Published at 27th of August 2023 10:49 am

Chapter 161 The Response Of The Arezo Family

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Deep within the heart of the land lies an extraordinary marvel known as the energy mine. This remarkable repository boasts an impressive reserve of energy stones, an unparalleled source of power capable of sustaining the continent for countless millennia. These mystical stones, revered and sought after by every city on the human continent, serve as the lifeblood of progress, vitalizing and enabling the functionality of every advanced tool and invention crafted by our ingenious race.

The significance of energy stones cannot be overstated, as they embody the very essence of technological prowess. From towering metropolises to humble settlements, every corner of the human continent relies on these rare gems to fuel their industrious endeavors and propel their societies forward. The intricate machinery, city defense systems, even magic lambs, and a myriad of other innovations that have propelled the continent to this level all draw upon the boundless energy harnessed within these coveted stones.

Yet, it is precisely their scarcity that magnifies their value to extraordinary proportions. Energy stones are a finite resource, painstakingly extracted from deep within the mine's intricate labyrinth of tunnels and caverns. Their scarcity is matched only by their price, with even a single high-quality energy stone demanding a sum equivalent to an entire month's revenue for a modest-sized city. Such exorbitant costs act as a constant reminder of the stone's rarity and its indispensable role in powering the ambitions and aspirations of humanity.

The dependence on energy stones, coupled with their exorbitant price, perpetuates a delicate economic balance. Cities must allocate significant portions of their resources to secure these precious stones, often engaging in complex trade negotiations and strategic alliances to ensure a steady supply. The procurement of energy stones becomes an intricate dance of economics, as city revenues are carefully budgeted and channeled to acquire the necessary fuel for their technological marvels.

Idar, entrusted with overseeing this monumental project, had finally sent his long-awaited confirmation of its completion. In his letter, he proclaimed that most of the formidable challenges encountered during the mine's establishment had been surmounted. Equipped with cutting-edge extraction machinery and an ample workforce, the mine was now prepared to extract substantial quantities of energy stones for export and trade.

Fray, as he absorbed the tidings from Idar's missive, found a surge of elation welling within him. Finishing the letter, his mind instinctively charted the next course of action. "Magnificent. Once I vanquish the dungeon, I shall summon Idar back to the city to herald the mine's opening. It will mark our family's triumphant entry into the energy crystal trade. Perhaps a grand press conference or direct engagement with prospective clients would be the most impactful approach. I shall delve into the details when the opportune moment arrives."

Seated at his desk, Fray gently placed Idar's letter before him, reaching out for another missive—an invitation extended to the Arezo family to join the esteemed Parada lineage as disciples. Now, with bated breath, he awaited their response.

"Dear Mr. Parada, we hope this letter finds you in good health. We humbly apologize for the delay in our reply, as we have recently grappled with internal troubles...Regarding your generous offer, Mr. Parada, we express our profound interest in accepting. However, we harbor additional conditions and fervently hope the esteemed head of the family will kindly consider them..."

Fray let out a soft sigh, foreseeing a labyrinth of terms and prerequisites in the Arezo family's response. While most of their stipulations were agreeable, one particular condition gnawed at Fray's core.

"And lastly, Mr. Parada, we propose the unification of our families through a sacred bond of matrimony, forging a union that shall fortify our ties and trust."

Silently contemplating the sentence that now held him captive, Fray's hand gravitated towards a small golden bell adorning the desk.

Deng! Deng!

Shortly after the bell's chime, a resolute knock resonated at the office door. Granting permission, he welcomed Montaser, who entered with a sense of triumph and deep respect.

"Sir, you summoned me?" Montaser inquired, his tone reverential.

"Yes, I seek your counsel on a weighty matter," Fray replied, extending the letter to Montaser. "The Arezo family has responded, and their answer has veered from my anticipated path."

"Unexpected, you say?" Montaser mumbled, perplexed, as he received the letter.

As Montaser perused the contents, his countenance gradually hardened, his emotions simmering as he reached the third condition.

"What!? How dare they? After bestowing upon them countless advantages, they audaciously make such an audacious demand," Montaser exclaimed, his voice tinged with anger.

Fray, leaning back in his chair, maintained a calm composure. "What are your thoughts?" he asked, his gaze piercing Montaser's troubled expression.

Sighing, Montaser responded, his words laced with unease, "That old man is unbending, sir. I fear he would resist any alterations to these conditions."

Acknowledging Montaser's concerns, Fray replied serenely, "Indeed, but their request holds a grain of reason."

(Master is right. While not entirely unreasonable, their request aligns with the prevalent concept of political marriages within influential families. Yet, Master is different.) Montaser recognized the depth of Fray's suffering during his formative years—the animosity and hatred directed at him by his own kin, and the perilous war that nearly claimed his young life. Fray's childhood had been an inferno, with no one to shield him from the flames. One aspect he held responsible was the culture of polygamy, devoid of genuine affection, imposed by his father. If only his father had chosen a single woman and loved her wholeheartedly, Fray's anguish might have been alleviated. Such thoughts regarding harem culture and polygamy had shaped Fray into the extraordinary individual he was today, setting him apart from other leaders.

After a moment of introspection, Fray's voice broke the silence. "I am inclined to accept their offer."

"What? But why, sir? Are the Arezo family truly deserving of such a concession?" Montaser questioned, genuine concern etched on his face.

"Yes, the Arezo family holds a pivotal role in our original plan. Surrendering them is not an option," Fray replied, fixing Montaser with a resolute gaze.

"But, sir..." Montaser began, voicing his apprehension.

"Worry not, Montaser. I harbor no reservations. We have little to lose."

Perceiving Fray's unwavering conviction, Montaser sighed inwardly before acquiescing, "If that is your decision, sir, I shall not impede you."

As Fray made up his mind and commenced composing a reply to the Arezo family, a particular detail from the novel flashed in his memory, piquing his curiosity. "Montaser, do you happen to know how many eligible young women the Arezo family possesses?"

"Well, sir, the Arezo family is quite extensive. They have several young girls, but most are born of the harem. Only three carry the family name, and merely one remains unmarried," Montaser disclosed.

(Only one! There is no doubt. She must be the one.) Fray wore a composed facade as he muttered softly, "It seems there may be an avenue to escape this union after all."

"What do you mean, sir?" Montaser inquired, bewildered by the cryptic remark.

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