What the King of Azpen had just said also meant he was accepting Krang’s proposal. The minor details were matters for those handling practical affairs, and though no one could know how the relationship might change later, for now the start was good.
And though no one had predicted it, Krang had been aiming for precisely this situation from the start. If the Empire, the South, and the Holy City State all sided with Azpen, then why not simply make Azpen an ally? It was a much faster method than peeling away those three groups one by one.
Of course, it might not have worked. If the King of Azpen were the greatest fool in the world, there would be no helping it.
‘That can’t be.’
Just looking at the attitude Azpen had shown so far made that clear. To Krang, it was visible that despite various pressures, they had tried to assert their own will. And now the king’s attitude revealed his true character.
The King of Azpen expressed his gratitude, and Enkrid gave a slight nod before speaking.
“Does it not cross your mind that he might be a scammer all talk and no action?”
It was a remark and a joke, with a glance toward Krang. Those present, especially those from Naurilia, including Andrew, knew that Enkrid enjoyed joking. Though they hadn’t expected it in this situation.
“Didn’t you call him a king and a friend?”