Chapter 332.2
“Hmm…” Akil mused, his fingers lightly drumming against his chin. An air of contemplation surrounded him, catching Sang-je’s attention. Sensing an intriguing undercurrent, Sang-je couldn’t help but inquire, “King Akil, have you stumbled upon any tales, no matter how fanciful they may seem? Even if they defy belief, I’m eager to hear.”
Akil’s response took a slight turn, “The consortium of merchants back in my homeland wishes to extend a message to Your Holiness.”
A hint of irony danced at the corners of Sang-je’s lips. The ceaseless line of those desiring an audience with him was endless. Given that Sang-je dedicated his time primarily to engaging with the Holy City’s inhabitants, the chances of foreign visitors from Akil’s realm securing an audience were close to nil. Nonetheless, Sang-je affirmed, “It is my solemn duty to disseminate faith to those devout souls aligned with the divine will.”
Summoning a priest promptly, Sang-je requested the roster of individuals seeking an audience, right there in Akil’s presence. After the priest departed, Akil interjected as if a thought had just surfaced, “By the way, though it might not hold direct relevance, some time ago, upon the Fourth King’s request, we granted him a rather exceptional pass. A pass that exempted him from inspections.”
“A pass?” Sang-je’s eyebrows arched with intrigue, his curiosity piqued by this revelation. “You provided the Fourth King with such a privilege, for what?”
Akil’s lips curved into a wry smile. “I shared an extensive discourse with the Fourth King.”
In those words, there lingered an unspoken implication: Akil had also conducted dealings with the Fourth King, just as he had with Sang-je.
“Did the Fourth King provide any insight into why he required the pass?” Sang-je inquired.
“I can’t say. I didn’t ask.”