” Caspar grumbled.
***
Alaric met Rune at the exit. The young man had just arrived with London after exploring the area around their hotel with two bodyguards who looked their age.
”Hey... Eli, right? Are you leaving already? That's quick,” asked Rune in surprise. It was only 4:40 PM. According to him, their conversations shouldn't have been finished so he would be able to meet Elios Linden after his father had talked with him. Rune didn't expect Alaric to come out so fast.
”Hello, Rune. How are you?” Alaric smiled at the young man.
He noticed London, who stood beside Rune, and realized that London was very much like his father. And yet, Rune didn't resemble anyone, not his father nor his mother. Maybe that's what made Rune so fun, he thought.
”I'm fine. We just went around and bought souvenirs and explored this area.” Rune turned to his brother, ”I met Eli yesterday and talked about many things.”
”Hi, my name is London.” London raises his hat, greeted Alaric. ”I'm Rune's older brother.”