Chapter 24: A second chance!

XIU!

Lucien's vision blurred as he soon appeared on the other side of the castle. It was a large room with an extra-large dining table which could hold over twenty-plus people, luckily the beast-men have always been known to have reproductive issues so the table had fewer members than expected.

"What happened to the academy? Why aren't you there?" The question popped up in Lucien's head so he just threw out the question without care.

"The academy was damaged… it will need some time to be rebuilt, two to three weeks… Until then you are staying here with us" a familiar yet graceful voice reached his ears.

Looking forward, Lucien noticed the mighty gray-haired man dressed in an expensive black kimono with a red flower dressed draped over it. His long gray hair was allowed to roam free across his face as he ate and his pupils were blazing red, filled with so much power that Lucien felt the need to fall on his knees and worship this man but Lucien didn't do that.

With his back straightened he began taking bold strides forward, catching the attention of all the royal family members! Even the emperor Fei who was busy enjoying his soup couldn't help but shoot Lucien a meaningful glance.

"This is really interesting, you are the first outsider to set his eyes on me and not kneel… I can't help but wonder why?" Emperor Fei's said as he wolfed down another piece of stake.

"Why? Sorry but I do not believe a beast emperor should bow to another! Don't you think so?" Lucien asked with a confident smile as he sat across the table, staring at the seemingly uninterested beast emperor who was at the other end of the long dining table.

His words struck like lightning leaving everyone stunned as they gazed at the kid for a short time while deeply pondering on what to do with him. Openly declaring himself a beast emperor in front of the emperor is not only a crime no less than treason bit it's also disrespectful! They all wanted to refute his words but none dared to speak up because based on talent as a genius, Lucien far surpasses them in their youthful days. Some even believe he is more talented than the beast Emperor

"Hehehe! You little man, you remind me of when I was your age… I was so hot-headed and eager to fight… I watched your performance against the invaders…. Firstly, you shatter the affinity testing orb due to your insane affinity to both your primary and secondary elements… Next, you create an original spell in just an hour, and finally, you saved the life of an instructor and held your own against an invader! For someone your age, this is considered incredible! That is why you have gotten my attention..."Emperor Fei said as he used a piece of white cloth to clean his lips.

"I could only hold the invader because of the spatial zone lock cast by instructor Han… once taken away, I was defeated easily… so the third point doesn't count" Lucien said as he shoved a piece of steak into his mouth shamelessly. He even failed to notice that Hex had arrived and was currently making his way to one of the many empty chairs.

"Hahahaha! You are modest and honest too! I like you kid! Regarding your question, the fact, you could muster the courage to face an unknown enemy is more than enough! By saving Little Han's life, you saved the lives of many who would have fallen prey to these invaders… You are unaware of how much you contributed to this empire by just that simple act of bravery and that is why I wish to reward you… Tell me, young lad, what do you want?" Emperor Fei said with a serious look on his face as he leaned back.

Listening to his words, Lucien fell into deep thought. He knew what it meant and he knew the royal family now owes him a favor. He considered the number of things he may want but only one thing came to his mind.

"When the invaders hiding in the empire are found, I want to be one of those who will confront them! That's what I want!" Lucien said with a serious look on his face.

The others were taken aback by his request since they failed to understand how a kid who barely survived a battle with enemies stronger than noble family heads would want to jump back in! Was he really tired of living? Or does he have some issues upstairs?

"Why?" The Emperor kept a straight face as if he was expecting this reply from Lucien.

"It's because I have to! For the sake of my pride as a warrior!" Lucien said with his head held high.