Rebal Blanc's heart was racing.
As he stared at the man known as Ralyks, he felt a sensation he hadn't gotten in the longest time.
—Sheer Intimidation!
Rebal was genuinely anxious as he sat on his seat while staring at Ralyks.
After the man had deciphered his identity after just one meeting, Rebal knew he was the real deal.
'How long has he known Aldred's real name? Since the very first day too? Damnit, I messed up!'
Those were his initial thoughts when he mulled over the meaning behind Ralyks stating both their names so casually.
Now that he had calmed down, Rebal could tell that it was just a show of power.
Thankfully, Ralyks wasn't offended that they had kept Asher's identity a secret.
The reason he was currently was because he was waiting for Ralyks' answer.
Right now, the KariBlanc Group needed a miracle.
He and his son had been strategizing different routes to take in their plans, but they always ended up coming up short due to their current lack of enough resources.
If they were to turn the situation around, they needed help—a lot of it.
"Fine… I'm in."
The moment Rebal heard those words from Ralyks' lips, his heart nearly skipped a beat.
He knew he was a little emotional a short moment ago, but he couldn't help it. He had thought that it would turn the man off, but thankfully that wasn't the case.
"Thank you, Sir Ralyks." Once again, Rebal bowed.
Asher, who stood beside him, also bowed as well.
He hadn't spoken a single word since the start of the meeting, as was the customs of people of their standing.
"I trust you. Besides, since our relationship runs deep, there's no need to go as far as bowing, right?"
Rebal found his heart lighting up as soon as Ralyks said these words.
'Is he just saying this, or does he actually mean it?' Rebal knew he would never have the answer to that.
So he did the reasonable thing and chose not to doubt the only chance they had at survival.
"You are correct. Thank you, Sir Ralyks."
This time, Rebal did not bow.
"Come up with a decent plan that involves me in it. Since I'll be in the equation, feel free to ask for the favors you require. As long as it's not dirty work, and it borrows my strength, then I will remain by your side."
Those words sounded like music to Rebal's ears.
"U-understood!"
"I'll see you after a few days after making some preparations on my end."
Ralyks slowly rose to his feet, and Rebal took this as his queue to stand as well.
"As for rewards… those can be discussed later. Once the job is done."
Rebal found that absolutely fair—if not downright charitable.
Since the KariBlanc Group was barely floating, this wasn't the time to splurge their resources.
'Though, even if he asked for a reward now, I'd probably give him everything I can.'
"Then… I look forward to working with you, Sir Ralyks." Rebal moved closer and stretched out his hand towards Ralyks.
He had a warm smile on his face, reflecting the current state of his heart.
It was contrasted by the ominously dark mask that Ralyks donned. He honestly looked like a demon, with his crimson eyes and Cale-like hooded cape.
As they shook hands, Rebal felt relieved that the deal was sealed… even it appeared to be nothing short of a deal with the Devil.
"Then, I'll be taking my leave."
A distortion of space surrounded Ralyks, and just as he dislodged his hand from the man's grasp, he vanished from sight.
Not even a trance of his presence was left.
"Haaa… Haaa…!"
Asher was the first to let out heavy breaths as soon as the man left the room.
Beads of sweat were already falling down his face as he nervously approached his father.
"We did it, boy!" He and Asher hugged, the latter squeaking a little thanks to being squeezed by his giant father.
"Time out! Time out, father!"
His father didn't listen, carrying Asher up as if the boy was still a kid.
It felt awkward—a man in his early thirties being carried by another who seemed to be in his forties.
However, Rebal didn't care.
He was laughing, smiling intensely as he expressed genuine joy that he, his son, and his empire, would not have to crumble.
"Father… you'll interfere with the Item too much!"
As Asher said this, it was already too late for him. The current thirty-or-so year old man began to fade away under the grasp of his father.
It felt like a mist was being cleared, and a soft whooshing sound of wind enveloped the man known as Aldred as he reverted to his original form.
The first thing that was displayed was his gray hair and sparkling green eyes. He had clear skin, and a perfectly handsome face.
Some would say he looked more attractive than his previous form—or perhaps 'cuter' was the word.
In any case, these weren't the only things that changed.
His height was also different.
He looked much smaller than his purported age would make anyone believe.
What this boy appeared to be was a teenager.
Probably one who was just venturing into prime adulthood,
And the reason for that was simple.
Asher Blanc was actually a young man who was nineteen years old
The only reason he took up such an aged disguise was so he could look mature and capable in his job.
As Aldred, he needed to rack up as many accomplishments and build up a good repute—enough to win everyone's respect and loyalty.
But now, alone with his father, he showed his true colors.
"We should probably get started on making the preparations."
"Yeah.. we should."
As the father and son duo ceased play and focused on business, their faces were filled with nothing short of determination.
They only hope things won't worsen before the preparations are complete.
'We're counting on you… Sir Ralyks!"