The following morning, Jovian stood at the entrance of West Lucozia Airport, wearing a sharp suit.
Before the trip, he had contacted his comrade with whom he had fought side by side in the military. After earning military merit and with the Ballard family’s influence, he was fortunate enough to stay in Oakvale and secure a decent position.
His comrade, on the other hand, had moved to West Lucozia to carve out a life for himself. Years of hard work had paid off – he was now a third-rank general with considerable power, influence, and a strong network of connections.
Jovian’s meeting with the Prince of West Lucozia would depend entirely on his comrade’s connections.
Just then, the roar of an engine cut through the air as a military jeep pulled up beside him. The window rolled down, and the first thing that came into view was a bald head gleaming in the sunlight like a lightbulb. The glare nearly blinded him.
Under that shiny dome was a face that looked ordinary at first glance. But what stood out was the man’s thick neck-wider than his head-and his massive frame, built like a bear. This was Jovian’s comrade, Boston Graham.
“Boston?” Jovian squinted as he studied the figure before him with a hint of doubt. He wasn’t sure if he had the right person.
He recalled Boston had a full head of hair and a lean frame several years ago. But now, he was bulked up and completely bald. Without that familiar face, Jovian might not have recognized him.
“Jovian! Long time no see. I’ve missed you! “Boston jumped out of the car and immediately pulled him into a bear hug. He squeezed so tightly that Jovian gasped for air and nearly choked.
“Take it easy. You’re going to break my ribs,” Jovian gritted out as he struggled to break free.
“After all this time, you haven’t put on a single pound? You’re so scrawny!” Boston finally loosened his grip and gave him a once-over with mock disdain.
“I haven’t changed a bit. But you… How did you turn into a tank?” Jovian’s expression was a mix of confusion and awkwardness.
He wasn’t sure what to say.
“What do you know? This is a well-toned physique. I’m the center of attention wherever I go, especially with the ladies.
They just love it,” Boston said, flexing his biceps and striking a few poses.
“Alright. Enough showing off. What about the favor I asked you? Any updates?” Jovian got straight to the point.
“We hardly ever get to meet. Get in the car and grab a bite to eat first. We’ll talk while we’re at it,” Boston said, throwing his arm around Jovian’s shoulder. Without giving him a chance to object, he shoved him into the car.
After an hour’s drive, the jeep arrived at a high-end restaurant in the city center. The place was so popular that patrons had to make reservations beforehand.
But Boston wasn’t just anyone. As soon as he walked through the door, the manager greeted him with a broad grin and personally escorted them to a VIP room on the second floor. He even arranged for two women to keep them company.
Jovian had come with a mission, so he wasn’t interested in distractions like food, drink, or entertainment. He politely declined the women’s company.
Boston, however, didn’t hesitate. With a woman on each arm, he made the most of it as he enjoyed their company. It wasn’t until three rounds of drinks and several dishes later that he finally sent the two women away.
“Alright, Boston. You’ve eaten, drank, and had your fun. Isn’t it time we talk business? “Jovian finally couldn’t hold back.
“You know how it is the prince doesn’t just meet with anyone. Even I have to submit a formal request, explain what it’s about, and then wait to see if he’s available. For outsiders, it’s even harder,” Boston explained as he sipped his drink. He shook his head to emphasize how difficult the matter was.
“I understand your position, but I’m out of options. That’s why I need your help. I hope you’ll go the extra mile for me,” Jovian said as he pulled out an intricately crafted box and slid it toward Boston.
Though he came from a military background, Jovian understood the importance of playing by the rules of human connections. While they shared some camaraderie, that was years ago.
Sharing a meal or drinks was one thing, but if he wanted Boston to take action, he would need to offer a bit more of an incentive.
“Jovian, what’s this? Do we really need to go through all this formality between us?” Boston feigned a look of dissatisfaction.
“You’ll have to pull some strings to make this happen, and I can’t let you shoulder the costs. If word got out, people would talk behind my back.” Jovian slid the box closer and opened it.
Inside were two pendants, identical in shape but different in color-one black and one white. Both were shaped like puzzle pieces that fit perfectly together but could also be worn separately.
“This pendant is called the Harmony Charms. It was a treasure gifted by the king to his children over 2,000 years ago. Not only does wearing it enhance physical strength, but it also offers protection from harm and misfortune, with several other benefits,” Jovian said with a smile.
He continued, “I heard your wife recently gave birth to twins. These charms are perfect for them. Consider it a gift from me.
Boston’s eyes lit up when he saw the pendants. They were priceless treasures and couldn’t be bought with money. Most importantly, they were perfect for his children. He could tell Jovian had put a lot of thought into the gift.
“You… you’re being too generous,” Boston said, holding the box, reluctant to put it down. “Alright. Since you’re my friend, I’ll accept the gift, and I’ll make sure your matter gets handled perfectly.”
“Thanks, I appreciate it.” Jovian breathed a sigh of relief.
Now that Boston had accepted the gift, everything was set. With decades of experience in West Lucozia, Boston had the connections to get things done.
“Come on. We’re friends. No need for all the formalities. Stay here for a couple of days, and as soon as I get news, I’ll let you know.” Boston laughed.
With the Ballard family’s influence and his connections, getting an audience with the prince wouldn’t be difficult. Not only had he done Jovian a favor, but he was also getting something valuable in return-a win-win situation.
