Round 34

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A peaceful afternoon.

After sleeping in for a long time, I quietly admired Ara’s sleeping face next to me.

She had fallen asleep right after returning from the gluttony dungeon the day before.

“Mmm…”

She’s sleep-talking.

Curious about what she’s saying, I leaned in to listen.

“Mmm… Sweet potato…”

She was mumbling while searching for the taste of sweet potato candy.

“Anyway, it was really spacious. In the end, I had to come back near the trees.”

We didn’t quite reach the so-called sparkling tree that was our initial goal. We anticipated it, but it was much farther than it seemed.

So, for now, we decided to turn back and prepare again. Might as well bring along the other slimes.

“If I take Mark2 with me, I might be able to gather some opinions on whether we can farm.”

Thanks to the Slime Lord’s abilities, I had gradually learned to understand the slimes’ expressions, making it possible.

Learning a foreign language might be difficult at first, but with continued practice and effort to understand, eventually, it becomes as clear as day.

“Hmm?! Sweet potato candy!”

Suddenly, Ara bolted upright with a dazed expression. Seeing the drool hanging from her mouth, it seemed she had been eating enthusiastically even in her dreams.

“Let’s have breakfast first.”

I picked up Ara, who seemed to still be half asleep, and headed downstairs. Unlike other slimes who seemed to never sleep, Ara slept like a human.

Still not fully awake, Ara, whom I was carrying, soon started looking around restlessly.

“Mark2!”

At Ara’s call, Mark2, who was far away, sluggishly crawled over.

As if asking if it had slept well, Mark2 sluggishly wriggled and then led us towards the storeroom. It seemed it had harvested while we slept.

“What did you harvest? Was it delicious? Do you eat with Mark2 too?”

Ara, who had somewhat woken up, bombarded Mark2 with questions as I carried her. Mark2, upon receiving the questions, diligently wobbled its body as if trying to answer.

Wobble! Wobble!

“Layla?”

“Oh, it looks like you harvested the newly planted Layla.”

Ara had never tasted Layla before. Since we had already eaten or turned into vegetable juice all the previously harvested crops, only the newly planted ones remained.

“Magic Layla!”

And this time, the ones planted were not the magical Layla but a new breed. Since we couldn’t afford to miss the harvest time, Mark2 must have harvested them first.

“The appearance is the same?”

Upon arriving at the storeroom, we saw rows of Layla gathered. Unlike other crops, they hadn’t changed much, so I nodded my head in confirmation.

-Bababam!

[You’ve discovered a new crop.]

[Please name it.]

As always, the notification spread, but before naming it, I read through the description.

[?? LV.1]

[A crop infused with magic.]

[Upon consumption, Monster Affinity greatly increases for 3 minutes. Monster Affinity will permanently increase significantly. Permanent effects can stack up to 5 times.]

Once again, it was an upgraded ability.

And unlike other crops, it showed a permanent effect with a limit of 5 times.

“Eating it will greatly increase Monster Affinity, huh?”

Ara and Mark2 had already started rolling the Layla around. Their actions like tapping it, putting their ears to it, and licking it were adorable.

“Let’s postpone naming it and try it right away. Mark2, call all the kids.”

After harvesting, it’s time for a tasting session.

While Mark2 was calling the other slimes, I attempted to crack open the shell of the Layla.

“Huh?”

Trying to crack it open as before, I found it unexpectedly tough. It seemed that the variety had been improved to be tougher.

“…Do I need to chop it with a pickaxe?”

At that moment, Ara, unable to resist the sweet fruit scent any longer, stepped forward, drooling.

“I’ll do it!”

Raising one hand like a child preparing for a presentation, she exclaimed, then swiftly took her place in front of the Layla I was about to crack open.

Then, as if imitating from somewhere, she assumed a fighting stance.

“Hyah!”

Pachak!

Even though I had exerted force, the Layla, intact until then, was split in half by Ara’s punch. Even I, who knew Ara’s physical abilities well, applauded her antics.

“Wow, impressive!”

“Hehe.”

With her chest puffed out and her nose held high, Ara’s attention was soon captured by the Layla, whose shell had cracked open, emitting a stronger aroma.

“It looks delicious!”

“Are all the kids here?”

Fortunately, the slimes were also eagerly crawling over to eat the Layla. There was no faster moment than this.

“Ara, can you crack the rest? Just about 20 more.”

“Yeah!”

Previously, there were only about 30 Layla, but now there were about 150. Since I couldn’t eat them all due to their large size, but considering Ara and the slimes’ appetites, about 20 seemed appropriate.

Pachak! Pachak!

While Mark2 was bringing the slimes, Ara’s smashing show continued. After about 10 smashing, she seemed to get tired and roughly smashed the rest.

“Twenty! All done!”

“Wow! Well done, well done.”

I clapped my hands and examined the Layla. Unlike the hardened shells, the flesh remained unchanged.

However, the aroma seemed lighter than before.

“It’s not stronger, it’s kind of strange.”

Then, how would the taste be?

As I watched the slimes that had arrived, I said they could eat.

Upon hearing this, Ara and the slimes rushed forward as if competing.

“Since there’s a lot, eat slowly.”

After watching them eat for a while, I picked up a Layla and tore into the flesh. As I did, I couldn’t help but swallow at the sweet aroma that wafted over.

“Mmm!”

It was definitely Layla.

Though I thought the aroma had decreased slightly, the taste remained the same. It had changed a little, not explosively juicy sweetness like before, but into a subtle sweetness.

“I won’t get tired of eating this.”

Since I had already tasted it once, there wasn’t the same excitement as the first time, but I felt I could eat until I burst.

Suddenly, I looked at Ara…

Gulp! Gulp!

She was inhaling the Layla so quickly that it seemed like she might summon a ghost from overeating. Apparently, she really liked the Layla, as she was eating only the fruit, completely disappearing into the shell.

“This is already the fourth one.”

Beside her lay the remains of the oxidized Layla, with seeds scattered around.

So, the Layla party went on for a while, and Ara and the slimes finally finished eating all 20.

“Phew!”

Rubbing her slightly bulging belly satisfactorily, I asked Ara, “Was it delicious?”

“Layla is the best! I want more!”

Even after eating so much, she wants more?

Impressed, I allowed her just one more.

“Since if you eat them all at once, you won’t be able to eat any tomorrow, just one more.”

“Ah!”

After hearing my words, Ara finally realized something and looked at the remaining Layla. Although there were still 130 left after eating 20, they still looked plentiful.

“I’ll just eat one more!”

“Sure, sure.”

As Ara started cracking open another Layla, I decided it was time to come up with a name.

Of course, there wasn’t any particular name that came to mind, so I just decided to call it “Magical Layla.”

[Quest: Develop a New Crop]

[Discover or develop a new crop.]

[New Crops: ⅔]

Only one more left until the quest is complete.

I wondered what reward would be given.

“Well, my stomach is full now. Should we start heading out?”

“Wow! Are we going out again?”

“Yeah. Considering we need to thoroughly explore the dungeon Ara lived in, I think we need to prepare.”

The dungeon of gluttony turned out to be much larger than expected, so I decided to prepare thoroughly. I planned to purchase camping equipment under the assumption that we might stay for several days during exploration.

“I need to stop by the tent equipment store and also cook in the dungeon, so I need to buy a gas burner…”

Thinking about exploring with the slimes, I also needed to prepare a considerable amount of food.

I had been thinking about it since before, but I needed a backpack for expanding space in various ways…

“There’s a lot to spend money on, but there’s not enough money.”

I complained about the lack of money, despite earning a fortune in just one month. But still, there was a shortage.

Planning to stop by Yongsan while we were out, I prepared to check the market price of space expansion items.

“I’m going to wear this!”

“Another work outfit. Do you really like that outfit?”

“It’s nice! Hehe.”

It was absurd to choose such a design among the many cute clothes. Although I had bought various clothes on purpose, I couldn’t understand why she insisted on wearing only that one when going outside the dungeon.

“Let’s buy some more clothes this time. There should be clothes similar to that one.”

“Wow! That’s great!”

Since she liked it, I had to buy more.

Following me as I changed clothes, Ara, with a beaming smile, finished getting ready.

We said goodbye to the slimes remaining in the dungeon and headed outside.

“We’ll be back soon.”

“Bye bye!”

***

We went outside and immediately called a taxi.

I had only used public transportation so far, but I realized that there was no need to take the subway specifically.

“Wow! Is this a taxi? A taxi!”

Ara, who was riding a car for the first time, pressed her face against the taxi window and peered inside. As soon as she opened the door and sat down, her eyes sparkled.

“It’s a taxi!”

“Haha. Your daughter is so adorable.”

“Thank you.”

The taxi driver laughed at Ara’s appearance.

Our destination was Yongsan.

Although I said I was going to buy camping equipment, dungeon equipment and camping equipment were quite similar. Dungeon equipment was more expensive, but it was much better in terms of performance and quality.

“Hmm? I received a text message.”

It was from Young-seong.

Thinking it might be about wanting vegetable juice, I read it, but it contained different content.

– …After going through several tests and observing the progress of her health, it seems like Si-young will be able to recover. Once again, thank you so much, Kyu-seong.

“I’m relieved.”

As it was Young-seong’s words, who was the head researcher of the Ara Hongryeon Guild, it seemed like Si-young could now completely escape from the poison.

– …And one more thing. There are still awakened individuals addicted like Si-young, and I want to know what you think about this matter. If you want, Si-young and I can arrange a deal directly. Of course, I’m not forcing you.

“Yeah, there were other awakened individuals.”

It was a problem I had thought about before. At the time, we decided to prioritize Si-young’s treatment, so we overlooked it. But now that Si-young was showing signs of recovery, it was time to gradually consider other individuals as well.

“There’s nothing impossible. In fact, it’s mutually beneficial.”

Probably, the other party seeking treatment wouldn’t expect a free treatment. Trading vegetable juice would also be beneficial for me in many ways. Since it turned out that way and there was no need to reject other patients, I immediately wrote a message to Young-seong, informing him that treatment for other individuals was also possible.

“Hmm? Huh?”

While I was typing the message, the driver suddenly made a strange noise.

When I looked ahead, I could see a heavily congested section.

“There’s a lot of traffic.”

“No, sir…”

His reaction was strange.

The driver couldn’t speak properly and pointed ahead. Following his gesture, I concentrated and saw people getting out of cars and running away as if something had happened up ahead.

“Ah!”

It was definitely not an ordinary situation.

There weren’t many things that could lead to such a scene.

No, to be exact, only one thing came to mind.

“Dungeon break?”

“Ugh! Sir, you need to get out of here quickly!”

The worst-case scenario where monsters trapped in a dungeon without being cleared for a long time burst out.

Soon, it became clear that my guess was correct as giant bulls emerged and overturned the stopped cars.

“Minotaur!”

“Sir! Quickly, take your child and run!”

Running away was impossible.

Even the people who were currently fleeing would inevitably be caught by the minotaurs in the end.

Although I had never fought monsters before, I wasn’t an awakened individual in the combat class.

“Wow! Bulls!”

Ara waved her hand through the window.

Seeing Ara like that, I remembered the breath she had shown me.

Maybe I could stop them?

“Destroy them all! The bulls are rampaging!”

“Ara! Do you think you can stop those bulls?”

“Hmm?”

Ara looked at me with a puzzled expression at my question. Then she frowned.

“Of course! Do you think I should stop those bulls?”

“Yes.”

As the taxi driver watched our conversation, he yelled in confusion.

“What nonsense is this young man talking about! This won’t do. Get out of the car now!”

“I’m the one who’s going to stop them! Don’t worry!”

Ara jumped out of the car first.

As I hurriedly followed suit, the minotaurs were suddenly close enough to be seen clearly.

They were demolishing all the cars in sight and charging, but there seemed to be no casualties yet.

“We need to run away quickly! Hey!”

“We’re awakened individuals!”

“Huh?!”

The taxi driver had a sense of loyalty.

He tried to drag me away until the end, but he couldn’t resist the power of the awakened.

“It’s not over yet! There are still people here!”

Ara climbed onto the taxi roof and surveyed the area from above.

And when she judged that everyone had evacuated behind us…

“Kyu-seong Kyu-seong ! Can I shoot the breath?”

“Can you control it?”

“I’ll try my best!”

Swoosh-

Ara took a deep breath.

Then, the surrounding air seemed to vibrate, and the devastating beam I had seen before reappeared.

Paaaaa—!!

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Survival 102

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“That’s quite fascinating.”

Perhaps it’s because she has already suspected me once before and then dismissed those suspicions. 

Instead of confronting me immediately, she naturally blinked her eyes as we faced each other and looked away in an attempt to hide that she was still suspicious.

[Luciana’s Current Psyche: Again…! How can I not trust a servant who is completely loyal to me? Trust him. After all, I’ve even passed on the secrets of my family cultivation method. Clear your mind…!]

Her psyche, still unable to let go of my hand, was fully transmitted to me.

‘This is a bit problematic.’

Was it the suspicion raised by an outsider in the past? 

Even though the initiator was Camilla, a noblewoman from the west, the issue was resolved by collaborating with Elizabeth and using simple tricks and the authority of Duke Speda to change the topic altogether.

‘It’s based on the premise that ‘frost mane is actually a demon.”

But now?

The breakthrough that was fabricated has turned into a new arrow aimed back at me.

A black aura, the color one might associate with demons.

‘If I had known, I wouldn’t have learned this aura… No, that’s a meaningless hypothesis.’

‘Hans Byron’ was a character never highlighted in the original story.

Obviously, I wouldn’t have known the color of his aura.

‘Once the seed is planted, it’s impossible to cut it out.’

So for now, I have no choice but to respond as if nothing is wrong.

Even after the warmth on my shoulder fell away, I answered with a calm demeanor.

“In my hometown, it was quite a common color.”

“Black aura?”

“Yes. I saw it often among the criminals I managed.”

The west is a city of jailers and criminals.

As much as the underworld thrives there.

Hans Byron’s old memories also had their presence.

-Aaargh! Save me!

-Do you think using such a tiny aura changes anything? Tell me straight! Where are your gang members?!

It’s the memory of this body, not mine.

During a tour, an aura unconsciously pulled up by a man from the underworld being tortured by a knight.

It was clearly a light black.

He bowed his head and let out a somber voice.

It was easy to create a solid mask of guilt and regret.

“Perhaps it’s because I mingled with them that I came to possess such an aura.”

“What are you talking about?”

“As you know, Lady Luciana, torturing… ahem. Interrogating criminals is a responsibility and duty of a western noble. My numerous tricks also stem from that.”

Redirecting the source.

I focused on shifting her perception of the black aura from demons to criminals.

“I see. I spoke needlessly. It’s also nonsense that a black aura is ominous. Don’t worry too much about it.”

Fortunately, she chose to trust me for now.

Luciana’s voice felt more compassionate than wary.

‘It’s a temporary solution, but I managed to get past it for now.’

However, it’s just avoiding immediate suspicion.

The seed of doubt already planted will continue to grow.

The faint line still visible between Luciana’s brows was evidence enough.

…Someday, it must be uprooted.

Even if it requires extreme measures.

“Ahem. Rather than that, let’s talk about the growth of the aura.”

Is it more unpleasant to think in this direction? She quickly changed the subject of the conversation.

“Yes, as I have received more than my share of grace from the Speda ducal family, I would like to properly grow this tiny aura of mine.”

“Given your efforts, it won’t be long before you can increase its size.”

She smirked briefly, then soon opened the door.

“For your growth, and to clear my distractions, this method seems best right now. Follow me.”

“Where are you going?”

“Isn’t there a well-known fastest way to grow an aura?”

She brushed off the earlier discomfort and adjusted the sword at her waist with a gentle smile.

“It’s a sparring match.”

My heart thumped.

Why is that?

Unlike the previous smile, this one felt even colder.

“Ahaha. Please go easy on me.”

“Such weakness does not suit the ambition of a martial arts tournament champion. In sparring, it’s always full power except for killing. That’s the basic, isn’t it.”

“…I misspoke. Please sincerely, teach me a lesson.”

For my growth.

And to divert Luciana’s suspicions as much as possible in another direction.

Following behind her, I headed to the sparring arena reserved specially for A-class members.

***

“Brother? What’s with that bandage?”

“Ugh! Don’t touch it! It hurts like hell!”

Despite Oparn’s concern, I flinched back from the rough touch.

Like a careless gargoyle, I waved him off and pushed him away.

Most of my power comes from the artifacts.

Now without my favorite Raven claw, getting badly beaten in a duel with Luciana was inevitable.

“Tsk, foolish…”

Bathory, dressed as a maid, carefully applied ointment to me with gentle fingers.

“I can’t use my healing magic, so this is the best I can do.”

“That’s enough. It’s not like someone who knows how to use healing magic would be a mere maid.”

“All that worry and you speak nonsense.”

-Zzzt.

Bathory glared at me with narrowed eyes for a moment, then deeply sighed.

“What were you thinking, engaging in a direct duel with the descendant of a great warrior? You had no chance of winning.”

“What can I do? It was necessary.”

While receiving treatment from Bathory, I recalled the conversation with Luciana I had earlier at the sparring arena.

-Perhaps your effort will soon increase the aura itself. However, there’s something else that worries me.

-I’m all ears. Please tell me.

-If the aura is the content, the body is the vessel. If there’s a crack in the vessel, no matter how much aura you accumulate, it will leak. In that sense, your current strength and stamina are… frankly, terrible.

Luciana, while apologetic, did not hesitate to deliver a brutal assessment.

That merciless demeanor was somehow charming, but…

All the time I’ve spent training, yet my stats hardly grow.

‘Except for agility, my body is practically useless.’

To change that harsh evaluation, I too had to grow.

“Still, thank you for your concern.”

I gave Bathory a slight smile.

“Hmph. Of course. You are my kin.”

Golden locks flowed over Bathory’s face as she spoke.

“Ahem! Sorry to interrupt your time, but isn’t there a reason you came all the way to my room?”

“Ah, yes, Oparn, the item?”

At my question, he pulled out a large box from the floor.

“Thanks to you finding the right item, brother. That sacred sword indeed was filled with divine power.”

As the lid of the iron box opened, a pair of daggers was revealed.

My strongest favorite weapons, seeing them again after a long time.

“They really suit you, brother. Both are extraordinary, so I had a hard time polishing them.”

“You did an excellent job, though. Even though the equipment from the academy, the blacksmith, or the underground palace would have been inferior.”

“Haha, having only been fleeing from battles recently, holding a hammer instead felt like a return to the past. I would enjoy more opportunities like this.”

Child, it’s nice to be used like this.

This part is really the same as the original.

-Haha, René. I never expected you to prepare such a gift for me! Don’t worry! I’ll make it into the best weapon for you!

The reliable blacksmith who could create anything needed with just the materials.

Quite different from the academy’s clowns who often say ‘Oops, my hand slipped.’ and destroy various items.

“Also, take good care of the saintess. Especially now when she doesn’t have proper armor or a staff. If you could make something for her, it would definitely win her favor.”

Isn’t that perfect for separating the saintess and the crown prince?

Then Oparn looked at me intently and blinked. A faint surprise surfaced on his clean face.

“For checking, isn’t it better if the opponent’s power is lacking? If she gets stronger with my help, even though she’s already the runner-up, wouldn’t that be problematic?”

“Well, you’re not wrong there. But there’s something more important.”

My goal is always Luciana’s survival.

‘In that sense, Oparn helping the saintess is important.’

From severing the budding relationship between the saintess and the crown prince that could lead to ruin.

To eventually boosting the saintess’s specs to combat disasters.

“Checking is only relevant to the extent of power. Do not skimp on support for the saintess personally.”

“…Understood.”

“Don’t forget. For your revenge, you must consider all means necessary. I’ve said it before, but you should even consider becoming her lover.”

I casually glanced towards the diamond seal carefully placed in one corner of his room.

“That’s also what the former Diamond would have wanted.”

“That’s advice befitting you, brother.”

Oparn nodded gravely.

Withdrawing my gaze from him, I immediately reached for the box.

An elegant black hilt.

A golden hilt decorated with lavish jewels.

Each held in my hands, revealing their presence.

[Raven claws (+1)]

[Polished with the horn of a high demon.]

[Added Parma attribute, endowed with divine power, increased durability, mana and aura recovery upon evasion.]

Indeed.

Entrusting Oparn with my weapons was an excellent choice.

Parma attribute and divine power, exceptional against demons and certain monsters.

And the enhancement effects suited to each weapon.

Moreover, the grip clings as if it were part of one’s own body!

“Oh dear, what sort of clowning around is this?”

“You’ve seen correctly. It’s called juggling, a real play done by human clowns.”

As I threw the pair of daggers into the air, unable to hide my joyful smile, Bathory stroked her face.

“It seems the corner of your mouth has reached your cheek. Do you like it that much?”

“Huhu. Isn’t it obvious? All demons are attracted to greater power.”

How do I stand confidently beside Luciana? While the completion of my aura and higher magical realms are important, in an RPG, equipment items are supreme. The power of items is an absolute truth.

“Luciana’s growth is also formidable, so I must hurry to catch up.”

When disaster strikes Luciana, would I not be a hindrance if I can’t protect her?

No matter what, I must stand by her side as a proper force.

As someone without particularly outstanding talents, I especially need to enhance myself with artifacts.

“I guess I’ll have to loot even more from now on!”

“…Hmph. How foolish. I respect your entertainment, but at this rate, the loss is too great. When will you ever stop?”

“Loss? The most enjoyable part of food is seeing it before it enters my mouth! Appreciating the process of creation is also a way of culinary enjoyment. Don’t belittle my culinary completion like that!”

While receiving Bathory’s contemptuous look, I chuckled.

“Well, of course, what Lady Bathory says is not wrong for Luciana, but there was no falsehood in what I said earlier either.”

“…Hmm? What do you mean?”

“I mean that all demons are attracted to greater power. There’s no need for a reason to become stronger.”

What is the greatest joy of RPG games? It is undoubtedly the fun of growing by facing and overcoming increasingly stronger enemies.

Though there’s the excuse of Luciana, in the end, I am an irredeemable gamer.

Seeing these enhanced weapons, I feel utmost satisfaction.

“The body of a doppelganger is exceedingly frail. If I prepare like this, wouldn’t it be useful even if I switch bodies? In that sense, encountering someone as precious as Lady Bathory is a great fortune.”

“Oho. Meeting me is a fortune… Ahem! Why is that?”

“Well, I have learned magic that I could never have imagined before.”

At the compliment, Bathory quickly erased her sullen expression and displayed a beaming smile.

“That’s right! I’ve improved your veins, so why not learn magic that applies blood flow techniques? I’ll make an effort so even you, a dunce in magic, can learn it!”

“It would be an honor.”

‘Easy to handle, indeed.’

Generous Bathory Erzsébet, a fitting title for her.

“Sometimes, brother, you can be really scary. Whether it’s handling emotions or handling people.”

Observing our interaction, Oparn continuously expressed his admiration.

“Shh, if the person concerned is happy, then it’s fine.”

“Come! Hurry this way! Thinking about teaching my kin excites me!”

Before Bathory suddenly grabbed my arm, I hadn’t anticipated my fate.

“Eh? Why suddenly grab my arm… Eek!”

“Improvement of veins must be continuous… there, your natural voice came out again.”

Amidst my scream, the smile I caught a glimpse of in my peripheral vision seemed somehow different.

If it was a bright innocence of a sucker tricked by deception until just a moment ago, now… it felt like the sneer of a wicked demon.

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Martial 16

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Lina blinked in astonishment as she watched the bomb split in half and fall to the ground.

What did she just witness?

“Did the bomb just get cut in half…?”

“Hmm, that part aligned perfectly.”

“Ha…”

Now she understood why Deiker said she might be surprised a day ago.

The day before meeting Eugene, Lina went to find Deiker after all the students’ classes were over.

It was to find out more about Eugene, whom she had to teach.

However, when Lina went to Deiker, all she heard from him was a single sentence.

‘You will be very surprised.’

Initially, she thought that Eugene was a talentless individual, full of bravado and vanity.

‘A guy like that pretending to be a Magic Swordsman.’

But now, looking at the situation, Deiker’s words truly conveyed everything about who Eugene was.

“How did you find the flaw…?”

“I just saw it.” Eugene shrugged and lied.

In truth, Eugene melted the ice with his Minor Flame Technique while simultaneously raising his internal energy to envelop the bomb.

To prevent the explosion?

No.

Eugene used his internal energy to find the flaw in the bomb, enveloping it.

As he thought, he sensed heat rising from the flaw he enveloped with his energy and cut it with his sword.

It might seem like a trick, but Eugene cut the bomb in his own way.

“To think someone could actually cut this…”

Lina chuckled in disbelief as she continued staring at the bomb on the ground.

She had never seen anyone actually cut this bomb before.

No, to be precise, this was the first time she saw a Magic Swordsman cut it.

Unlike Deiker, Lina had met many Magic Swordsmen.

She encountered them during missions and even just before joining the Landbard Academy.

Every time, she tested those Magic Swordsmen with this ice bomb.

‘Simply because I couldn’t stand those who were neither wizards nor knights.’

But not a single one of them managed to cut the bomb.

Some Magic Swordsmen carelessly struck the side and set it off, and some gave up from the start.

Of course, she never took their lives or injured them when the bomb exploded, thanks to her shield spells.

“What do we do next?”

“Uh… What…?”

Lina snapped out of her daze at Eugene’s voice.

“What to do… I haven’t thought about what comes next…?”

In truth, Lina was confident this test would be enough to expel Eugene from the academy.

After all, none of the Magic Swordsmen she’d met in her life had ever passed this test.

Yet, Eugene had passed it right in front of her eyes.

“Is there no next test?”

“Of course there is!”

Lina vehemently denied Eugene’s words.

“You know that elemental magic is the basics for a wizard, right?”

“Yes.”

“Then the next test is contracting with a spirit.”

“…?”

Eugene’s face crumpled at Lina’s words.

What kind of nonsense was this?

He knew elemental magic was the basics for a wizard.

But why did spirits suddenly come into the picture?

“Ha… Haha…?”

Lina awkwardly smiled as she looked at Eugene’s expression.

She knew how unreasonable her own words were.

Contracting with a spirit is based almost entirely on chance, not skill.

No matter how talented a wizard is, if they can’t communicate with nature and lack affinity with it, they can’t contract with a spirit.

Conversely, even a mediocre and insignificant wizard might succeed in contracting with a high-level spirit.

But to present such a probabilistic task as a test?

A proper test should be designed to appropriately assess skill and ability, but Lina’s test was unreasonable.

“Understood,” Eugene replied.

“Th… That’s a very commendable attitude. I’ll give you… give you two weeks to contract with a spirit. Well then, I’ll be going now…”

Lina bit her lower lip and hurriedly left the training hall.

If Eugene were to complain about this test to the headmasters, she could always give him another test, so there was nothing much to worry about.

“Good grief…?”

Once Lina left the hall, Eugene shook his head.

“So she really hadn’t thought about the next test.”

Eugene, having already figured out everything from Lina’s expression, shrugged his shoulders.

Anyone could have seen how flustered she was and figured out what Lina was thinking.

‘There’s no need to rush into spirit matters right away.’

At first, Eugene had thought about summoning Sylph immediately to throw Lina off balance with her ridiculous test.

However, in that situation, Eugene maneuvered things to his own advantage.

After passing all of Deiker’s tests on the spot and regretting it later back in his dorm, he learned his lesson.

‘I should have used that time to build up my internal energy instead of completing all the tests at once…’

Passing all the tests right there had wasted the time he could have used more productively.

So Eugene decided to pass Lina’s ice test immediately but remained still for the next one.

Moreover, the two weeks Lina granted overlapped perfectly with the time for Deiker’s tests, which was even better.

“Hmm… Should I go back to the dorm for some qi training?”

Swish.

Snap!

Eugene set up a four-direction array inside the training hall and immediately sat down to begin his breathing exercises.

***

The grand mansion of the Bedia family in the Bedia territory.

Rustle.

“Hmm…”

Alan Bedia unfolded and read a letter he had just received.

“Haha…?”

As Alan smiled while reading the letter, Cassia Robain, the 8th-circle grand wizard and his bodyguard, looked slightly surprised.

Since his wife Sasha Ariel’s death, Alan hadn’t smiled much.

But now, Alan was smiling just from reading a letter?

“Lord, what did Master Hobin Jessup write in his letter to make you smile?”

Cassia couldn’t contain her curiosity and asked Alan.

“Eugene…”

“Are you talking about the youngest master?”

“Yes, it seems Eugene has decided to become a Magic Swordsman.”

“What???”

Cassia was shocked by Alan’s words.

What was this sudden news?

The youngest master, who had just entered the academy, was suddenly aiming to become a Magic Swordsman?

Cassia, who had been with Alan since his baron days as a colleague, close friend, and bodyguard, was particularly astonished by Eugene’s decision.

“That’s why Hobin Jessup sent me a letter asking me to dissuade him.”

“Of course, you must dissuade him.”

Alan looked steadily at Cassia in response to her words.

“Are you really thinking of respecting the youngest master’s decision?”

“How can I stop that child from choosing his path? It’s his decision.”

“Did you know about it? That the youngest master was planning to become a Magic Swordsman?”

“I had a rough idea.”

Alan gave a vague answer to Cassia’s question.

When Eugene showed traits similar to their ancestor Keron Bedia, Alan had a hunch but wasn’t completely sure that Eugene would actually pursue the path of a Magic Swordsman.

“My lord… no matter what, a Magic Swordsman…”

“Have you forgotten? Our family has always been a family of Magic Swordsmen.”

“I know, but you’ve seen the reality we face now.”

“That child must have thought it through…”

“What?”

Alan placed the letter on his desk, stood up, and moved toward the window.

“I couldn’t do anything for him… yet he stood up on his own. Admirable…”

Alan smiled as he looked out at the sunset in the distance.

***

Late at night.

Eugene had returned to his dorm and, after his teammates had fallen asleep, was once again cultivating his internal energy, steadily filling his dantian.

“It’s not as much as I’d like, but my internal energy is accumulating quickly.”

He was already at the level of 4th star, which he had reached in six months.

Although not yet at the level of a first-rate martial artist, his internal energy was accumulating at a remarkably fast pace.

It hadn’t been long since he had reached the 3rd star, and now he had already reached the 4th star, showing significant progress.

Chirp chirp.

“Is it morning already?”

While Eugene was absorbed in his cultivation, he heard birds chirping outside.

Swish.

“Ah, you scared me.”

As soon as Eugene finished his cultivation and opened his eyes, he was startled to see Taeje right in front of him.

Why was Taeje leaning in so close when he had asked him to guard and not let anyone disturb him during his breathing exercises?

Moreover, he had hidden his presence so well that Eugene hadn’t noticed him at all.

“Sniff sniff.”

“What are you doing…?”

Eugene looked at Taeje, who was sniffing around his face, with a puzzled expression.

“It’s not you.”

“What?”

“Someone stole my jerky, but I can’t figure out who.”

In that moment, Eugene swallowed his rising annoyance.

Was he really doing this over some jerky?

‘Has the divine beast really turned into a mere housecat…?’

“Did you just curse at me in your head?”

“Not at all.”

Eugene shrugged at Taeje’s question.

Rustle.

“Eugene, you’re always the first to wake up.”

Rohen, across from Eugene, rubbed his eyes and got out of bed, greeting Eugene.

“I didn’t wake you, did I?”

“No, not at all. But…”

“That cat is called Blend, right?”

Rohen pointed to Taeje, who was grooming himself beside Eugene.

The blend that Rohen mentioned refers to the results of a bio-alchemy experiment that grants animals personality and intelligence.

In the past, wizards, witches, and alchemists gathered to conduct experiments that gave animals personality and intelligence, creating what is known as a blend.

However, blends had many issues and side effects.

Eventually, the experiments escalated to merging humans and animals.

Many people began to condemn blends as acts against God.

As the problems worsened, the Luikarlon Empire eventually banned blend experiments.

As a result, blend experiments, which were a part of bio-alchemy, quickly vanished.

“I’ve heard there are still many blends around, but this is the first time I’ve seen one in person.”

“Haha…”

Eugene awkwardly laughed at Rohen’s misunderstanding.

All the members of Team 5 knew about Taeje’s presence.

After all, Eugene had openly brought him along from the first day, so everyone knew Eugene had a cat.

However, they only recently found out that the cat was a blend.

“How did you find out?”

“When you went to receive your Magic Swordsman training, we finished our classes early and returned to the dorm first. That’s when we found out.”

“Then? What did this guy do?”

“He was looking out the window, shouting, ‘This wretched world!’ So it was hard not to notice.”

Eugene looked at Taeje with an incredulous expression.

What ridiculous antics had he been up to in Eugene’s absence?

“Is it not allowed to bring blends to the academy?”

“I don’t think so. There were graduates who brought blends, and even in our year, Bambi Galeron from Team 2 has a blend.”

“That’s a relief.”

“I thought about bringing a pet too, but I didn’t.”

“What do you have?”

“A snake.”

“Wouldn’t the other members dislike it?”

“Well, Ferron Horus brought his pet bat.”

Rohen pointed at Ferron, who was sleeping next to Aron.

Ferron Horus was one of the two people who always stuck close to Arid.

“Bringing an unusual pet, huh.”

Eugene shook his head and got out of bed.

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Martial 15

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“This… is… how…”

Screech. 

Screeech. 

Seeing the golem screeching as it was slammed into the training hall wall, Deiker couldn’t even form words, his mouth just gaped open. 

He had vaguely imagined ‘Would Eugene be able to destroy the golem immediately?’ but never truly believed it would become a reality. 

It made sense though, as the black steel golem was actually a first test given to knights. 

On the other hand, Eugene, contrary to Deiker, seemed dissatisfied and clicked his tongue while frowning. 

‘As expected… I lack inner strength.’ 

What Eugene had just used was the Plum Blossom Sword Technique, specifically the fifth style, Plum Blossom Break. 

It was a move created by the Mount Hua Sect with the intention of breaking through iron-made weapons. The strength of this technique is that it maximizes power with very little inner strength. 

That’s why Eugene chose to use the Plum Blossom Sword Technique instead of his own Heaven’s Kill Sword Art. 

However, by using the Plum Blossom Break, Eugene realized how lacking he was. 

‘Even using half of my inner strength, this is all I could manage to destroy…’

Indeed.

Eugene knew well what kind of golem the black steel golem was, which is why he used half of his inner strength for the Plum Blossom Break.

Yet, despite that, the golem wasn’t destroyed. 

It only became dysfunctional due to the impact, not because the Plum Blossom Break had actually cut through it.

‘Even the strength of Plum Blossom Break couldn’t cover up my lack of inner strength.’

The Plum Blossom Break is powerful even with minimal inner strength, so he thought it would be stronger using half his inner strength.

Normally, the more inner strength used with Plum Blossom Break, the more its power increases exponentially.

But the fact that Eugene couldn’t destroy the black steel golem even using half his inner strength showed how lacking his inner strength was.

“Haha…”

After a few minutes passed, Deiker, who regained his senses, let out a hollow laugh.

“Hmm?”

Deiker looked at Eugene with a puzzled expression.

“What’s with that look on your face?”

“Ah… It’s nothing.”

“Tell me.”

“It’s just that I’m dissatisfied because it seems like I forcibly broke the black steel golem with sheer strength.”

“With sheer strength?”

“Yes.”

Deiker was once again surprised by Eugene’s words.

What kind of strength does it take to forcibly break the black steel golem?

It takes a lot of effort from a blacksmith to create a black steel golem.

As mentioned before, the primary material for the black steel golem is black steel, and this black steel is made by a blacksmith hammering away without rest for a month.

And yet, Eugene had forcibly broken such a golem with strength.

‘Because of this young student, the blacksmith’s effort was denied… that one month was denied…’

It was even more astonishing that it was broken with sheer strength.

“What was that movement you showed earlier? It’s a sword technique I’ve never seen before.”

Deiker recalled the sword technique Eugene had used on the black steel golem.

It was quite different from the sword techniques typically used by knights.

“It’s one of the sword techniques passed down in my family.”

Eugene lied effortlessly.

“Family? You’re saying a family of mages has swordsmanship?”

“Don’t you know what kind of family we originally are?”

“Ah… are you talking about the swordsmanship of the first Bedia, Keron Bedia?”

“Yes.”

If Keron Bedia had heard this, he would have been astounded by how effortlessly Eugene lied. 

After all, Deiker had no way to verify Eugene’s words. 

He couldn’t directly ask Keron Bedia, who passed away long ago, nor could he ask Eugene’s father, Alan Bedia. 

Alan Bedia was a great mage and a duke of a kingdom to everyone else, not just a father to the children of the Bedia family. 

Therefore, no one could easily approach him to ask questions.

“Do you know how to create aura?”

“I know to some extent.”

“Hmm… well, since you displayed swordsmanship, you must have some aura. Although it must be a very small amount of aura…”

Deiker nodded his head. 

To perform swordsmanship, one needs aura. 

It’s not just about following the sword movements; aura is used in conjunction with the sword techniques, so it was clear Eugene had aura.

“Then I’ll give you two weeks to materialize your aura.”

This was also a nonsensical statement. 

To materialize aura, a knight had to reach at least the level of a 2-star knight, a Sword Runner. 

And not just any 2-star, but a 2-star level 2 or higher knight could materialize aura.

“Of course, I’m not asking you to shape the aura for combat. Just create it, even if it’s unbalanced.”

“I’ll give it a try.”

“…Alright.”

Deiker had secretly anticipated what Eugene would answer, and as expected, Eugene accepted his words without hesitation. 

“Then, I’ll take my leave now.”

Deiker, having finished his unconventional lesson with Eugene, gathered his sword and left the training hall. 

In his original plan, Eugene would be struggling to mimic his swordsmanship by now.

‘Could the swordmaster talent of the Bedia family have been passed down to this child?’

As he was leaving the training hall, Deiker glanced back at Eugene, who was practicing with a training sword inside.

What was this unknown sense of expectation?

Deiker shrugged his shoulders and continued on his way.

***

The next day.

Eugene arrived at the training hall, which was only used for sparring, to attend his morning swordmaster class.

“Hmm, it’s you.”

As Eugene arrived, someone standing in the middle of the training hall looked at him.

It was Lina Sephaniel, Eugene’s magic instructor.

She was a high mage of the 6th circle and was known to be on the verge of reaching the 7th circle.

“Hmm…”

Eugene frowned as he saw Lina sizing him up from head to toe.

“I am Lina Sephaniel.”

“I am Eugene Bedia.”

Eugene felt puzzled by Lina’s non-aggressive demeanor.

He had heard from other team members the day before why Lina Sephaniel disliked the Bedia family.

Because of this, Eugene expected Lina to be hostile from the start, but she came off as unexpectedly calm.

No, to be precise, she acted curtly, which seemed calm from Eugene’s perspective.

“Since you’re already a mage, we’ll skip over mana attributes, circle operation, and types of magic. After all, you’re a Bedia, right?”

There was a hidden sharpness in her gentle words. 

Just from those words, it was clear how much Lina Sephaniel harbored resentment toward the Bedia family. 

“So, what kind of lessons will I be taking?”

“Do you know what is the most important thing for a magic swordsman?”

He didn’t know. 

He knew what was important for a knight, but since he had never experienced being a magic swordsman or met one, he couldn’t answer hastily.

“It’s the utilization of energy. In other words, the management of abilities is crucial.”

Of course, for a typical mage, it’s enough to master the use of magic. 

However, managing magic for a magic swordsman was much more difficult than ordinary magic management. 

If the difficulty of managing ordinary magic is 10, then for a magic swordsman, it’s over 40-50.

Why is it so difficult? 

It’s because a magic swordsman uses both mana and aura ‘together.’

“To put it simply, it’s like drawing a triangle with one hand and a square with the other hand.”

For most people, drawing a triangle and a square simultaneously is impossible, and even for those who can do it, they can only manage it slowly. If they try to do it quickly, it gets all mixed up.

The management of a magic swordsman’s magic is the same. 

When using a sword, they need to use aura, and when using magic, they use mana. 

It sounds very simple, but as explained, it’s like drawing a triangle with one hand and a square with the other hand.

In battle or on the battlefield, or when confronting monsters, they must rapidly alternate between using aura and mana. 

If they mess up even once, it could lead directly to death. 

“Do you know the difference between circles and aura?”

“Yes. I know that if you contain the energy called magic power in a circle, it’s mana, and if you contain it in the right side of your chest, it’s aura.”

Circles form below the heart, and as the circle level increases, additional round rings are added. 

Conversely, aura forms in the right side of the chest. 

That’s why among knights, aura is called the second heart.

“You understand well. So you need to use both aura and mana together.”

“Yes, I understand.”

“Hmm… I like your confident tone. Shall we begin immediately?”

Whoosh. 

Lina extended her arm and drew a round metal ball from the corner of the training hall to her hand.

“Deiker told me you know how to use a sword?”

“Yes.”

Swish. 

“Your task is to cut this metal ball.”

When Lina held out the round metal ball, Eugene tilted his head in confusion. 

After talking about managing abilities, was the task really just to cut a metal ball?

“Of course, it’s not just about cutting the metal ball.”

Snap!

Crack!

As Lina snapped her fingers, ice formed around the metal ball and soon grew to the size of a pumpkin.

Float.

“First, melt this ice with magic, then immediately cut the metal ball.”

Lina pointed to the floating chunk of ice.

Inside the chunk of ice was the metal ball that Lina had been holding. Without even chanting, Lina cast her spell, befitting a 6-circle mage.

‘This is no big deal…’

“Oh, by the way.”

Clap.

Just as Eugene was thinking how easy this task seemed, Lina clapped her hands.

“As soon as you melt the ice, you must immediately cut through that metal ball. Because it’s a bomb. You’ll have about one second after the ice melts, haha.”

“??”

What did she mean? A bomb? 

Not just a simple metal ball, but a bomb?

“Why are you so surprised? If you want to become a magic swordsman, you need to be able to manage this level of energy. Additionally, that metal ball won’t just be split by wildly swinging your sword. You need to cut through the core for the bomb to be neutralized. Don’t swing at the wrong spot and detonate it.”

Indeed.

Lina Sephaniel clearly disliked the Bedia family.

Eugene had to use magic to melt the ice and then immediately switch to swordsmanship to cut through the bomb’s core. 

And he had just one second to do it. 

Moreover, despite being a bomb, it looked like a plain metal ball with no obvious center.

Typically, bombs have a fuse at the top, but the bomb encased in ice by Lina had no fuse, making it impossible to discern the top or bottom.

“But don’t feel too discouraged. This bomb cutting task is just a test. I’ll prepare practice ice separately. However, you must cut this bomb within three days to pass the test.”

Swish.

Lina raised her hand again.

She was about to create practice ice in addition to the test ice.

“The practice ice won’t have a bomb inside, so don’t worry…”

At that moment,

Whoosh!

The test ice suddenly caught fire.

“What… what are you doing?!”

“I will do it right now.”

“Ha, are you crazy? Are you so confident because you’re from the Bedia family that you can’t assess the situation?”

Lina scolded him with an incredulous expression.

Melting the ice was fine. 

After all, even a 1-circle spell like Fire could melt it.

But the problem was what came next.

The bomb would explode one second after the ice melted, and the fire melting the ice would obscure the view, making it hard to see the core of the bomb.

He needed to practice to get a feel for it and improve his dynamic vision, but he was starting immediately?!

Boom.

“What an idiot…?”

Lina stepped back, creating a shield to protect herself.

“It’s not too late, so step back…”

At that moment,

Slash!

Click.

As Eugene quickly drew the longsword from his waist, there was a clicking sound.

And simultaneously,

Thud.

The bomb was split in half and fell to the ground before it could explode.

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Survival 101

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“Having received your lessons in rhetoric and politics, it feels odd to be your teacher.”

Though her expression was as impassive as usual, it was clear that Luciana was in a very good mood, evident from her shoulders raised almost to her chin.

“How much do you know about aura?”

‘It’s so close.’

A gentle whisper heard by the ear.

Despite my favorite character’s enchanting voice, I clenched my teeth without turning my head.

It was torture, albeit not officially so.

After all, she threatened that if my meditation posture was disrupted, I would fail to comprehend my aura.

How could I focus with my attention diverted like that?

‘Sigh. Let’s regain composure. This is the Speda family’s aura cultivation method. I can’t afford to miss this opportunity because I’m distracted by Luciana.’

It took several deep breaths before I could finally calm down.

“Now then, what do you know about Aura?”

“Well, I’ve been considered a dullard with swords all my life. Aura was like a cloud out of reach for me. I know only the basics, and that’s about it.”

Of course, it was a lie.

How could I not know, having seen the ending of this game and thoroughly understood the story and setting?

But, if it means getting more of my favorite character’s kind tutoring,

It’s only right to pretend I don’t know what I actually do know!

“Really? It’s surprising to hear you admit there’s something you don’t know.”

“There was never a need to know in detail before. Whether it was mana or aura, I was told I had so little of it that I lacked talent.”

“Is that so? Then let me start by explaining what Aura is.”

Perhaps because it was her area of expertise, her explanation was confident.

“Aura is the primal life force within our body. It is used to enhance physical abilities or weapons.”

“Yes, I knew that.”

“Oh? Then do you understand the difference between mana and aura?”

I certainly do.

‘The difference between mana and aura.’

It was a question frequently asked by professors to students at the academy in the game.

Most stumbled over it.

But now, I am merely a learner.

Seeing the intent behind her question, I gave her the answer she wanted.

“Mana and aura. Aren’t they similar in nature? Both reside within us and are consumables that lead us to greater power.”

“Indeed. It seems your claim of ignorance wasn’t false.”

She waved just her index finger gently.

With a smile as if a professor was looking fondly at his students.

“Mana exists only in the heart and blood vessels. Blood mixes well with mana, which makes it difficult to manipulate.”

This is also why vampires are adept at magic.

Being a species that can freely control their blood, they utilize all the mana contained within it without waste.

“On the other hand, aura exists everywhere in the muscles. With a little effort, like this.”

As if conjuring magical flames,

A pure white aura that had overflowed from her scabbard earlier now blossomed from her hand.

“You should be able to see the aura with your own eyes.”

“Wow, that’s charming.”

“Yes. It would be easier to refine Aura with our family’s cultivation method than to learn miscellaneous magic from that demon race.”

Suddenly, her voice faded from my ear before the lingering regret could even leave.

Something warm touched my back.

“Your back is broader than I thought.”

Luciana’s hand brushed across my back.

-Shhhh.

It felt as though something was being infused into my back following her hand.

“Ugh!”

It felt like when Bathory forcibly modified my blood vessels for blood magic.

I couldn’t bear the pain that felt like scratching from inside my muscles and groaned.

“I’m sorry. It’s a necessary procedure. To pass on the cultivation method, we must awaken the dormant aura first. I believe you can endure it.”

—

“It’s okay. After all, it’s the Speda ducal family’s cultivation method! If I think of it as pain for honor, it’s bearable.”

The more upgrades, the better!

This was an eternal truth in RPGs.

“You’re really something… I should learn from your ambition.”

Who’s talking to whom?

It doesn’t seem right for her to say that, considering she never skips her training.

The private training grounds of the familiar Speda ducal family.

She, who swung her sword every morning at dawn without fail, her long hair tied up lightly, immersed in training in light attire…

Focusing on Luciana, strangely, the pain soon subsided.

[Warning: You are already walking the path of magic.]

[When awakening the aura, its efficiency will significantly decrease.]

‘What do I care.’

Whether it’s mana or aura.

This body, overwhelmingly lacking in magical power, is clearly defective.

My choice was, naturally, in continuation of that.

Whether it’s relics or skills.

If I can accept them, I accept whatever comes my way.

“Seeing you smile, it seems you’ve stabilized more than expected. How is it, do you feel the aura?”

“Yes, thanks to you.”

[You have successfully awakened your aura!]

[You are now at the ‘Aura User’ stage.]

A foreign energy felt throughout my body, centered around my navel.

It was a distinctly different kind of power settled in my heart.

“Good. You are now basically prepared to learn the aura cultivation method.”

Luciana approached me as I sat in a meditation posture.

This time, her hand touched my abdomen.

The dantian is a vital point for gathering aura.

By yielding it to the teacher, the cultivation method is passed on.

“Since that time. It’s been me doing things against the family’s will.”

‘That time.’

Though a vague choice of words, I understood immediately.

“You mean since Friede.”

“Yes. Since I met you, it often has been this way. You’ve always brought better results than I expected, …can you also ensure that I won’t regret my choice this time?”

With a wavering voice tinged with hesitation, she posed that question.

“How could I not respond?”

“Don’t worry. No matter what happens, I will always be by your side, Lady Luciana, with this cultivation method you’ve taught me.”

[If ‘Luciana Speda,’ the person you assist, dies, the player will also die.]

More than anything, her end would literally be my end.

I will stake everything I have to prevent that end from being one of ruin.

Aura was one of the many means to that end.

“Haha, right. I worried needlessly. I have confirmed your loyalty many times. Then, we’ll soon begin the transmission, so close your eyes.”

Luciana’s aura flowed into my dantian.

It was a cool and clear feeling, in contrast to the previous pain.

“The basics of the cultivation method are breath and practice. Especially now, as you have just realized your aura and are receiving the cultivation method, you need to focus on breathing.”

“Are you speaking of breathing?”

“Focus on the energy you feel in your dantian and breathe deeply. The reason I asked you to close your eyes is the same. When your sight is limited, it helps you feel the aura inside your body.”

Advice from my favorite character, who was not only a superior teacher but also a formidable force in the game.

I faithfully followed her instructions.

With my eyes closed, I could see nothing.

Not the helpful status window.

Nor the pouch containing various useful items.

“Your meditation posture is off. Remember, the closer to the correct posture, the easier it is to stimulate the dantian, feel, and accept the aura.”

“Yes.”

“Stop talking now. Focus solely on your breathing.”

Luciana’s voice was all I could feel.

Following her advice, I concentrated all my nerves towards the dantian.

The cool aura and warm body temperature created a strange sensation.

How much time had passed?

Just as the mixed energy of that temperature began to fade.

“It’s done. It’s almost finished, open your eyes.”

Following Luciana’s advice, I opened my tightly shut eyelids.

As she removed her hand from my navel, a translucent status window split between me and Luciana.

[You have acquired a new skill!]

[Speda Aura Cultivation Method]

‘So I’ve acquired it.’

A skill that could never be obtained in the original work.

Driven by my curiosity as a gamer, I immediately checked the details.

“What?!”

“What’s wrong? Don’t tell me… was there a problem during the transmission process?”

“No, it’s not that.”

I waved my hands gently, reassuring Luciana, who was looking at my complexion worriedly.

The reason for my surprised voice, which I let out forgetting I was in front of Luciana, was in the status window.

[Rank F: Speda Aura Cultivation Method]

‘Just an F rank?’

Considering where the Speda family stands.

One of the empire’s four great ducal families.

A family that represents military prowess.

Its distinction confirmed by talents like Luciana and a history of defending against demonic invasions for over several decades.

Yet to be classified as the lowest F rank among skill categories.

“Yes, that’s a relief. Normally, there should be no response at all.”

“…Excuse me?”

“The Speda family’s aura cultivation method starts off weak, but it ends in great success. It’s natural not to feel any significant changes at first.”

[Rank F: Speda Aura Cultivation Method]

[The Speda family drove out ferocious monsters and evil demons in harsh climates, eventually planting their domain’s flag in the north.]

[In the process, the warriors of the Speda family learned breathing and sword techniques that ensured strong survival skills, which developed into this cultivation method.]

[Like muscles becoming stronger as they heal from tears, a warrior grows through trials. – First Duke of Speda]

[Growth-type Skill (Potential S)]

[When a certain level of proficiency is reached, the skill grade increases and additional effects are granted.]

[Current effects at this grade: Temporary strength enhancement, external discharge.]

As if to support Luciana’s words, the status window displayed detailed information after a slight loading.

‘A growth-type skill! Of course, the unique vision of the Speda ducal family couldn’t possibly be mediocre.’

Initially, its performance may be inferior to skills of the same rank.

However, it’s a skill that changes class as it grows when certain conditions are met.

Naturally, it’s also harder to obtain than regular skills, and to think I would acquire it like this.

‘Even its potential is S-rank.’

Simply by accumulating proficiency, you acquire an endgame-level skill.

Indeed, it wasn’t a cultivation method given just to any noble family.

“Now that you’ve learned the cultivation method, you should be able to handle the aura to some extent. Why don’t you test that power? Try producing aura in your hand.”

Luciana extended her hand wrapped in pure white aura, as if to suggest I should do the same.

“Fulfilling the master’s expectations is the duty of a servant.”

Besides, didn’t you say earlier?

You wanted to see the color of my aura.

Since each person’s aura color is different, I was curious about my own as well.

As my dantian felt slightly tight, I also felt a pulling sensation in the muscles of my hand.

-Whoosh.

Like Luciana, I too succeeded in producing aura from my hand.

“…Huh… …Huh.”

Luciana’s pupils were wide with astonishment.

It was natural for her to be so surprised.

After all, in my palm was a flame so small and feeble it seemed like it might extinguish at any moment.

“…Haha. Didn’t you say that it starts off weak but ends in great success? I’ve just taken my first step, so it’s not something I can show off as well as you, Lady Luciana.”

To hide my own disappointment at the rather dismal aura, I forced a lively tone.

“No, I’m not surprised because of that.”

“Oh, is that so?”

“Yes. The small size of the aura is as you said. Having learned the Speda family’s cultivation method, that’s actually quite natural. But look at the color.”

Ah, yes, there was the color.

“It’s black. Is there a problem?”

“Um. Usually, a black aura is considered ominous. It’s typically associated with rogues from the dark guilds, criminals from the west, and…”

After a moment’s hesitation, Luciana opened her mouth.

“The aura of demon warriors is mostly black too.”

-Shiver-

Her voice sounded nonchalant as she spoke.

The comfort from my favorite character tapping on my shoulder.

But also the slight trembling I felt from the hand touching me.

[Luciana’s current psychology: Now that I think about it, I hadn’t considered that. If Frost Mane is a demon, his aura would also be black. Last time, we lost without even revealing our auras, but next time…!]

[Luciana’s current psychology: But why would Hans…?]

Her psychology changed in response to my aura displayed on the status window.

And her blue eyes flickering over my hand revealed the suspicions blossoming within her to me.

‘Ugh. How did it all connect like this?’

The joy of having awakened my aura was brief.

Now, how am I to resolve this?

My head throbbed.

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Round 33

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It was the quest window that I hadn’t seen in a long time. Considering that I once risked my life for quests, I realized how much things had changed.

“As expected, the dungeon’s name is ‘Gluttony’.”

I paid more attention to the name of this place than the content of the quest. I had anticipated it, but it was indeed the System-certified Gluttony Dungeon.

But when I checked the content of the quest again, surprisingly, it didn’t seem too difficult. Well, if it were someone else, they might have thought, ‘What kind of absurd quest is this?’ But to me, it was just another quest, almost like a bonus.

“Since I planned to farm here anyway, might as well clear the quest while I’m at it.”

Come to think of it, this wasn’t the first time I had received quests. With a mindset of wanting to check it out after a long time, I glanced at the quest list.

[Awakening Quest: Hunt Monsters]

[Hunt monsters using slimes.]

[Goblin: 0/10]

[Awakening Quest: Offer Tributes]

[Gather the specified items and submit them.]

[Directly harvested dungeon fruits: 10/10]

[Directly harvested Lv.2 magic-infused crops: 0/50]

[Quest: Develop a New Crop]

[Discover or develop a new crop.]

[New crop: ⅓]

Others may have just one quest, but I had a whopping four quests piled up, considering I had just received one more. Yet, considering the time I had spent without taking quests, it hadn’t been that long.

“…There were times when I couldn’t clear a quest for three years and struggled.”

Now, my life’s value wasn’t solely based on quests, but still, there was no harm in clearing them.

But for now, let’s survey the surroundings.

The slimes that came with me were marveling at the unfamiliar environment, bouncing around.

“Shall we take a stroll around?”

“We’ll take a stroll!”

Right ahead, a giant tree caught my eye. It was so enormous that the distance seemed ambiguous compared to the tree that served as a marker for the return route. Although it looked like we could reach it with just a little walk, in reality, it could be much farther.

“Shall we go to that tree?”

“Twinkle-twinkle tree! Let’s go!”

“Is that tree called Twinkle-twinkle tree?”

“I named it!”

The tree didn’t particularly shine, so why did Ara name it Twinkle-twinkle tree?

Except for its unrealistic size, there were no other notable features about the lush green leaves of the tree.

“Why Twinkle-twinkle tree?”

“It twinkles and shines! It becomes beautiful when it shines!”

“Oh? It shines, too?”

“That’s right!”

That sounds interesting. Maybe there’s something special about such a huge tree shining.

“Alright, let’s go check it out, kids.”

“We’re going!”

I called the slimes, who were still bouncing around, gathered them, and headed towards the Twinkle-twinkle tree.

***

“It worked, it worked!”

Choi Young-seong, who was checking the computer, suddenly jumped up and shouted.

At the sudden noise, Kim Si-young, who was in the room next door, peeked her head out.

“Honey? What’s going on?”

Now that she had recovered enough to get up from her seat, she looked at her husband with a face full of curiosity.

“Oh! Finally, we got definite data!”

“Data? About my poison?”

“Exactly! The simulation results show a 99.99% chance of recovery!”

“And what’s new? I’m already getting better, so isn’t it obvious?”

“Still, just to be sure, we collected data for several days. Even though you’re improving now, there’s no guarantee of complete recovery.”

With a wide grin, Choi Young-seong approached Kim Si-young and showed her the computer screen.

“Look at this. Can you see it? The recovery probability. You can just consider it confirmed. Decoding is over now!”

“You’re really something. You’re even happier looking at the computer screen when the results are already proving it with my body.”

While shaking her head, Kim Si-young couldn’t hide the smile on her lips. Then, as if something occurred to her, she shook Choi Young-seong’s shoulder.

“Honey.”

“Hmm?”

“Besides me, there are other people who are addicted. Most of them have unfortunately passed away, but…”

“Ah!”

Choi Young-seong, who had been preoccupied with Kim Si-young’s concerns, exclaimed with surprise.

“Can that child be cured too?”

“Of course! As long as we have the vegetable juice…”

Choi Young-seong’s voice trailed off. He could solve addiction. But the ability wasn’t his. It belonged solely to Lee Kyu-seong.

“It feels a bit presumptuous to ask. Kyu-seong isn’t that kind of person, but for us to intervene…”

“It’s not about asking. We can make it a mutually beneficial deal.”

Seeing Choi Young-seong’s dark expression, Kim Si-young chuckled. Her smile resembled the one from the days when she roamed the dungeons, known as the ‘Queen of Lightning.’

“I wouldn’t dare to disrespect a benefactor like him. And besides, apart from me, there’s only one awakened person suffering from poisoning in Korea. You know who that is, right?”

“Of course.”

“To repay Kyu-seong and to check on our old colleagues, I’ll contact them. Let’s confirm Kyu-seong’s condition first.”

At that time, the awakened individuals who were addicted with her were once renowned figures.

Although they might not have the same wealth or influence as they did back then, they still had enough. Moreover, once the poison was cured with Kyu-seong’s vegetable juice, it was only a matter of time before they regained their original positions.

“Now that the data is out, they won’t doubt it if we send them the information. If necessary, I can go myself.”

“Honey, you haven’t fully recovered…”

“That child is probably still struggling in hopeless agony.”

Kim Si-young’s eyes gazed into the distance, as if recalling the difficult days she had once experienced alongside them.

“I want to let them know there’s still hope, that they don’t have to suffer anymore.”

“…Okay. Then let me contact Kyu-seong first. I’ll also find out how Baek Seung-hyeon, the Level 7 awakened, is doing.”

Baek Seung-hyeon, a Level 7 awakened.

He was known as the greatest supporter in Korea. 

Although he was only one level below Kim Si-young, he participated in the takedown of the Dungeon of Greed due to his remarkable abilities.

Furthermore, his guild, the ‘Iron Blood Guild,’ was a top-tier guild in Korea, so even when he returned from addiction, they were still working hard to save Baek Seung-hyeon.

“Moreover, Baek Seung-hyeon is the son of the guild master of the Iron Blood Guild. He would never give up on his son’s life.”

If there was a way to cure him, they would probably try everything they could.

“…By the way, many of the people who were addicted at that time are also abroad. Since the takedown team was a multinational guild alliance.”

“Yeah. Since it was the first attempt at a 9th-grade dungeon, all the awakened individuals around the world were interested back then.”

“If we handle this well…”

Choi Young-seong fell into thought.

There might not be many people alive now, but one thing was clear: if the addicted awakened individuals abroad were treated with Kyu-seong’s abilities, the impact would be tremendous.

“I should talk to Kyu-seong about this.”

Choi Young-seong and Kim Si-young pondered how they could help Kyu-seong while ensuring things went smoothly.

***

Around that time, rumors were circulating among domestic guilds, causing a stir.

“What? Food as an item?”

“Are you talking about potions? Well, there are all sorts of potions out there. Of course, you have to do some box farming in the dungeons.”

“That’s not it? Just regular food that’s also an item, with abilities attached?”

And most of the awakened individuals who heard the rumors exclaimed together.

“This can’t be true!”

But the rumors only grew louder.

Eventually, some of them visited the Iron Fist Guild, which was the first to bring out information on this matter, to verify the truth.

And Kim Dong-gil of the Iron Fist Guild, who had been cautious about secretly investigating, denied knowing anything about it.

“Isn’t that suspicious?”

However, such behavior only raised suspicions.

Since most people already knew that Kim Dong-gil had personally inquired about the information, they began to take the rumors more seriously.

Then one day, a decisive incident occurred.

“Well, it just won’t work.”

As usual, Kang Hanul, attending the Gourmet meeting, leaned his forehead against his hands, lost in thought.

“I’ve… become a body that can’t survive without his food. It’s a curse.”

“Huh? Hanul?”

Kim Dong-gil, who was sitting next to him, called out to him with an anxious expression.

But Kang Hanul continued his soliloquy without responding to Kim Dong-gil’s call.

“Is it tastier because it’s an item?”

“Gasp!”

Kim Dong-gil was taken aback and quickly suppressed his surprise, pretending nothing had happened.

Most of the attendees at the Gourmet meeting didn’t show much reaction to Kang Hanul’s eccentric words, but they now paid close attention to Kim Dong-gil’s unusual reaction.

“Was it really true?”

“Regular food as an item?”

“And it even tastes good? Hanul’s reaction was strange last time too.”

Kim Dong-gil felt uneasy.

He felt as if he had been caught red-handed, having his coveted food exposed.

And with the competition growing, even Kang Hanul couldn’t obtain much of the precious resource.

“Hmm, come to think of it, didn’t he mention opening a restaurant a while ago?”

Kang Hanul’s soliloquy continued.

Until then, the attendees, who hadn’t paid much attention to his soliloquy, now listened intently, as if they could hear ants crawling.

Kim Dong-gil felt the saliva pooling in his mouth involuntarily at the mention of a restaurant.

‘Opening a restaurant! That’s… amazing!’

But unlike Kim Dong-gil, who had never tasted the food, other attendees at the gourmet meeting were more focused on the effects of the item.

If, as Kang Hanul said, a restaurant opened, and if it really was as rumored, an item with various abilities attached, then visiting it before entering the dungeon would become a must-do.

Of course, this was a rational judgment made by those who hadn’t tasted Lee Kyu-seong’s crops.

“Um…. Is it really true that they’re opening a restaurant?”

Kim Dong-gil finally decided not to hide and asked directly. Since the information was already out, asking whether it was true was the most urgent matter.

The sweet potato candy from that day had given Kim Dong-gil a feeling of a turning point in life.

‘Wait a minute! Opening a restaurant means there’s more than just sweet potato candy on the menu, right?’

Because his attention had been focused solely on the sweet potato candy until now, his vision had been narrow. But upon further thought, a restaurant meant more than just one menu item…

‘…Even one menu item could be a hit, right?’

As Kim Dong-gil was imagining all this alone, Kang Hanul chuckled and said,

“It’s a joke. Hahaha!”

“….”

“Since you’re spreading rumors everywhere, I decided to play a joke. Hahaha!”

Kim Dong-gil couldn’t retort due to the sting he felt. But Kang Hanul didn’t know yet.

That Lee Kyu-seong was actually considering opening a restaurant. And that his younger brother, Lee Jae-seong, was researching cooking with Kyu-seong’s crops.

“Anyway, since it seems like the rumor is true, couldn’t you let us know a bit?”

“I’d like to try that rumored food too.”

One by one, the participants of the Gourmet meeting expressed their curiosity. Hearing this, Kang Hanul crossed his arms and fell into thought.

“Hmm, I’ll ask once.”

Isn’t this suddenly getting too big? Kang Hanul, slightly worried about Kyu-seong, soon thought calmly. If any problems arise from this incident, he would step forward to protect and resolve them for Kyu-seong. Or better yet, why not just become his sponsor? Who in South Korea would dare to touch someone sponsored by Kang Hanul!

“Hahaha!”

Kang Hanul’s laughter, as he alone unfolded the wings of imagination, continued endlessly.

* * *

“My ears are itching. Who’s talking about me?”

Lee Kyu-seong, inspecting the Dungeon of Gluttony, scratched his ear.

Just a mere Level 1 awakened individual, Lee Kyu-seong. He had become a mysterious figure with influence spreading in all directions.

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Strike 136

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Hyun-soo cannot forget the Ballas domain.

When he first visited Ballas, it was on the brink of ruin.

Indeed, some nobles were arguing that Ballas should be abolished.

Having seen it for himself, Hyun-soo understood why such talk was prevalent.

The domain had been thoroughly exploited by an inspector named Books, and Lord Belin had been reduced to a puppet.

However, much had changed since Hyun-soo’s visit.

Once known as the domain of blacksmiths and headed towards decline, the blacksmiths there had received Hyun-soo’s teachings and started producing far superior crafts than before.

Additionally, the visit of a popular YouTuber with one million subscribers led to a sudden influx of customers.

It would be a lie to say Hyun-soo had no affection for the place.

After all, it was through his efforts that the blacksmiths there had grown.

But he thought it was an unavoidable part of his journey.

Then, Barad had said, “I will grant the Ballas domain to Count Hyun-soo.”

Those words made Hyun-soo’s heart race.

All guild masters ultimately wanted to secure a territory for a reason:

“To secure tax revenues and obtain infinite financial power.”

Barad then added, “However, Lord Belin’s approval is required. It’s a necessary procedure. If she refuses, we might need to consider another territory.”

Barad was not a tyrant.

Belin was clearly in place, and Hyun-soo could not just forcibly replace her.

‘Indeed, that makes sense.’

Hyun-soo was fully convinced.

Suddenly, he remembered meeting Belin before leaving Ballas.

-Become a noble. I believe you have that power. And when you have risen high, please return to Ballas. Depending on the kind of noble you become, I will share the domain’s stake with you.

Hyun-soo was merely a commoner when he left Ballas, and this had happened just a few months ago.

After receiving this offer from her, a quest had appeared.

Hyun-soo had just revisited this quest.

[Hidden Quest: Noble]

Grade: S

Requirement: Belin must communicate her consent

Reward: A stake in the domain

Penalty for failure: Lowest favorability with Belin.

Description: Lord Belin’s faith in you is firm. Return to this domain in response to that faith.

It was a fresh sentiment.

Surely, when Hyun-soo received this quest, he had wondered when he might become a noble.

Moreover, unlike the quest description suggesting he would not become a lord but rather obtain a stake in the territory.

And the content at the end of the description was striking.

“Return to this domain in response.”

Hyun-soo would return there as a completely different person.

“My expectations for you are high.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.”

After greeting Barad, Hyun-soo looked around.

Other nobles also looked at Hyun-soo with expressions of anticipation.

Soon, Hyun-soo greeted Barad again and then left the audience chamber.

“Let’s see…”

As Hyun-soo gained the title of count, numerous notifications rang out for him. However, due to his shock and because he was in the presence of the lord, he couldn’t quite grasp the content of some notifications at first. Later, Hyun-soo checked them:

[As a count, you can designate a personal emblem.]

[The designated emblem can be applied to guild members, estate residents, soldiers, and knights.]

Hyun-soo thought, ‘Oh…?’, realizing how splendid it would be if the soldiers and knights bore this emblem.

[You have acquired the title of Count.]

(Count)

Multiple Titles

Rank: A

Special Abilities:

– Charisma increase by 10%.

– Receive respect from those of lower rank, and you can also impose punishment for a just cause.

– Your words will carry more weight as a viscount.

– You will receive proper respect anywhere in the kingdom of Goyard.

– You can announce the appearance of a count.

– Known for your high negotiation skills, you can activate a special appearance notification for three days.

Description: This title is given to users who have achieved the rank of count in the kingdom of Goyard.

Although the title felt somewhat formal, Hyun-soo didn’t mind it. He planned to leave the prisoners in the capital for now. Before heading to the Ballas estate, he had other places to visit, and Ballas estate was not yet fully confirmed as his territory. Just as he was leaving the castle, Hyun-soo stopped.

[The wolf’s egg reacts.]

‘Oh?’

It seemed the wolf’s egg was nourishing itself from various achievements made by Hyun-soo.

Perhaps this recent negotiation added to its nourishment.

Hyun-soo wondered how much more nourishment he had earned, waiting for the notification.

***

The virtual reality game Ares is serviced in over 100 countries. With one-third of the population playing, it truly feels like a second world. Additionally, there are branches in various countries that even the mighty Lee Se-jin cannot influence. Lee Se-jin’s face darkened during a video chat involving branch heads from the top 30 countries dominating Ares’s market share. In the case of the Korean server, Lee Se-jin participated.

The US branch head, John, spoke from across the screen:

-The Korean server will face the Chinese server. The ingenuity of Korean players, once called the strongest in gaming, is anticipated.

Lee Se-jin almost let out a sigh. All world servers are currently separated by continents, much like Earth itself, hosting over a hundred countries. Users continuously seek new content, and each server wants to explore more of the world. Thus, a server merge, which would eventually happen, required content to entertain the users before the merge. This content was the Continental War.

The Continental War involved a narrative where one country invades another, and only the most stable countries among Ares’s dozens were allowed to participate.

In reality, the Continental War involves dozens of countries, and Korea was matched against China through a computer draw. The exact details are still unclear, so it’s not yet confirmed how it will proceed. One thing for certain is that NPCs will not participate, and only a predefined number of players will take part.

‘The only certain thing is that there will be attackers and defenders,’ thought Lee Se-jin.

Since China became the attackers, they would initiate the invasion, and Korea, as the defenders, would be responsible for defense. Typically, defenders have an advantage, so to balance it out, “attackers are allowed 10% more players.”

This means the number of Chinese players will be 10% higher than that of Korean players.

“Let’s discuss more about the Continental War later,” said Lee Se-jin, as the exact timing hasn’t been decided yet. It could be as soon as one to two months, or up to six months to a year.

After ending the video chat, Lee Se-jin sighed.

“Can Korean players respond well?”

As the representative, Lee Se-jin stands at the center of fairness. That doesn’t mean he isn’t also a citizen of his country. The power difference between Chinese and Korean players was too great.

“It’s not that Korea lacks capable people.” It’s because of the population. Both countries can only have a selected number of participants participate. Because of the limited numbers, only the best players from China will take part. The difference between the top 100 Korean players and the top 100 Chinese players—whose country has more than 20 times the population—was enormous.

“A few strong players could potentially change the game.” Strength is like that. Just as a single knight from the kingdom of Goyard, Bella, could defeat twenty knights. If there’s an overwhelmingly strong individual, the story changes.

Then Lee Se-jin remembered one player. “It’s not yet time. He’s still lacking.” In Lee Se-jin’s view, this player might just be one of the high-rankers within the top 100. “But, what if he continues to grow in the remaining time?” And if…

“If he becomes the first player to achieve a legendary status?” Master Hyun (現). If that happens, the story might change. But it’s just a small hope of Lee Se-jin’s.

Of course, Hyun-soo is just one legendary creation away from earning the right to challenge it. Literally just having the right to attempt it. He must overcome another test first.

For now, Lee Se-jin decided to set aside his expectations.

Then, [The wolf’s egg completes nutrient absorption.]

Lee Se-jin looked puzzled. As far as he knew, the wolf’s egg still had several days left for nutrient absorption.

“Could it be…!?”

Lee Se-jin had been unable to pay attention to player Hyun-soo due to the Continental War storyline. First, he checked the negotiation skills that Hyun-soo had developed. 

[Player Hyun-soo achieves a 227% negotiation skill.]

“What…?” This was beyond the realm of possibility.

Skill. Luck. Fateful encounters. A maximized sense of gratitude. A myriad of factors converged to create an astonishing figure. This figure brought about a result:

[The wolf’s egg has achieved a nutrient absorption rate of 112%.]

Lee Se-jin swallowed dryly. A nutrient absorption rate of 80% in the wolf’s egg would result in the birth of a legendary Fenrir-class wolf. And at 80%, or rather, when it exceeds 100%, a divine beast might be born. It was truly unknown. The choice is in the hands of the supercomputer, Ares. Lee Se-jin wiped his face.

‘What will the supercomputer Ares choose?’

Normally, Ares’s decisions align closely with Lee Se-jin’s; their judgments match about 90% of the time. He awaited the decision of the supercomputer Ares.

‘If it goes as I think, Ares will….’

Soon, a notification popped up.

[Supercomputer Ares intends to designate the being within the wolf’s egg as a legendary monster.]

‘As expected….’

It was similar to Lee Se-jin’s thinking.

‘For a user to control a divine beast… it’s a difficult task….’

Even a legendary wolf like Fenrir reaches level 400. But a divine beast surpasses that. Now a level 290 user controls a divine beast with immeasurable strength?

‘Instead, the user Hyun-soo might be overwhelmed.’

Yes, it would be disappointing for Hyun-soo, but it was unavoidable.

Then.

[Supercomputer Ares reverses its decision.]

“……?”

Lee Se-jin looked puzzled. Such cases were rare even for him. Reflecting back, the notification had stated, ‘intends to designate.’

‘Why?’

Why reverse the decision?

‘What are you trying to do, Ares?’

Hyun-soo couldn’t possibly control a divine beast.

Why reverse it?

Soon, the reason became clear.

[The third divine beast chooses user Hyun-soo.]

Lee Se-jin was astonished.

‘A divine beast chooses a user?’

A single divine beast is more valuable and grand than five legendary monsters.

And such a beast chose a user?

‘Could it be because Hyun-soo is a God Blacksmith?’

No, Lee Se-jin soon realized the reason.

‘The astonishing negotiation skill….’

Hyun-soo had accomplished what seemed impossible, and the wolf’s egg had been observing it all.

But the problem was how Ares would resolve this dilemma. Soon, a notification came through:

[Ares has found a new solution.]

[The third divine beast will be born as a growth-type divine beast.]

[Growth-type divine beasts will evolve alongside their owner.]

“This is a method that existed. Perhaps it is the most ideal way.”

Lee Se-jin felt relieved at the idea of abandoning the notion that a fully matured entity would be born. The meeting of Hyun-soo, who had not yet become a legend, and the divine beast, still essentially a fledgling.

Lee Se-jin smiled slightly.

‘User Hyun-soo has taken a step closer to being a variable in the Continental War.’

And Lee Se-jin was most curious about one thing.

‘When will this creature hatch?’

***

[The wolf’s egg has achieved a nutrient absorption rate of 112%.]

‘This is really good, isn’t it?’

Hyun-soo had come to understand that achieving over 100% meant obtaining something very beneficial. He thought the wolf’s egg would behave as usual, demanding to be stroked with brazen audacity.

But it wasn’t so.

[The wolf’s egg is grateful for being in your embrace.]

[The wolf’s egg cherishes you.]

Hyun-soo smiled unwittingly. He was curious about what kind of creature would emerge from inside and when it would be born. Soon, a notification arrived:

[The wolf’s egg will hatch within 96 hours.]

Crack—

Cracks started to form on the egg.

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Martial 14

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The day after Eugene told the deans he wanted to become a magic swordsman, the academy was abuzz with unprecedented excitement.

“Did a child of the Bedia family really say he wanted to be a magic swordsman?”

“No way, it must be a lie. There’s no way a child of the Bedia family would say that.”

“No, it’s true. Eugene Bedia said he wants to become a magic swordsman.”

From the first-year students to the instructors, Eugene’s name was on everyone’s lips within the academy.

Gnashing his teeth, Antonio Bedia, who was in his dormitory, ground his teeth upon hearing about Eugene.

Already displeased with the fact that Eugene was in the same academy as him, the rumor that Eugene wanted to become a magic swordsman made him feel even worse, as if the family’s honor was diminished.

***

Male Students’ Dormitory 5.

Team 5, led by Eugene, was nervously watching Eugene’s reaction with surprised and troubled faces.

“Say something?”

“No, it’s just…”

Sighing, Eugene spoke as Aaron continued to stare at him.

“Are you really going to become a magic swordsman?”

“Why? Is it not allowed?”

“No, that’s not it, but…”

“Don’t worry, just because I receive magic swordsman training doesn’t mean our team will be excluded from the exams or face more difficult tests.”

“Oh, really?!”

Eugene shook his head at Aaron and the other team members who suddenly smiled. Until now, they were worried because they thought their exams might be affected.

“But are you really going to become a magic swordsman?”

“I don’t know how many times I’ve been asked that question.”

Ken Pelven, who was sitting next to Eugene, asked curiously. He had heard the rumors but was still curious if Eugene, a child of the Bedia family, was really aiming to become a magic swordsman.

“Yes, I am going to become a magic swordsman.”

“Why on earth?”

“I don’t know!”

Finally, unable to hold back, Eugene snapped in frustration. From the dining hall in the morning to his return to the dormitory, everyone he met had been asking him if he was going to become a magic swordsman.

“It feels like I’ll even hear it in my dreams…”

He should have asked the dean to keep it a secret. Somehow, not only his class but also the instructors knew about it.

“So, what kind of training will you receive?”

Rohen, who was sitting across from Eugene, tilted his head. Although it was known that Landbard Academy had training for magic swordsmen, no one actually pursued it, so no one knew what the training entailed.

“It’s nothing special. Just learning swordsmanship and magic together.”

“Wow, that sounds hard just hearing it. But you seem unfazed?”

“Not really.”

Eugene nonchalantly scratched his ear. How simple could it be? He just had to train in swordsmanship and magic together. Of course, he intended to train in swordsmanship (劍法) and qi (氣) instead of magic and swordsmanship.

“But if you become a magic swordsman, what happens to the formation?”

As Rohen muttered to himself, the other team members simultaneously looked at Eugene. The first test was a party test, where they had to hunt monsters in formation. If the team leader was a knight, they led the formation; if a mage, they stayed in the rear. But Eugene, being a magic swordsman, used both swordsmanship and magic, making it tricky to form a proper formation.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be at the forefront.”

With him present, there would be no problem regardless of the formation.

Ding, ding, ding, ding.

The bell signaling the start of morning classes rang, and the students left their dormitory for their respective classes.

“See you later.”

“Yeah.”

Eugene lightly greeted Rohen and Ken, who waved at him, and headed to the training hall.

Unlike other students, Eugene’s classes took place in a simple training hall, which barely qualified as an educational facility.

Bowing, Eugene greeted the instructor, Deiker, who was already there.

“So, you really decided to become a magic swordsman.”

“Yes.”

“Sigh… I see.”

Schwing.

Crash!

Without further questions about Eugene’s decision, Deiker drew his sword and planted it in the ground of the training hall.

“Do you know what is most important for a knight?”

“Endurance.”

“Um?”

When Eugene answered the question confidently and without hesitation, Deiker’s eyes widened slightly. 

Typically, when asked, “What is the most important thing for a knight?” most young students would say “swordsmanship.” 

This is understandable because swordsmanship is indeed crucial for a knight. 

However, that is not the correct answer. 

For a knight, the most important thing is the endurance to perform swordsmanship. 

Yet, Eugene, who wasn’t even a knight, had given the correct answer immediately. 

“That is… correct. You are wise.” 

“Thank you.” 

In truth, Eugene had either guessed correctly or knew the answer. 

What this means is: 

In the martial arts world of Zhongyuan, the most important thing for a martial artist was the endurance to perform swordsmanship, rather than the swordsmanship itself. 

Therefore, in Zhongyuan, when teaching young students in martial arts schools, they first trained their endurance. 

‘And I thought it would be the same here.’

“If you know that, let’s move on to the next step.”

Clang.

Deiker pulled the sword from the ground of the training hall. 

“From now on… watch my movements closely and try to follow them.”

Swish!

Swish, swish, swish.

Hoo.

Swish.

Deiker demonstrated the swordsmanship at a moderate speed in front of Eugene. 

“Did you watch closely?”

“Yes.”

“Now try to follow.”

Deiker’s command seemed insane. 

He showed the swordsmanship once and then expected it to be followed exactly? 

Moreover, it was directed at someone who wasn’t even a knight but a mage. 

However, this instruction was not Deiker’s independent decision but one passed down from the deans. 

The swordsmanship Deiker demonstrated was the basic swordsmanship that all knight students learned and knew upon entering the academy. 

The academy does not teach the basics. 

As mentioned earlier, students learn basic swordsmanship or their family’s swordsmanship and build up their endurance and aura before entering the academy. 

The same applies to mages. 

Therefore, the deans did not intend to teach Eugene the basic swordsmanship in detail. 

“Everyone entering this academy has already learned this basic swordsmanship. So, if you want to advance at the same pace as your team members, you will have to perform this swordsmanship.”

Eugene let out a slightly exasperated chuckle inwardly. 

Even if all knight students entering the academy knew the basic swordsmanship, it was unreasonable to impose this requirement on someone who had been a mage. 

“If another mage besides me had decided to become a magic swordsman, they would have given up immediately.”

“I don’t expect you to perform it perfectly right away. I will give you two days to practice this swordsmanship…”

Step, step.

Deiker tilted his head as he saw Eugene walking towards him. 

Thump.

“What are you…”

Deiker frowned as he watched Eugene slightly withdraw while holding Deiker’s sword.

But then…

In that moment,

Swish!

Swish, swish, swish.

Hoo.

Slash.

Eugene began performing the basic swordsmanship that Deiker had shown him without any mistakes.

From the distribution of power when moving the sword, to the foot placement when thrusting, and even the body movements when retrieving the sword,

Eugene executed the basic swordsmanship perfectly as demonstrated by Deiker.

Thud.

“Is this good enough?”

As Eugene finished the basic swordsmanship and lowered his sword, Deiker’s mouth hung open in astonishment.

Although he had received instructions from the deans and had given Eugene an almost impossible task, it was nearly impossible for a mage, who knew nothing about swordsmanship, to master the basics in just two days.

It wasn’t just about holding and moving the sword; performing swordsmanship required a certain level of physical endurance and understanding of the connected movements according to certain principles.

Yet, Eugene had flawlessly executed everything.

“How… how did you do that?”

“I just watched and followed.”

Eugene answered nonchalantly.

In truth, he had not known the basic swordsmanship beforehand; he had simply mimicked what Deiker had shown him.

‘There’s no way I couldn’t follow such simple movements.

After all, he had been the Heavenly Demon (天魔).

He had reached the level of unity of body and sword (身劍合一), where the sword and he were one.

He could perform basic swordsmanship, which young knights learned, even in his sleep.

“Did you use Strengthen magic?”

Deiker asked if Eugene had used Strengthen magic, which increased muscle strength and endurance.

Without it, it would be impossible to move such a heavy sword so smoothly.

“No.”

“Then… did you train your endurance?”

“Yes.”

“When? And why?”

Why would a mage build up enough endurance to perform swordsmanship?

“Since I aimed to become a magic swordsman before entering the academy, I trained my endurance.”

“I see… so you knew the basic swordsmanship?”

“No, I really just followed what you showed me a moment ago.”

In the Bedia family, known for their magic, he had no way of learning swordsmanship.

In fact, it was difficult for him to even handle a sword.

“Well… then…”

Quickly,

Deiker brought something human-shaped from the end of the training hall and placed it in the center.

“This is a sword golem.”

The human-shaped object Deiker brought was a golem holding a sword, used by knights for training.

A black golem the size of an adult man.

“This golem is made of Black Steel. Your task is to either destroy it, incapacitate it, or subdue it with swordsmanship. Since you passed the basic swordsmanship test right away, I’ll give you a week.”

Of course, a week was still a very short time.

To break a golem made of Black Steel, one had to be at least a 1-star level 4 or 5 knight.

“I was surprised you followed the basic swordsmanship right away, but… this golem will be difficult.”

Mutter.

“What?”

Deiker tilted his head, looking at Eugene who was muttering softly.

And at that moment,

Crash, crash, crash!

Boom!

“Hoo…”

Eugene took a deep breath after sending the golem flying far away.

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Act 82

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[Prince Ulysses Lenno Adrattan forms a diplomatic corps to pursue peace with the Holy Nation!]

The royal court is currently in uproar due to an unprecedented event.

—

“We share a common enemy in the demons. Even if it means extinction, we must make peace with the Holy Nation of Fernand!”

Such was the noble intention of Prince Ulysses.

“For humanity’s sake, we must wash away the past grudges and stand against the demons.”

However, the nobles and the Council of Elders did not see his youthful actions in the same light.

[“It’s just a desperate struggle for survival.”]

[“What can we do? Being a fourth prince so distant from the throne, he must act this way to stay safe.”]

[“Is the royal family saying nothing? Though it is a ceasefire, it’s still diplomatic engagement with an enemy nation.”]

[“You know, Emperor Adrattan is indifferent to such matters.”]

If ordinary nobles or others had said this, they could have been immediately executed for lèse-majesté.

But it was Prince Ulysses himself, leveraging his position as a prince, who initiated this.

Rather, he pushed the nobles and royals to the extreme, eliciting sympathy to prolong his own life a bit longer.

[“It’s unfortunate to say such irreverent words, but being born a fourth prince is a sin.”]

[“Including the princesses, there are seven above him. It’s as if his fate was sealed at birth.”]

[“It’s a destiny that does not suit him.”]

[“Haha, what does that have to do with us?”]

Therefore, this ‘peace’ is viewed by those around him as a political show, met with mockery.

From the most noble lineage in the empire.

The nature of his high bloodline is such that it might lead to his death.

[Captain of the diplomatic corps of Prince Ulysses, Ulysses Lenno Adrattan.]

[“Closed Eyes” Julian Crypart Frason is likely.]

Once the ‘captain’ guarding him was decided, pity began to replace the scorn.

Because it was not just any knight leading the guard, but “Closed Eyes” Julian.

[“Is he insane?”]

[“No matter how strong he is, it doesn’t fit!”]

[“Throughout the journey, his life will be in danger.”]

His notoriety is such that there is no one in the regime who does not know him.

The smiling executioner.

The mad dog of the royal family.

The sword that kills noble blood.

His swordsmanship is excellent, but his inherent nature is that of a vile human.

A prince’s guard captain, especially one for ‘peace’ heading to the ‘holy,’ seemed inappropriate to the royal insiders.

[“Perhaps, the other princes have had a hand in this…”]

[“Really, it might be so…”]

As such, rumors began to spread that Julian was placed as the captain of the guard to dispose of Prince Ulysses first.

The nobles who read the official document began to murmur among themselves.

“Poor Prince Ulysses…”

“As powerless as he is, how does it make sense to appoint that demonic-hearted monster as the captain of the guard?”

“There was Commander Schwartz of the Azure Lion Knights, and yet!”

The reaction is understandable.

But amidst this expected response, a new perspective began to emerge.

“However, recently Sir Julian has not been involved in anything that would cause scandal.”

“Surprisingly, there might not be any trouble after all.”

Recently, there have been no major issues with Julian’s conduct.

In fact, having dealt with a few demons, his notoriety was somewhat overshadowed by his fame.

Thus, his previously poor record could be shielded by the ‘royal’ mantle.

It was only right for nobles to follow the royal command.

***

[According to this directive, Julian from the “Closed Eyes” agency will be appointed as the captain of the guard for Prince Ulysses, the fourth prince.]

Reading the official document from the secretariat, I looked back at the papers with a stunned expression.

“Could this happen so quickly?”

I thought it was a foregone conclusion since the Dawn Society would intervene on my behalf.

But I never expected the announcement to come so quickly.

Was there a prior arrangement?

“It’s impressive. Though he is far from the line of succession, to think that someone from our ‘Closed Eyes’ would become the captain of the royal guard.”

Even though Odwin spoke in a pleased tone, her expression was as stoic as ever.

But I could sense a slight warmth in her voice.

A hint of excitement, passionate emotions.

Though not visible, it seemed as if bright mists were swirling above her head.

I thought Odwin didn’t really care much for the organization ‘Closed Eyes.’

“Surprising. You seem quite happy, even though I thought you weren’t particularly attached to ‘Closed Eyes.'”

“Well, I don’t see any reason to dislike it.”

After all… that’s not entirely wrong.

“It may be just a nominal position, but it’s a place I like.”

“That’s good to hear.”

“Does that sound like I’m mocking you?”

“Not at all. Haha.”

Really. She doesn’t know how comfortable she makes it for me… Others wouldn’t understand.

“By the way, Sir Julian. When did you apply to be part of the diplomatic guard? This is the first I’ve heard of it.”

‘I never applied myself.’

It was the Dawn Society, specifically Tenellon from the ‘Sword Saint,’ who acted independently.

Saying something like ‘it was the Dawn Society,’ ‘the Archbishop Tenellon did it,’—even if I am Julian, I would be arrested and killed immediately.

“I thought there was no need to mention it.”

“Well, I know that you’re not the type to tell me what you do or plan.”

Odwin spoke in her usual plain tone.

Despite the obvious hierarchy between a chief and a member, she seemed comfortable with the familiarity.

No wonder I feel at ease around Odwin.

***

As the royal court buzzed with the appointment of the captain of the guard, I had one concern.

“I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to him.”

That is, I hadn’t spoken even once to Prince Ulysses, whom I was to guard until we reached the Holy Nation of Fernand.

Of course, I know what he looks like. He’s somewhat prominent in the royal stories as a supporting character.

“Sir Julian, I’ve heard the news!”

As I was heading from the chief’s office back to my office, Fern approached with a cheerful greeting.

“About you being selected as the captain of the guard for Prince Ulysses! Congratulations!”

Congratulations? I didn’t even apply for it.

Still, I decided to take it positively.

Now that it has come to this, I’ll think of it as going to retrieve the holy relic, ‘Bell of the Quiet Night.’

“Haha, thank you, Sir Fern.”

“Commander Schwartz of the Azure Lion Knights is an amazing knight, and for you to be appointed over such a commander, the secretariat must have a high opinion of your achievements, Sir Julian!”

No. It’s just that someone behind the scenes orchestrated something.

“Sir Fern.”

“Yes!”

As I called him, Fern snapped to attention with a disciplined response.

“Do you have any tasks for me?”

Fern’s military precision was a testament to the restraint of a knight, perfect in every way. This made me wonder if I should ask him.

‘Why did you come to ‘Closed Eyes’ instead of the Azure Lion Knights?’

I was curious about his reason for switching allegiance, especially since he used to shudder at the mention of ‘Closed Eyes’.

If his reasons were malicious, it could become a nuisance for us.

“May I ask you something?”

“Yes! I will answer anything you ask, Sir Julian.”

His reaction made it difficult to ask; it was as if he revered me.

‘Huh, that couldn’t be possible.’

I’m not a fool.

If someone were to respect this ‘Julian’, it would be evidence of a fault in their character.

Think about it.

Even if not now, I’m known as a smiling, heartless man who wouldn’t hesitate to kill even children.

Always smiling, speaking in a tone that seems respectful to everyone but ultimately belittling others— a psychopath!

‘How could anyone like such a person!’

Wasn’t the usually amicable Razlot just disguising himself to act as a spy?

‘There must be a motive.’

That’s the only conclusion I could come to.

“Sir Fern, you wouldn’t happen to harbor any ill intentions towards the royal exclusive…”

Bang!

A loud noise struck my ears.

Turning to identify the source, I saw a man, burly like a bear, forcefully opening the door.

“Where is Julian?”

Despite his imposing entrance, the man’s voice was quiet as he looked for me.

Then, as he glanced around, his eyes met mine.

“Is that you there?”

Upon eye contact, the man with an ice-cold demeanor approached.

“Schwartz.”

The commander of the Azure Lion Knights.

Despite his cold, corpse-like face, he’s a bizarre one who values ‘effort’.

He’s the subject of a recent article in ‘The Knights’ about ‘effort’.

‘Seeing him in person, he really has a sharp look.’

As the commander of the Azure Lion Knights, his capabilities are well-documented.

He even supposedly broke the horns of a Dicorn demon with his bare hands.

“Sir Schwartz! What brings you here…”

As the former commander showed up, Fern was visibly flustered.

Observing Fern, Schwartz clicked his tongue and glared at him sharply.

“You lowly thing, who said you could speak?”

Despite being from the same knight order, Schwartz addressed Fern venomously.

“I’m, I’m sorry.”

“Right, you should be.”

Adjusting his collar, Schwartz shifted his gaze back to Fern.

“Your defection to ‘Closed Eyes’ has tarnished the knight order’s reputation.”

Fern flinched under his gaze.

His eyes were indifferent yet filled with stubbornness and disdain.

“A fallen noble…”

“What about being a fallen noble?”

As I intervened between them, annoyance flickered across Schwartz’s typically stoic face.

In a moment, his face reverted to its usual icy demeanor.

“Fallen nobles are those who have violated the empire’s discipline and have been demoted in status. They are considered lower than ordinary citizens.”

“That sounds like you are insulting our ‘Closed Eyes’ commander, Sir Odwin.”

Odwin is also a fallen noble.

Just now, Schwartz’s words insulted not only Fern but also our commander, Odwin.

I don’t particularly plan to defend her.

It’s just to reprimand Schwartz for his rudeness by coming into someone else’s workplace.

“Do you really need me to say that for you?”

How shameless.

“You’re the same, Frason of the Crypart family.”

I don’t understand why he keeps running his mouth.

Coming all the way here.

I have a rough idea why he came, but Schwartz’s arrogance is so over the top that it’s absurd.

‘Is he here because he’s bitter about not being chosen as the captain of the guard?’

Honestly, it’s not like my will was involved in the selection, and although the Dawn Society had some influence, technically, it was the secretariat that made the selection.

Why come all the way here to cause trouble?

To someone who grovels at the Sword Saint, damn it.

But ‘Julian’ would probably say this.

“Haha, is it okay to look down on me like that?”

“I’m not looking down, just stating the facts.”

“If that’s the case, what should we call someone who was outcompeted by that ‘lowly Frason’?”

Saying this, I showed Schwartz the appointment document for the captain of the diplomatic corps.

“If you don’t know, let’s decide it now.”

“This trash…”

“Trash… Just because he was outcompeted, calling him trash seems a bit harsh. Maybe ‘pig’ would be more appropriate.”

With my sarcastic tone, a slight crack appeared on Schwartz’s face, which had been as cold as a block of ice.

This level of snark doesn’t even feel like ‘acting’ anymore.

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Strike 135

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The Kingdom of Goyard, known as the Kingdom of Swords, was just a small principality, but it was one of the places many users visited. Especially popular among users who wielded swords, this normally peaceful place suddenly became tumultuous.

“Make way!”

From the entrance of the capital to the entrance of the castle, soldiers began to clear the way. Half of the tens of thousands of people gathered were users.

“Who is it?”

“Must be someone very important?”

“Must be a great noble!”

Amidst the users’ anticipation, soon a carriage appeared, escorted by five soldiers and accompanied by about a thousand ragged-looking people who resembled beggars. Initially, the users wondered why these beggars were there, but then the citizens started cheering wildly.

“Woooooow!”

“You’ve been through a lot!”

“Welcome back to the embrace of the kingdom!”

Among those prisoners, one who wore a sword cried out with a quivering voice.

“The hero’s procession!”

“Woooooow!”

The users were shocked because the NPCs fervently cheered at the mention of a hero. Eventually, the carriage stopped in front of the castle, and its door opened.

“A named NPC?”

“Could it be the Holy Sword?”

And the person who emerged from within. The users were shocked to see him. Covered in blood, he looked as if he could collapse at any moment. What surprised them more was something else.

“A user!?”

“A user is receiving this kind of treatment in Ares?”

Cleverly, he was concealing his face with a Wolf’s Helmet. Soon, an even more astonishing event unfolded before them.

[The appearance of Sword King Barad.]

Sword King Barad, one of the most famous named NPCs on the Korean server of Ares, hurriedly approached. He paused momentarily, lost for words as he looked at him. And what was even more shocking was that Barad slowly approached him and gave him a gentle hug.

“My friend, I knew you would not back down.”

“…!”

“…!”

For the users, it was literally a shocking scene. The most charismatic and famously aloof NPC in Ares was showing affection for a user.

“Let’s go inside for now.”

Watching his back, a novice user named Hen who had just arrived in the capital of Goyard Kingdom thought to himself as he saw the man in the blood-stained coat.

“I want to be like that person.”

And it wasn’t just him. Users of all levels, whether beginners, intermediates, or experts, looked on with envious expressions. Hyun-soo was unaware.

Unbeknownst to him, he had become the object of many users’ admiration.

***

Upon his triumphant return to the Kingdom of Goyard, Hyun-soo was shrewd. Amid the massive crowd welcoming him, he wore Fenrir’s Helmet to keep his identity concealed.

Barad said, “First, you must receive treatment. I will summon you tomorrow.” It seemed that Barad was most curious about Hyun-soo’s negotiation level, but he also believed that Hyun-soo needed some rest for now.

Upon entering an antique room, the kingdom’s best priests attended to Hyun-soo and healed him quickly. After the swift treatment, Hyun-soo lay down on the bed, planning to log out and rest for a while. Before doing so, something puzzled him, ‘What was that all about?’ 

During his fight with Kun, Hyun-soo had heard an unidentifiable sound in his head, ‘Even if it breaks, do not back down.’

It was a mantra Hyun-soo always repeated when pushing himself to the limit. He remembered thinking, ‘By all means necessary.’ 

When combined, the phrase completed as, ‘Even if it breaks, do not back down, by all means necessary.’ 

Hyun-soo believed that no alert in Ares was meaningless. 

The mysterious sound he had heard would soon reveal its significance. 

After resting and waking up, Ian would have finished appraising the value of the bow, and he could claim his rewards based on his negotiation level. 

‘So tired…’ 

Hyun-soo logged out.

***

After Negotiator Hyun-soo’s return, nobles from all over the Kingdom of Goyard flocked in droves. The throne room alone was crowded with dozens of nobles, and hundreds of renowned knights had also arrived. Count Bau, aligning with the knights, represented them at this gathering. Many other nobles gathered due to rumors that the king favored this particular blacksmith named Hyun.

Barad’s close advisor, Count Vallo, represented them, expressing their concerns, “…the nobles are discontent. Knights of the same Viscount cy cannot comprehend that he might receive a higher title in such a short time.”

Count Vallo had seen Hyun-soo in the royal garden before. A potential future king, but Vallo always maintained neutrality. He would correct the king when he erred and reprimand the nobles when they did. Barad asked, “Count Vallo, had you been a negotiator, what level of negotiation might you have achieved? And what about the other nobles or knights here?” 

After pondering, Vallo answered, “I think I would have achieved about 50%.” Even Vallo had come here with nothing but his own skills. “The ordinary nobles perhaps 30%. Honestly, I think the knights wouldn’t have managed any.”

Barad didn’t know the exact negotiation level Hyun-soo had achieved, and he didn’t wish to grant something even he couldn’t achieve. “I will follow your choice,” Barad conceded, understanding their sentiments. It had been only two months since Hyun-soo became a Viscount . Raising his title too quickly could lead to adverse effects. Those aspiring to that position must be able to bear its weight. The nobles were appeased.

Now the king had another matter to address. “Bring him in.”

Creak—

The door opened, and a figure dressed as a knight entered. 

“You have become a pillar for many in the prisoner camp,” Barad stated.

“It is too much praise,” the figure replied modestly. The return of the prisoners had already surprised Barad, given that the entire group had been sent back from the Kingdom of Praham. 

‘What exactly happened there?’ 

Even Barad didn’t know for sure. 

“I am considering relocating you to the Albai Territory.”

Albai Territory was known as one of the best cities to live in within the Kingdom of Goyard. “Are you satisfied with this?”

Barad drew a small smile.

This was a small reward for those who had suffered.

Soon, a man named Eden said, “I am profoundly grateful, Your Majesty. Both I and the prisoners wish to follow only one noble.”

Barad looked puzzled.

“I wish to become a vassal of Viscount Hyun-soo.”

Barad looked puzzled again.

The leader of the civilian militia, Eden, says, “It’s fine to start on barren land. It doesn’t have to be the most desirable Albai territory. I want to work and start anew with him.”

Barad was impressed.

‘Already, a thousand people…?’

A thousand vassals.

Indeed, many nobles had come to this place, wondering if they might be granted prisoners.

A thousand vassals could also become excellent manpower.

The value of these thousand is unimaginable.

However, there was a problem.

‘…A viscount cannot have vassals.’

Even becoming a baron, accommodating a thousand is not easy.

For now, Barad bit his tongue.

“Viscount Hyun-soo is coming.”

Barad recalled a previous conversation with Bella.

‘What kind of negotiation would it take for Viscount Hyun-soo to be granted a new territory without raising objections?’

‘I guess, it must be something that even I and the other nobles would find extraordinary.’

Extraordinary.

To an extent that the king and nobles would find it wondrous.

‘You need something right now that will astonish everyone here.’

Soon, Hyun-soo entered.

***

Negotiation is a kind of overall score.

Like entering a dungeon in an RPG game, the score you achieve by clearing the dungeon determines the rewards.

The same applies to negotiations.

Until you completely prove this score, the reward is unknown.

Hyun-soo was curious too.

About the achievements Hyun-soo had made in the Kingdom of Praham. How far they would go.

Entering the audience chamber, Hyun-soo felt an unknown tension.

He had never seen so many nobles looking at him with anxious eyes.

As he walked toward Barad, he drew a small smile.

Barad believes that negotiation power is the driving force of peace.

Depending on how much he has secured, the future narrative between the two nations will change.

Then, “Your Majesty, may I come in?”

“…Let him in.”

Barad looked puzzled as someone entered at this crucial time.

A minister, who usually does not seek him out unless it’s urgent, spoke with an amazed voice, “The Kingdom of Praham has sent an extraordinary gift. Chancellor Ben instructed his ministers to say.”

The minister spoke as if in disbelief, “‘The friend of my friend Hyun-soo is also my friend,’ he said.”

The nobles in attendance were abuzz. 

“A friend!?” 

“A friend indeed!” 

“Has Ben extended a hand of peace to Your Majesty first!?” 

“Can it be, that proud old man!?”

Barad was astonished.

What exactly had Hyun-soo done there?

Barad finally confirms, 

[King Spear Heaven Ben of the Kingdom of Praham extends a hand of peace first.] 

[With possible exchanges, numerous trade activities can now take place.] 

[Through the link known as the blacksmith Hyun, perhaps they can assist each other from time to time.] 

[The national power of the Kingdom of Goyard increases by 5%.]

A rise of 5% in a nation’s power was something not even a king could easily achieve.

Swallowing dryly, Barad asked Hyun-soo, “…What is the negotiation score you achieved?”

Dozens of nobles.

Everyone who leads this kingdom is now looking at Hyun-soo.

Hyun-soo pulls out his record of the past 10 days, “227%.”

“…!”

“…!”

“…!”

From the 180% range, including winning over the prisoners’ hearts, annihilating the Red Bandana Guild by the guild member Ian, and the rewards given by Ben.

And all the previous events as well.

In the now quiet hall, Barad looked at them.

“Is there anyone who objects to my decisions from now on?”

The nobles who had been worried and disapproving just moments before. One of them said,

“…Whatever you decree, we seem to be able to accept it, Your Majesty.”

Barad took in the sight of his ministers.

The initial distrust in their eyes had faded, and they were now looking at Hyun-soo with a different perspective.

Some seemed hopeful about his path to kingship, while others appeared excited about the influence Hyun-soo’s negotiation prowess could have on Goyard.

Amidst these gazes, Barad spoke in a serious tone,

“Esteem Hyun-soo.”

Hyun-soo, kneeling on one knee, felt his heart race.

‘I did my best.’

He had no regrets, desiring to climb higher.

‘Even as a baron, I could bring 50 soldiers from the Arham territory.’

Soon, Barad’s voice was heard,

“I appoint Viscount Hyun-soo to a rank higher than a baron, that of a count.”

Hyun-soo’s eyes widened.

‘A, a count…?’

It was unexpected.

A count is the rank directly below an earl.

Moreover, there were only two earls in Korea, and only eight counts.

[Congratulations.]

[You have become the ninth count among the users.]

[A count receives 50,000 gold from the state each month.]

[You can command up to 150 soldiers.]

[You can become the owner of a small territory.]

Being able to become the owner of a small territory sounded incredibly valuable to Hyun-soo.

He imagines it.

Standing in front of countless vassals. Himself standing before them.

‘When can I obtain the territory?’

Then Barad continued without pausing,

“Moreover, Count Hyun-soo will take 1,000 prisoners and govern them in his own territory.”

Hyun-soo looked puzzled.

‘My territory?’

What does that mean?

Soon, with a small smile, Barad announced the final reward,

“I will grant the Ballas territory to Count Hyun-soo.”

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