Crushing flags and claiming the Villainess

The focus of the meeting was to reflect on the events that unfolded just a few days ago.

Everyone in the room had either witnessed or heard about the chaos—the disaster that struck without warning.

And yet, it was thanks to the courage of the brave warriors—those present here, those who couldn't make it, and those who gave their lives—that the catastrophe was brought under control.

Their combined efforts ensured that not a single civilian was caught in harm's way.

They fought with everything they had, risking their lives.

And through their courage, they proved that even when outnumbered, humanity can still stand strong, protect its people, and drive the enemy back.

"I couldn't be more proud to share this room with the warriors who stood between humanity and its possible end," Isaac said, his voice filled with awe and deep admiration for those around him.

The room remained silent, the weight of his words settling in.

The moderator picked up where he left off.

"Although we suffered several losses… please don't carry the burden alone.

Each of you went beyond what we ever expected—""Eh, but I didn't fight," Olivia cut in, her voice calm but clear, instantly drawing every eye in the room.

She had been stationed near the council heads, guarding one of the critical bunkers.

Isaac blinked, momentarily surprised, but quickly recovered.

"Miss Olivia also showed unwavering dedication by protecting the defense pillars.

She fulfilled her role with excellence," he added smoothly, making sure the atmosphere didn't turn awkward.

Shifting his gaze back to the gathered warriors, he asked, "Before we move on to the plans we've prepared for what's ahead—does anyone have a question or anything they'd like to say?

"The question came from none other than the supreme authority of Hener.

"May I ask… who was it that decimated the commander of the demonic forces?

I've heard a few rumors, but hearing it directly from the Council would clear the air.

"His words stirred the room.

Everyone had heard the same whispers—stories that bordered on the unbelievable.

That's why all eyes turned to the Council, waiting to hear the truth.

Isaac hesitated.

A trace of unease flickered in his expression as he glanced repeatedly toward the Council Heads, unsure whether he should speak.

Thankfully, he didn't have to.

"It was the Prince of Eryndor," came a calm yet powerful voice.

Everyone turned as Nelson, one of the Council Heads, continued, "Austin Eryndor not only slaughtered the Parasite King, but also wiped out the demonic forces marching toward Eryndor.

"The room fell silent.

Nelson's words quieted every thought.

It was one thing to hear wild tales from hushed voices or even trusted sources.

But to hear it confirmed by a Council Head, someone known to have eyes across the world, left no room for doubt.

Austin Eryndor had indeed brought down the Demonic General.

A brief silence followed Nelson's declaration—then came a sharp question.

"Is there any proof?

" asked a stern voice.

It belonged to Liam Elarith, the Supreme of the wealthiest nation, Elarith.

His tone was firm, his gaze unwavering.

Valerie narrowed her eyes at him, clearly displeased, while a few other rulers exchanged glances, some even appearing impressed by Liam's boldness.

Austin and Cedric, however, wore the same unreadable expression—calm indifference.

They had anticipated this.

Before stepping into this room, they already knew there would be skeptics.

People who'd only believe what aligned with their own narrow perceptions.

Nelson didn't react strongly but still seemed displeased.

"And why do you believe I'd have any reason to lie here?

" he replied, voice cool and composed.

It doesn't matter which ruler was in front of them.

The Council Heads know their authority and could show frustration openly when they are questioned.

Liam didn't flinch as he spoke again, his voice calm but cutting.

"We all know the Prince's capabilities.

And to believe he single-handedly slaughtered a being that even S-ranks struggled to handle… and not just that, but also held back several hundred demons?

It would be foolish to accept such claims without question.

"His words carried weight.

Though the Prince had proven himself during the demonic assault at the Tournament, this situation was of an entirely different scale—far beyond what anyone could have expected.

Austin let out a quiet sigh and gently clasped his lover's hand, silently hoping she wouldn't lose her temper.

But the next voice to speak wasn't Nelson's.

Nor the moderator's.

It was the number one ranked warrior.

"It seemed impossible...

even to me," William said, his gaze lowered to the table, his tone low and reflective, like someone replaying a vivid memory.

"I've seen him fight before.

Back then, I didn't think he'd be of much help against high-ranking demons.

"He paused, then continued, voice tightening with emotion.

"But those same eyes that once saw him struggling against a handful of demons… also saw him tear through hundreds like they were nothing.

The same eyes that once saw him trembling in front of the Parasite King...

witnessed the exact moment Austin split that monster in two.

"Finally, William lifted his gaze, locking eyes with Liam.

"Whether you believe me or not is your choice, Sir Liam.

But one thing remains certain—if Austin hadn't been there, I wouldn't be sitting here.

Neither would Charlotte.

Nor many others in this room.

"His words fell like a stone in a peaceful lake.

The ripples spread out, and slowly, every mind was abuzz.

The words of the warrior who was present there on the battlefield, and doesn't have any benefit from falsely praising Austin...

the others couldn't take it lightly.

The moderator realized it was time to say something, so he told them, "Sir Austin has already given a report of his double awakening.

He hasn't registered his Shard, but there is proof that the skill used to eradicate the army was something only he could achieve.

"That was a half lie.

He reported his re-awakening, but nothing about his Shard's ability.

Guess, the moderator was being kind.

°°°°°°°°°A/N:- Thanks for reading.

Drop a comment.

Some academy romance and a little action here and there would be at the center in the next arc.