Night has fallen in the Imperial Palace of the Elf Empire.
The nine captains of the border defense mercenary groups of the Elf Empire gather for the Empress’s secret banquet, bringing along their trusted aides.
They had all returned at the fastest speed after receiving the Queen’s summon.
The Elf Empire is going to war, and as the Empire’s nominal last military force, how could they not be concerned?
Moreover, they are on the Empire’s border, the last force the Empire can muster in a short time.
The attitude of these people will decide whether the first step of the Elf Empire can proceed smoothly.
If the first step fails directly, then there’s no point in discussing the subsequent plans.
However, judging by their expressions, it seems these captains of the Elf Mercenary Corps do not agree with this war plan.
After all, they have been active on the Empire’s border frontlines for many years now.
They naturally understand the gap between the enemies and themselves far better than those pampered flowers within the country.
Before the banquet began, they already had a private meeting, determined to find a way to prevent this suicidal action by the Elf Empire.
"Her Majesty the Empress has arrived!"
With the announcement from the attendant, the Elf Empress, Princess, Lette, and Lilith in a black evening gown appeared at the banquet.
The captains all stood to salute, while the Empress gracefully took her seat with Lette and others, then gestured to the captains to be seated.
"Ladies and gentlemen, you have all traveled hard, no need to stand, have a seat."
"Thank you, Your Majesty!"
The captains sat down silently.
Although they were outside for years, they still held a deep-seated reverence for the Empress from the depths of their souls.
Just as the atmosphere of the banquet was about to hit an all-time low, the Elf Empress suddenly clapped her hands.
"It seems everyone is already too hungry and lethargic. That won’t do! Someone, bring a dessert first."
At this remark, the captains looked at each other in bewilderment.
The Elf Clan has always been a symbol of nobility and elegance, and they have always prided themselves on it.
The dining etiquette is intricate, especially at such a banquet hosted by the Empress.
An impromptu dessert, what new trick is this?
Before the captains could react, attendants began placing covered plates gently in front of each captain.
However, there were none in front of Lette and the others.
It was obvious that these desserts were specially prepared for them.
Looking at the so-called dessert in front of them, the captains couldn’t fathom what scheme the Empress was playing, so they dared not act rashly.
"Go ahead and open them."
Seeing no one moving, the Empress gestured lightly.
Though apprehensive, the captains dared not openly defy the Empress’s order in the Imperial Palace.
The captains opened the covers, only to find the plates contained not desserts, but contracts.
"This is! Issued personally by the Holy Light Church! Continental Trade Certification!"
"This is the legendary official trade contract endorsed by the Holy Light Commerce? Is it real?"
"It’s real! I once saw this in the hands of a human merchant.
But his had a time limit. This one here states it’s permanently valid!"
The captains were stunned by the documents in the plates, although perhaps elves in the Elf Empire might not understand the significance of such contracts.
But they knew, this is a goose that lays golden eggs! It symbolizes power and status!
Simply put, even if they had to choose between this contract and an appointment from the Elf Empire Minister of Finance, they’d choose this contract without a doubt.
With it, not only would the Elf Empire Minister of Finance have to consider their opinions.
Even the human nations would treat them with courtesy.
Such a thing! Just presented on a plate!
And called a dessert!?
"Everyone, years of toil outside, defending the border while also alleviating the Empire’s economic difficulties.
Your achievements, I have always remembered.
The grievances you suffered, I have always observed.
Previously, the Empire swayed in the storm, indeed unable to handle everything, I apologize.
Now, the Elf Empire will no longer mistreat you!
These contracts are just compensation for past grievances.
Please... please accept them, hm!"
Sitting beside her, Lette was momentarily speechless, they say the elves are naturally wise, yet how could she stumble over memorized words?
"Your Majesty, where did you get these?"
"Indeed, there are only about twenty of these across the entire continent! And most are in the hands of human merchants."
"I once tried to apply for a temporary contract but couldn’t even enter their door..."
Seeing the captains beaming with enthusiasm, the Elf Empress revealed a long-lost smile.
This smile came from the heart!
For many years, the Elf Empress had been reluctant to meet these captains of the border mercenary groups.
Their presence was like the most hideous scar on the face of the Elf Empire, a symbol of the Empire’s complete decline.
But on the other hand, she had to rely on these people to maintain border security and stability.
Such contradictory emotions eventually transformed into a situation of out of sight, out of mind.
Even to reassure herself completely, the Elf Empress and the Empire’s high officials had tacitly chosen to intentionally overlook these troops.