I was a lord farming, how did I become an emperor?

Chapter 345 Do I Still Have a Chance?
……

……

The next morning.

Bright sunlight streamed into the council hall.

Rhodes sat in a high-backed chair, watching Carlos being brought in.

Carlos's power was drained, and he was not bound by chains, only by simple shackles.

Even so, Carlos's eyes remained sharp.

Rhodes could also sense the aura emanating from Carlos, like a lurking tiger.

"Duke Rhodes".

Carlos knelt on one knee, placed his right hand on his chest, and bowed his head to Rhodes.

“Thank you for agreeing to see me,” Carlos said in a low voice.

Rhodes nodded slightly, looked at Carlos, and asked, "What do you want to say when you request an audience?"

Carlos looked up at Rhodes.
"I hope you can preserve the bloodline of the Rockbreaker family."

Carlos stated without hesitation, "Spare the eldest princess's life."

Rod raised his eyebrows slightly, but remained silent, listening quietly.

Carlos took a deep breath.

"Your Excellency, your strength is beyond anyone's imagination, and your future achievements will not stop here."

Carlos said, "The Rockbreaker family is utterly insignificant in your presence."

"Even if they are royalty, in your eyes they are nothing more than insignificant ants."

Carlos showed no sign of humiliation when he said these words.

Carlos's bluntness surprised Rhodes, and even Vivian, who was standing next to him, was somewhat moved.

However, after a little thought, Rhodes understood that Carlos was deliberately belittling the royal family in order to make him ignore them, rather than regard them as a thorn in his side.

"The eldest princess is very stubborn. She was raised as the hope of the empire from a young age."

Carlos sighed softly, "Pride is ingrained in her bones, and I apologize to you on her behalf for her stubbornness."

Rhodes looked at Carlos, who was bending down again, without saying a word or showing any expression on his face.

"Your Majesty the Duke."

Carlos took the initiative to speak, saying, "In order to atone for the eldest princess's mistakes, I am willing to submit to you."

Carlos's firm voice echoed in the hall, and Vivian's eyes widened as she looked at Rhodes beside her.

Legendary knights are those who stand at the pinnacle of martial prowess.

Every legendary knight is a valuable strategic resource.

If Rhodes hadn't transformed into a dragon and subdued him, Carlos would never have been captured so easily.

But Rhodes remained silent, only staring at Carlos.

“A being as powerful as you must need a legendary knight like me to serve you.”

Carlos spoke again, saying, "I swear allegiance to you. From this day forward, my sword will fight only for your will, and my life will burn only for you."

"As long as you spare the life of the eldest princess."

Carlos didn't stop, and continued, "I will contribute all my experience as a legendary knight."

"I will share my insights on breakthroughs, combat techniques, and key points of breathing exercises without reservation."

"The royal family possesses a secret method for cultivating legendary knights, which can increase the chances of top knights being promoted."

"It was through those secret techniques that I eventually rose to become a legendary knight."

“And I can tell you all of this.”

After Carlos finished speaking, he looked at Rhodes with expectant eyes.

This time, Rhodes finally responded, a slight smile appearing on his face.

This is all what Rhodes wanted.

The experience and insights gained by a top-tier knight in advancing to a legendary knight are invaluable, even surpassing the legendary knight himself.

For example, Count Red Griffin needs this kind of training experience now.

In the future, the number of top knights under Rhodes' command will gradually increase, and they will all need this kind of experience.

More importantly, Rhodes' potion workshop can produce potions to assist top-tier knights in their training, making it less of a pipe dream for top-tier knights to become legendary knights.

This kind of promotion comes faster than you might imagine, so promotion experience becomes even more important.

However, Rhodes did not show it, and simply nodded in response.

“Carlos, I can see that you are a loyal knight, and I am glad that you are willing to submit.”

Rhodes waved for Carlos to stand up and said, "Let me be frank with you, as long as you pledge your loyalty to me, I will certainly not treat you unfairly."

"I have many wizard apprentices among my subordinates, and they will help you, which could very well further enhance your abilities."

As soon as Rhodes finished speaking, Carlos's eyes clearly showed shock.

The legendary knight has reached the pinnacle of the knightly path, and every step from here on will be exceptionally difficult.

If anyone else had said that, Carlos would have scoffed.

But Carlos believed it was true that Rhodes could transform into a dragon.

However, Carlos was, after all, a legendary knight, and his expression quickly returned to normal.

“Thank you for your attention, Your Grace.” Carlos bowed again.

"But you submitted to me to save the eldest princess's life,"

Rhodes frowned slightly and said, "This makes me doubt your future loyalty to me, but I also feel that a legendary knight wouldn't betray me so easily."

"Perhaps you can tell me why you are willing to do these things for the eldest princess."

Rhodes stared at Carlos with curiosity in his eyes.

“I watched the eldest princess grow up. I taught her swordsmanship and breathing techniques from a young age.”

Carlos sighed softly. "As her teacher, I know she has some flaws, but she's not a bad person. I don't want her to die because of her stubbornness."

"That's it?"

Rhodes seemed somewhat surprised and pressed further, "Isn't there any other reason?"

Carlos instinctively shook his head. "No."

He paused for a moment, as if he had noticed something in Rhodes's gaze.

"No, Your Grace."

Carlos reiterated, "I have no other relationship with the eldest princess; in my eyes, she is just a child."

"Of course, I believe you."

Rhodes suppressed his curiosity, changed the subject, and said solemnly,
"In that case, I agree."

"As long as the eldest princess doesn't seek death, I won't make things difficult for them."

“I will find them some suitable places so that they can live out the rest of their lives in peace.”

Rhodes promised, "In the future, the Rockbreaker family will have no worries about food and clothing, as long as they live honestly."

A look of delight flashed in Carlos's eyes, and he bowed deeply once more.
"Thank you for your kindness!"

Carlos breathed a sigh of relief and said loudly, "Your grace is like the bright sunshine, illuminating the future of the Rockbreaker family."

"I will pardon the eldest princess immediately."

Rhodes smiled and nodded slightly, then continued, "But before that, we have another thing to do."

……

……

A legendary knight has been trained.

[We already have one exceptional officer.]

As the verdant green of the Seed of Nature disappeared from Carlos's body, two prompts appeared in succession.

The first track shows the progress of the "Path of Kingship" entry, while the second track shows the progress of the "Warlord" entry.

There are still four spots missing on the path to royalty...

Rhodes felt that unlocking the Path to Kingship was really difficult.

The Shattered Rock Empire is almost unified by itself, and the entry for it is still not unlocked. It's outrageous.

It seems that the development of the extraordinary is too backward, and they can't even gather enough people from the lower classes of ancient times.

Rod couldn't help but sigh.

Seeing Rhodes' expression, Carlos immediately knelt down on one knee.
"Thank you for your generosity. Rest assured, I will never let you down!"

As a legendary knight, Carlos was naturally very sensitive to fluctuations in magical energy.

After the Seed of Nature enters the body, it begins to circulate slowly, releasing energy that continuously nourishes the body.

Therefore, without needing many words, Carlos knew that this was a precious and extraordinary item.

Rhodes's sigh was like the mental exhaustion that comes after consuming a certain amount of magic, and Carlos immediately felt guilty and grateful.

Duke Rhodes was able to bestow such a precious item upon a knight who had just submitted, a generosity far exceeding that of other nobles.

No wonder Lord Rhodes rose to power so quickly; this must be one of the important reasons.

"Just like you said, Carlos, I still have a long way to go."

Rhodes snapped out of his daze and helped Carlos up. “Make good use of this precious Seed of Nature.”

"You are only eighty years old now, which is the time to diligently cultivate yourself."

Rod said solemnly, "I hope that you will be by my side on the road ahead."

"Please rest assured, I will never let you down."

Carlos nodded emphatically. Previously, Carlos had only used himself as a bargaining chip in a deal with Rhodes to protect the eldest princess.

But now, Carlos has a new goal.

……

……

Meanwhile, in the prison of Stone City.

The narrow, damp, and shady corridor offered a welcome respite from the sweltering heat.

The only problem was the smell of the prison.

The sound of hurried footsteps echoed in the corridor.

Durant walked calmly ahead, followed by two soldiers.

Soldiers were pressing down on a man whose hands and feet were tightly bound by shackles.

It was Kyle, the commander-in-chief of the Thorn Legion and a top knight under the Duke of Flowers.

By this time, Kyle had taken off his exquisite armor and was wearing rough linen clothes, which were covered with stains and dust.

Kyle's face was covered in dust, and his hair was somewhat disheveled.

But his gaze remained firm, and his back was straight.

Even as a prisoner, Kyle maintained the demeanor of a soldier.

Durant led Kyle all the way to the end of the dungeon and stopped in front of an iron door.

It was the very prison where the Duke of Flowers was held.

Like the eldest princess, Rhodes did not deliberately torment or make things difficult for the nobleman, Duke of Flowers.

It contains furniture and daily necessities such as beds, tables, and washbasins.

That's why the Duke of Flowers was able to maintain his elegance, sitting in his chair reading by the firelight.

"Kyle!"

Upon seeing the person who had been brought to him, the Duke of Flowers' face lit up with joy, and he stood up voluntarily.
"How are you, Kyle?" the Duke of Flowers asked with concern.

"Don't worry, I'm fine."

Kyle's voice was hoarse as he bowed to the Duke of Flowers, "Thank you for your concern, Your Grace."

"Alright, let's go inside and talk."

Durant opened the door and pushed Kyle into the cell.

Then they closed and locked the door.

Just as he was about to turn and leave, the Duke of Flowers' voice came from the prison.

"Durant the Cavalier,"

The Duke of Flowers asked cautiously, "Have all my lords submitted?"

"Ah."

Durant turned around and said, "Most of them have submitted, and the few who had dissent have been dealt with."

"Great, the war is over."

Duke of Flowers breathed a sigh of relief and asked cautiously, "Then Duke Rhodes, can you release me now?"

As previously promised by Rhodes, as long as the Flower Family surrenders, Rhodes will pardon everyone and retain one-tenth of the Flower Family's property.

The Duke of Flowers paused, a hint of humility in his voice.
"I am also willing to swear allegiance to Duke Rhodes. Could you please ask Duke Rhodes to leave more property to the Flower Family?"

The Duke of Flowers lowered his voice and said, "Don't worry, I will definitely give you a generous reward when the time comes."

"That's not necessary."

Durant stared blankly at the Duke of Flowers.

"The Duke will release you, don't be impatient, but before that, you have another option."

"What choice?" The Duke of Flowers' eyes lit up as he eagerly asked.

“Kyle is very loyal to you, and Duke Rhodes appreciates that loyalty.”

Durant smiled and said, "By the grace of the Duke of Rhodes, you are allowed to exchange all your wealth for Kyle's freedom."

The Duke of Flowers suddenly froze.

"This……"

He opened his mouth as if to say something, but no sound came out, as if it was stuck in his throat.

Durant ignored him and continued speaking.

“If you are willing to give up all your possessions and take your family to mine in the frigid wastelands, then Kyle will be free.”

"Kyle will follow you forever and continue to serve the Flower Family until the end of his life."

As Durant finished speaking, the cell fell silent.

Kyle, with mixed feelings, couldn't help but look up at the Duke of Flowers.

After a long silence, Durant took the initiative and asked, "So, Duke of Flowers, are you willing?"

The Duke of Flowers' expression was somewhat complicated. "This...this..."

His voice was intermittent and unclear.

"Of course I hope Kyle can be free."

The Duke of Flowers looked at Kyle and said, "Kyle is my most loyal subordinate and the person I trust most."

"But...but those assets determine the future of the Flower Family."

The Duke of Flowers' eyes flickered, and he sighed softly, "I can't gamble with the fate of my family."

The Duke of Flowers forced a stiff smile.

“Kyle, you should be able to understand.”

Kyle hesitated for a moment, then nodded emphatically.

Despite having anticipated the answer, Kyle was still somewhat disappointed.

Kyle dedicated his life to the Flower Family, fighting for them ever since he became a trainee knight at the age of fourteen.

Regardless of the reason for being abandoned, Kyle was not happy.

"Wait a moment."

Durant spoke again, asking, "If that's the case, Kyle will need to go mining in the wasteland."

"This is the fate of all knights who do not submit willingly."

Durant pressed the Duke of Flowers, "Perhaps you could give up half your fortune to make Kyle a farmer?"

"This……"

The Duke of Flowers looked at Kyle again, "I'm sorry, Kyle, I can't help you."

"You should be able to understand, Kyle."

The Duke of Flowers paused, his voice softening further.

"Don't worry, Kyle, once our family rises again, we will definitely make it up to you."

Silence fell again in the prison.

The silence was even more oppressive than before.

Kyle took two steps back and bowed to the Duke of Flowers.

“I understand, Your Grace.”

Kyle had his head down, so his expression was not visible, but his voice was filled with obvious disappointment.

Durant stood outside the iron fence, quietly watching this scene.

"So, are you sure you don't want to use your assets to save Kyle?"

Durant asked the Duke of Flowers.

The Duke of Flowers nodded. "I am willing to submit to Duke Rhodes, but property is related to the fate of the family."

"In that case, Kyle has no right to stay here."

Durant waved his hand, and two soldiers behind him stepped forward to open the cell door and bring Kyle out.

"A group of knights will be sent to the Icefield Mountains tomorrow, and you can join them, Kyle."

"Yes."

Kyle answered calmly.

Without needing soldiers to escort him, Kyle walked out of the prison without looking back, without lingering at all.

"Kyle, don't worry, I will definitely find a way to save you!"

The Duke of Flowers shouted as he watched Kyle's retreating figure.

Kyle didn't turn back, but walked down the corridor out of the dungeon.

The midday sun shone on his face, and Kyle couldn't help but squint and look up at the sun.

"It doesn't feel good to be abandoned," Durant asked.

"It's not a pleasant experience."

Kyle nodded. "Even knowing the outcome, it's still hard to accept."

"It's alright, mining in the Icefield Mountains is not bad either, at least I won't have to face a choice anymore."

Durant stood beside Kyle and comforted him, "It's not bad there. Apart from the cold at night that keeps you awake, your hands and feet getting numb from the cold, and the pain of going to the toilet, there's nothing else to worry about."

"It's nothing for a top-tier knight like you."

Durant patted Kyle on the shoulder, "Let's go."

Kyle didn't move, standing there looking at Durant, and suddenly asked,
"Do I still have a chance?"

(End of this chapter)