Chapter 223: Shen Lao’s Request
The following morning found Grim went to find Shen Lao in his private quarters in the Sect.
A spacious room that had been converted into a combination library and laboratory. Ancient texts lined the walls while various alchemical apparatus occupied several tables, creating an atmosphere of scholarly pursuit that the dragon seemed to find deeply satisfying.
"Lord Ambrose," Shen Lao said, looking up from a manuscript he had been examining, "to what do I owe this unexpected visit?"
"I wanted to discuss a matter of mutual benefit," Grim began, settling into the chair across from the dragon’s desk. "Something that could advance both our interests."
Shen Lao’s eyes gleamed with curiosity, though his expression remained carefully neutral. "I’m intrigued. What kind of mutual benefit did you have in mind?"
"A contract," Grim said directly. "I want to form a formal agreement that would allow me to access dragon techniques and, in turn, grant others access to those same abilities through their service to House Ambrose."
The dragon’s eyebrows rose with genuine surprise. "You know about the contract system? That’s... unexpected. Most humans believe that martial techniques can simply be learned through practice and determination. They might be able learn some techniques and enhance it with magic. But it would just be cheap immations."
"Most humans are wrong about many things," Grim replied. "I’ve recently learned that true power requires formal agreements with those who possess it."
"Indeed it does," Shen Lao agreed, leaning back in his chair with obvious interest. "The question is, what makes you think I would be willing to enter into such an arrangement?"
"Because you’re currently a guest in my home with limited resources and no clear path to your long-term goals," Grim said with honesty. "A formal contract would provide you with security, purpose, and the opportunity to see your knowledge passed on to worthy students."
"And what would you gain in return?"