The King's Decision

Dean Anderson and the two chemists took their leave.

Mariana said worriedly, "Paul, I hope you can calm down. The birth of one or two new technologies won't change anything. The power you can command is simply too small."

Paul retorted, "Oh, that just means there still aren't enough of them. Once quantitative change accumulates to a certain point, it will produce qualitative change."

Unable to convince her son, Mariana felt deeply conflicted.

She stared at Paul, her tone somewhat stiff. "Fine, then use this orc crisis to test how capable you really are. And as your mother, I have only one request—don't put yourself in danger."

"I've always cherished my life!"

Paul answered with a smile.

Mariana fell silent for a moment. "Since that's the case, then tomorrow... No, the day after tomorrow, your brother and I will be setting off."

Her voice was tinged with sadness.

"That soon..." Paul was somewhat astonished.

"We still have very important things to do."

"All right. You're welcome here anytime."

In a sense, they were currently on opposing sides, making the atmosphere between them somewhat awkward.

But Paul no longer had the time or inclination to worry about family matters. He had to devote his energy to the orcs.

As for Mariana, apart from worrying about her son's safety, deep down she did not entirely oppose Paul's choice.

She was even somewhat proud of the courage and resolve Paul had displayed.

When all was said and done, the orcs' attack on Aldo had not been part of the Secret Art Society's plans.

It was merely a transaction, meant to ensure that the Royal Horde would stop harassing Gabella's northern sphere of influence—of course, only for the time being. No one would naively believe that the orcs would ignore the succulent meat right