Beware the Two Great Empires

Deep within Highland City's royal palace.

In the lavishly decorated, dignified reception hall, Roland and Freddy sat facing each other, studying one another from afar.

Compared to Roland, who was at the height of his power like the blazing sun, Freddy was truly at the end of his strength, both mentally and physically. His entire aura was like a flickering candle in the wind, wavering as though it could be extinguished at any moment.

After suffering the blow of the Demon Extermination War, Freddy's body had already been severely weakened. Although he later consumed many high-grade potions to replenish his vitality and extend his lifespan, what he had been left with was the mess that was the Autran Kingdom.

According to the intelligence Roland had obtained, ever since the North Continent Human Alliance civil war, Freddy had rested no more than two hours a day. He personally handled government affairs, coordinated the various factions, restored people's livelihoods, built the army, and more, working tirelessly without regard for food or sleep.

Under his efforts, the Autran Kingdom recovered far faster than the Storm Kingdom. Both its economy and population had returned to nearly half their former peak.

Considering how ruthlessly Cardina and Ribela had plundered it during the last North Continent civil war, achieving so much was no small feat. Freddy deserved immense credit for it, though he had also exhausted the last remnants of his life force. His end was near.

"Roland, it has been five years since we last met. You are still as impressive as ever. It is truly enviable."

Freddy's expression was gentle, but deep in his eyes lay intense envy and unwillingness.

He envied Roland's long life and the legendary rise of the Sacred Co-Prosperity Kingdom. He was unwilling to accept that the Autran Kingdom had