Chapter 108
Hoffland wanted to say that these items were far too valuable to be left in the hands of the younger generation, and that they should be reclaimed by the family. But looking at the expressions of those young heirs, he couldn't bring himself to say it. Besides, these gifts were personally given out by Leon; no one had the right to intervene.
Most importantly, while the value of these things varied, each was perfectly suited to its recipient. Even if someone else took them, they might not be able to use them to their full potential—so there was no need to worry about internal conflict.
Hoffland watched Leon's expression; it was as if giving away so many priceless treasures was no different than an elder buying a child a piece of candy—so simple, so unconcerned.
Rumor had it that the wealth Leon amassed in the Blazing Flame Plane had even forced the orcs to compromise and cooperate. It seemed the stories were true. The most valuable prize was the territory around the Four Seasons Plains, but unfortunately, that was land Leon had conquered himself; Hoffland had no right to lay claim to it.
With so many resources, could Leon spare just a little for the family? Even a trade would be fine—so many rare resources, most impossible to buy, would greatly strengthen the family.
It would be a lie to say Hoffland wasn't envious or covetous. But now, he didn't dare reach out, or even speak up. Leon's fierce reputation preceded him; in the Blazing Flame Plane, there were almost no forces left willing to provoke him. Those that could, wouldn't bother to risk it without reason.
As the younger members of the Merlin Family grew ever more excited, Hoffland found it harder to contain them. He hurriedly led Leon back to the family estate.
When they reached the gates of the Merlin Family estate, Hoffland saw the welcoming party—even the Elder Council members he usually clashed with were present. Suddenly, an idea struck him.
Back at the Merlin estate, a welcome banquet was a must. Leon was generous, handing out specialties from the Blazing Flame Plane—even several alchemical golems. These level 35 golems, in a place where titled magi were rare, were truly formidable.
After the banquet celebrating Leon's triumphant return, Hoffland hurriedly pulled him away.
Sitting in the study, Hoffland wore a look of sincere emotion and reflection.
"Lord Matthew, perhaps my greatest contribution to the Merlin Family in this lifetime is bringing you back. Your father has a remarkable son; it's the family's fortune, and mine as well.
Since you came to the Merlin Family, to be honest, the most direct change is that my role as patriarch finally feels dignified."
The Watson Family, once our rivals, now cooperate closely with us—and it's real cooperation. Our family's strength has grown considerably.
Even the Cloudspire Tower and the Black Tower have changed their attitude toward us; we've started collaborating on many fronts. Even those stubborn, foul-tempered battle mages from the Caucasus Highlands are working with us."
Leon was baffled, unsure what Hoffland was getting at. He opened his mouth but said nothing, waiting for Hoffland to finish.
"When our Merlin disciples went out to train and ran into danger, it was those crazy battle mages who saved them—just because they heard the kid was your cousin, Lord Marfa...
You know, our Andalusia Kingdom never had good relations with those battle mages. If you met one in the wild, you'd be lucky if they didn't kill you outright, let alone help you.
Even the Cloudspire Tower's sanctuary sent people to negotiate some cooperation with our Merlin sanctuary, and Lord Marfa was mentioned by name...