Beyond the Apocalypse
Chapter 521: A contest of skill!

Chapter 521: A contest of skill!

Torin glanced at the trio with solemn eyes. He trusted their judgment completely, knowing they would never lie to him. These were men of keen observation and unyielding integrity, capable of seeing through any deception. The cities they described could not be illusions or temporary façades; they were genuine examples of what every settlement under Xaos Kingdom rule could achieve.

A pensive expression crossed the dwarf king’s face as his gaze turned toward his people. Each of them had fought by his side, enduring the horrors of blood and steel to carve out their kingdom in the chaos of Ocenis. Yet, as he looked closer, he could see exhaustion etched into their faces. Their shoulders sagged under the weight of years of war. They were tired, weary of constant battles and the unrelenting threat of death. Many longed to lay down their weapons and live in peace, to return to their loved ones without the specter of danger hanging over them.

In the post-apocalypse world, however, peace was a luxury few could afford. The relentless brutality of the environment forced anyone strong enough to wield a weapon onto the battlefield, whether they wanted to fight or not. But perhaps that could change.

If the Strong Hammer Kingdom joined the Xaos Kingdom, the people would no longer have to endure the constant burden of war. Only those who chose the soldier’s path would march to the battlefield, while others could pursue lives of safety, growth, and prosperity.

Finally, after a few long moments of contemplation, a wide smile broke across Torin’s face. His gaze lifted to meet Vlad’s as the Xaos King hovered in the sky. Torin’s voice thundered with might and authority, echoing across the Strong Hammer Kingdom.

"The Strong Hammer Kingdom is willing to join the Xaos Kingdom!"

The proclamation sent shockwaves through the gathered crowd. Whispers rippled through the soldiers. But alongside the initial surprise, a sense of joy and, most importantly, hope began to emerge. Becoming part of a kingdom where safety, prosperity, and justice were guaranteed—what more could they want?

Vlad allowed himself a small smile, pleased to see everything unfolding as planned. Yet, as he studied Torin’s face, he sensed that the dwarf king wasn’t finished. Sure enough, Torin raised his hand, and the murmurs of the crowd fell silent. His voice rang out once more, resolute and filled with determination.

"My people will benefit greatly from joining the Xaos Kingdom, which is why I want all of them to follow you. However, if you wish me to submit to your rule, it will not be so simple!"

Torin’s eyes burned with fiery resolve, and the mark of the World King Candidate on his forehead began to glow brightly. The sheer force of his battle will ripple through the air, drawing the attention of everyone present.

Vlad’s expression sharpened as he descended from the sky. His feet struck the ground with such force that cracks radiated outward, a testament to the overwhelming energy and physical might he possessed. His piercing gaze fixed on Torin as he spoke, his voice calm yet commanding.

"Do you wish to duel me?" The question carried a note of disappointment. If Torin intended to challenge him in direct combat, Vlad would find it disheartening. It was clear that the dwarf king had no chance of winning, and such a battle would only serve as a hollow attempt to satisfy his pride.

To Vlad’s surprise, Torin burst into hearty laughter. His deep voice boomed across the battlefield as he shook his head.

"Of course not," Torin said, his smile wide but his tone steady. "I cannot defeat you, nor would there be anything for me or my people to gain from such a fight." His expression grew serious, his fiery determination undiminished. "If I am to relinquish my status as a World King Candidate, it must be to someone who can surpass me in my area of expertise. I am not challenging you to a fight, Xaos King—I am challenging you to a contest of skill!"

Vlad’s harsh gaze softened slightly at those words. Though the challenge was unexpected, it made a certain amount of sense. For someone like Torin, who had forged his kingdom through unrelenting effort and personal mastery, it was only natural to test his leader’s capabilities. Vlad studied the dwarf for a moment before responding.

"I assume the skill you’re referring to is weapon crafting," Vlad said.

Torin’s chest swelled with pride as he nodded. "That’s right. My Gift is Ancient Dwarf Soul, which grants me unparalleled knowledge and wisdom in the art of weapon crafting." His voice carried the weight of pride and accomplishment, for it was his weapons and armor that had allowed his people to survive and thrive in a land infested with demons.

Vlad regarded him seriously. The challenge was not unreasonable, but there was a problem.

"I specialize in rune crafting," Vlad admitted. "Weapon crafting is not something I excel at."

Torin nodded immediately, unfazed. "I understand. You can call upon someone from your kingdom to act as your champion. There’s no shame in a king relying on the strength of his people."

Vlad smiled faintly at the dwarf’s words. Though the situation bordered on humorous, he respected Torin’s reasoning. If this contest of skill was what it took to secure unity and trust, it was worth the effort.

Besides, Vlad also noted how the atmosphere among the Strong Hammer citizens shifted. The mention of a friendly competition eased much of the tension, replacing it with curiosity and anticipation. A contest of craftsmanship, rather than bloodshed, had the potential to raise spirits and forge connections.

Closing his eyes briefly, Vlad used his A.I. Chip to send a message. When he opened them again, he turned to Torin.

"My champion will arrive in a few hours," Vlad announced. "In the meantime, may my people enter your city? We have medicine and nutritious food that could be of great help to your people."

Torin’s face lit up with a smile, and he nodded without hesitation. "The city and its people are already under your rule. They will be more than happy to see the strength and generosity of your kingdom."

Torin’s voice carried across the city walls, ensuring that everyone within the Strong Hammer Kingdom heard his decree. There would be no resistance to the Xaos forces as they entered the city. Vlad turned to Grand Marshal Angius, giving him a small