Jormungandr’s sword was undoubtedly an impressive creation, a weapon with extraordinary potential for growth. However, its power was not immediate. It required time, effort, and countless battles to achieve its full strength. On the other hand, Torin’s weapon, though it lacked the ability to evolve further, was undeniably the superior weapon at the moment. Its craftsmanship and immediate effectiveness placed it well above the current state of the Demon Bloodsucking Sword.
Vlad’s expression twisted into one of mild irritation as his sharp gaze flicked toward the small yellow cat. If the Depravita of Gluttony had simply forged a standard Guardian Tier weapon, the contest would have been far easier to judge. But the cunning creature had taken an unconventional path, creating a treasure with immense growth potential. While Vlad appreciated ingenuity, he couldn’t ignore the fact that this approach muddied the decision.
Of course, Vlad knew that the small yellow cat might have had no choice. Perhaps Jormungandr had realized that crafting a weapon through traditional means would not surpass Torin’s masterpiece with the provided materials. Choosing an evolving weapon might have been the only viable strategy. Regardless, Vlad now bore the burden of deciding the winner, his eyes darting between the two weapons as he weighed his options.
The crowd, composed of both the Xaos Kingdom’s soldiers and the people of Strong Hammer, sat in hushed anticipation. Tension hung thick in the air as everyone awaited the verdict.
Before Vlad could make his decision, a commanding voice rang out, cutting through the silence.
"I accept defeat," Torin declared, his tone resolute and clear.
The arena erupted into murmurs of shock and surprise. The dwarf’s declaration was unexpected, especially given how formidable his weapon had proven to be. Torin’s expression, however, betrayed no reluctance. His face remained calm, his eyes steady, and a faint smile touched his lips.
Vlad turned his gaze to Torin, his voice low but filled with curiosity. "Are you sure? Your skill rivals Jormungandr’s in every way. A draw would be a fair result."
Torin met Vlad’s piercing eyes with unwavering resolve. "If I claim a draw, I would be admitting that my current skills are enough for this challenge—and they are not. I accept this loss and will use it as motivation to refine my craft and grow stronger for future challenges."
A smile tugged at Vlad’s lips as he regarded the determined dwarf. He could see the burning passion in Torin’s eyes. A fire fueled not by pride but by an unyielding dedication to his craft. Vlad had no doubt that Torin would achieve greatness, reaching heights few could imagine.
Vlad rose to the sky and let his aura wash over the arena like a wave, silencing the murmurs. His voice, as powerful and resonant as thunder, filled the air.
"The winner of this contest is Jormungandr!"
The Strong Hammer citizens erupted into applause, their clapping and cheers filling the space. Though their loyalty to Torin was absolute, his gracious acceptance of defeat made it easy for them to honor the decision.
Jormungandr, ever composed, inclined his head toward the crowd before turning to Torin. The small yellow cat clasped his paws together and bowed slightly. "Your skills have truly impressed me," He said, his voice tinged with respect. "I have no doubt you will create wonders in the future."
Torin smiled warmly, bowing in return. He then turned his attention to Vlad and walked forward, each step purposeful. The crowd fell silent as the imposing figure of the dwarf approached the Xaos King, who descended gracefully from the sky to meet him. Vlad’s regal presence was undeniable, his every movement commanding respect.
Standing before Vlad, Torin knelt, lowering his head. His voice rang out clearly, echoing through the arena. "I accept you as my leader, and I will follow you to face the horrors of this world."
At his words, the World King Candidate Mark on Torin’s forehead began to glow brilliantly. The golden light pulsed once before transforming into a stream of radiant energy, flowing into Vlad’s forehead and merging seamlessly with his own mark.
Vlad’s smile widened as he felt the surge of power, the strengthening connection to the Plane Will, and the unmistakable growth of his authority as a World King Candidate. For a brief moment, his eyes glowed with an ethereal light, reflecting the boundless potential of this newfound power.
"Torin," Vlad began, his voice regal and commanding, "I hereby appoint you as Marquess of the Xaos Kingdom and grant you dominion over the Strong Hammer State. May your strength and guidance become a beacon for the people of Oceanis."
Torin raised his head, his sharp gaze unwavering. With a booming voice that carried his resolve, he declared, "I accept this honor and will not disappoint you. I will dedicate my life to ensuring the safety and prosperity of the Strong Hammer State."
Vlad nodded approvingly. "Rise now, Strong Hammer Marquess!"
Torin stood, his presence as commanding as ever despite losing the World King Candidate Mark. Around him, the crowd erupted into chants.
"Strong Hammer Marquess!"
"Strong Hammer Marquess!"
"Strong Hammer Marquess!"
While the people of the Strong Hammer State returned to their city, celebrating their new status as part of the Xaos Kingdom, events of great importance were unfolding a few hundred kilometers away.
Freya led a battalion of five thousand Xaos soldiers against a massive horde of demons. The clash was ferocious, the air thick with the stench of blood and the roars of demon beasts. Despite the overwhelming odds, the Xaos battalion fought with unmatched precision and discipline, carving through the demonic forces like a well-oiled machine.
Freya herself was a whirlwind of destruction. Her strikes were swift and merciless, her fists neutralizing demons with terrifying ease. At that moment, she stood over the broken body of a massive Abyssal, its chest crushed and bones shattered. As it writhed in agony, she prepared to seal its soul, reaching into her space ring for the necessary parchment.
Before she could act, her ring began to glow with an unusual intensity. A small scroll emerged on its own, igniting in ethereal flames before her eyes.