Chapter 260 Aria's Resolve
The surrendered soldiers were now officially branded under the Liberation Empire's banner.
Over 40 million soldiers, both new and old, rested and healed in their temporary camps. The atmosphere was lively as soldiers celebrated the hard-won victory—dancing, joking, and savoring the delicious feasts being prepared for them.
Very soon, they would march towards the Imperial City, aiming to reclaim all the territories once under the former Kairos Empire's rule.
In the central war council tent, Aengus, Aria, the Generals, kings, and several key advisors gathered to discuss the challenges ahead, particularly the possible resistance from smaller kingdoms as they moved to establish full dominance.
"Your Imperial Majesty, among the 26 kingdoms, 10 were already conquered by the fallen Emperor. Excluding us two, we still need to deal with 14 kingdoms. Sending letters of submission to them first would be the wisest course of action," King Milphomor advised diplomatically.
King Gravis, seated beside him, nodded in agreement, still basking in the joy of regaining his throne under the Liberation Empire's protection.
At the long table, Aengus and Aria sat close together, both deep in thought about the best approach to reclaim the vast territories efficiently.
"Ethan," Aria said softly, addressing Aengus by his former name, "I think King Milphomor is right. Sending letters of submission might save us time and effort. What if they willingly hand over their power? It would prevent unnecessary bloodshed."
General Leon leaned forward to add his voice to the discussion.
"Her Majesty is correct, Your Imperial Majesty. There is no need to act in haste. First, we must secure the Imperial City and reestablish it as our base of power. Then we can wait for their responses."
Aengus considered their words carefully, his piercing eyes scanning each of them. Finally, he spoke with a decisive tone.
"We will proceed as King Milphomor suggested," Aengus said. "However, remind them clearly—there will be no second chances. If they fail to comply or dare to oppose us, we will intervene without mercy and reduce their kingdoms to ashes."
His voice carried an unyielding resolve, and his face radiated a chilling killing intent that froze the room.
The advisors and generals nodded solemnly, bowing their heads in deference. The cold aura emanating from Aengus sent shivers down their spines, leaving no doubt about the severity of his declaration.
Following the discussion, the council moved on to matters of restoration. They deliberated on granting King Gravis his Skyfall Kingdom back and distributing ranks and titles to those who had made significant contributions to the war effort.
After over an hour of planning and strategizing, the meeting adjourned, and preparations began for their departure to the Imperial Capital City, located 50,000 kilometers away from their current position.
After the advisors left, Aengus issued a crucial command to his 7 elite shadow assassins.
"Go and check the situation in the Imperial City. Report back to me immediately with any significant information," Aengus instructed with authority.
"Yes, my lord!" the seven assassins responded in unison. Bowing deeply, they vanished into thin air, blending seamlessly with the shadows.
Aria remained beside Aengus, now wearing a gold-strapped white dress that highlighted her elegance. Her refreshed and radiant appearance was hard to miss, lending her a charm that seemed almost ethereal.
Turning towards the entrance of the tent, Aengus gestured for others to join them.
"Come inside, Quin, Drake, Yona!" he called, his voice firm yet welcoming.
The three individuals entered promptly, their face full of nervousness and awe.
They had all witnessed Aengus's immense power during the war, a force so overwhelming that they knew they could never rival it in their lifetimes.
Quin, having seen his Emperor's might for the first time, wore a fanatical expression. To him, Aengus's strength was godlike—a figure worthy of absolute worship.
Aria, on the other hand, appeared puzzled as to why they had been summoned so suddenly.
The three stood in respectful silence, patiently waiting for Aengus to speak.
"I have called you here to reward your contributions once again," Aengus began, his tone resolute. "But this time, it will be different. I will give you power—power so immense that you will reach the limit of what your bodies can handle."
Drake and Yona's faces lit up with exhilaration at the prospect, fully aware of the immense honor being bestowed upon them.
Quin, however, remained quiet, new to such experiences and unsure of what to expect. Internally, he mulled over Aengus's words.
"Is this the 'food' His Majesty mentioned earlier?" Quin wondered, recalling previous cryptic statements Aengus had made.
Still, he refrained from interrupting, determined to observe the unfolding events in reverence and awe.
Aengus turned to Aria and said, "Aria, you first."
"I am ready," Aria nodded obediently, eager to receive the power he intended to grant her.
Sometimes, she felt like a burden, but his unwavering care always lightened her mood.
Aengus retrieved the corpses of countless A-Rank and higher enemies, their bodies falling from thin air like rain, all intended to enhance her physical stats. As for skills, he would bestow those personally.
Quin's eyes were glued to the scene where Aengus was appearing like a God, bestowing his Divine power to his followers.
He doubted if those 'Gods' could ever do such miracles.
His gaze remained fixed on the scene, eager to witness the miracle once again—The way he awakened himself.
"Aria, give me a signal when you can't endure anymore," Aengus instructed, his voice filled with concern. "I know you're a strong woman, but there's no need to take unnecessary risks, alright?"
Seeing her struggle sometimes made him feel guilty.
"I know," Aria replied, her emerald-green eyes flashing with determination.
Inside, she resolved to make the most of this opportunity. She didn't want to remain on the weaker side forever. She craved strength—more power to help him, to share his burdens, and to stand beside him as an equal.
Aengus raised his hand and quickly started the process, hoping this time she would be able to reach level 100 at least.
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