Chapter 572: The Messiah’s First Job (1/2)

Burping at the end of his meal, Zero thanked the cook who bowed tearfully with a broad smile on his face. After a meal, it was time to start his work. Zero decided to walk around the temporary camp, but King Gaon quickly tried to dissuade him.

”Messiah! There isn't much to see. Please remain here to rest for a few more days. The servants will tend to your need if you require anything!”

Zero shook his head. It was evident that the king was trying to hide the sorry state his country had become. Unfortunately for him, Zero wasn't going to let King Gaon pull the wool over his eyes. He needed to see with his own eyes how terrible Lycantopia had become. At the same time, Zero had to find a way to meet with Bob and Donkey Sharo.

”No,” Zero told the lion werebeast. ”I have to see this for myself. Besides, the dragon could be nearby, I am just going to take a quick look around. King Gaon, I have the first task for you.”

Hearing that Zero had a job for him, the werebeast king became serious.

”At your service!”

Zero looked at the tired man. Even if he told King Gaon to rest, it wouldn't be effective. The man might be a foolish ruler, but he had a big heart for his people, much like King Brice. Instead, Zero decided to use the charismatic king's connection with his people to speed up the second part of his plan.

”I need you to gather the names of every clan in Lycantopia and their numbers. We're going to start by analysing how many survivors there are before we rebuild this country. You need to promise me that if anyone wishes to leave Lycantopia and settle elsewhere, you must not stop them. Only willing citizens should remain. After all, rebuilding a country is hard work.”

King Gaon listened and nodded, feeling disheartened. ”If we do that, there wouldn't be anyone left to rebuild the walls of this country. However, I will do as you say.”

Zero smiled as King Gaon left the tent with heavy steps and a heavier heart. The lion werebeasts needed a little more faith in himself and the people surrounding him. Sure, there might be a few who would be tempted to run. However, seeing most citizens still loitered in the vicinity meant that nobody truly wanted to leave Lycantopia. King Gaon was going to be in for a huge surprise.

While the lion werebeast busied away with his assigned task, Zero thought it was time to hunt for Donkey Sharo and Bob. A quick conversation using the party call later, Zero used stealth to avoid getting noticed by the thousands of werebeasts surrounding the area. He walked further east to the wilderness.

”Master!” Bob greeted and jumped off from Jermine's neck, transforming into his human hybrid form.