Beyond the Apocalypse
Chapter 511: Joining the Xaos Kingdom (II)

Chapter 511: Joining the Xaos Kingdom (II)

Alonz studied Rayland, the lawman standing before him. Although he could sense the lingering dread within the man, he also recognized the unyielding resolve to protect this city—even if it meant dying on the battlefied. That reaction brought a small, approving smile to Alonz’s lips, for it reminded him of the early days of the Xaos Kingdom, back when they were merely known as the Silent Wind Military Base, barely adjusting to the terrifying dangers that had overrun the world.

Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, Alonz let out a soft breath, then spoke in a calm, measured voice.

"What we desire is to reveal a path to a new world—one in which no child will ever know hunger, where they can feed their minds with knowledge and carve a path to greater heights, limited only by their determination and hard work. A world where soldiers awaken each day without fear, for they are no longer the prey but the hunters, crushing demons, angels, and monstrous beasts underfoot as they ascend to glory and power. They would enjoy longer lifespans, sharing riches and honor with their families. A world where justice stands above all, and meritocracy is not just a dream, but an absolute reality."

He paused, allowing the weight of those words to settle. His eyes glowed with genuine conviction, for each sentence emerged from the depths of his soul.

"A world ruled by the Xaos Kingdom, under the guidance of the Xaos King."

Rayland, who had lived through countless perils and accumulated years of experience, observed Alonz closely. He found no trace of deceit in the man’s bearing, no sign of hesitation. Every word rang with honest conviction. Rayland inhaled slowly, composing his thoughts before responding.

"So, you want us to join you," he said. "What would you demand from us?"

Rayland was no fool. He could clearly see that the Xaos Kingdom possessed incredible power—power enough to protect his people. If joining them would safeguard his city, it was at least worth considering. As for possibly relinquishing control, Rayland had never sought leadership for his own glory. In these chaotic and deadly times, he had simply stepped up because no one else could. If a capable force promised safety for his people, he would gladly yield his position.

Alonz inclined his head, understanding precisely what kind of man Rayland was. Choosing his words carefully, he offered a steady reply.

"We will demand nothing from you. You will not be conquered nor reduced to vassals. You will become full members of the Xaos Civilization, just like the rest of us. You will enjoy the same opportunities as those who dwell in Xaos City, our capital."

He paused, letting his reassurance sink in. "Of course," he continued, "this also means you must follow the same rules and laws we do. Our code of law is similar to what existed before the apocalypse—though we’ve made certain adjustments. The most critical requirement is that you allow the promulgation of the Xaos Faith among your people."

Rayland’s brow furrowed slightly. He understood the perils of introducing a new religion to a population—especially if it were done by force. However, before he could voice his concerns, Alonz clarified:

"Naturally, ’promulgation of the Xaos Faith’ does not mean enforcement. If people choose to pray to the Xaos Godking, they may do so freely. If they choose not to, that, too, is their right. Neither side has permission to pressure or coerce the other. However, prayer to new gods or powerful entities that emerged after the apocalypse is forbidden. We do not want higher-dimensional beings exploiting our people. Yet prayer to any pre-apocalypse deities is allowed, as they are merely belief systems, not true physical entities able to interfere."

Alonz’s explanation dispelled Rayland’s immediate worries. Relief flickered across the lawman’s features, replaced by a faint smile. It was clear that the Xaos Kingdom valued individual liberty and did not seek to brainwash or oppress people. As Rayland considered these revelations, Alonz produced a small, crystalline orb from the inner pocket of his coat and handed it to him.

"This crystal contains the complete code of law for the Xaos Kingdom," Alonz said.

Rayland took the orb, and as he focused on it, a flood of information blossomed in his mind. He discovered that the Xaos Kingdom’s laws were, in fact, straightforward. As a former lawman before the apocalypse, Rayland was fully aware of how people had once twisted legal loopholes to avoid accountability. However, under Xaos law, such manipulations seemed practically impossible.

"Now," Alonz continued, "let us discuss what we offer you in return if you join us. All your citizens will receive food, medicine, security, and access to magical education. We will teach your soldiers superior cultivation techniques so they can truly defend themselves. We will also provide armor and weapons capable of bringing down demonic beasts with ease. And when the time is right, every man, woman, and child will have access to our unique Xaos Kingdom power system—allowing even those who do not fight or train to reach the level of a Rank 5 Warrior."

Rayland’s eyes lit up with a mixture of awe and excitement. The more he learned, the clearer it became that the Xaos Kingdom was extending a genuine hand. There seemed little reason to doubt them—he had just witnessed their might firsthand. After a long, considered silence, Rayland permitted a bright smile to emerge. He bowed deeply, acknowledging the incredible opportunity standing before his people.

"It will be an honor to become part of the Xaos Kingdom," he declared.

A gentle wind swept across the nearby fields as Alonz placed a hand over his heart and inclined his head in return. Both men shared a solemn moment of understanding. The city Rayland had fought so tirelessly to protect might finally find salvation under the banner of the Xaos Kingdom. And for Alonz, he had fulfilled his mission, bringing the first city of Oceanis into the Xoas Civilization without any form of threat or fear, only relying on pure goodwill and honesty.