Chapter 254: Li En

The world always moves forward, but civilization does not necessarily follow.

Civilization is always passed down and intermingled, but intelligent races do not necessarily do so.

Intelligent races replace one another—can humanity endure forever?

"Regardless of anything, we still have to live our small lives."

Some things, once exposed, become simpler. All of Li En's previous caution seemed, in hindsight, overthinking.

There is no hidden hand behind the crossing—or if there is, it has no interest in interfering with his life. This is undoubtedly the best news Li En ever wanted to hear.

Just live well your own life, take care of your own affairs.

"It seems… there really isn't any hidden hand. Did heaven really just drop a pie into my lap?"

The power of the Heroic Souls has always been a pressure, a watchful eye upon him.

The injustice of the feudal hierarchy forced him to tread with extreme care.

But now, seeing how Lex, who acts on every whim—good or royal—still remains the most human of the old kingdom's rulers, whether the kingdom revives or not seems almost irrelevant.

"Hmm… I still need to live my own small life, just take care of those around me."

Li En no longer has reverence or chains. From the perspective of the Thousand-Faced Dragon, victory or defeat, life or death, even the survival of a race—all are meaningless. What does the rise or fall of an era matter?

"Above all, acquiring power remains the top priority."

If Li En had Lex's power, today's problems wouldn't be problems. If Li En had the Great Red Dragon's power, restoring the empire and building a harem tomorrow would pose no issue whatsoever.

"Could I ever become like the Great Red Dragon?"

The Great Red Dragon is a "Dream Awakener." So am I. My starting point, talent, and physical foundation are likely identical. Could I, too, reach that level?

"This Hero Selection is, for me, also an opportunity."

The current Hero Selection is both the end of Lex's karmic thread and Li En's chance to gain reputation, connections, and power. If I seal the Deer, Lex's regrets should finally be laid to rest.

"Take it slow. First goal: 'Single-Minded Focus.' Get this resource first."

The Great Red Dragon may have had an absurd growth path, but Li En doesn't believe he'll lose.

At the very least, Lex's "Single-Minded Focus" growth talent must have been rare in history.

Acquiring this "growth cheat" is equivalent to gaining power.

In less than two years—just by using Single-Minded Focus to accelerate growth—I'm confident I can achieve a qualitative transformation within a single year.

If I can truly reach the fifth tier in half a year or a year, becoming a true great warrior, then I'll have far more options.

Outside the window, noon had arrived. The warm scent of bread and honey drifted through the mansion. Li En felt a bit hungry.

The family had gathered at the table, and Sallyman's face was clouded with worry. The new Heroic Soul inheritors were each ambitious, making her deeply uneasy.

Especially their attitude toward the kingdom and the Hero candidates—as if those were already within their grasp—only made her angrier.

"Those people don't even show respect to the Princess." To those Hero candidates, "the kingdom's princess" was likely just an extra prize.

When it doesn't involve certain matters, Sallyman remains loyal to Dainya.

"Don't worry. I'll take the Hero title."

This calm statement is a goal he must achieve.

Li En has no interest in what the title represents—but he has great interest in "not letting the title—or Dainya—go to anyone else."

"Is that so?" Sallyman hesitated. She didn't want Dainya to suffer, but she also didn't want Li En to get caught up in this.

"It's fine. Trust me."

Li En smiled calmly and pulled the worried girl into his arms.

Then, smiling, he watched Sallyman first look startled, then blush deeply, lowering her head like a shy girl.

Holding her gently, feeling her softness and warmth, Li En unexpectedly felt a flicker of happiness.

"Mm… I believe you."

For the first time, Li En had taken such initiative with her. This unprecedented tenderness and boldness made the usually assertive Sallyman blush furiously and bow her head, powerless to resist.