The humans had passed the second test, reacting exactly as Rudy had anticipated. If they hadn't reacted or asked questions about the treatment the mythical beings were receiving, Rudy would have found another way to test them.
Rudy would have considered their choice to tolerate the unfair treatment and oppression as equivalent to living in the clandestine facility.
However, they passed the test.
Rudy asked the humans to leave, and they obediently complied, satisfied with Rudy's answers.
Turning his attention to the group of mythical beings, Rudy observed them as they engaged in a discussion.
Angelica tugged Rudy's shirt from behind and whispered in his ear, "Do you plan to give the babies to us, too?"
"Nope."
"Hmm~ I won't ask any further questions since you've already made your decision."
One of the mythical beings, a male, asked, "My Lord, may I inquire about the privileges we would receive if we decide to adopt the babies? I need to relay your message to our people and help them make an informed choice."
"Oh, there are no privileges, actually," Rudy shrugged nonchalantly.
Surprised and shocked, he responded, "But I'm certain you mentioned the privileges earlier."
"Did I?"
"Yes, I'm certain. You can ask the beautiful girl standing behind you. I would never dare to lie in front of you, my Lord," he said, head lowered.
Rudy turned to Angelica and jokingly asked, "Did I say that, My Love?"
"Umm…" Angelica was conflicted.
Rudy had indeed promised privileges for adopting the newborns. However, Angelica pondered which side to align with.
The answer was obvious, but she didn't want to lie, which would mean going against Rudy.
In the end, she chose truth and nodded, "Yes, you did."
"Oh well, perhaps that was a slip of the tongue. Maybe I said it because the group of humans was present here."
The mythical beings were speechless, unable to continue the discussion.
"What will you do?" Rudy asked, an amused expression on his face. "Do you still want to adopt the newborns even without privileges?"
After whispering among themselves for a few minutes, the mythical beings reached a decision.
"Yes, we still want to adopt the newborns. Our wives cannot conceive naturally, so adoption is our only option for starting a family. However, that alone isn't the reason we want to adopt them.
We want to provide them with a good life. Admittedly, you, my Lord, could offer them a better life if you were to raise them. However, we believe it's important for them to be loved by both a father and a mother. We want to spend time with them, something you can't do given your other responsibilities."
"They passed the second test as well," Rudy smiled inwardly.
He sought to ensure that the mythical beings displayed selflessness in doing good, regardless of receiving something in return.
Since they were willing to raise the children based on their own strength, they passed the second test.
"Very well, I will grant privileges to those who adopt the babies."
"What if we have concerns about our financial ability to provide for a child?"
"I understand your concerns, and it's crucial to ensure a stable and nurturing environment for the child and for yourselves, too. Rest assured, within our dynasty, we have resources and support systems in place to assist families in need. Financial security should not be a barrier to offering a loving home to a child. Let us work together to address any concerns and provide the necessary assistance."
"My Lord, many of us have never been parents before and feel uncertain about our abilities to raise the babies. What if we fail?"
"My own mother raised me under dire circumstances. She didn't have access to money, she didn't know how to raise a child, and she wasn't even mature enough to understand the meaning of parenthood and adulthood."
Rudy smiled gently, glancing at Angelica, as he continued, "Parenthood is a journey filled with learning and growth. No one is born with all the answers, but with love, dedication, and support, you will find your way.
I will gather the elders soon and discuss this matter. Our dynasty offers parenting workshops, classes, and mentorship programs to help you navigate the joys and challenges of raising a child. Embrace the opportunity, and together we can create a nurturing environment where your child can flourish."
Filled with anticipation, the mythical beings approached Rudy, eager to learn more about the adoption process. They wanted to know when they could open their hearts and homes to the newborns, providing them with the love and nurturing they deserved. Rudy met their inquiries with a warm smile, understanding their eagerness to embark on the journey of parenthood.
"My dear mythical beings," Rudy began, his voice resonating with warmth and compassion, "I appreciate your enthusiasm and the love you wish to shower upon these newborns. I understand the urgency in your hearts to embrace them as your own."
"However, it's important to remember that none of you have yet settled within our dynasty." He paused, collecting his thoughts, before continuing, "To ensure a smooth and organized adoption process, I have decided to open the adoption system after two days. During this time, we will make the necessary preparations and establish a comprehensive framework to facilitate the placement of the newborns into their loving homes."
Rudy's words were met with a mixture of anticipation and patience among the mythical beings. They recognized the importance of this waiting period, understanding that it was necessary to ensure that each child found the perfect match and was placed in an environment where they would be cherished and nurtured.
He continued, his voice filled with reassurance, "These two days will also provide an opportunity for all prospective parents to familiarize themselves with the adoption process, including the requirements and the responsibilities that come with parenthood."
Rudy emphasized the significance of thoroughness and care in the adoption process, as the well-being and future of the newborns were at stake. He wanted to ensure that each child found a family that would provide them with a loving and supportive environment.
As the chapter came to a close, Rudy's words echoed in their hearts, filling them with a renewed sense of purpose and anticipation for the journey of parenthood that awaited them. The mythical beings eagerly awaited the opening of the adoption system, ready to embark on a lifelong commitment to love, nurture, and provide for the newborns who would soon become cherished members of their families.
