Chapter 1215
Hoffland wanted to say that these items were far too valuable to be left in the hands of juniors; they should be reclaimed by the family. But looking at the expressions on those young faces, he couldn't bring himself to say it. Besides, these gifts were personally given by Leon—no one had the right to intervene.
Most importantly, while the value of these gifts varied, each one was perfectly suited to its recipient. Even if someone else took it, they might not be able to make full use of it. This way, there was no need to worry about internal strife...
Hoffland watched Leon's expression; it was as if giving away these priceless treasures was no different than an elder buying a child a piece of candy—utterly casual, completely unconcerned...
It's said that the wealth Leon has amassed in the Blazeforge Realm has even made the orcs willing to cooperate. Clearly, that's no exaggeration. The most valuable territory is the Four Seasons Plain, but that's land Leon conquered himself—I'm in no position to reach for it.
With so many resources, couldn't Leon spare just a bit for the family? Even a trade would do—some of those rare resources are nearly impossible to buy, and they'd be enough to boost the family considerably.
Of course, claiming I'm not jealous would be a lie. But now, I don't even dare to ask—let alone reach for anything. Leon's reputation is fearsome; in the Blazeforge Realm, there are almost no forces left willing to provoke him. Those who could, simply don't want to risk it...
Seeing the younger Merlin Family members growing more and more excited, even Hoffland struggled to keep them in check. He hurriedly led Leon back to the Merlin Family estate.
When they reached the Merlin Estate Gate, Hoffland saw the welcoming crowd—including even those elders he usually clashed with—and suddenly had an idea.
Returning to the Merlin Family, a welcoming banquet was inevitable. Leon was generous, handing out plenty of Blazeforge Realm specialties—even several alchemical golems. These level-35 alchemical golems are a rare sight here, where even titled archmages are scarce; they're truly formidable.
Once the banquet celebrating Leon's triumphant return ended, Hoffland hurriedly pulled him away.
Seated in the study, Hoffland looked earnest and deeply moved.
"Archmage Leon, perhaps my greatest contribution to the Merlin Family in this lifetime was bringing you back. Your father has a remarkable son—that's the Merlin Family's fortune, and mine as well."
Ever since you joined the Merlin Family, honestly, the most obvious change is that I've finally started to feel the dignity of a true patriarch.
Even the Watson Family, once our adversaries, now cooperate with us—and it's genuine cooperation. Our family's strength has grown considerably.
Cloudspire Tower and the Black Tower have also changed their attitude toward us. Now, many collaborations begin with the Merlin Family—even those stubborn, foul-tempered battlemages from the Caucasus Highlands."
Leon was completely baffled, unsure what Hoffland was getting at. He opened his mouth but said nothing, letting Hoffland continue.
"When our Merlin Family disciples went out to train and got into trouble, it was those madmen who came to their rescue—just because they'd heard that kid was Archmage Leon's cousin...
You have to understand, our Greendale Kingdom's relationship with those battlemages is anything but friendly. If we run into them in the wild, it's a miracle if they don't kill us outright—let alone offer a helping hand.
Even the Cloudspire Tower Sanctuary sent people to discuss cooperation with our Merlin Family's sanctuary, and Archmage Leon was specifically mentioned...