Chapter 43: Chapter43-Fairfax Token
Chapter 43: Chapter43-Fairfax Token
John had been aware of Albertus from the moment he appeared, remaining vigilant for any potential move against him.
However, to John's surprise, even after the wolf king and demonwolves had all perished, Albertus had not made a move.
This led John to believe that the other might not harbor any ill will, so his attitude was not overly hostile.
Albertus, taken aback upon hearing John call out to him and not expecting to have been noticed, was a straightforward man and stepped forward without hesitation.
As Albertus met his gaze, John sized him up in return.
He was a short, plump man with a round face that seemed inherently likable.
He wore an exquisitely crafted golden magus robe, adorned with various gems that shimmered in multicolored brilliance, clearly not ordinary.
John's eyes lingered on the platinum staff in the other's hand, recognizing him as a fellow magus and, judging by his gear, one of a higher level than himself.
This raised John's guard internally.
Encounters between individuals of the same class in the wilderness often resulted in conflict, given the potential to use each other's equipment.
Despite the chubby man not appearing to be in need of money, one can never be too sure, and caution was always prudent.
Noticing John's wariness, Albertus raised his hands in a placating gesture and explained with a wry smile, "No need to be on edge, brother. My name is Albertus, from the imperial House Fairfax. I was merely drawn by the commotion you caused and came to have a look."
Hearing Albertus's words, John felt reassured about the lack of malicious intent.
He also took note of the mention of "House Fairfax," sparking an interest.
Given that Baron was from the imperial House Fairfax, and this secret realm was under his charge, it was possible that this Albertus was from the same family as Baron...
Glancing at Albertus's lavish attire, identical to Baron's, John set down his staff and nodded with a smile, "So you're a friend from House Fairfax. My apologies for the earlier discourtesy, please don't take it to heart."
House Fairfax, known for its immense wealth and widespread assets across the Federation, was not a party John wished to offend.
With House Carter still on his trail, antagonizing House Fairfax could leave him no sanctuary within the entire Federation.
The influence of such powerful families was not something John dared to underestimate.
Albertus, with his hearty disposition, waved off the apology, laughing, "After all, I was the one peeping first. Besides, wealth tempts the heart, and your caution was warranted."
With that, Albertus couldn't help but give a thumbs-up, admiringly saying, "But fair is fair, your talent is among the top I've seen. To defeat a lord-tier creature at just over level ten, and to possess the rare hidden class of 'elemental magus'... Had you not been with Hidden Stars, I'd have recruited you to House Fairfax as a distinguished guest!"
Pausing, Albertus squinted with a smile, "Of course, if you're willing to join House Fairfax now, I'd welcome you with open arms. Our house might lack in many things, but not in wealth. Should you choose to join us, we'd spare no expense to nurture your talent. Would you consider it?"
John gave a wry smile.
Albertus nodded, thought for a moment, and then, with a flick of his hand over his storage ring, tossed a finely crafted black token to John.
The token, seemingly made from a special metal, bore intricate designs, with a coin at its center, exuding an aura of antiquity and undeniable value.
John instinctively caught it, his eyes filled with curiosity, about to inquire further.
Albertus waved off with a smile, "This is our House Fairfax's token. Holding this token not only grants you VIP treatment and discounts across our extensive trade associations but in critical moments, it could even save your life. Please, accept this token as a token of my regard."
Albertus's generosity was indeed lavish.
House Fairfax's trade associations spanned the entire Federation, with countless exchanges big and small.
Possessing this token would afford John VIP status within any House Fairfax trade association.
More importantly, this token represented the face and honor of House Fairfax itself.
Should John ever find himself in danger, presenting this token might well save his life, as others could be inclined to spare him for the sake of House Fairfax's reputation.
It could also afford him significant conveniences under certain circumstances, leveraging the name of House Fairfax.
After a moment of silence, John nodded solemnly, "I acknowledge this favor, and should the need arise, I will lend my aid to House Fairfax once."
Albertus's face lit up with a smile upon hearing John's words.
The very reason he had offered the Fairfax Token was to secure this promise from John.
While he might not need John's aid now, Albertus was confident that, should John survive, he would undoubtedly become one of the Federation's foremost powerhouses.
Exchanging a Fairfax Token for the friendship and obligation of such a figure was an investment well worth making.
The enduring success of House Fairfax, supported by just a few, hinged on their vision not just for immediate gains but for the future.
Over the years, House Fairfax had faced numerous existential threats, yet each time, external allies emerged to pull them from the brink - a testament to their strategic investments.
In Albertus's eyes, John would undoubtedly become one of those pivotal figures capable of averting disaster for House Fairfax.
Watching Albertus's receding figure, John understood his intentions and didn't mind.
If Albertus had the foresight and courage to make such an investment, John had the confidence and audacity to accept it.
The path to transcendent-tier greatness was fraught with challenges and obstacles, but along the way, he would encounter individuals and opportunities capable of altering his fate - and in turn, he would change the fates of others.
Casting aside these thoughts, John stored the Fairfax Token safely.
Glancing at the blood-red mountain piercing the sky, he ventured into the forest, ready to continue leveling up.
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