Chapter 200 - 135 Alexander the Great_2
"Ah, Great Chief, I didn’t know you were coming. Just now, I was following Elder Budocaribas to inspect the land of Validosi. I’ve kept you waiting, my sincerest apologies!"
"No, I should be the one apologizing. You’ve traveled so far, and as the host, I failed to greet you in time, and now I’ve come unannounced without prior notice. Please forgive me."
"Not at all, Great Chief. You’re incredibly busy, and yet you’ve made the effort to personally come here—it’s truly an honor for us! We’ve only just arrived and fear our hospitality may not be sufficient."
"No need for that. I just came to take a look and have a chat with you."
...
The two smiled warmly, exchanging pleasantries while sizing each other up.
From Acoupaigos’ perspective: Maximus was indeed very young, yet to command an army of more than ten thousand at such a tender age, his abilities were unquestionable! Furthermore, Cleobrotas mentioned that his subordinates had a strong allegiance to him, an anomaly indeed! Listening to him speak, his tone exuded a maturity slick with tactfulness—more akin to the demeanor of a seasoned elder. Such a stark contrast between his appearance and performance—Acoupaigos had never encountered anyone so extraordinary, his curiosity only deepened.
In Maximus’ eyes: The Great Chief of the Alde Tribe had a wizened face, hair as white as snow, a hunched frame, and a weary expression that suggested he could scarcely stand on his own without the aid of attendants—appearing as though he teetered on the brink of death. Yet, his sharp eyes radiated an aura of undeniable authority that made one instinctively cautious.
"Leader Maximus, what are your thoughts on Validosi?" After some small talk, Acoupaigos directly posed the question.