As Oliver's offer echoed in Akira's mind, he began to calculate the complexities of the situation. No matter Oliver's plea, Akira knew he had to confront the approaching army. Better to turn this necessity to his advantage and extract as much benefit from the situation as possible. What troubled him most was the absence of the royal army. This was a national threat, and their absence was inexplicable.
Deep in thought, Akira considered the implications. "Why isn't the royal army here?" he pondered. "There must be more to this than Oliver is saying. I need to gather more information and secure as much advantage as possible." His analysis complete, Akira raised his head and fixed his gaze on Oliver.
"How much land are you willing to offer?" Akira asked, his voice steady.
Oliver, sensing a glimmer of hope, responded eagerly, "You can have the land beyond the small river behind your house."
Akira's eyes narrowed. "Let's be clear. This is a small army, and a larger force is on its way, correct?"
Oliver nodded. "Yes, indeed."
"Then this land won't be sufficient," Akira stated firmly.
Oliver hesitated. "What will be enough?"
"I want the town that was raided by the Elder Lich," Akira replied, his voice unwavering.
Oliver's eyes widened. He took a moment to process the request. "You certainly know that the town, while small, represents a significant amount of land. It's a steep price for your assistance."
Akira leaned back, his expression calm. "Who said I would assist you in merely defeating them? I will wipe out the entire army on my own."
Oliver's composure shattered. "WHAT! This can't be possible. Your ogres may be strong and capable of taking out hundreds of human soldiers, but these are demi-humans. They are three times stronger than humans, faster, more durable, and much stronger."
"That is my concern. I know how to deal with them. So, will you accept my offer or not?" Akira replied, his tone final.
Oliver struggled internally, knowing he was in a precarious position. "I can't give away an entire town and the surrounding area without consulting Lord Leonard. I need time."
Akira's voice was cold. "Do you require time? My offer will expire as soon as you step outside the main gate."
Oliver's mind raced. He desperately needed Akira's help but couldn't authorize such a significant concession on his own. "Fate, you're putting me in a difficult position. Please, give me some time. I need to consult with Lord Leonard."
Akira relented slightly. "You have 24 hours to decide. But for that time, you must tell me why the royal army isn't here."
Oliver's heart sank. He had hoped to avoid this topic. "Does Fate possess a skill that detects lies?" he wondered. He realized he had no choice but to tell the truth. "I apologize for not telling you the full truth earlier. The dark elves and normal elves have united and are preparing for war against the kingdom. The royal capital is occupied with them. They haven't forgotten us completely; aid will arrive, but it will take time."
Akira processed the new information. "The elves must have received a similar prophecy and are banding together to defeat the Kingdom of Concordia," he thought. Standing up, he addressed Oliver. "Your offer will expire tomorrow evening. Return to your lord and bring me an answer as soon as possible."
With that, Akira turned and ascended the stairs. Oliver, visibly relieved and still tense, bowed. "Thank you for your consideration, Fate. I will ensure things proceed correctly." Oliver and Sir James quickly exited the house and hurried to the castle.
Jarvis and Lesley, who had been listening, were uneasy. Lesley finally decided to approach Akira. As Lesley made his way upstairs, Akira descended, asking for food since it was now evening. Jarvis and Lesley, not having noticed the time, hurried to prepare a meal.
Akira walked to the backyard, observing the diligent work of the treant. The first harvest was nearly ready. He then saw the teleportation circle activate as a carriage of freshly mined ores arrived. The miners, their shift over, sat around the treating area to relax. Akira inspected the ores and stored them in his inventory, pleased with the efficiency of Alfred's work on the teleportation circle.
As the meal was ready, Lesley distributed food to the hobgoblins and ogres before returning inside to stand beside Jarvis, who was beside Akira. Concern etched on her face, she finally spoke up. "Master, what are we going to do about all this?" Her voice trembled slightly with panic.
Jarvis quickly interjected, "Lesley, this is rude. Master is still having his meal. Don't disturb him."
Akira, noting the concern in her voice, finished his bite and drank water to clear his throat. "It's okay, Jarvis. Lesley, what do you mean by 'what are we going to do'?"
Lesley, still worried, replied, "The army is coming. Should we pack up and run, or prepare to fight by barricading the base and setting traps?"
Akira turned to Jarvis. "What are your suggestions, Jarvis?"
Jarvis replied with unwavering faith, "Master, I have complete confidence in your decision-making and strength. I know you will make the right choice despite your age, and I will follow whatever decision you make."
Akira smiled. "Don't worry, Lesley. We don't have to do anything. Believe me, the army will not reach this place. It will be wiped out before getting here. You won't even know something happened. I appreciate your concern, but look at Jarvis, who has blind trust in me. Everything will be fine."
Reassured, Lesley and Jarvis responded in unison, "Yes, master, we have blind trust in you." Lesley then went outside to check on the summons.
After finishing his meal, Akira instructed Jarvis, "Go to the alchemist's shop tomorrow morning and get potassium, charcoal, and sulfur."
Jarvis took note. "How much should I buy?"
"As much as you can get," Akira replied.
Jarvis bowed slightly. "It will be done." With that, Akira retired to his room, confident in the preparations and the plan forming in his mind.