Mobilizing Military Supplies

Doug's eyes darted around. Then he gave a wry smile and said:

"Hall Master, I may look like I'm doing fine, but I've been under surveillance for a long time. There's no way they'd let me know any real secrets.

And the only thing I have going for me is my position in the Academy Alliance's Council of Twelve Elders. The Grand Council has nothing to do with the Alliance."

Doug wasn't lying. He truly didn't know the reason.

After all, the Grand Council had been convened ahead of schedule. Even without knowing anything else, that change in timing said plenty.

Ever since the Empire had fallen, Doug had kept as low a profile as he could. Why would he go out of his way to investigate something that was clearly going to be big?

Of course, not knowing was one thing. He did have ways to find out, but he wasn't about to go looking for trouble.

When he saw Samlet's fist begin to glow, Doug hurriedly continued:

"Actually, there's a simple way to handle this. Didn't I just tell you to enter the tournament? If you win and go on to the Grand Council's contest, then whatever scheme they have, I'm sure you can deal with it on the spot."

The old fellow was as sly as a fox now. He had already worked out his escape route.

Samlet wasn't going to expose himself when he still had another option, so Doug had managed to keep his life this time.

"You'd better pray you're telling the truth. Otherwise, even if I kill no one else, I'll take you with me."

Doug's heart trembled at the icy killing intent in Samlet's words.

Watching Samlet leave, he let out a long breath. Then, looking defeated, he cursed toward the Royal