Chapter 239 - Ambitious planning

    (3rd Person POV)

    Two days had passed since Sylwen revealed her royal lineage to Arthur. In that time, she had thrown herself into travel arrangements for the upcoming companion beast auction, determined to make amends for concealing such vital information from her boss. Her diligence extended beyond the auction preparations - she tackled all her missions with renewed fervor, as if seeking redemption through exemplary service.

    Arthur noted Sylwen''s exceptional performance in the Hellsing Organization''s operations. As she completed each task, she generated an increasing flow of "Sigil Points" - a unique currency within the organization that Arthur could use to purchase skills for his subordinates.

    Currently, Sylwen stood as his sole agent, and Arthur had been rewarding her efforts by unlocking new abilities for her to master. One such skill, the "Kamehameha", granted Sylwen a potent energy attack, though she used it sparingly due to its hefty power drain.

    As Sylwen focused on the auction arrangements, Arthur anticipated the imminent expansion of his Hellsing Organization. Lance and his men were poised to join their ranks, their loyalty to Arthur already solidified.

    For now, Lance and his men maintained their cover as devout followers of Solarus, carrying out their duties at the Holy Church in Apollo Kingdom.

    The church''s expansive training ground teemed with activity, filled with sacred knights and champions honing their skills. At the center stage stood Cardinal Virtue, known affectionately as Senior Virtue among the faithful. His voice rang out with passionate conviction as he addressed the assembled "Solarus Army".

    "Praise be Solarus! Today marks a momentous occasion. We shall determine which among you prove worthy of the esteemed title ''Solarus Champion''." Senior Virtue''s gaze swept over the gathered Vice-Champion Sacred Knights, his eyes alight with pride. "Each of you stands as a testament to the exceptional training provided by Apollo University, guided by the finest mentors in the kingdom."

    He gestured to the champions who had taken their place beside him on the stage, their presence lending weight to his words. "Should any of you manage to battle a champion to a draw, or in rare cases, emerge victorious in single combat, you shall be granted the title of Solarus Champion!"

    A roar of enthusiastic cheers erupted from the Vice-Champion Sacred Knights, their excitement palpable at the prospect of such an honor.

    Lance, standing among the champions, sought out Jier in the crowd below. As his second-in-command and a Vice-Champion himself, Lance held unwavering confidence in Jier''s abilities.

    Their eyes met, and a subtle nod passed between them.

    In that brief exchange, an unspoken understanding passed between them - Jier would strive to secure the title of champion, not merely for personal glory, but to further their mission as spies for their new lord, the great Dionysus.

    "Let the battles commence!" Senior Virtue declared, his voice ringing out across the training ground. "Each of you will be called forth to face a champion in single combat."

    As the competition began, Jier''s eyes hardened with determination. He watched as the first Vice-Champion stepped up to challenge a seasoned champion, only to be swiftly overwhelmed.

    The defeated knight was carried away on a stretcher, his bones shattered from the brutal encounter.

    It''s going to be a logistical nightmare, Arthur admitted to himself, his brow furrowing as he grappled with the myriad details. But if anyone can pull it off, it''s me.

    Two hours later, Arthur emerged from his office, his mind still buzzing with the challenges that lay ahead.

    With a deep breath, he steeled himself for his meeting with Firfel and made his way to the opulent restaurant nestled in the heart of Hellscape Center.

    Firfel was already seated when Arthur arrived, an apologetic smile on his lips. "Sorry for keeping you waiting," he said, sliding into the chair opposite her.

    She rolled her eyes, but there was no real annoyance in the gesture. "It''s fine. I''m used to it by now."

    Arthur''s smile widened as he reached for her hand, still encased in a delicate lace glove, and brought it to his lips in a gentlemanly kiss.

    A shy smile tugged at Firfel''s lips, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. Despite the frequency of Arthur''s chivalrous displays, she couldn''t help but be charmed by them. "You''re starting to act more and more like those hypocritical humans who fancy themselves gentlemen," she teased.

    With a chuckle, Arthur adjusted his suit, a picture of suave confidence. "Now, now, let''s not pretend that hypocrisy is a uniquely human trait," he countered, his tone playful. "We demons are quite adept at it ourselves. It''s practically a racial trait."

    Firfel rolled her eyes once more, a quick retort falling from her lips. "Oh, so you admit to being a hypocrite then? How refreshing to hear such honesty from a demon."

    Arthur''s laughter mingled with hers as they fell into their familiar banter, the comfort of their long-standing friendship evident in every word.

    As they awaited their orders, their conversation flowed easily, touching on various topics. When their meals arrived, they dug in with relish, savoring the exquisite flavors.

    Halfway through the meal, Arthur paused, a question forming on his lips. "Firfel, have you heard of a major auction house called Alicorn Auction?"

    Firfel''s knife stilled mid-cut, her eyes widening slightly in surprise. "Ye—" she began, but quickly caught herself. With a small cough, she amended, "Actually, no. I haven''t."

    Arthur raised an eyebrow, not missing the aborted affirmation. It was clear that Firfel had been about to say "yes" before thinking better of it.

    Not surprising, he mused silently. Alicorn Auction is known for catering exclusively to royalty, nobility, and the most influential figures. Firfel must be trying to keep her status as a princess of the Roses Kingdom under wraps.

    While Arthur pondered Firfel''s reaction, her own mind raced with questions. Why is he suddenly asking about the auction? Could it be that he''s been invited to attend as well? Just yesterday, her noble friend Shafel had extended an invitation for her.