Chapter 533: Leaving Terra (V)
Vlad smiled, relieved that the logistical and manpower issues had been addressed, before turning his gaze toward the golden giant who stood nearby.
As he looked at Anglius, Vlad could not help recalling the first time he had met the man. It was only a few days after the world had spiraled into apocalyptic chaos. Even then, Anglius—no more than a Mortal Warrior without any special weaponry—had stood proudly upon a wall beside his fellow soldiers, facing down a charging horde of demons. He possessed neither grand powers nor legendary artifacts, yet he served as an unwavering pillar of morale for his people.
Now, that same mortal warrior had evolved into one of the most formidable leaders in the Xaos Kingdom, literally a colossal golden giant as tall as a building. Vlad exhaled softly, reflecting on just how much both men—and the entire world—had changed since those early days.
"Grand Marshal Anglius," Vlad began, his voice solemn. "While I am away, you will serve as the Regent of the Xaos Kingdom. Your word will carry my authority, and you shall have absolute control over the kingdom and its military."
The golden giant’s eyes widened in surprise as he heard Vlad’s decree. It was an incredible amount of responsibility but also an extraordinary honor. Without the slightest hesitation, Anglius bowed low, the giant form bending with practiced grace.
"I will not disappoint you, my King," came Anglius’s resounding voice. "I will ensure that the Xaos Kingdom expands to every corner of the world before you return."
His determination and resolve radiated through the metallic timbre of his words. The other high-ranking officers and advisors nodded in approval. Anglius had become a master strategist and an awe-inspiring war commander. He was respected by soldiers and revered by civilians—no one doubted his fitness for this immense responsibility.
Well, almost no one. If there were one individual who could rival Anglius in capability, it would be Overlord, the A.I. Chip Clone.
Vlad was fully aware that Overlord possessed a computational brilliance that exceeded even the golden giant’s. However, Vlad also understood how dangerous it would be to let Overlord rule unchecked. If the A.I. Chip Clone commanded the kingdom without oversight, Vlad had no doubt that upon his return, he would find an overwhelming empire—but one devoid of the individual freedoms and diversity of thought that currently characterized the Xaos Kingdom.