After ending the simulation, Rhett felt both a sense of relief and a tinge of joy.
By allowing the simulation to develop naturally from a point before his own arrival, the simulation world no longer included his transmigration event. This meant the entire world followed a completely different path.
As a result, not only his descendants but even he himself could participate in the simulation without issue.
Though meeting Nicole again would require spending years in the simulation—he had no interest in anything inappropriate—the chance to wait for that reunion was far better than having no solution at all.
"It seems our assumptions were correct. Your transmigration was an anomaly in the world's natural order. In the true course of events, you weren't meant to exist," Manu said softly, coming to Rhett's side.
Manu had been observing from high above, silently watching the entire process.
Rhett breathed a sigh of relief and nodded. "Yes, now I feel reassured. But our agreement still stands—I'll first conduct the simulation from ten thousand years ago before considering my personal matters."
Manu hesitated for a moment before responding, "Thank you."
"There's no need for thanks… As for the research on the Blood Essence Crystal, I'll still need your help. I hope we can continue to refine and optimize it," Rhett said, recalling the previous experiment. "And regarding the project to improve the magical plants, we must not fall behind. In the long run, its potential significance might be no less than that of the Blood Essence Crystal. If we can develop it deeply enough, it could lead to a major breakthrough in alchemy."
"No problem. In fact, this idea has been on my mind ever since I first began studying alchemy," Manu replied thoughtfully. "It's somewhat similar to grafting or crossbreeding plants. If magical plants can react in similar ways, we may be able to uncover endless possibilities."
Rhett's eyes lit up. "Then I'll leave it to you."
After briefly discussing the matter and exchanging a few casual words, Rhett left the simulation space.
In the outside world, Rhett carefully used his spiritual sense to check the surroundings and, seeing no one nearby, walked over to where Tylus was standing. He paused to consider what explanation he should offer.
After all, the secret of his transmigration had been kept well-hidden, with no need to reveal it to anyone.
If he explained why he couldn't participate in the simulation at certain points in time, it would inevitably expose the truth of his being a transmigrant.
A few minutes later, meeting Tylus's puzzled and slightly disappointed gaze, Rhett carefully chose his words and said:
"Let's head home. I've found a way to see Nicole, but it might take quite some time within the simulation world."
"Really? That's great! I'm sure Tuck and Riley will go crazy when they hear the news!" Tylus's excitement was evident. For him, memories of his mother, though blurred, still radiated warmth and comfort from twenty years ago, leaving him deeply nostalgic.
"When can we reunite?" Tylus swallowed nervously, his voice full of anticipation.
"It won't be too far off…"
Rhett took a deep breath and gazed into the distance for a long time before patting Tylus on the shoulder. "Let's go home."
Two days later.
Father and son successfully returned to Darkhawk City.
Flying over the city, Rhett saw a grand parade and the streets full of cheering people.
After learning more, he realized it was a celebration organized by Riley to commemorate the victory in the war and honor Rhett's great achievements. All food and drink were free for three days!
In addition to the festivities, Rhett noticed that some smart merchants had already begun organizing caravans to embark on long journeys to the capital of the Green Kingdom, hoping to secure the first wave of investment opportunities.
The lively scene was unprecedented, and Tylus, watching the excitement, was in awe. His own blood surged with enthusiasm, and he almost wanted to jump down and join the celebrations.
But then he remembered that his family was waiting for him ahead. Calming himself, he gazed into the distance with a warm smile.
Before long, they arrived back at the Green Manor.
Svetla stood at the entrance, watering the flowers with a red watering can and humming a cheerful tune, looking healthy and content.
The moment their shadows crossed the ground, Svetla looked up in surprise. Her face immediately brightened with joy as she waved. "Welcome home, Master! Tylus, it's been so long! Welcome home!"
"Yoo-hoo!"
Tylus waved back from the air, shouted in joy, and after landing, walked over to give Svetla a big hug. Glancing around, he said with nostalgia:
"It's been so long, Svetla. I've missed every inch of Green Manor's land, every brick, every blade of grass, and every tree. I've missed every member of this place and the joyful memories we've shared."
Svetla smiled gently and placed her hand over her heart. "We all feel the same, Tylus. We've missed you greatly. Now that you're back, would you like something to eat or drink?"
"No need, I'll wait for dinner," Tylus waved her off with a smile. "Where are Mina and Abel? Are they at the manor, or perhaps the Alchemy Tower?"
"While you were away, they stayed at Dark Rock Fortress. With others keeping them company, they weren't lonely. But now that you're back, that's all behind them—they'll be thrilled to see you!" Svetla said with a laugh.
"Oh, Father, I can hardly wait," Tylus licked his lips, his voice trembling with excitement.
"Go, my boy. Family is as important to you as you are to me," Rhett patted Tylus on the back, gently pushing him forward.
Tylus took a few steps before turning back to glance at his father. His eyes glistened with emotion before he resolutely ran toward Dark Rock Fortress.
Inside the main hall of Dark Rock Fortress.
"Tylus?"
"Mina!"
As soon as Tylus stepped through the door, he saw Mina and Karina enjoying dessert together, chatting and laughing. He stopped in his tracks.
Mina was the first to react. Her silver fork clattered to the floor as she gasped in shock, covering her mouth with her hand. Her eyes reddened with emotion.
Tylus's lips quivered as he swallowed hard. "Mina, it's been so long. I… I'm home."
With a soft cry, Mina lifted her cream-colored gown and dashed toward him, throwing herself into his chest. She pressed herself into his strong embrace, expressing with her actions the longing she had felt during their separation.
In that moment, Tylus felt dazed, but his heart quickly filled with sweetness and joy. He held her tightly, savoring the familiar scent of her hair.
Not far away, Karina rested her chin in her hand, smiling as she watched the tender reunion.
The maids around them also smiled warmly, quietly savoring the sweet moment shared between the reunited couple.
From a distance, Rhett observed the scene, a small smile tugging at his lips.
Only after seeing Svetla close the door behind her did Rhett turn and head toward Darkhawk City.
Inside a top-tier VIP room at the Dalton Trading Company's Darkhawk City branch, Carlton, his bald head gleaming and his face full of an oily smile, was entertaining the most distinguished guest he had ever hosted.
"King Rhett, please have a seat. This is your favorite Blue Mountain fruit tea," Carlton said, placing a steaming cup of tea in front of Rhett and then standing respectfully beside him.
Rhett leaned back in his chair, waving a hand lazily. "This is your trading company, so there's no need to be so formal. Sit down."
"But, Your Majesty, this is highly inappropriate. You are now a king, a figure of immense importance, and I, a mere guild president, am not worthy to sit at your level," Carlton replied nervously, his eyes filled with respect.
"If you recognize that I'm a king, then sit down immediately. Otherwise, you'll lose the opportunity to be part of this cooperation," Rhett said leisurely, sipping the tea.
"Cooperation?!"
A true businessman at heart, Carlton's eyes immediately lit up at the mention of cooperation.
Carlton's excitement was palpable, though he hesitated for a moment. Glancing at Rhett again, he finally mustered the courage to sit down, nervously asking, "In fact, I was planning to visit you soon, even if you hadn't come today…"
"Visit me? Well, it seems you've already thought this through. Go ahead, tell me your thoughts," Rhett said, feigning surprise as he set down his tea.
"Ah, yes." Carlton took a moment to compose himself, then spoke seriously. "Just yesterday, a senior member of our trading company rushed over to speak with me at length. Upon learning that you were to become the king of the Green Kingdom, they proposed we establish our second headquarters in the royal capital of the Green Kingdom. We hope that the Dalton Trading Company can grow and develop under your guidance."
Seeing no displeasure in Rhett's expression, Carlton continued, "Rest assured, Your Majesty, our guild president understands that you may need elemental minerals and magic crystals. If you allow us to establish the trading company in the Green Kingdom, we will give your royal family first priority in all elemental mineral and magic crystal transactions. Additionally, we own several elemental mineral veins ourselves and are willing to offer a portion of those resources to you…"
Hearing this, Rhett raised an eyebrow, his fingers tapping lightly on the armrest as he fell into thought.
The terms Carlton proposed were quite appealing. Offering priority in elemental mineral and magic crystal transactions directly hit the mark of what Rhett needed most.
After all, the Green Kingdom was in its infancy. Even if elemental veins and magical beasts were discovered, the time and effort required to gather resources and train personnel would be immense. Meanwhile, in two years, the official trade with the Beast God World would begin, and Rhett would need to quickly gather a significant amount of elemental essence.
Having a well-established force to assist, even if it cost some money, was a deal well worth making.
Given his current strength and status, wealth was no longer important—resources and assets were what truly mattered.
Of course, Rhett understood that the Dalton Trading Company wouldn't make such a request without expecting something significant in return. After all, most kingdoms allowed foreign merchants to operate as long as they followed the rules, so there was no need for the trading company to personally approach the king.
"Opening a branch is simple enough. Given your thoughtful proposal, I'll allow the Dalton Trading Company to spread across the entire Green Kingdom. But surely this isn't all you wanted to discuss? If there's anything else on your mind, now is the time to speak up…" Rhett said, giving Carlton a meaningful look. "I'm willing to speak with you today because of our past relationship. After today, you may not get another opportunity like this…"
Carlton's face flushed with embarrassment. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Actually, the Dalton Trading Company has no other conditions. We simply hope the royal family will invest in the Green Kingdom branch to deter any future ill-intentioned individuals. With the royal family as a shareholder, we can ensure that our operations run smoothly for years to come."
Carlton hesitated for a moment before continuing, "As for me personally, I hope you'll help me become the president of the second headquarters in the Green Kingdom. From then on, I'll be your loyal agent, gathering information on any discontent or unrest within the kingdom!"
Rhett's eyes gleamed with surprise. He had expected Carlton to ask for tax breaks or exclusive rights in certain industries, but instead, Carlton's request was far more cunning. By having the royal family invest, the trading company would deter petty officials from causing trouble, and any future corruption within the government would be minimized.
—In essence, this plan would clear countless obstacles for the trading company's long-term development.
"This Dalton Trading Company isn't simple. They're willing to sacrifice a little to gain a lot. No wonder they've risen to become one of the top trading companies in the kingdom in just a few centuries. Their vision and strategy are remarkable," Rhett thought to himself, silently evaluating the proposal.
After a moment of consideration, especially pondering the latter part of Carlton's request, Rhett said meaningfully:
"Do you need me to assist you, or the Dalton Trading Company?"
Carlton's expression changed slightly, sensing the deeper meaning behind Rhett's words. His mind raced as he cautiously replied, "Helping me is the same as helping the Dalton Trading Company…"
"Hmm?" Rhett wasn't satisfied with the answer. He narrowed his eyes, a hint of danger in his gaze.
Carlton quickly lowered his head. "What I meant to say is that with your support, I'm confident I can take full control of the Dalton Trading Company! By helping me, you'll be helping the company. And only with me in charge can the Dalton Trading Company provide you with greater value."
"Interesting…" Rhett nodded slightly, tapping the armrest of his chair. "You're clever, so you'll get your reward. I won't just support you—I'll give you a promise."
Carlton raised his head, his eyes full of confusion.
"My vassal's vassal is not my vassal."
Rhett gave Carlton a deep, meaningful look before downing the rest of his tea and standing to leave the room.
Carlton stood frozen in place, mulling over Rhett's last words. Gradually, his eyes brightened as he grasped the full meaning behind them. With excitement and admiration, he exclaimed:
"King Rhett is truly wise!"
He quickly hurried after Rhett, his face full of enthusiasm, escorting him all the way to the entrance of the Dalton Trading Company.