The negotiation proceeded smoothly.0

Caron would heal the Crown Prince, and in return, Samir would grant him entry to the Ali Oasis. Their interests aligned perfectly.0

"How surprising," Caron remarked, slipping the contract into his pocket while eyeing Samir. The prince was clever—people like him didn't trust easily.0

"Given our long-standing enmity, isn't it strange for you to trust me so readily?" Caron asked.0

At Caron's question, Samir offered a bitter smile, shaking his head slowly, then said, "It's not you I trust."0

"Then what?" Caron asked.0

"I trust the path you've walked so far," Samir answered.0

He met Caron's steady gaze. Those unwavering eyes spoke volumes about the kind of man he was. Stories about Caron Leston had reached him through the Sultanate's intelligence network. 0

One said that Caron had executed a marquis of the border to free innocent citizens from tyranny, and liberated southern kingdom refugees. Another contained the story of when he was thirteen years old, banishing a demon from the Imperial Palace and beating up the children of nobles who were going the wrong path. Even the ruthless Queen acknowledged his talents, which was a sure sign of his capabilities.0

The intelligence officers considered Caron uncontrollable… But I disagree, Samir thought. 0

He believed Caron's methods had been audacious, but one truth remained constant—he always...0