The Bewildered Nations of the West

Although little Elvis had learned to walk, rolling was still his favorite way of getting around.

Steve felt every muscle in his body stiffen. If he accidentally stepped on him, would he drop dead on the spot?

Tru was much more relaxed. He had more opportunities to see the little prince.

He took out the samples he had brought, chose a cross-shaped pendant, crouched down, and handed it to Elvis.

"Your Highness, this is a gift from the Transcendent Research Institute."

The cross itself was dark, giving off a faint glow that lingered around it, though it did not look particularly ornate.

Yet to Elvis, it was incredibly appealing.

His senses were exceptionally sharp, and he immediately reached out and grabbed the cross.

A warm feeling spread from his palm, making him feel very comfortable.

"I want it, I want it."

The little fellow rolled back the way he had come, holding up his new toy to show off to his parents and grandfather.

Derek naturally knew what it was, so he did not stop him.

As for safety concerns, they could inspect it afterward.

"This is the surprise you brought?" Derek looked as though he had only just learned of it, examining it with "curiosity." "A Transcendent item?"

Tru naturally gave his student the chance to shine. He no longer needed such credit to prove his worth.

After Tru gave him a shove, Steve suddenly went mute. Annoyed, Tru gave him a smack. "Say something! Aren't you usually such a talker?"

Steve smiled awkwardly and began his introduction with a stammer. "Your Majesty... this is... the latest achievement of our Transcendent... Research Institute..."

The more he spoke, the smoother he became, eventually explaining his research results in great detail.

Derek was very satisfied. This was the purpose of the