Chapter 28 – Spoils and Iron Howl’s Declaration

The chamber remained silent for a moment before the weight of Ian’s words settled upon the elders. Crimson Pyre tapped his mask twice, contemplating, while Sable Fang narrowed his eyes in thought. The revelation of Garry, the Walking Flare, being responsible for Barseagle’s death was significant. A figure capable of countering the golden light form was no ordinary opponent.

Iron Howl was the first to break the silence. “You and your team survived an encounter with a foe that managed to kill Barseagle… That alone is a feat worthy of reward.”

Ashen Wing nodded. “Indeed. While the mission was meant to cull the werewolves, we underestimated the presence of a high-level enemy among them. Despite the losses, you brought us valuable information and eliminated multiple threats, including two true werewolves. That deserves recognition.”

Crimson Pyre raised a hand, his voice carrying a finality that sealed the discussion. “Ian of Team 7, for your contributions to the mission and your resilience in the face of an opponent far beyond your rank, you will be rewarded with 10,000 contribution points. Additionally, for their participation and survival, your teammates—Daniel, Kate, and Liz—shall each receive 5,000 contribution points.”

Ian felt his chest tighten. The amount was staggering for a Lesser Vampire. Contribution points dictated influence, resources, and status. His team, especially, would benefit immensely from such wealth. But Ian didn’t let his emotions show. Instead, he gave a deep bow.

“I appreciate the reward, Elders.”

Crimson Pyre’s crimson eyes gleamed from behind his mask. “Furthermore, I will grant you a single request. Consider this a personal acknowledgment of your capabilities. Speak.”

Ian raised his head. The opportunity was rare, perhaps unprecedented. He had already decided on what he wanted.

“I would like fresh corpses of creatures.”

The room became eerily quiet. Some elders furrowed their brows, others showed curiosity, while a few narrowed their eyes with suspicion.

Crimson Pyre tilted his head slightly. “Why?”

Ian met his gaze without hesitation. “Because I can grow stronger by consuming them.”

That was all he offered. No explanation, no further details.

The room was once again filled with silent contemplation. Some elders muttered to themselves. Ashen Wing chuckled lightly, while Sable Fang simply observed, expression unreadable.

Crimson Pyre eventually exhaled, shaking his head with amusement. “A peculiar request… but it is within reason.” He turned to one of the masked attendants standing by the chamber doors. “Prepare a shipment of the recent battlefield remains.”

The attendant bowed before vanishing.

Iron Howl raised an eyebrow. “2,938 corpses should suffice for your request.”

Ian’s fingers twitched slightly, though he remained composed. “That many?”

Sable Fang’s voice was calm. “A recent conflict at the Bloodfang Outpost left behind plenty of bodies—mostly lesser werewolves, a few rogue vampires, and some beasts from the outskirts. Their corpses were bound for disposal, but now they will serve another purpose.”

Ian gave a deep nod. “I understand.”

Crimson Pyre waved his hand dismissively. “It will be delivered to your registered address. See to it that your methods don’t attract unnecessary attention.”

Ian smirked slightly. “Of course.”

With that, he stepped back, lowering his head slightly in parting. “I appreciate the council’s generosity. I shall take my leave.”

The elders watched as he turned and exited the chamber, his footsteps steady.

As the doors shut behind him, Ashen Wing chuckled, resting his chin on his hand. “That boy… he’s hiding something interesting.”

Crimson Pyre simply tapped his mask once. “Indeed.”

…

As the doors closed behind Ian, the chamber remained silent for a moment. Then, Iron Howl leaned back, crossing his arms with a thoughtful expression.

“I want to take that kid as my direct disciple.”

The declaration sent ripples through the council. A few elders subtly shifted their gazes toward him, while others outright frowned in surprise. Even Crimson Pyre tapped his mask twice in interest.

Sable Fang narrowed his eyes. “You? Taking in a disciple?” His voice carried an unmistakable hint of disbelief. “You’ve rejected countless promising candidates, even those from ancient bloodlines, saying they lacked the fire to ignite greatness. What makes Ian so special?”

Iron Howl let out a short chuckle, tapping his fingers on the armrest. “You misunderstand. It’s not just about talent—it’s about mentality. That brat’s got it. A true predator’s mentality.”

Ashen Wing smirked. “Oh? Elaborate.”

Iron Howl’s grin widened as he leaned forward. “First, he didn’t break under our combined pressure. That alone sets him apart from most Lesser Vampires. Second, his courage isn’t reckless bravado. He spoke boldly, but he wasn’t stupid about it. He calculated the risks and still chose to speak. That kind of decision-making? Rare.” His voice grew more intense.

“But most importantly, he doesn’t just want strength—he’s willing to do anything to obtain it.” Iron Howl’s eyes gleamed with battle hunger. “He didn’t ask for weapons, techniques, or status. He asked for corpses. He knows his own power and how to cultivate it. That’s someone who deserves to rise.”

The room grew quiet as the elders absorbed his reasoning. Even those who had initially dismissed Ian as an upstart had to admit—the boy was far from ordinary.

Crimson Pyre eventually broke the silence with a low chuckle. “I see. However…” His voice turned sharp, authoritative. “Before anything else, this meeting never happened.”

The weight of his words settled on the chamber. The elders immediately understood the meaning behind them.

Ashen Wing tapped his fingers on the table. “You’re worried about the dark races?”

Crimson Pyre nodded. “If word gets out that Ian can grow stronger by consuming corpses, he’ll become a prime target. Liches would want to experiment on him. Zombies might see him as kin or competition. And the werewolves—” His eyes darkened. “—would never allow a vampire with such a trait to live.”

Sable Fang sighed. “Agreed. Every genius in our race must be protected. Ian’s ability is still unknown, but it has the potential to be a game-changer.”

Iron Howl clicked his tongue. “Tch. You’re saying we gag this event?”

Crimson Pyre nodded. “Yes. From this moment forward, the council acknowledges that Ian received rewards for his contributions and nothing more. His request for corpses will be listed as research material acquisition. No one outside this room will know the truth.”

The elders exchanged glances before slowly nodding in agreement.

“Very well.” Sable Fang sighed. “The council is adjourned.”

…

Ian shut the door behind him and exhaled. His body finally relaxed, free from the suffocating presence of the elders.

Then, a slow, uncontrollable grin spread across his face.

“10,000 contribution points…” His fingers twitched in excitement. “And 2,938 corpses…”

His breathing quickened as he sat on his bed, his mind racing with possibilities.

This is it.

With the points, he could access rare techniques, elixirs, and restricted knowledge within the Blood Realm’s archives. And the corpses—oh, the corpses—they would fuel his biomass!

His body craved upgrades!

Ian licked his lips. “Let’s see just how far I can go this time… I’ll surely avenge captain.”

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep