In the secret chamber of the Grim Guzzler, the Paladin and the Warlock sat on opposite sides of an obsidian table. The Paladin looked perfectly composed, as though he had not been the one to propose the insane idea of taking on the Dark Iron, Blackrock, and Black Dragons all at once. From his utterly unchanged eyes, Kanrethad could tell that the man was clearly confident in the payment he had offered.
That did pique the Warlock's curiosity. The harder the task, the greater the reward-that was practically a law. Dick's brimming confidence meant that, no matter how difficult the task was, he was absolutely certain Kanrethad would agree after seeing what was inside the wooden box.
Kanrethad narrowed his eyes. His black eyes gave Dick an inexplicable sense of familiarity, but the next moment, the Warlock Baron raised a finger.
"You're a real madman... but let's get this straight first. If the payment isn't enough, I'm not joining you in your madness!"
Dick said nothing. He merely withdrew the fingers resting on the wooden box and gestured for him to go ahead.
Kanrethad sniffed, then extended a finger and gently flicked the lid of the wooden box.
Click.
The wooden box opened.
The Warlock's previously indifferent gaze instantly filled with shock and puzzlement, mixed with a trace of delighted surprise. He clearly recognized what lay inside the box. Even his body, which had been reclining on the sofa, leaned forward. But the moment he touched the cold metal, his gaze suddenly turned guarded again. Dick recognized that look.
Back in Mount Hyjal Valley, the Paladin had worn that same look himself. It was the look of someone facing an unbeatable opponent, helpless, frustrated, and resentful, yet forced to grit his teeth and charge all the same.
Kanrethad weighed his