Chapter 631 - Tear of Asha (1/2)
Chapter 631: Tear of Asha
[Tear of Asha (Legendary Artifact)]
[Buildable — Holy Maiden Statue]
[Requirement: Guild Fortress / Territorial level above the middle level]
[Consumption: 300k Gold Coins. 100 kg of Magic Crystals]
Rhode twitched his brows. The requirement of 300k gold coins was tough for him. Although he had received a lot of money from the Midsummer Festival, Paphield Battle, and the 5 Star Missions, the money had come and gone too quickly. Constructing the Fortress almost wiped out all his savings. Even though he had received some money in exchange for building the Fortress, the money was invested in the training of the Cavalrymen, establishing his private soldiers, and paying the mercenaries’ salaries. The operations of the guild had been especially rough for him as other guilds received income from their backings. However, in order to remain independent, Rhode had chosen to maintain the livelihood of the guild himself. Currently, his income was made up from the contributions of the merchants working in the Fortress, profit-sharing from the mine extraction, and sale of Lapis’s alchemy potions. It could also be said that Lapis was one of the crucial supporters of Starlight. Due to enhancements from an Alchemist Master, her potions had exceptional effects and were relatively popular in Paphield and nearby regions. During auctions, the various potions put on sale by Starlight often sold for high prices and this had become a major financial backing for the guild. In other words, without Lapis, perhaps Starlight would have a tough time operating smoothly.
Even though Lydia had conferred Rhode a territory, bluntly speaking, since there wasn’t anyone residing in Grenbell, this trip to the monastery would probably result in more profit than if he had raked Grenbell for 10 years.
And now, Rhode’s guild probably wouldn’t receive too much financial support even in the foreseeable future. This was also the reason why he had been thrifty. According to Marlene’s report, he had no more than 500k gold coins and this amount included all the wealth rummaged from the monastery. Although there was an agreement with the Silver Libra Trade Association to receive free Magic Crystals for support, Rhode was still helpless in terms of finances.
Rhode puckered his brows.
He wasn’t actually left without a choice, as the Senia Family was wealthy by the millions. If he sought assistance from her, he could receive five million gold coins in a snap of fingers. However, he wouldn’t do that and it wasn’t due to embarrassment. In the game, Rhode was righteous in using Mini Bubble Gum’s money and he wasn’t upset that players had accused him of living off a woman. However, it was different back then. Mini Bubble Gum’s money came from her and if there were any disputes or opinions over the fundings, it was a problem between Rhode and her. But unlike the large families, even if Marlene and her father were willing to support him, the funding ultimately belonged to the family. Even if Marlene didn’t mind, the Senia Family members might pressure her over the issue and make it difficult for her. The power disputes and conflicts of interests in large families were complicated and Rhode didn’t wish to get involved before settling his other issues.
Moreover, Rhode had a doubtful attitude toward the Senia Family.
Rhode knew that the Senia Family definitely admired him and the situation wasn’t simple. It could be seen from the fact that Marlene continued to stay by his side after the internal battle. If Marlene was considered to be learning through experience in the past, it should have ended by now no matter what. However, she returned to him and stayed as his adjutant instead. Although he had become an overlord, his identity wasn’t as grand as Marlene’s.
So then, what is the Senia Family plotting?
Rhode decided to keep a distance from the Senia Family before fully understanding their intentions. His relationship with Marlene was private. However, the Senia Family was a massive noble presence and there were no interpersonal sentiments involved. If he came into contact with the Senia Family like how he did with Marlene, he would surely get into huge trouble. And he wasn’t keen on masochism.
Knock knock knock.
Agatha’s apathetic voice sounded from behind the door.
“Master, Chairman Matt is here.”
“Let him in.”
Rhode switched off the system prompts running before his eyes. Then, he folded his arms, leaned back into the chair and answered to the calling. Shortly after, the door opened and a fat merchant greeted with a warm, passionate smile. He bowed respectfully to Rhode.
“Long time no see, Mr. Rhode… Aiya. Wrong. Should I call you Sir Overlord instead?”
“Sticking to the same will do, Mr. Matt.”
Rhode nodded and beckoned to Matt for a seat. Agatha drifted forward and poured a cup of tea for the guest before leaving quietly. Matt shifted his gaze from the strange-looking Ocean Elf and revealed an awkward smile after she left the room.
“I’ve brought what you wanted, Mr. Rhode. Two chariots of Magic Crystals. I think it will be sufficient for your usage, but… this is really unexpected.”