Chapter 56: Xin Haotian’s Origin
Inside Emperor Ladwin's workroom, Aldrian sat on the sofa in front of the emperor. He had already informed Emperor Ladwin about his encounter with Xin Haotian and his intention to venture outside the Ivory Empire for the time being. Emperor Ladwin sighed,
"It's surprising that he's in the capital. Do you think Xin Haotian is trustworthy? Does he truly mean you no harm? From your story, he seems like someone difficult to deal with. I've only met him a few times, so I can't really tell what kind of person he is." Emperor Ladwin said.
"I'll find out for myself, but during my interaction with him, he seemed sincere in asking for my help—at least for now." Aldrian replied.
"What do you think? Are you truly interested in this endeavor? You can refuse his request if you want. Even though he's the strongest of the great swordmasters, he still has to consider the Evergreen Imperial Family. He won't recklessly cause trouble."
"Well, when he suddenly attacked me, he already caused trouble." Aldrian thought.
"I'll hear him out first, Your Majesty. If there's nothing wrong, I think I can help with his business. Also, this could be beneficial for the Ivory Empire. The empire is gaining too much attention lately, and sooner or later, someone will discover my identity, which wouldn't be good for the empire."
Two incidents involving the mysterious swordsman, the involvement of the devils, and the changes in the Forest of Despair. As for the last point, not long after he left the Forest of Despair, Aldrian created a thick mist wall around the entire outer perimeter of the forest. It was the least he could do to prevent any humans or other races from entering the forest.
This was further reinforced by the decree from the Evergreen Imperial Family, raising the status of the Forest of Despair to a forbidden place. Anyone who dares to violate this decree will have to face the imperial family themselves. This sudden development intrigued many parties, leading them to suspect that the Evergreen Imperial Family might be hiding something in the Forest of Despair.
They speculated that all these events might be interconnected and could reveal the secrets of what the Ivory Empire was trying to hide, including the identity of the mysterious swordmaster or perhaps the swordmaster himself was the secret. With many speculations swirling, Aldrian knew he needed to devise a plan to divert their attention, and he thought that a journey outside the Ivory Empire might do the trick while waiting for the situation to cool down.
"Then I'll support your decision, and—" Emperor Ladwin paused, a thoughtful expression crossing his face before he smiled at Aldrian. "—and you can do what you need to do. This might also be a good way for those searching for you to lose your trail. Perhaps if you make another achievement outside the empire, it will further distract them?"
"That could work, but as I mentioned, I'll first hear what Xin Haotian has to say. Now, I'll take my leave, Your Majesty."