Wizard starting from shoeing donkeys Chapter 1440 - 493: Decision

Rein’s assessment was further solidified after he listened to the various compensation terms Trena proposed.

It appeared highly probable that she was being truthful regarding the current situation.

The scale of the offered reparations was truly staggering, ranging from a palatial estate in the prestigious Anthuor district of the Federation Capital to a complete collection of Dawn Killing Moves from alternative series.

The latter was particularly significant; its value was beyond measure, as such techniques are virtually impossible to obtain through unofficial channels or even high-end auction houses.

Acquisition is typically restricted to the highest official levels of the Federation or the Empire, usually requiring the accumulation of immense merit.

This gesture clearly signaled the Federation's genuine sincerity.

Nevertheless, despite acknowledging their good faith, Rein remained steadfast in his own objectives; he was determined to secure the specific new Dawn Killing Move.

This was a pivotal component for his growth in power. Now that his Mutated Dragon Bloodline had reached the Super level, the true damage scaling of his 'Dragon Soul Strike' had seen a massive boost.

Essentially, the addition of another Dawn Killing Move would propel his combat effectiveness to entirely new heights.

Moreover, this specific technique differed from his existing domain-type ability, 'Steel Forest'.

Based on his analysis of the initial three spells, such as 'Sawtooth Ring', Rein deduced that this would be a devastating single-target Dawn Killing Move—the exact type of 'Decisive Hammer' finishing blow his current arsenal lacked.

As his Cultivation and strength surged, many of his previous trump cards had lost their edge.

At present, his only true ace was the newly mastered Sixth Form. Even the 'Steel Forest' domain lacked the concentrated lethality required to take down singular, high-tier threats like the Ancient Red Dragon, 'Anguskin'.

"Ms. Trena, I acknowledge the Federation's sincerity in this matter," Rein stated calmly.

"However, rather than accepting these substitutes, I would much rather reclaim what is rightfully mine. Therefore, I request your permission to enter that... Ancient Goblin Empire site."

"If Lord Haleem still draws breath, I shall bring him back. Should he have met his end, I will simply retrieve my belongings from his remains."

"As for the additional compensation, there is no need for it," Rein concluded with a serious expression.

"This..." Trena’s eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at the young man.

His response caught her completely off guard.

From her perspective, it was sheer folly for a top-tier genius of the Empire to voluntarily walk into such peril.

Had she been in his shoes, she would have never chosen such a risky path.

Yet, the logic behind Rein's words left her momentarily speechless.

After all, how could she argue against a man wanting to recover his own property?

The issue was that she lacked the authority to grant immediate approval. Vice Speaker Bertrand had hinted that the site might be the capital of the Ancient Goblin Empire.

If that were true, the ruins likely contained invaluable data on mechanical engineering and demon statue fabrication—secrets vital to the Federation's future.

Such assets were considered state secrets and could not be exposed to outsiders lightly.

Then there was the matter of the danger itself.

While Rein had proven himself to be an Epic-level powerhouse capable of draconic transformation, history was littered with tales of Epic experts falling within high-danger ancient ruins.

Such tragedies were far from rare.

If Rein were to perish within the ruins, the Federation would lose its initial investment and likely face a diplomatic nightmare with the Empire.

"I must apologize, Lord Rein, but the threat level of these ruins is extreme. I doubt either the Federation or the Empire would permit a talent of your caliber to take such a gamble."

Trena spoke with earnest concern, hoping Rein would read between the lines regarding the political and personal risks involved.

Rein simply nodded at the beautiful councilwoman. "I will handle the communication with Prince Menia’s faction. I’ll leave the Federation’s side of the negotiations to you, Ms. Trena."

"As for the danger? Haha, tell me, was battling the Ancient Fire Dragon 'Anguskin' not risky?"

"To be blunt, this Metal Series Witchcraft is essential to my path. I am more than willing to shoulder the risk myself."

"I see... very well."

"Please grant me some time to consult with the Vice Chairman regarding this proposal."

"Of course. However, I trust you and the Vice Chairman will reach a decision swiftly. After all, Lord Haleem might still be clinging to life in those ruins, waiting for a savior, would you not agree?"

"You have a point," Trena conceded with a nod.

Since no evidence of Haleem’s death had been found, he was officially categorized as 'missing'.

She recalled a previous instance where an exploration team vanished only to emerge months later, a story that had dominated the Federation's headlines.

Because of Rein’s stubbornness, the dinner concluded shortly thereafter.

Rein departed, heading straight back to the National Guest Manor where the Empire’s diplomatic envoy was stationed in Anthuor.

...

Meanwhile.

Deep within the Zetaya region, beneath the western reaches of Ressero Canyon.

Inside the sprawling, shadowed remains of the ancient goblin metropolis.

A man wearing the rugged uniform of the Federation military was sprinting for his life.

His frantic glances over his shoulder and the sheer terror etched onto his face made it clear: something monstrous was hunting him through the dark.