Chapter 689: Absorbing the mana from Mana Pool
"Elder Drew, that’s what I wanted as well," Lyra said softly, stepping forward as she looked at him with a calm and composed gaze. Her words didn’t come as a surprise to Max—she had already told him about this—but hearing her say it openly confirmed what he felt deep down.
She had seen this outcome, anticipated this moment, and created the path for him. That was why she chose him to represent the Great Ruler Empire from the very start. Her confidence in him hadn’t been born from impulse, but from intent.
Elder Drew fell into a thoughtful silence for a few moments, his eyes shifting from Lyra to Max, as if weighing the decision one last time.
Then, with a small smile curling on his lips, he gave a nod. "It’s really not that hard for me to agree to something like this," he said with a hint of pride in his tone.
He turned to Max fully now, eyes filled with approval. "Kid, you fought for the face of our Great Ruler Empire... and you didn’t let us down, not even in the slightest. For that alone, I’ll grant your wish."
He paused briefly, then added, his voice becoming a little more solemn yet reassuring, "And remember, you are now a full-fledged member of the Great Ruler Empire. You’ve earned that through your strength and will. If you have any similar requests in the future, don’t hesitate. Speak freely."
Max bowed respectfully, sincerity reflected in every gesture and every word. "Thank you, Elder Drew," he said, his voice firm but humble. He meant it. Not just out of courtesy, but from a genuine place of respect—for the elder who stood up for him against Elder Heng without hesitation.
In his mind he also thanked Lyra deeply. It was only because of her that he was here.
"Alright, you two kids handle things here. I’ll see you back at the empire," Elder Drew said with a light chuckle, waving his hand casually before turning around. With steady steps, the elder made his way out of the cave, his presence slowly fading until only silence remained.