The Martial Unity

"The Kandrian Throne War is an opportunity of a lifetime," Guildmaster Bradt remarked with steely composure. "It would be beyond remiss of me not to capitalize on this opportunity, for it is one that could propel me to the zenith."

Rui recalled his conversation with Decker. "Ambitious."

"I seem to recall that you are indebted to me," Guildmaster Bradt narrowed his eyes as he eyed Rui. "Care to repay me now that you are a Martial Senior?"

Rui raised an eyebrow. "What would you have me to do?"

"I would have you supply me with the contribution you made to the Martial Union," Guidlmaster Bradt replied, uncaring for Master Ceeran's reaction.

Rui let out a mirthless laugh. "We both know that my debt to you does not reach even a tenth of what you're asking for, even if I take into account interest on that debt."

"In that case…" Guildmaster Bradt replied. "Perhaps it would be more prudent to let both the interest and your power accrue. The youngest Martial Senior in history surely will have more to offer in the future."

Rui's expression became complicated. "I'd rather you make your demands right here and now."

"You wish," He snorted. "I will wait for you to become a Master or perhaps even a sage. Then, I will extract you a favor with the highest ROI, the likes of which this world has never seen. It would be a shame to reap an asset before it has reached its zenith."

turned away. "It would be to both

departed, followed by two Martial Masters, leaving Rui

finally taking a seat with Ceeran. "In his eyes, I'm no different from shares of

not one of friendship. He wondered if a

demand the secret to greater Martial Bodies," Master Ceeran narrowed his eyes. "Does he think that

is now far less easy for the Martial Union to bully him. On top of that, he's firmly in the Ranea Faction, she's not going to allow the Martial Union to bully one of her patrons. She would lose

morphed into one

Rui heaved a sigh. "Technique contribution agreements with the Martial Union require signing an exclusive license with a non-disclosure and non-dissemination clause. He knows I

Martial organization in East Panama, along with the Georteau Martial

contributions, they had gained an edge over them,

a wave of energy rippled through the crowd, catching

appears that Her Highness has arrived," Master Ceeran directed an enthused glance to the entrance as many people spotted the extravagant carriage pull up to the viewing gallery, with dozens of Martial Seniors patrolling the streets that had been railed to prevent anyone from stepping even a

stepped out, clearing

glance at the princess as she stepped out

generation older. The moment she stepped out, the crowds that had

"All hail Princess Ranea!"