Chapter 406 Pre-emptive (2/2)

Strictly speaking, this agreement wasn't too beneficial for the Keller Family. But Keller agreed without hesitation. After all, the most important purpose for this decision was to improve their relationship with Starlight. His scheme was similar to Matt's, where both of them recognized the two political resources—Lize and Marlene. Also, Rhode was also admired deeply by Monarch Lydia. Keller only just took over the Merchant Association of the Paphield region and needed powerful political backing, and urgently. To be able to maintain a close relationship with Rhode and Starlight meant the best for Keller.

Keller's visit didn't surprise Rhode, but Klautz's reaction was out of Rhode's expectations. Originally he thought that this owner of Deep Stone City cum Paphield Magistrate had the same intentions as Keller, which was to do business with Starlight. However, Klautz didn't express such an attitude; instead, Klautz only spoke normally and in the end, he promised Rhode that Paphield would become their solid backing. As long as Rhode's guild didn't violate any laws, Klautz could make things convenient for Rhode.

Rhode didn't fully believe Klautz's words. However, Rhode expressed that Starlight, as a new guild in Paphield, would strive to oversee the mercenary groups and guarantee the peace and stability of Paphield as gratitude. No matter what, mercenary groups or guilds were still the 'products' of an authority organization. According to the laws of the Dragon Soul Continent, a guild couldn't have more than 500 registered members and to prevent anyone from taking advantage of any loopholes, they had also set a rule that a Guild Fortress couldn't have more than 1500 people. Considering the future additions of members from the Church, Keller Family, Matt's trade association, and Deep Creek village, these procedures would be thorny, which was why it would be better if things could be settled quickly.

On the contrary, the Mercenary Association which Sereck represented didn't bring any daunting tasks for Rhode. After all, they were also clear that Starlight was still a newborn baby and to immediately request growth wasn't reasonable. As such, Sereck only raised some points to Rhode with regards to basic situations and the necessity of filling member records. However, what caught Rhode's attention was the necessary completion of two five stars missions with the hard indicators of a year, which Sereck mentioned before he left. After all, half a year had already gone and Sereck was worried that Rhode's guild would be forcefully demoted because he didn't complete the requirements. Of course, Rhode already had plans for this.

It was already noon after he sent off everyone.Rhode let out a long sigh while Lapis and Christie prepared their pieces of baggage and were waiting for him. But…

”Sir, just you alone?”

Kavos questioned with doubts and shifted his gaze towards Christie and Lapis with an awkward expression. Other than the huge easel on Christie's back, there were only a few pieces of clothes she would be bringing over to the fortress. On the other hand, there were three pieces of baggage of different sizes beside Lapis. According to her, this was only a small portion of all her luggage.

After receiving Rhode's order, Kavos thought Rhode would bring along a few other mercenaries for the journey back. However, it seemed like things were otherwise. Can Sir handle all this baggage alone?

”Follow me.”

Rhode didn't respond; instead, he beckoned for Kavos and Shauna before turning towards the stairs. Both of them exchanged dubious glances and followed Rhode down the stairs after lifting the baggage.

Under Rhode's lead, everyone arrived at a room located on the second basement floor. This place was originally set up for training mercenaries with the Sphere of Mystery. Now that the Sphere of Mystery had been shifted to the fortress by Rhode, this location had been modified for the Summon Gate. Everyone was surprised as they entered the room.

What's this?

A rock-carved large gate built into the wall was seen in the deepest end of the room. At first glance, this gate was no different from any stone carving. However, after careful observation, they realized that there was a hovering whirlpool glinting with magical radiance right in the middle of the pitch-black gate, like a revolving galaxy.

”Sir… This is…”

Upon hearing Shauna's question, Rhode approached the wooden gate and knocked.

”This is a magical portal. It can transport us between the stronghold and fortress… In simple terms, we can go to the fortress in the Land of Atonement and the stronghold here at our will. Understand?”

”There's such a thing?!”

Both Shauna and Kavos were shocked as they knew the importance of this gate. At this moment, Shauna finally understood how Rhode returned to the stronghold in absolute silence.

”I guess both of you are aware that this gate is very important. Within the guild, only me, Marlene, Lize, Anne, Gillian, Canary, and Mini Bubble Gum are aware of its presence. Now that both of you are aware, I think you should be clear that this must be kept a secret from everyone else. Only those who pass the test and show loyalty to the guild will have the rights to know about the presence of this gate.”

Rhode paused for a moment and turned towards Shauna and Kavos.

”Shauna, you should know that this is a top secret. I have set up magical sentries here and it will trigger an alarm once it detects an intruder. But I still hope that you can keep this secret securely.”

”Yes, Sir, please be assured. I will not leak this secret.”

Shauna instantly promised sternly. After receiving Shauna's word, Rhode nodded and turned to Kavos.

”Kavos, check on the manpower we have after I leave and prepare to head into the Land of Atonement. I guarantee there's a surprise for you there. So then…”

Rhode paused before turning his head towards Christie and Lapis.

”We should go… I have a date tonight.”