After concluding the meeting successfully, the ministers sought permission to leave, leaving only myself, Stalworth, and King Theodor Ivorybane in the room.
"Stalworth, if you would, please bring the gift," Stalworth bowed and retrieved the sword intended for the king.
"Your Highness, please accept this gift from us, symbolizing the start of a new friendship."
I handed him the sword, crafted with a Mithril blade and a gold-adorned handle cherished by dwarves. The sword was further embellished with jewels and rubies, making it a befitting present for a king.
Humans have an insatiable craving for gold and jewels, yet as I observed Theodor, he accepted the gift calmly, devoid of any signs of greed. Instead, I witnessed the curiosity of a child delighted to receive a present from a friend. A burst of laughter escaped me, startling Theodor.
"I apologize sincerely, Your Highness. You are truly different from the humans I have encountered. You exhibit no trace of greed, and your essence remains unaffected. I am astounded to find a human capable of controlling their desires."
Theodor smiled, a hint of a smirk on his lips. "Was this a test to gauge my character?"
Regaining composure, I offered a slight bow, conveying goodwill. "Certainly not, Your Highness. However, I am surprised to encounter a human who remains unaffected by Mithril ore and jewels. I hope you can forgive me for my misjudgment."
Theodor approached me and spoke, his voice brimming with intrigue. "On one condition."
Puzzled and intrigued by his condition, I looked up and inquired, "What does Your Highness desire from a beast?"
Theodor smiled and extended his hand. "A friend. A friend who will call me Theodor instead of Your Highness, Sorcarius."
Chuckles escaped me as I smiled and accepted his offer. "As you wish, Theodor. From this day forth, I, Sorcarius Goldenhart of the Beast Kingdom, in the name of the spirits, swear my friendship to Theodor Ivorybane."
Theodor exclaimed, his smirk resurfacing, as he spoke with fervent conviction. "I, Theodor Ivorybane, the King of the Human Kingdom, in the name of my ancestors and the presence of the spirits, swear my friendship to Sorcarius Goldenhart, the esteemed king of the Beast Kingdom."
"Now, let us prepare to attend the banquet that celebrates our friendship and the alliance between our two kingdoms, my friend." Theodor joyfully patted Stalworth and me on the shoulder.
Oh no, Stalworth doesn't appreciate physical contact from humans. I swiftly turned to gauge Stalworth's reaction and found him overwhelmed by Theodor's warm aura, unable to resist. Unable to contain my contentment, I burst into laughter, while Stalworth looked at me with pleading eyes.
Indeed, the king possesses the same gentle aura as the lady who saved our lives. Ahh, she is brought to mind once again.
Subsequently, we gathered in the Royal Court to attend the banquet. The hall teemed with humans who regarded me and Stalworth with fear. I do not blame them, for we are broader and taller than humans by a significant margin.
In comparison, Theodor, hailed as one of the mightiest kings in the Human Kingdom, appeared like a young teenager beside Stalworth. Stalworth sighed deeply, and I patted his back, offering solace.
"To all esteemed guests gathered here, I, Theodor Ivorybane, first wish to express my gratitude." Theodor's resounding voice caused a pause in all activities as everyone's gaze fixated upon us, and he continued to address the gathering.
"Secondly, I understand that many of you harbor uncertain feelings about this alliance. It is natural. However, you have chosen to place your trust in me and believe that the Beast Kingdom is not our enemy." Theodor smiled, casting a glance in my direction before reaching for the sword I had gifted him.
Drawing the sword, Theodor placed his hand on the blade, allowing his blood to stain it. Gasps filled the room, and concern etched across the faces of the nobles.
"This is the sword bestowed upon me by my friend, Sorcarius Goldenhart! Through this sword courses my blood, symbolizing the strength of our bond! Henceforth, any action disrespecting the Beast King and his companions shall be a direct affront to me!"
Stalworth and I stood there, taken aback by the king's actions. Ahh, see what this impulsive gesture has brought upon us. There is no turning back now. I glanced at Stalworth, and he understood, nodding in agreement. Both of us sighed and smiled at the king before turning to face the audience. Drawing our swords, we followed Theodor's lead, allowing our blood to mingle with the blades.
"I, Sorcarius Goldenhart, together with my loyal Royal Guard, Stalworth Valerian, solemnly vow to honor this agreement and cherish our friendship with Theodor Ivorybane."
Though this step seemed unnecessary and foolish to us, its impact on humans was unmistakable. Fear and animosity transformed into respect and gratitude.
"LONG LIVE THE KING OF ELDORIUM! LONG LIVE THE KING OF ZEPHYRION!"
The chants of humans reverberated in my ears as my expression conveyed the gratitude and joy I felt. I shook Theodor's hand, wholeheartedly accepting this newfound friendship.