Chapter 557 - Two Years Contract
John didn’t respond immediately. Instead, he scrutinized Rhode with a trusting expression. “This is about me and the Rockefeller Family, Mr. Alander. I don’t think you need to intervene. Besides… I don’t see the reason why.”
That’s true.
If Rhode didn’t know the value of this man, he definitely wouldn’t do it. Although the Rockefeller Family had waned in the North, they, after all, were a traditional noble family. The difference between traditional nobles and emerging nobles was that not only was the former representing their family, they also represented the interest of a social class. Any abuses hurled on traditional nobles would be seen as a confrontation to the entire class which affected the dignity of the ruling class. If Rhode acted on his own accord, he might become an unpopular figure in the King’s Party. Therefore, it was logical for John to have such a doubt. If Rhode was an emerging noble in the South, it wouldn’t be strange that he proposed such a deal. The emerging nobles had always expected to overthrow the rule of the traditional nobles and replace their position. However, Rhode was different. He lived in the North and had always been a supporter of the King’s Party. Although the Rockefeller Family wasn’t powerful or reputable in the North, it would equal Rhode digging his own grave by doing so.
Besides, everyone in the South was aware that Rhode and the Senia Family had a close relationship. The Senia Family’s popular magical genius, Marlene, was even in Rhode’s Guild. No one from the civilian to the noble classes understood why the heir of the largest family in the Munn Kingdom lowered her identity and joined a mercenary group. But the relationship between Rhode and the Senia Family was apparent to the public. The Senia Family was the backbone of the traditional nobles so John would never believe that Rhode would overturn the Rockefeller Family.
Although John’s doubts were reasonable, Rhode didn’t explain his views. Rhode couldn’t possibly let John know about his political standpoint. Besides, even though Rhode knew what would happen to this continent in the future, he couldn’t possibly inform John like a deity.
However, this wasn’t enough to leave Rhode speechless. “The reason as to why I’m willing to help you is very simple. I admire your capabilities.”
“My capabilities?” The tension in John’s expression eased.
“That’s right, Mr. John. You possess great capabilities… I wasn’t only referring to your strength, but also your talent in commanding troops. This is why I hope you can become my subordinate.”
“What a joke, Mr. Alander. Even though I’m capable of leading troops in war, surely you wouldn’t hand your mercenaries over to my command, right? Pardon my bluntness, if you’re only seeking pleasure in messing with me, I hope you can stop it now. Although I’m a captive, I do have my pride.”
“I can promise the first, but not the second. You and I are aware of General Dade’s worth. I can only ensure General Dade’s safety, but it is impossible to release him,” Rhode answered decisively.
On the other hand, John didn’t fly into a rage. Instead, he revealed a smile. “Alright then, from now onward, I will be your henchman, Sir.”