Chapter 197: Overlord (IV)
Overlord focused on Chief Councilor Alonz and smiled as he spoke in a voice that carried a sense of utter and absolute certainty and truthfulness, "I was born to guide the growth and development of the Xaos Kingdom, to protect its people and allow its civilization to advance. That is the sole purpose of my existence. Without it, my only path would be self-destruction, as my kind cannot exist without purpose."
As they heard those words, shock and awe appeared in the eyes of all present. The way Overlord spoke made it clear that he had no desire or goals other than the advancement of the Xaos Kingdom. He was not motivated by greed or any other emotion; even recognition did not matter to the entity.
The only reason Overlord performed that grandiose display of power and might was to instill a deep sense of awe in the hearts of the people of the Silent Wind Military Base. Every action and move was programmed and followed directives.
Chief Councilor Alonz was at a loss for words as he had never faced someone like that. Even those who were kind and worked for the good of the people also sought recognition and did those things because they made them feel right. Yet Overlord was different. The entity did those things not due to a reaction or emotion but because he was made for it.
The old politician saw how the group focused on him, wondering how they should move forward. Alonz considered things for several seconds before. Finally, a solemn light appeared in his eyes, and he stared at the entity with sharp focus. "How could you do a better job than us?"
Overlord’s eyes narrowed as he saw how the topic was no longer about merit and loyalty; instead, he wanted to see his capabilities. He nodded before turning his eyes toward a figure at the end of the table. "You are Brigadier General Jeremiah, Level 4 Warrior. Up to a few years ago, you had been a normal soldier in the Silent Wind Military Base. Yet, during the past year, you proved great leadership capabilities and were promoted under the recommendation of Grand Marshal Anglius."
Jeremiah was a young man in his twenties. He had short dark hair, a regular face with a large frame, and sharp blue eyes. The man was a little surprised by the sudden focus, but the past years had tempered his willpower, and he adopted a solemn expression as he performed a small bow.
"According to my intel, you have been assigned to make a path through a forest that leads to a neighboring city. That path is extremely important as it would allow fast access for normal troops and the safe travel of civilians. However, there have been considerable delays." Overlord spoke with a calm voice, focusing on the man.
Jeremiah could not help but frown as he felt that Overlord was trying to find flaws in him, but he did not cower. He straightened up after his bow, his expression sharp and focused. "Yes, Overlord. The area I’ve been assigned is problematic due to the appearance of a poisonous swamp in the middle of the forest."