Crushing flags and claiming the Villainess - Chapter 59

Chapter 59: Chapter 58- First Step
Cedric has been quite busy these days. The situation with the Southern nation is very critical.

The news of weakening ties with the Hener Kingdom sent a clear signal to the world: the Eryndor Kingdom was no longer the formidable power it once was.

Those who have been greedy to obtain all the riches of Eryndor suddenly started to act up. However, Eryndor still has the support of two major kingdoms, so they won’t attack Eryndor solely for claiming their treasury.

However, a specific kingdom doesn’t follow the same thought process as the others, and their reason for attacking Eryndor is completely different as well.

“If they attack us now it would be mayhem.” Cedric heaved a sigh as he looked older than his age with his face adopting a worrisome expression.

The nation in the South—Drenovar has strong military resources, fearsome Generals, and advanced artifacts that could grant them victory against Eryndor unless Hener supports them during the time of war.

However, considering the situation with the Prince of Hener, it was highly unlikely they would show their support when Eryndor would need them the most.

Cedric received advice from the Council to have a talk with Hener’s King regarding the matter. However, Cedric immediately rejected the proposal. He will not negotiate with the nation, whose heir tried to kill his son.

Speaking about Austin, Cedric recently received a letter from Headmaster Philius, regarding the incident with the Demon.

A proud smile bloomed on his face as he read the letter again, feeling his chest puffing with pride as he read how Austin gallantly fought against the inhumane and won without any external support.

Austin has shown his wits and strength to capture the Demons and save his friends.

‘You have turned into such a fine young man, Austin. Your father is proud of you…’ With a smile of contentment, Cedric fell asleep on his working chair.

———**——–

“So the war is inevitable,” Austin muttered as he sat in his office and heaved a sigh after hearing the backstory that he already knew.

The country in the South once had a good relationship with Eryndor. They used to be trading partners and before Hener, Eryndor used to receive military supplies from Drenovar.

However, two decades ago, when the Queen and the King came to Eryndor to join the harvest celebration, a group of assassins attacked the two royalties and killed them in the room they were staying in.

Naturally, questions arose about how assassins entered the most secure establishment of Eryndor. And in no time, those questions turned into allegations.

At that time, if not for the Union Council, Eryndor might have been erased from the map.

However, even though the situation was settled, the flames of revenge have yet to be subdued.

And now that Hener, the biggest backer of Eryndor has pulled their hands, Drenovar would surely find a way to attack Eryndor. And this time, it’s highly unlikely for the Union to interfere.

“My Lord, if the war breaks out, it is highly likely that the Academy will be suspended.”

Austin nodded, “And the Council would declare Valorian Academy ineligible to participate.” The council that arranged the tournament works under the Union Council.

This war would not only affect the natural progression of the story but also would restrict Austin’s movement. And if things come to it, Valerie would be forced to the frontlines, given her position as one of the strongest warriors of Eryndor.

No, that was unacceptable. This war would ruin many things, and Austin doesn’t like the idea of letting Valerie get involved with it.

“Sebastian, we need to stop this war from happening.”

Sebastian’s eyes stretched in shock, “But sir, what can we-”

“We need to find a way to not only erase their hostile intentions but also make Drenovar our ally.”

Sebastian was at a loss for words. While his Lord had honed his skills remarkably in just a few days, and his strategies had proven flawless so far, this situation was different. It involved the delicate balance between two kingdoms, where a single misstep could result in thousands of deaths and the fall of Eryndor.

“My Lord…as your server, I cannot stop you, but as an advisor, I would suggest you not involve yourself with this matter.”

Austin heaved a sigh, “You want me not to do anything and let them destroy the kingdom that my ancestors built against all resistance?”

Austin shook his head, “No, Sebastian. I may not be the first choice for the throne, but that doesn’t mean I will just sit here and let them annihilate my birthland.”

Sebastian was touched by his words. His heart rate elevated seeing his Lord being so devoted to his nation. At this age when children mostly remain busy making connections and thinking about their future, Austin was worried about his motherland.

Kneeling before his Lord, the grey-haired man uttered, “Please don’t hesitate to ask my help in any manner, sir. This loyal servant would sacrifice his life for you to fulfill your goal.”

Austin heaved a sigh of relief. Thankfully, he was able to convince Sebastian.

Although he was determined to stop this war, Austin’s main reason was to threaten Aiden’s position as the next King. And knowing that assho*e Austin knew, in desperation and panic, he would make a mistake.

‘This is my first step towards your downfall, Aiden.’

———**——–

The next morning, Austin and Valerie were sitting side by side on the resting bench nearly at six.

They have been sparring for the past two hours and that was quite surprising for Valerie, “Your stamina has increased.”

Austin raised his brows, “That’s so? But I started training with weighted gears just yesterday.”

Valerie was taken aback, “You are training after school?”

Austin nodded, “Yeah, just for an hour after school I have started training in the gym. That’s why, you can be rest assured about my stamina.”

The way he smiled near the end made Valerie realize what he was talking about.

*Puff*

Steams erupted from her head, as she leaned her head down and fidgeted at her place.

Austin chuckled, seeing her reaction as he leaned toward his beloved.

Soon they returned to their respective rooms to prepare for the school.

——-**——

“I have news to share.” It was early in the morning when all the students gathered in the classroom and the teacher arrived not so long after

Hearing her words, everyone quieted down, and a sense of tension spread in the classroom. After all, whenever the teacher gave them any news it always was unpleasant and disturbing.

But today,

“The trials for the tournament would start next week.”

A round of gasps erupted in the classroom, and one of the students asked, “This soon?”

The older one nodded, “Yes, this early. As you all know, we select the best students from each year to participate in the tournament. We need to first set up the trials to select those special students who would be representing the academy.”

Taking a pause and after ensuring that every eye was on her she added, “There will be three rounds of trials—starting from one on one duel between the participants. It’s your choice in which division you want to participate in but if you are planning to enter the tournament as an Elite, you must have the tag of a B-rank.”

Austin heaved a sigh; although he knew it, hearing it from the teacher made him a bit nervous.

He just broke into C-rank after his battle with Kalwar, and now, he has like two months before the tournament officially begins.

‘I need to continue with my quest and fight a few beasts. Thankfully, there is no limit to QoD.’ Austin decided to rely on the system as much as he could for this tournament.

“Is there anything anyone wants to ask?” The teacher asked, and Austin instantly shot his hand up, “Yes, Austin?”

The blond Prince got up, and under everyone’s gaze, he asked, “For the trials of the Elite tier, does one need to be a B-rank even for that?”

Many eyebrows rose upon hearing that. There were a few who openly smirked and scoffed at his question. It was not a hidden fact that Austin was a D-rank and the weakest one in the class at that. From him, this question sounded nothing less than a joke.

However, their smirk faded when suddenly they felt an ominous presence from a certain desk; reminding them that the one standing beside Austin was none other than the strongest student of the academy.

The Professor heaved a sigh, “Even if there is no rule, what would be the point in participating in the Elite trials when no one can grow their stats in just a month?”

Austin smiled and told her, “Thank you, ma’am.” He didn’t need any further information.

He has a week to prepare for the trials and a month for the tournament. Was it difficult? Yes. But was it impossible? Hell, nah.

——-**——

A/N:- Thanks for reading.