Beyond the Apocalypse
Chapter 644: Selling the Demon Cage Runic Diagrams (I)

Chapter 644: Selling the Demon Cage Runic Diagrams (I)

All sorts of thoughts crossed Vlad’s mind as he approached the two powerful men waiting for him. Marshal Maximo stood tall, his expression grave yet welcoming, while Elder Damian remained as unreadable as ever. Gathering himself, Vlad showed a calm, polite smile as he greeted them.

"I assume there’s something important we need to discuss?" Vlad asked carefully, gauging their reactions.

Marshal Maximo released a complicated sigh, his expression carrying a trace of discomfort. He briefly glanced at Elder Damian before speaking. "Young man, Elder Damian wishes to have a conversation with you. I promise you will listen to him patiently."

As the Marshal reached this point, his eyes flashed sharply with a hint of coldness. "However, that is all. Whatever you decide will be solely up to you—no one here will force your hand in any way."

Elder Damian understood immediately the underlying warning embedded in Marshal Maximo’s words. He respectfully nodded, showing he had received the message, before turning his full attention back to Vlad.

"Please follow us to my office," Damian requested calmly.

Vlad recognized he didn’t have much room to negotiate at this moment and agreed quietly, following the two powerful figures deeper into the castle. They walked through winding hallways until reaching a quiet, remote part of the fortress, finally entering a small, secluded room.

The room was sparse, containing only a desk with several communication gems embedded into its surface. Beyond that, it was utterly devoid of decoration or extravagance. Vlad silently noted that this minimalist style suited Elder Damian’s reserved nature very well.

Once inside, Damian made no move toward the desk. Instead, he stood firmly and faced Vlad directly, his face calm, collected, and impossible to read.

"Young Vlad, as you’ve likely guessed, the reason for this meeting concerns your Demon Soul Master Strength System," Elder Damian began calmly, his eyes focused intently on Vlad’s reaction.

Vlad wasn’t naive; he understood immediately this was a negotiation. Calmly, he nodded, indicating that Damian could continue.

In any negotiation, Vlad knew, the first person to openly state their desire was usually at a disadvantage. Damian also understood this, but he chose to proceed without delay, confident in his abilities.

"The potential of your Strength System is truly extraordinary," Damian explained clearly. "It perfectly integrates combat enhancement, accelerated cultivation, and even provides a lifesaving mechanism. The fact that its main component is demon souls—something our Graecia Empire has in abundance—only multiplies its strategic value."

Marshal Maximo quietly nodded in agreement. He had read reports of Demon Soul Masters in action on the battlefield, noting how significantly their presence shifted combat outcomes.

Damian paused for a moment, then continued directly, "We would like to purchase the Demon Cage Runic Diagrams from you. In exchange, you will be awarded one hundred thousand military credits. Additionally, your status in the Empire will rise directly to that of a Virtuous Count."

Despite mentally preparing himself for a generous offer, Vlad was still momentarily stunned by Damian’s proposition. One hundred thousand military credits alone would allow him to easily purchase a Peak Sage Law-Type Bloodline.

The offered noble title was equally alluring. He had thoroughly studied the ranks within the Empire and understood clearly the immense prestige and tangible privileges that accompanied the title of Virtuous Count. Many cultivators spent their entire lives struggling to climb from Baron to Viscount, let alone Virtuous Count—a title typically reserved for individuals of extraordinary accomplishment or Legends who rendered immense service.

Becoming a Virtuous Count wasn’t merely symbolic; it meant true integration into the Graecia Empire’s upper echelons, accompanied by a considerable landholding and significant political influence. Altogether, this offer was tempting enough that Vlad felt a brief, overwhelming impulse to accept immediately.

However, Vlad was nothing if not disciplined. With an immense effort of will, he calmed the racing greed in his heart, keeping his gaze sharp and his composure steady.

Observing Vlad’s disciplined reaction, Marshal Maximo showed a wide smile, clearly impressed.

"Good, very good indeed," Maximo murmured quietly to himself, clearly pleased. Then, speaking louder, he reassured Vlad firmly, "Young man, Damian’s offer is generous, but please remember, you have the absolute freedom to refuse. If you decline, there will be no negative consequences whatsoever. Our friendship and cooperation will continue as though this discussion never occurred."

When it came to the Darkness Devouring Runic Formation, Marshal Maximo inwardly admitted he was willing to pressure Vlad, even if it stained his honor, since that formation directly influenced the lives and deaths of his comrades on the battlefield.

However, the Demon Soul Master Strength System was different. While immensely beneficial, cultivators could still achieve similar results through other means—perhaps less conveniently or cost-effectively—but achievable nonetheless. Thus, if Vlad chose to monopolize the system for himself, that was entirely within his rights, and Maximo would respect his decision.

Vlad observed the Marshal quietly, a genuine smile spreading across his lips. The more he learned about Marshal Maximo, the greater his respect and admiration for the man grew. After several thoughtful moments, Vlad carefully chose his words.

"I will not sell the Runic Diagram for the Sage-Tier Demon Cage Runic Formation," Vlad finally stated, calmly and resolutely.

Elder Damian let out a subtle sigh of disappointment but nodded, accepting Vlad’s decision without argument. Damian had considered other subtle forms of pressure, but the Marshal’s prior warning made him cautious, and he wouldn’t dare cross Maximo’s clearly drawn line.

Just as Damian thought the negotiation had ended unsuccessfully, Vlad suddenly continued, his voice steady yet measured. "However, I am willing to sell the diagrams for the Mortal, Champion, and Guardian Tiers."

Damian’s eyes immediately lit up, a subtle flash of excitement briefly visible in his normally impenetrable gaze. Even if the Sage-Tier formation was off-limits, obtaining diagrams for the three lower tiers would improve their soldiers’ combat efficiency and training.

Marshal Maximo also smiled, clearly pleased with Vlad’s astute and reasonable compromise.

Vlad had masterfully navigated the negotiation, firmly protecting his interests while also ensuring mutual benefit, solidifying a productive relationship with the Empire’s leadership.