“Since Sigurd has already spoken, let’s just let them tag along,” Jared said as he finally broke his silence.
Viola nodded, agreeing. “All right, let them follow.”
Jared personally saw off Wyatt and his group as they left via the Teleportation Array. Although Viola seemed reluctant to part ways, she still went with them.
The other alchemists had returned to their homes, while Jared followed Winona and Hartwin back to the Zeever residence.
Catina, Feenix, and Cloud were anxiously waiting for him, worried if he had been in danger. Halfway through the journey, Dylan and the others had turned back while Jared and his group pursued Thaddeus.
For days, there was no news, and they couldn’t even reach Jared through the communication device. Naturally, everyone was concerned. But as soon as they saw him return, safe and sound, a wave of relief and joy washed over them.
Meanwhile, Dylan was engaged in conversation with Winona and Hartwin in the main hall of the Zeever residence.
From their talk, he learned that the deep-sea journey had been dangerous for all involved, but risks often come with rewards.
Both Winona and Hartwin had managed to secure various resources from Sky Slasher Sect, especially the beast cores. Hartwin’s item pouch was almost bursting at the seams.
“Jared seems to be no ordinary man,” Dylan remarked in astonishment. “Not only is his medical skill remarkable, but he also understands divine markings arrays and possesses internal flame and divine powers.”
Winona and Hartwin’s stories had truly amazed Dylan.
“It’s not just that,” he added. “Every weapon he carries is a valuable treasure. There’s no doubt that Jared harbors secrets that others don’t know about.”
Throughout their journey, Hartwin had carefully observed Jared, realizing that he was much more than what others perceived.
“Now that Thaddeus is gone, the position of president of the Epean Alchemist Guild is open. We’ll have to personally select a successor. We can’t let something like this happen again,” Dylan stated.
Every time he thought about Thaddeus’ plot, a chill ran down his spine. They had almost lost their lives-every single alchemist among them.
“Yes, we need someone trustworthy,” Hartwin agreed. “But it has to be someone from outside the four great families to avoid conflict.”
Dylan nodded, saying with affection, “Mr. Bellamy, I think you’re the best choice for this position. In the entire alchemy world of Epea, who would dare challenge you? Even the four great families of Yannopolis wouldn’t think to defy you.”
He had already decided to recommend Hartwin for the position of president. After all, Hartwin was practically like family to him.
However, Hartwin quickly dismissed the idea, waving his hands. “No, no, no. I’m used to living carefree. I don’t want to be president.”
“It has to be you!” Dylan insisted. “I’ll bring it up at the meeting in a couple of days.”
As the two continued their back-and-forth, Winona interrupted impatiently, “All right, enough about the president issue. We’ll discuss ît later. By the way, Dylan, when I got back, I heard someone from Allardland visited. What were they here for?”
When they returned, they had learned from Heidi that someone from Allardland had been staying at the Zeever residence for several days.
“Oh, King Bernard sent someone to summon Jared,” Dylan replied.
“Is it because he successfully treated Prince Cedric?” Winona asked, curious.
“No, not exactly,” Dylan explained. “A number of spirit beasts in Allardland have fallen seriously ill. They want Jared to help treat them. Since he wasn’t around, the envoy stayed at our residence. Now that you’re back, I’ll send for Jared shortly. The spirit beasts are sick, but they could’ve asked for any other alchemist for the task. It seems King Bernard trusts Jared alone.
“But Jared’s skills are beyond what we can compare to,” Hartwin said.
“Indeed,” Dylan agreed. “I’ll invite him personally, and if possible, we’ll see if he’ll take us with him to Allardland. It’ll be a great learning experience.”
