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Chapter 456: Authority in WordsÂ
"Their physiques are insufficient and require further training."
"However, their aptitude is good and they can gradually endure it."
Matthew explained this to Annie, who nodded cooperatively and agreed to follow all arrangements.
The upper echelons of the Ail Elves were treating this as an experiment.
If it succeeded, it would naturally be better.
If it didn't, they wouldn't suffer any significant losses.
Having put her mind at ease regarding this matter, Annie carefully recalled the information she had gathered and couldn't help but ask Matthew:
"Is it time to start fighting?"
Matthew understood her implication, nodded, and replied:
"We will be fighting alongside the Empire's legions. It should bring some military merits and help in advancing my title."
"This time, you should not join us. Making an official appearance could easily draw the attention of the Cole Elf Kingdom."
Annie evidently considered this as well. She nodded silently and refrained from further questions.
Recalling the extensive materials Matthew had provided, Annie pondered for a while before tentatively asking:
"What must we pay to train a modified warrior?"
Seeing her willingness, Matthew, finally ready to "claim his due," smiled and said softly:
"I hope the Elves can provide two seeds of the Tree of Life to cultivate high-concentration Life Potions."
Tree of Life seeds?
The Tree of Life was immensely importantâa sacred relic of the Elf Kingdom and their very foundation of survival.
Its functions were exceptionally powerful, supplying abundant vitality to nearby beings and extending lifespans by at least one-third.
Every part of the Tree of Life was invaluable as magical material.
Its branches were used to craft wands, its leaves for accessories and magical tools.
As for its fruits, consuming one directly granted a +1 enhancement to constitution.
It was an exceedingly rare resource that could directly boost physical attributes.
Besides the tree itself, it produced the extraordinarily precious magical materialâLife Spring Water.
Life Spring Water was the main ingredient for top-tier healing potions, such as Life Potions.
Its most renowned effect was healing grievous injuries like a damaged heart.
The Tree of Life was tightly controlled by the Elves, with even its materials seldom entering circulation.
Ordinarily, as the cornerstone of the Elves' existence, they would never agree to such a trade, no matter how close their relationship with Matthew or how crucial the cooperation.
However, Annie astutely realized Matthew's request was explicitly for the seeds of the Tree of Life.
Annie knew Matthew very well.
Not only from her own observations but also from high-level discussions among the Elves, which had analyzed Matthew's personality in depth.
He was precise and deliberate in his actions.
"Does this mean Lord Matthew is confident he can cultivate the seeds of the Tree of Life?"
This realization struck Annie, bringing a hint of surprise and joy to her expression.
Matthew noticed her reaction, recognizing his proposal had potential. He straightforwardly stated his intention:
"Exactly. I want to see if I can cultivate the Tree of Life. I have confidence in this endeavor."
Matthew's partial statement only convinced Annie further of his assurance.
While Tree of Life seeds were precious, the Ail Elves had dozens stored.
The real challenge lay in nurturing the seeds to sprout and grow into saplings.
"If it's only the seeds of the Tree of Life, I can represent my family to agree!"
People often thought Dwarves were stubborn, but Elves were just as much so.
Annie had contemplated this matter multiple times, knowing how crucial the Tree of Life was to the Elves. The upper echelons wouldn't necessarily approve such an exchangeâŚ
Thus, Annie decisively expressed her consent.
She represented the Silverleaf family and was willing to take this risk.
Just like their prior collaborations, the risks were minimal, but the potential gains were immense.
Watching Annie's departing figure, Matthew inexplicably felt relieved. His eyes sparkled with excitement and joy, and his heart raced!
The seeds of the Tree of Life were the "first pot of gold" he had dug out from the Ail Elves.
They were also one of Matthew's most valued treasures!
May 5th.
The decision of the Eastern Province's deliberation council was delivered to Matthew:
"Activate the Imperial Conscription in advance."
"As an Imperial Baron, you must lead a force of 1,000 soldiers to participate in the conscription operation."
"The conscripted forces will assemble in Bloodmoon City under Count Annie's command."
After putting down the official letter, Matthew observed the excited 343, marveling at her wisdom and judgment.
RegrettablyâŚ
Noticing Matthew's gaze, 343 restrained her smile, coughed lightly, and continued:
"Sir Halley knows others can't be relied upon, so he specifically asked me to deliver a message."
"If you can bring 3,000 elite soldiers, you will be allowed to lead your own army and even command some smaller noble forces."
Seeing Matthew's composed expression, 343 was deeply impressed by the young yet immensely steady and powerful lord.
She didn't waste time and went straight to the point, revealing a term that would interest Matthew:
"The lord with the highest military merit will receive an additional reward of a Legendary Fire Elemental Crystal."
A Legendary Elemental Crystal!
The core component for constructing an Elemental Energy Pool.
Matthew's hunger for energy was insatiable.
The creation of the first Elemental Energy Pool had propelled Bay Territory from medieval labor practices into the era of automation and magical construct technology.
The factories and automated production lines in Bay Territory were now operating at full capacity, achieving a leap in production efficiency.
If another Elemental Energy Pool could be obtained, the underground world Bay Territory was developing could become a true secondary base.
At that time, Bay Territory's dual-line development would significantly enhance its potential and growth capacity!
Moreover, Matthew, on the verge of becoming a high-level Arcanist, was already planning to construct a Mage Tower.
For building a Mage Tower, an Elemental Energy Pool was an indispensable energy source.
Thus, Matthew was determined to obtain this Legendary Fire Elemental Crystal!
Noticing Matthew's brightened gaze, 343 whispered to him:
"This is a treasure provided by the Third Legion, stored in Bloodmoon City's most important materials warehouse."
Understood!
To claim this reward, certain conditions needed to be met!
If the Third Legion couldn't drive away the Orcs, the Legendary Fire Elemental Crystal would likely remain out of reach!
Thus, no one was being naĂŻve here.
However, Matthew didn't mind and promptly nodded, stating:
"No problem. I will lead over 3,000 elite troops to Bloodmoon City to provide support."
Matthew clearly understood the importance of independent command and having a voice in the matter.
For Bay Territory to quickly expand its reputation, this was an excellent opportunity.
The true leader doesn't lead others to doom but ensures everyone can safely prosper together.