Chapter 196
The next day Kael after rest, was immediately dragged over before the Queen wondering what did this woman want
The long hall was lit by bluish mana crystals embedded deep into the icy pillars. A circle of chairs surrounded a rune-engraved table carved from eternal glacier stone. Seated atop her elevated chair was Queen Alvera, her regal bearing unmistakable in the soft mist of the chamber.
Opposite her stood Kael Veydrin, eyes half-lidded with boredom, but his presence radiated danger — a coiled beast barely leashed. He wore a sleek black coat streaked with torn bloodstains from recent battle, though his aura was calm, almost coldly amused.
The air between them was sharp, colder than even the snowstorms outside.
Alvera broke the silence first. "Let us not waste words, Kael. You wiped out a patrol squad of Nightstar's western detachment. Whether or not they trace it back to you or not, this act of aggression will not go unnoticed."
Kael clicked his tongue, then leaned back against his chair, arms crossed. "You Ice Elves stood idle while I was dragged into that mess. And now you wish to offer protection — after the blood is spilled."
The elder diplomat beside Alvera stiffened. But Alvera raised a hand, her expression calm. "Which is precisely why we offer this pact. The Ice Court will take the official responsibility for the attack. All rumors shall end with us. In case a mishap happens, we will take the blame.Your name, your nation, Veydrin, will remain untouched."
Kael's gaze sharpened. "And in return?"
"You will cooperate with us. As the sole representative of your land, you will sign an accord of cooperation. The deal includes the transfer of modern mechanical knowledge, guidance in weapon manufacturing, and scientific assistance — technology your people have refined beyond even Nightstar's."
Kael laughed dryly. "So, this was your plan? Drag me into a warzone, cover it up as a gift, and then use it to leverage a treaty? Clever."
Alvera met his gaze. "We didn't drag you, Kael. The battlefield dragged you. We simply saw opportunity in chaos. You're a realist. You understand this."
Kael's face darkened, a faint twitch of annoyance at the corner of his lips. "You offer to protect me from a war you pushed me into… and now you want me to be your teacher?"