[Pact Conclusion]
Hazen hailed from the Western Continent, where magic wasn’t channeled through magic wands. Instead, individuals cast magic independently, offering both pros and cons. Although this approach allowed for a wide range of magic, it required chanting and forming hand seals.
In essence, it made casting magic take a bit of time.
Contrary to this, the use of magic wands eliminated such requirements. This proved to be a significant advantage in, where life and death could be decided in just a split second.
And then Hazen had an idea, “Why not wield multiple magic wands, tailoring their use to the characteristics of my opponent?” This train of thought gave birth to the eight magic wands hovering behind him, including the ‘Invisible Phantom,’ capable of rendering things invisible, and ‘Telekinesis,’ which could manipulate objects at will.
When Hazen explained his invention, conveniently omitting the mention of the Western Continent, Basia wore a skeptical expression. “…But I never saw you use ‘Invisible Phantom’ and ‘Telekinesis’.”
“Well, they’re right here.”
Hazen revealed what appeared to be two small chains attached to a ring on his little finger.
“Impossible… these are magic wands?”
“I crafted them from processed magic gem fragments.”
“How incredible. Can such small magic wands really produce such effects?”
“Well, the trick is imposing limitations on them. Simple as that.”
“Simple…”
Basia couldn’t help but smile bitterly, but that was all explanation Hazen could give. With restrictions in place, ‘Invisible Phantom’ could only affect the eight magic wands, while the range of ‘Telekinesis’ was limited to three meters, with the most complex movement being making the magic wands enter his palm.
“I can offer you magic wands tailored to your needs, instead of ones you have to adapt to, like the ones you currently possess.”
Hazen thought that was putting the cart before the horse. The quality of magic wands could determine the strength of a country or tribe. By enhancing the quality of their magic wands, the Cumins might demonstrate their resilience, potentially deterring acts of aggression against them.
“I shared all this with you to help you grasp my expertise in wand-making.”
Of course, Hazen’s magic wands were specialized for his own needs. Average magicians would likely struggle to use even one of them.
“Everything you’ve said and shown me is beyond my wildest imagination. Are you some kind of monster?”
“That’s a funny one, Your Majesty. I still have a long way to go.”
“A long way to go? You wield 11 different magic wands. Even if I search all over the continent, I doubt I’d find anyone capable of the same feat.”
“The quality of my magic wands and their gems hasn’t reached the level of perfection I envision.”
“…You’re too terrifying a man to have as an ally. But it’s far better than having you as an enemy.”
“Thank you for your praise.”
Queen Basia nodded and called out to the Cumin warriors.
“Everyone! As of today, we have a truce with the Empire. Is that understood?”
“““““Ohhhh!”””””
The members of the Cumin tribe let out a roar all at once.
“…I thought there would be some opposition.”
“We forbid disagreeing with the decision of the tribe chief. Besides, Hazen, you bravely came here with only one bodyguard and one child and defeated my right-hand man, Oribes. There is no way there is anyone who would object.”
“Still, I imagine there are quite a few who hate an imperial soldier.”
“…There are certainly voices that support the notion of fighting until we perish. The former chief was one. But I’m different, that’s all.”
“……”
She likely had had an internal tribal conflict with the previous chief and emerged victorious. Power struggles among minority tribes were intense. The shed blood must have been suffice for her to wash her face.
“Moreover, I’m curious to see how things will unfold when an imperial soldier takes advantage of the Empire he serves and leads it by the nose. I’m already beside myself with excitement.”
“…I will live up to your expectations. I will ensure you won’t regret your decision.”
Hazen was a cunning strategist, but he detested deceit. While he could be ruthless when dealing with the untrustworthy, he preferred responding to honesty with honesty.
“Okay, that wraps up the formalities. Bring out the drinks!” Basia’s command prompted the robust warriors to roll in large barrels one after another. Hazen’s expression immediately twitched at the sight.
“Uh, I’m sorry, Your Majesty, but I’m not much of a drinker. It impairs your thinking ability.”
“Don’t say that! It’s our long-standing tradition to treat friendly guests with alcohol.”
“…Kaku’zu. You handle this.”
“T-there’s no way I can drink all that by myself!”
“Don’t worry, there’s Yan.”
“I-I’m still a child; I can’t drink!”
“You haven’t made any contribution. At least drink some alcohol and entertain them.”
“Uwaan! Ms. Basia, please kill this man! He’s the enemy of all children!”
Yan hugged the young queen and glared at Hazen. The Blue Queen giggled and patted the girl.
“Hahaha, what an amusing girl. Your daughter?”
“No. I was won over by her talent and took her in. Later, I will introduce you to a merchant named Nandal, but she will serve as my representative.”
“Really?”
Basia widened her eyes.
“Her name’s Yan Lin. I want her to gain experience in trading, so please be strict with her. A word of warning, you’ll regret it if you let your guard down just because she is a child.”
“…I see. So she isn’t just an ordinary girl. Well, you brought her, so I should have guessed as much.”
“M-Miss Basia… the way you look at me is scary.”
“Queen Basia, she may look frightened, but it’s just a bluff. Even if you place a blade against her throat, she won’t budge a muscle.”
“Can you please just shut up already?!”
“Hahaha, I’ll keep that in mind. Now, let us drink. Of course, you have to join us, Hazen. Otherwise, our deal is off.”
“…Haa.”
Seeing the queen’s bold smile, Hazen finally waved the white flag.
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Zky Translates 
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