Chapter 132: Accepting the Invitation

“The demons and vampires have appeared again? What exactly happened?” Kirou frowned slightly, looking at the people before him. Just like Rod, he was shocked by this news and couldn’t help but ask.
The appearance of demons and vampires—such news surely hadn’t spread yet; otherwise, the continent would likely be in chaos. What exactly had they done to earn such attention from the empire and the elite of the entire continent?
You know about the Thirteen Vampire Clans, right? And you should also be aware of the Two Factions and Two Clans. They’re already eager to take action. It’s said that these fifteen clans will hold a conference soon—the meeting that stopped ten thousand years ago is being reconvened. The once irreconcilable factions, along with the neutral parties, are all beginning to gather! This news was accidentally learned by the continent’s top martial sage, Kasai, a quasi-martial sage. To investigate further, he lost his life at the hands of the vampires, delivering this message with his last breath.
This news was received half a month ago. Subsequently, the nations of the continent formed an alliance and sent ten sage-level and twenty emperor-level warriors as a reconnaissance team. After ten days of investigation, the news was confirmed. During that time, a major battle broke out with the vampires, resulting in the death of one sage-level warrior and three emperor-level warriors, yet the vampires suffered no harm. Even more astonishing news came—it’s said the demons are also becoming restless, and the Source of Darkness is no longer at peace. Some people have already been attacked by the demons, and the number of casualties is unknown!
His voice was deep, reflecting the old man’s solemn mood. The people around him also had serious expressions, with traces of concern visible on their faces.
The fifteen clans uniting together is undoubtedly another huge shock. Even the demon race has mobilized. Is chaos about to reign once again? Hearing this, Rod also frowned deeply, his heart sinking. This was undoubtedly a huge crisis for humanity, one he couldn’t avoid. If things turned out as feared, the entire continent would fall into suffering once more.

You should know that even back a thousand years ago, when the Dark Kingdom and the Human Kingdom were on equal footing, the Fifteen Families were still at odds. The Demonic Race, though in charge, couldn’t fully utilize their abilities, which allowed the humans to remain invincible for a thousand years. The consequences of otherwise are unimaginable. Two thousand years ago, RibuoUltra appeared at a time when the Fifteen Families were at their most divided, with the Demonic Race standing by idly. This gave the humans a chance to fight back, and it was under RibuoUltra’s leadership that they were able to defeat their allied forces.

Now, the Fifteen Families are joining forces again to hold a meeting? What could they possibly be discussing? Just thinking about it gives one an ominous feeling—no wonder it’s being taken so seriously.

“Only the high-ranking officials of the few empires on the continent, the Church, and a few of our academies know this news yet. The rest still don’t. Don’t spread it, lest it cause unnecessary panic!” The old man sighed softly as he saw the two serious expressions.

“Understood!” Rod and Kiro replied simultaneously with firm nods. Indeed, this news must not be leaked. If it did, it would surely cause panic across the continent, and then true trouble would begin.

“What will happen in this competition? What will the outcome determine?” Initially, he thought the competition couldn’t fail because of the empire’s pride, its honor, and the reputation of the Holy Light Academy. But now that he knew so much behind the scenes, Kiro had changed his mind. It seemed this competition was even more challenging than he had imagined.

“Using the competition as an opportunity, they’re gathering high-ranking officials from various countries for a meeting. At the same time, the leader of the allied forces will be determined based on the competition results. There might also be other tasks, but since it hasn’t been decided yet, I can’t guarantee anything~!” Kro replied seriously from the side.

“That’s right, just as Kiro said. So we can only allow victory, not failure—we must seize command this time! You should know that although the continent seems calm now, the other empires are restless, especially the Ost Empire. They’ve always been ambitious, and this is no exception. According to our spies, the Ost Empire is planning large-scale operations targeting one of the kingdoms or duchies around them. Once they launch an attack, it will be with full force. Their ambitions are well-known to many. Therefore, command must not fall into their hands; otherwise, the continent will be in real trouble. With their power, the entire continent will descend into chaos. Even if the demon race and the fifteen other races aren’t initially involved, they’ll surely take advantage of the chaos.

This is something all our empires, along with the Etaman Empire and the Church, agree on! Unfortunately, the team sent by the Ost Empire this time is truly strong. Our spies say none of our forces can handle them. So our task is to prevent the Ost Empire from gaining command at all costs—even if it means handing it over to the other empires. This is an order from the empire’s leadership. Of course, it’s best if we can keep it in our own hands.” Kiro’s teacher nodded and spoke slowly.

“Can I help in any way?” Everyone is responsible for the rise and fall of their country. At this moment, Rod couldn’t worry about much else. His only thought was to do his part to help the empire and resolve this crisis for the continent.

“Hmm, it seems good that Kiro brought you here this time. You’re quite skilled. At just eighteen, to reach this level, the person behind you must be extraordinary. I hope we can meet someday. The brats in the academy are skilled, but they’re not on your level. We really need your help this time. You’re free to enter anytime. If you’re willing, I, Kiro, wouldn’t mind taking you as a disciple. Hehe, as long as you’re willing. I’m sure the empire won’t treat you poorly, right? Prince Astor!” Kiro said with a sly smile, glancing at Prince Astor beside him.

“Well, the Empire surely won’t treat you poorly. I can’t guarantee anything else, but I can guarantee you a noble status!” Facing Kro’s gaze, not to mention that Kro was asking him to save face, he himself also had such an idea. After all, what’s the point of not seizing this opportunity at eighteen, when one’s path to greatness has just begun? That would be foolish. It would be good to take this chance to make a promise and forge a bond, laying a foundation for future plans.

A dean and a prince, both offering promises and benefits at the same time—such a thing is truly rare. At least Kiro had never seen it before. Looking at Rod beside him, he couldn’t help but feel a bit jealous and envious. He had gone through quite a struggle to become his teacher’s disciple back then, and he had been grateful for that chance. Yet this guy… It’s really frustrating when others are better.

“The Empire demands that I, Knight Rod, fulfill my duty without hesitation. There’s no need for any promises. As for becoming a disciple, I think I’ll pass. Hehe, I already have a teacher. Thank you, Dean Kro, for your kindness!” With a bitter smile, Rod replied.

If anyone knew Rod’s answer now, they would surely call him stupid. After all, who is Dean Kro? One of the Empire’s top ten masters, a peak Saint-level figure and the dean of the academy. Countless people long to become his disciples but never get the chance. And yet, this guy simply rejects such an opportunity—purely foolish behavior.

“Alright, then it’s settled. Hehe, kid, if you’re interested, come to me anytime. My doors are always open to you. Kiro, take Rod and get settled first. We still have some matters to discuss before we join you!” Rod’s response didn’t surprise Kro or the others. How could such a young man be easily moved or bribed? If that were the case, it would disappoint them.

Still, Kro felt a bit regretful. For so many years, he hadn’t taken a single disciple. He had seen many talented youths and many who wanted to become his disciples. He had indeed considered it before, but always held back. Today, after finally being moved, it turned out to be in vain!

Judging from how that guy named Knightrod had suddenly broken free from his mental constraints and the faint yet powerful energy he possessed, he was undoubtedly a genius—indeed, a one-of-a-kind genius. He must strive to get this young man to join his ranks. That’s what he thought to himself. As he watched Rod leave, he narrowed his eyes slightly.

As Rod stepped outside, he felt a chill in his back and couldn’t help but sneeze. Feeling puzzled, he quickly left that uncomfortable place.

Under Kiro’s guidance, he hurried toward the agreed-upon meeting place to join the others. He also realized he had agreed to their request and needed to be prepared—this would undoubtedly be a tough fight. He needed to get stronger during this time.

What Rod didn’t know was that as he and Kiro left, several people in that room resumed intense discussions, with some debate, and the main topic this time was closely related to Rod.