Chapter 268 (1/2)

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Chapter 268 – The King's Roots

First, I want to know your status.」Hikaru said.「And by that I mean, what position do you hold in Dream Maker?」

Before sharing anything with the man, he wanted to know what his objective was. He wasn't simple-minded enough to just say “yes” to a request to exchange information.

「I am leader of one of strong families in Dream Maker.」

According to Duinkler, Dream Maker had nine clans that a.s.sisted the king. They handled military affairs, agriculture, construction, and many others.

In j.a.pan, they would be similar to cabinet ministers, but in their case, clans held the positions. Perhaps they could allow this kind of system because Dream Maker was a small nation with only about 10,000 citizens. Being a small community, people lived their lives by helping each other.

Duinkler was the head of the clan that managed public order and finance.

d.a.m.n, he's got a lotta power to be both Chief of Police and Minister of Finance.

However, the Western a.s.sault Army was under military affairs, which Grucel handled. As such, Duinkler could only command one s.h.i.+p.

「You and Grucel don't seem to get along.」

「Yes. My life, and subordinates' lives, all for the king.」

「Why bring up the king now?」

「Grucel and I, argue how to heal the king's illness. He thinks everyone important.」

Duinkler didn't care how much was sacrificed as long as they obtained a Healer, while Grucel wanted sacrifices to be kept at a minimum. Hikaru finally knew that they needed the Healer for their king.

「I'm surprised you told me it was the king that needs help.」

「You will know, anyway, once arrive. Grucel is too secretive. Not good.」

「Let me guess. In exchange for you being so open, you want information. You benefit more that way.」

Duinkler clapped his hands.「Exactly! You smart. I like smart people.」The old man smiled.

Don't let your guard down, Hikaru thought as he sipped his tea. These guys are blindly devoted to their ruler. He might be friendly right now, but if it's for their king, he probably won't hesitate to back-stab me.

Just like Deena.

「So, can heal king?」Duinkler asked, leaning forward.

He must've really wanted to ask the question.

「There are things Healing magic can and cannot do. How's the king's condition?」

「Very bad. Always in bed. Can't get up and eat.」

So he's in critical condition. Sounds like we don't have much time to waste. Food is important for humans to survive. If the king couldn't eat, he would gradually lose weight, since it wasn't like they had IV drips.

「What are the chances of him being poisoned?」

「None, is what I'd like to say, but not sure.」

「What about magic?」

Duinkler shook his head. It was a foolish question. The people of Dream Maker couldn't use Spirit magic so there was no point in suspecting magic spells.

「Let me change the question. Can monsters use magic?」

「Monsters? No. Have only see magic item, no magic.」

「So there's magic items, huh…」

「So, can you heal?」

「We just have to try. It would be great if we knew the actual cause of the illness. But if the doctor says he doesn't know, there's nothing we can do. Let me just get this out there first: Healing magic is not very effective against illnesses cause by viruses.」

「Vy… roosees? What?」

「Ah, right. It's hard to explain, but basically it just means illness.」

「King is ill. It's what all doctors said.」

「I see…」