Chapter 540 – Taking A Loan.

“My Lord, your steed is ready.”

“Ah… how time flies…”

Arthur paused, his gaze settling on Gareth, one of his most trusted knights. Gareth stood patiently, holding the reins of a snow-white horse – Arthur’s personal steed. For a moment, Arthur simply stared at its silvery mane, unmoving, as if his legs refused to carry him forward.

“My Lord, perhaps someone else could–”

“No… no, I have to be the one to do this. I need to know the exact numbers.”

Mary was there as well, accompanied by an entourage of lesser knights and soldiers, all prepared to escort their lord to the city’s bank. Established not long ago, the bank had grown rapidly since the discovery of the second dungeon. Now, Arthur was setting out to secure the necessary funds for the expedition – and to strengthen his army. The culling of the monsters could begin at any moment, and they needed money.

“Let’s depart!”

The soldiers saluted and stood at attention, waiting for Arthur to mount his horse. He glanced around, his expression unreadable, though inwardly, he was still adjusting to this newfound authority.

Not long ago, he had commanded almost no one as his only loyal retainers were the three who had accompanied him from the start. Respect had been scarce, given only by those few. But now, things had changed. He could see devotion in the eyes of his soldiers and in some, even fear.

It was a strange, empowering feeling, yet he reminded himself that this was only the beginning. There was still much work to be done if he was to succeed in his ambitions… and perhaps, one day, claim the Duke’s title as his own.

‘It’s just a temporary loss, we’ll make the money back in a few months or perhaps a year… Roland always seems to have a plan but he is also a gaping void when it comes to spending… ’

While riding through the streets, Arthur’s mind remained preoccupied with the weight of his decision. He knew the risk involved in taking such a large loan, but the potential rewards far outweighed the dangers. With the right investments, they could potentialy win the upcoming culling competition but also solidify Albrook as a true stronghold in the region.

As they approached the National Bank of Caldris branch, Arthur took a moment to appreciate the transformation that had taken place since its creation. While it had never been too modest, the size and outlook had been enhanced to accommodate more customers.

The stark white stone structure stood in sharp contrast to the medieval surroundings of Albrook, its pristine facade exuding an air of exclusivity and power. Towering Greek-style columns lined the entrance, each adorned with intricate gold filigree depicting the royal crest and arcane runes of protection. The NBC was more than just a bank; it was a showcase of noble prestige.

The moment Arthur reached the main steps, a group of elite guards in immaculate plate armor stepped forward, their spears forming a crossed barrier to prevent entry. Their faces were expressionless, their posture rigid – uncompromising professionals who served the wealthiest and most powerful of the kingdom. Not even Arthur, who was a Duke’s son, could impose on these people as they served the crown.

“Present your identification.”

Arthur reached into his coat and retrieved his obsidian bank card, embossed with his family crest. The moment he held it up, the guards examined it closely, their eyes flickering with the faint glow of magical detection spells. After a brief pause, they nodded and stepped aside.

“Welcome to the National Bank of Caldris, Lord Valerian. You may proceed.”

With a subtle gesture, Arthur signaled his entourage to remain outside. Only Mary followed him in, her ever-watchful eyes scanning the area for any potential threats. The interior of the NBC was a marvel of craftsmanship and magic. The marble floors gleamed under the light of floating crystal chandeliers, their soft glow providing a refined yet efficient illumination. Tall, arched ceilings stretched overhead, enchanted murals depicted moments of great financial history.

Standing at key positions throughout the grand hall were multiple massive golems, their dark metallic bodies adorned with golden insignias of the bank. Their eyes, burning with a steady blue glow, tracked every movement within the building. These sentinels were not mere decorations as they were the final line of defense against any would-be thieves or assailants. Arthur knew that Roland would love to study their enchantments but any attempts would be seen as a hostile attack.

“Lord Valerian, welcome,”

An elegantly dressed banker greeted them with a low bow. His fine silk robes bore the sigil of the bank, and his demeanor radiated the kind of cool confidence only those accustomed to dealing with nobility possessed.

“I am Alistair Grendholm, Senior Financial Overseer. How may we assist you today?”

Arthur met the man’s gaze and immediately knew this would not be an easy opponent. He had come here not only to borrow money but also to negotiate favorable incentives. These could rise to over fifty percent if he failed to secure a good deal. Everything depended on his reputation and his ability to sell himself.

The man before him was a professional lender – someone who would not part with a single coin unless he was convinced of Arthur’s ability to repay. Arthur did have a few assets he could use as collateral, the most significant being his recently expanded luxury mansion. However, the auction house was off-limits, as it belonged to the Valerian family and remained under his father’s control.

Arthur took a slow breath, steadying himself as he met Alistair Grendholm’s cool gaze. The banker’s shrewd eyes glimmered with amusement, as if he already anticipated a long and arduous negotiation.

“I seek a loan, a substantial one.”

Alistair arched a brow, his fingers steepled together as he leaned forward slightly.

“A bold opening, Lord Valerian. I admire directness. Might I inquire as to the sum?”

Arthur glanced at Mary, who gave a barely perceptible nod. His hands shivered slightly as he pulled out a piece of parchment he had marked the amount of gold coins he wished to borrow. The sum was quite high and the man raised an eyebrow before speaking out in an amused yet respectful tone.

“Ah, a young noble with ambition. This is quite the sum, My lord. But may I ask what collateral you intend to offer?”

“My personal estate in Albrook. Additionally, I have secured a large stake in the dungeon’s resources. Once our operations are fully underway, we anticipate substantial returns from rare materials and monster cores.”

The banker tapped his fingers against the polished oak desk.

“The dungeon does intrigue me. However, valuing an as-yet-untapped resource is… difficult.”

He paused, studying Arthur’s face for a reaction. When none came, he pressed on.

“The estate is valuable, but for a loan of this magnitude, we require firmer assurances.”

Arthur frowned. He had expected resistance, but it was clear that without additional leverage, the bank would either reduce the sum or increase the interest to an unacceptable level. He needed something more compelling. Before he could speak, the man proposed something himself.

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Alistair leaned back slightly in his chair; his fingers still steepled as if weighing Arthur’s words with practiced calm. His gaze flicked over to Mary who was standing further in the back.

“ When dealing with a loan of this size, one must consider all the potential risks. The dungeon’s resources may be valuable, but they are not guaranteed. And while your estate in Albrook is well-regarded, it alone may not be enough to cover such a large sum, so may I propose something?”

The man asked and Arthur nodded to allow him to speak. Even if Arthur was the one trying to get money, his status was still above this man who was nothing more than an employee of a bank.

“Perhaps… the High Knight Commander himself could offer some assurances?”

Arthur blinked, confused.

“Sir Wayland?”

The banker’s smile was small, but it was there. “

If I may be so bold.”

Alistair said, leaning forward just a fraction more,

“Given the High Knight Commander’s illustrious reputation, his involvement in this venture would certainly bolster your position. The bank could consider his services as collateral.”