The Grand Arrival and an Unexpected Guest

The decorations within the lord’s mansion had already been meticulously arranged, and a significant number of guests—nobles, mercenaries, and even many commoners—had gathered at the venue.

Standing at the entrance, an elder with a long white beard personally greeted the arriving guests. He was none other than the acting president of the Mercenary Guild in Morgan City.

Despite his aged appearance, the elder was a formidable expert, having reached the pinnacle of the Law Emperor tier, merely a step away from ascending to the Saint rank. His strength far surpassed that of General Baro, the city lord.

“Lord Philavman, why are you personally handling the reception here? This kind of task can be left to us!” a mercenary-dressed individual said respectfully.

To the mercenaries of Morgan City, Lord Philavman was a deeply respected and virtuous elder. This reverence stemmed not only from his immense power but, more importantly, from his noble character.

A major reason why Morgan City attracted so many mercenaries was Philavman’s generosity. Not only did he take a smaller commission from their earnings compared to other cities, but he also provided substantial support to the families of mercenaries who perished during missions and had no one left to rely on.

Because of this, the mercenaries of Morgan City held him in the highest regard.

“Hahaha, it’s no trouble at all, no trouble! Such a trivial matter is beneath mention for this old man. To witness the continuous growth of the Mercenary Guild with my own eyes—what a joyous occasion!” Philavman stroked his beard, laughter brimming with genuine delight.

Today was truly meaningful for him.

Now over eighty years old, he had never expected that the Bellan Merchant Guild—one of the continent’s top merchant organizations—would propose a collaboration with the Mercenary Guild.

Their goal was to establish a relief fund for elderly, disabled, and fallen mercenaries and their families.

For Philavman, who had always strived to secure better conditions for mercenaries, this was nothing short of a blessing from the heavens.

Thus, despite suffering from insomnia due to excitement, the Law Emperor had risen early, maintaining high spirits as he personally greeted every guest—regardless of status.

However, he was clearly unaware that his identity, strength, and enthusiasm were intimidating many attendees.

After all, a Law Emperor was a rare existence across the Klaham Continent—an apex figure in the world of magic.

Yet this very figure now smiled warmly, bowed to everyone, shook hands, and personally welcomed them inside. Many guests were so overwhelmed that they instinctively bowed even lower than him, desperate to show proper respect.

Naturally, there were also a few arrogant individuals who strutted past with disdain.

Such people, however, quickly disappeared from the venue.

Later, one might find them stripped naked, drooling and giggling foolishly, lying in a dumpster or even a latrine.

“Hahaha, I am truly grateful to everyone for attending this charity event. Please, come in, come right in!” Philavman continued smiling as he cupped his hands and bowed in welcome.

“Lord Philavman… haven’t you noticed that ever since you started greeting guests here, the crowd has been getting more and more congested…? My lord, perhaps you should take your seat in the VIP section…” a mercenary said helplessly, glancing at the group nearly prostrating themselves before the elder.

“Oh… is that so? Cough, cough… My apologies, children. This old man was simply too overjoyed. I didn’t realize I was causing trouble!” Philavman immediately understood, coughed lightly, and laughed with a hint of embarrassment.

“Not at all! Lord Philavman’s humility is our honor!” the crowd quickly replied, scrambling to their feet.

“Hahaha, then allow this old man to personally lead everyone inside as compensation!” he said, gesturing toward the venue.

Just as he was about to move—

A radiant golden light suddenly erupted from the distant street, rapidly approaching the mansion gate.

“Ah, it’s Mr. Tule’s carriage! The legendary Golden Uli! Mr. Tule has arrived! Quickly, inform General Baro!” a guard shouted in astonishment.

“Mr. Tule? The president of the Bellan Merchant Guild is here?!”

A ripple of excitement spread through the crowd.

“Golden Uli! I’ve only heard of them—I’ve never seen them before!”

“Let’s wait and enter with Mr. Tule!”

“Hahaha! Then this old man must personally greet him!” Philavman laughed heartily, adjusting his robe before stepping forward.

The carriage drawn by the Golden Uli slowly came to a halt.

The two beasts stood tall and majestic, their golden bodies gleaming as they snorted arrogantly, like proud generals. The crowd erupted into admiration.

“They truly live up to their name—magnificent!”

“Those powerful limbs, that radiant hide—what incredible beasts!”

“Worthy of Mr. Tule’s status!”

Phil, driving the carriage, remained composed, though a trace of pride flickered across his face. He dismounted and respectfully opened the carriage door.

Inside, Domu listened to the crowd’s praise with disbelief.

Even though this was his second time riding in this carriage, he still couldn’t understand what was so impressive about a vehicle pulled by what looked like pigs.

It felt… absurd.

Throughout the journey, Soronna and Mr. Tule had conversed at length—mostly about Domu.

Mr. Tule appeared extremely pleased, as though this conversation had brought him closer to his idol. Soronna, in turn, praised his insight and intelligence, making the atmosphere relaxed and pleasant.

However, Soronna hadn’t stopped teasing Domu.

From whispering near his ear to subtle touches behind his back, she constantly played with him—completely unconcerned about being seen by Mr. Tule or Philly.

At one point, noticing Philly’s slightly envious gaze, Soronna even winked at Domu and giggled.

Faced with her mischievous behavior, Domu could only sigh helplessly.

He silently hoped she would act more appropriately once they arrived.

…But judging by her current behavior, that seemed unlikely.

Especially now, as she leaned close and blew softly near his ear through his helmet.

Domu could only shake his head.

“Lord Domu, Lady Soronna, it seems we’ve arrived. Philly and I will step out first. You two likely still have matters to discuss, yes?” Mr. Tule said with a knowing smile before exiting with Philly.

The crowd parted automatically, forming a path.

Philavman stood at the entrance, smiling brightly.

“This humble one is honored to be personally received by Acting President Philavman,” Mr. Tule said, bowing deeply.

“What are you saying! This collaboration is thanks to you, Mr. Tule! It would be discourteous not to greet you personally!” Philavman replied with equal respect.

“Hahaha, if thanks are due, they should go to the guest behind me,” Tule said with a mysterious smile, stepping aside.

“A guest even Mr. Tule treats so respectfully… could it be—the Silver Reaper? Lord Domu?!” someone in the crowd exclaimed.