Strike 94

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[Wolf Strike]

[Flies far away due to a strong impact.]

Boom-!

Hyun-soo flew through the air.

Above the sky, he saw Belia, terrified, as he tumbled.

Belia was genuinely afraid in this game.

She had collapsed in fear at the sight of the ferocious ash-colored wolf, over 4 meters tall.

Hyun-soo’s grip tightened.

‘What should I do?’

It’s too late to run towards the ash-colored wolf after flying about 20 meters.

‘Should I shoot an arrow?’

He couldn’t hit it.

Ares was a realistic game, so Hyun-soo, spinning in the air, would feel severe dizziness.

The image of Belia, limp with her neck bitten by the ash-colored wolf, flashed by.

Though their time together was short, she was a good person and a new connection for Hyun-soo.

Flash-

Hyun-soo’s eyes, dizzy, snapped open.

‘I just need to exert a power that hits without fail.’

Memories from his childhood came flooding back.

It was when his blacksmithing skills were developing.

Hyun-soo was no different from other students.

He liked weapons of legend or myth.

What was a bit special was that Hyun-soo could recreate what he had once heard about in his school days.

[Initiating Divine Emergency creation.]

He drew designs of dozens of weapons and tried to recreate them through various books.

Among them, Gungnir, said to be made by Odin, was crafted with utmost dedication.

Just like a child engrossed in Lego.

[Your experience is astonishing.]

[Your understanding is exceptional.]

[Effect application rate increases by 8%.]

[Effect application rate increases by 9%.]

He remembered creating it, discarding it dozens of times, and thinking it over many times more.

Thus, it was all too easy for him.

[Effect application rate is 77%.]

[Unique grade.]

Whoosh-

He slid on the ground, reaching out his hand.

The spear, seemingly adorned in gold, was indeed the Gungnir of myths.

[Status effect dizziness activated.]

[It’s difficult to maintain balance.]

Hyun-soo shifted his weight to his back legs.

He clenched his teeth. 

The distance between him and the creature was about 60 meters.

The moment it left his hand, Gungnir accelerated.

(Gungnir)

Grade: Unique

Durability: 4,000/4,000

Attack Power: 289

Restrictions: None for the creator, 100~200 level

Special Abilities:

· Strength increases by 1%, stamina by 1.2%

· Active skill: Gungnir’s Sure Strike.

· Active skill: Freestyle.

Description: A spear born from emergency creation, surpassing a 70% effect application rate due to the creator’s outstanding experience and knowledge.

Hitting an enemy located about 60 meters away with a thrown spear is practically impossible.

But the spear thrown by Hyun-soo was the spear held by the chief god, Odin.

[Gungnir’s Sure Strike]

[Hits any enemy within a 100m radius without fail, 

with an additional 330% attack power increase.]

It doesn’t miss.

Crackle-

The spear, with a giant spark accelerating, laughed at the ash-colored wolf as it jumped into the air, attempting to dodge the trajectory.

However, Gungnir twisted its path and soared into the sky.

“Aaah!”

Belia fell to the ground, and the large yellow eyes of the ash-colored wolf widened.

But soon, the ash-colored wolf was reassured.

It was merely a king of the insignificant land of the wolf sanctuary.

However, long ago. As the third offspring of Fenrir, it had once shown ferocity.

Although significantly weakened now, among those who had entered this sanctuary, none had been able to scratch its thick hide.

No weapon had been able to cut through it.

No weapon had ever penetrated it.

Yes, the ash-colored wolf was never meant to be hunted here in the first place.

Whooosh-!

But the moment that spear pierced its abdomen, the ash-colored wolf felt a pain it had never experienced in its life.

Rumble-

“Aaaargh!”

An involuntary howl escapes from its mouth.

The force of the spear lodged in its abdomen pushed it forward.

Soon, the spear, with the ash-colored wolf impaled on it like a skewer, embedded itself in a tree.

Boom-!

“Aaaargh, Aaaargh!!”

The ash-colored wolf, impaled by the spear and hanging from the tree, struggled wildly.

Then, the spear was automatically pulled out, and the ash-colored wolf fell to the ground.

Thud-

The ash-colored wolf staggered to its feet.

To think it received such damage from that creature?

It saw him charging with a sword in hand, performing an inexplicable action.

He spread the index finger of his left hand and quickly moved it from top to bottom.

“……?”

The ash-colored wolf was puzzled. It looked up without realizing it.

[Freestyle]

[You can control Gungnir freely, even if you’re not holding it.]

The spear that had been pulled out of the tree was now shooting towards its body.

Zoom-

Rolling on its feet, the ash-colored wolf dodged and rushed towards Hyun-soo like a flash of lightning.

A leopard can run 100m in 3.2 seconds, reaching speeds of up to 110km/h.

The ash-colored wolf, several times larger than a leopard, can run 100m in 2 seconds, reaching speeds of up to 150km/h.

With each stride, the ground crumbled, and it quickly closed the distance to the man.

The man sheathed his sword and drew an unidentified bow.

“Growl-!”

[Ashen Howl]

[All prey within a 30m radius is torn to shreds by the wolves.]

The man’s body was struck dozens of times by the strong front paws of the wolf.

His seemingly sturdy armor was crushed, his balance wavered, and a scream escaped his lips.

Suddenly, within a distance of 20m.

The staggering man, despite being injured, slowly pulled back the bowstring.

Click-

Whoosh-

It wasn’t careless.

Knowing he was a formidable opponent beyond it’s expectations.

Whoosh-

Choosing to break through, it saw the arrow being deflected and thought it could bite the man’s neck in one go.

An arrow lodged in its chest.

The impact was strong enough to knock it backward, but it ignored it.

The man’s face was right in front of it.

The ash-colored wolf opened its mouth wide.

But, something was off.

Smirk-

The corners of the man’s mouth lifted slightly in a smile that didn’t match his blood-covered body.

[Strange Gravity.]

Its chest felt as if it was being pulled towards the ground.

Boom-

Its chest hit the ground, and it felt as if its body’s weight had increased tenfold.

The ash-colored wolf felt as if it was in a position of worshipping a king.

Unable to move, it saw the man raising a sword with both hands.

And Hyun-soo struck down on the ash-colored wolf’s head without hesitation.

Crack-!

“Haah, haah.”

Hyun-soo gasped for air as he watched the creature turn to ash.

[You have hunted the boss monster, Ash-colored Wolf.]

[You have gained 23,910 experience points.]

[You have leveled up.]

[You have leveled up.]

[You have leveled up.]

[You have leveled up……]

[You have gained 3,503 gold.]

Hyun-soo’s level surged by nearly 20 in an instant.

‘Belia’s experience gain rate buff is truly amazing.’

Experience gain rate increased by 18%.

Effectively, that buff meant Hyun-soo leveled up about 3 more times.

[A special event occurs.]

‘Hmm?’

Hyun-soo mulled over the part about a special event.

Thinking about it, the cloak and helmet Hyun-soo had obtained from hunting a fragment of Fenrir had this written on them:

“A special event may occur.”

Hyun-soo looked forward to what this specialness might be.

[You already possess two artifacts related to Fenrir.]

[By hunting one of Fenrir’s children, the Ash-colored Wolf, you obtain Fenrir’s Broken Boots.]

Hyun-soo was quietly impressed.

And there were more rewards for hunting the ash-colored wolf.

[You have acquired a Wolf’s Egg(?).]

‘What’s this about a wolf’s egg?’

For now, Hyun-soo checked the broken boots first.

(Fenrir’s Broken Boots)

Grade: Epic, Unrepairable

Durability: 390/4,000

Defense: 166

Restriction: Level 100 or higher

Special Abilities:

· Strength 5, Stamina 13

· Magic Defense increases by 14%.

· Lightning Resistance increases by 17%.

· Active Skill: Wolf’s Leap.

· Wearing two out of three set artifacts increases all effects by 3%.

· Wearing all three increases all effects by 10%.

· A more special event may occur.

Description: Fenrir’s broken boots are too damaged to retain their original form and can only be repaired by their original creator.

It was the same as the series he had obtained before.

Yet, Hyun-soo felt a strong need to wear them regardless.

[You have equipped Fenrir’s Helmet, Fenrir’s Cloak, and Fenrir’s Broken Boots.]

[Set effect activated, increasing all effects by 15%.]

‘I’ll have to repair this when I get back.’

Next, he examined the egg, which was large and hard like an ostrich’s egg, and appeared white.

(Wolf’s Egg)

Grade: ???

Type: ???

Description: An egg belonging to the Ash-colored Wolf, the third child of Fenrir. It is uncertain what kind of wolf will emerge, and when it will hatch.

‘The third child of Fenrir? But, a wolf’s egg?’

Hyun-soo realized the ash-colored wolf he had hunted was more significant than he thought.

However, not knowing when it would hatch or what kind of wolf would emerge, he carefully stored it in his inventory for now.

[You have completed a new story with astounding success.]

Hyun-soo had continuously heard about something called the Wolf King.

And still, he had no clear idea what exactly the Wolf King was.

[Hidden Piece. The one who conquers the king of the Wolf Sanctuary]

[You have become the Wolf King.]

[You have acquired the Call of the Wolf.]

Hyun-soo was surprised by the notification that followed.

He slowly walked and climbed upon a rock.

***

[You have fainted.]

Belia had fainted and fallen to the ground due to the ash-colored wolf.

The status effect of fainting sometimes serves to protect the player.

It protects them by causing unconsciousness when they suffer significant mental damage or feel fear.

Belia, slowly regaining consciousness, did not want to wake up.

‘No, I don’t want to…’

In fact, she had doubted the moment she fell into crisis due to the ash-colored wolf in the Wolf Sanctuary.

Hyun-soo was strong enough, beyond her expectations.

But she doubted whether Hyun-soo and she could really save the saintess.

‘How can we get to the saintess? No, what about all those followers?’

She couldn’t think of a way to get past hundreds of grotesquely shaped followers.

Awoooooo…

An unknown wolf’s howl made her spine tingle.

Realizing her current situation, she eventually opened her eyes.

Awoooooo-

It seemed the sun had set, and darkness had fallen as Belia looked puzzled by the continuous howling.

The howling became clearer, as if it was right next to her ear.

Awoooooo-!

Belia’s eyes widened.

From behind trees, bushes, rocks, giant wolves throughout the sanctuary began to walk towards the man standing on a rock.

Awoooooo-!

‘Hyun-soo?’

Above Hyun-soo’s head.

The helmet of Fenrir he wore was howling by itself.

Awoooooo-!

With another howl, hundreds of valiant wolves lined up in front of him.

The wolves howled in unison.

Awoooooo-!

‘The Wolf King…’

Belia felt a thrilling heat. 

Yes, Hyun-soo’s current form was that of the Wolf King itself.

At that time.

Game nickname: Kot. 

And Ji-hoon, Hyun-soo’s real-life friend, was hiding near the temple.

Kot, a level 198 Paladin, had received the hidden quest: Rescue the Saintess.

Ji-hoon, who had originally used the Leas Temple as a base, swallowed his dry saliva.

Hundreds of the evil god’s followers.

And the fifth calamity, famous in Ares.

‘Can we really save her?’

And Kot, along with the surviving paladins, were preparing to rescue the saintess.

It was a situation that seemed almost certainly impossible.

But the paladins here had no choice.

The too attractive reward of leveling up by 5 levels if they rescued the saintess.

“Let’s go.”

Kot and the few remaining paladins moved forward.

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Survival 63

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Boss.

The most powerful enemy representing a dungeon or a faction.

Naturally, in the structure of games, they boast a higher difficulty than regular enemies.

The boss of the ‘Immortal Research Lab,’ ‘Court Magician Deron,’ was no exception.

[Intruders, taste the empire’s wrath.]

True to being the boss of a hidden dungeon, it was a bizarrely difficult battle.

Not only were his wide-area magic spells a problem, but also the incessant emergence of Dullahans from the ground through summoning.

Delaying their disposal even slightly meant an overwhelming defeat by sheer numbers.

‘Of course, that’s only if you go the conventional route.’

Entering the battle, you’d wonder if the difficulty was accurate because challenging enemies always have a reason behind it.

Gimmick type.

Bosses with a unique structure where satisfying certain conditions dramatically reduces their combat power or even clears the level.

Deron was no exception.

The curse entangled with Deron.

The royal command to research immortality remained as a duty that shackled him.

But perhaps centuries of time had worn down even his resolve.

Deep down, he too wished to abandon his duty and achieve nirvana.

‘So, the original game’s condition for clearing was to involve the royal blood.’

If the royal lineage directly retracts that command, he would disappear without any reservations.

When the original protagonist came here with the prince, the dungeon could be cleared absurdly easily.

[Your sins are forgiven.]

Selecting a specific script immediately made the boss vanish, leaving behind all rewards.

Of course.

Now that the dungeon has become reality, we’ve successfully cleared it too.

[Skill, ‘Bluff’ is activated.]

[Adds extra persuasiveness to lies.]

A skill I used before to deceive Bathory and soothe her mood.

This time, it worked perfectly.

[The dungeon clear condition has changed.]

[Imperial Pardon -> Persuade to abandon their duty themselves]

Deceiving through lies.

Wasn’t that something I’ve been doing daily?

Persuasion? If they genuinely believe and are convinced, that’s a form of persuasion too!

“The empire has long abandoned you. Hence, there’s no reason to continue your research under that command.”

I gently nudged him.

To harbor a shred of doubt in his loyalty to the empire.

To oppose the orders he had received.

And this was the result.

The boss monster disappeared.

The dungeon remained intact, preserving everything.

And the fact that I could monopolize the rewards made it a perfect success.

“Wow. There are quite a few useful books here.”

Even Bathory, who was harsh in her assessments at the library,

Began to immerse herself after skimming through a few books held by the court magician.

“Hmm. The level of human magic isn’t bad at all. I didn’t expect such development. It’s been enlightening.”

“I’m glad you’re enjoying it, Lady Bathory. Feel free to take what you want.”

Of course, books I couldn’t understand were not my goal.

At the edge of the lab.

I picked up a sphere exuding a blue light even in the dark cave.

[Project: Immortality]

[A culmination of research initiated by some members of the royal family.]

[Immortality is directly tied to mana capacity.]

[An essence made by condensing the life force and mana of renowned court magicians like Deron and outstanding knights.]

[Consumption increases mana capacity, adds 1 to magic power, and provides additional proficiency in magic.]

This was the real reward of the hidden dungeon.

Not only basic stats but also providing an excellent passive skill that adds proficiency.

For a novice magician just starting with magic, it was an invaluable elixir.

‘There’s no need to hesitate.’

To me now, a mere increase of 1 magic power, but to the original protagonist, just 1 magic power.

I knew best who needed it more, having conquered this game.

By the time the original protagonist would come here, they would be armed with all sorts of elixirs and relics, making it less useful.

-Gulp-

A refreshment like swallowing ice cream.

And the slight headache that had been bothering me was gone.

“You’ve acquired another strange item.”

Feeling the wave of magic, Bathory walked over.

“Like the device that neutralized those Dullahans’ armor… Observing you, it’s as if I’m looking at a merchant from the demon world.”

“Ha, Doppelgangers are weak, you see. Every single one of these relics is incredibly precious.”

Teasing back, Bathory stared directly at me.

“Is my presence not sufficient for your survival? If you truly wish, we could deepen our contract…”

“No, I’m fine!”

I declined firmly, causing Bathory’s face to momentarily twist in displeasure.

But I remained resolute in my ignorance.

While a contract with a vampire certainly had its benefits, the drawbacks were more significant.

Currently, if she dies, so do I.

Having already staked my life on this contract, what more could happen if we were to deepen it?

[It’s an obstruction. Just stay put. If you get injured, I won’t be unscathed either.]

The possibility of our injuries being linked was not something I wanted to explore.

Being restricted in my movements in the future was not appealing.

Trapped in a cage and raised?

“I’ve got what I wanted, so why don’t you just pick some books casually, Lady Bathory? Let’s head back.”

“Well, yes. Just a few for reference…”

Fortunately, diverting the topic quickly caught Bathory’s attention.

‘She’s easy to manage.’

Well, the gap between her cluelessness and her strength was part of her charm.

I shrugged, leisurely waiting while the bus driver collected her rewards.

****

‘…Is he not here?’

Luciana’s gaze wandered around the banquet hall.

Hans.

Without her loyal servant by her side, anxiety crept into her heart.

“Lucy? Is there something bothering you?”

“…It’s nothing.”

Had it not been for her friends and followers, including Liza from the north, she would have stormed off immediately.

‘It’s ridiculous. Even in such a situation, I’m looking for him.’

She still wanted to ask.

Whether her actions had deviated from his advice.

Then, suddenly realizing how anxious she appeared, Luciana sported a bitter smile.

Truly, she was like a frog in a well, naive to the world.

Luciana recalled the event that had unfolded under the fully lit chandelier just moments ago.

“Lady, would you care for a dance with me?”

A man offering his hand to a woman, kneeling on one knee.

A common occurrence at banquets.

It was routine for a nobleman to earnestly invite a lady to dance to the beautiful accompaniment of piano and violin.

However, the individuals involved were not ordinary.

First, the woman’s side.

Although introduced by the emperor and the pope in front of everyone, she was still a commoner.

Thus, the girl, Lina, was treated as invisible by everyone.

And her counterpart.

“What is happening?”

It was natural for Elizabeth, standing beside her, to inhale a shocked breath.

Despite wearing a mask, who wouldn’t recognize him?

The blue hair was a privilege reserved for the royal lineage.

‘Why would he…?’

She, his fiancée, never expected him to ask her for a dance first.

-Grit-

A flame ignited in her heart.

Jealousy?

It wasn’t that emotion.

As the crown prince said, their engagement was just that, an engagement.

It was too early to feel deep emotions like love towards him.

Could she even experience the love she had only read about in novels?

‘As a noble lady, love is but a luxury.’

Right.

If anything, it was discomfort.

Not just personal, but an affront to the engagement between their families, discarded by the crown prince like trash.

And the audacity of that commoner, potentially harming her family’s reputation.

Her hand instinctively reached for her glove.

‘Just like yesterday…!’

Perhaps a duel could completely prevent any further approach.

However, Luciana soon calmed her rage and removed her hand from the glove.

Not only because the opponent was a commoner, beneath her status,

But also, the idea of obstructing the crown prince’s actions was concerning.

-Showing anger too easily is not advisable. It only gives your opponent an advantage.-

The biggest reason was the advice from her loyal servant the night before.

She could feel the nobles’ eyes on her.

Their interest-laden gazes were watching how she would react.

‘Hmph, I won’t dance to your tune.’

Weakness. 

If she loses her temper here and acts immediately, she can guess how they will chatter. 

-How dare you to Prince… 

-Acting like this already because you’re a fiancée? 

-To be jealous of a mere commoner. 

And if I do nothing in response? 

-Claiming to be a fiancée, yet ending up cold as leftover rice. 

-What can you do? Not chosen by the Prince. 

Discarded. 

‘What should I do?’ 

At that moment, something poking at her chest caught my eye. 

The fan she kept in her bosom, 

the one Hans fixed for her, she took it out. 

‘This will make a suitable tool.’ 

-zt! 

The sound of the fan unfolding pierced through the music. 

“…Gasp!” 

Elizabeth, who locked eyes with her, inhaled sharply. 

Unknowingly, a bit of killing intent mixed in. 

Being a mage, it must have been a bit too much for her to take in close quarters. 

‘…Lucy, it’s fine. Don’t say anything more.’ 

But, with just one encouraging word overcoming that difficulty, 

Luciana was able to calm her heart. 

‘…Understood.’ 

In fact, whether to the Prince or to a commoner, 

She wanted to snap at someone. 

-Do not ignore Lady Elizabeth’s advice. It might sound like praise for my fiancée, but she is experienced in social gatherings, so it will surely be helpful. 

Liza’s advice. 

And Hans’ advice stopped Luciana. 

Instead, covering her mouth with the fan, only her eyes peeking out, she showed herself to everyone. 

Direct resentment towards the Prince himself. 

A subtle anger towards the nobles who were just spectators. 

And a clear warning to the commoner saint who didn’t know her place. 

‘Let’s see if you dare accept that dance invitation.’ 

Though she didn’t speak, 

the message was conveyed through her eyes alone. 

“I’m sorry.”

Did she understand the message? 

The saint who was offered the hand simply pushed it away. 

*** 

“So, that’s why there was such a commotion.” 

“Well, it was something that could actually cause a commotion.” 

The Prince asking someone else to dance, ignoring his fiancée, and even getting rejected in front of everyone. 

Beyond the gossip of the nobility, it eventually spread to those below. 

The two closest to the incident, 

Elizabeth and I sighed deeply. 

“What exactly happened while I was away?” 

“How would I know what’s inside the Prince’s head? What he’s thinking.” 

Still, the response wasn’t bad. 

If Luciana had shown anger there, rumors would have spread about her behaving vulgarly. 

-What about Lady Luciana? 

-Well. She covered her mouth with the fan so no one could see her expression. But they say her eyes were filled with an indescribable melancholy. 

-Tsk. How could they treat such a noble lady this way and fuss over a commoner 

-Shh! She’s still a saint, you know. 

Thinking back to the words of fellow servants and maids I heard on the way here, it seemed she managed her anger well. 

‘That’s significant progress.’ 

Typical Luciana. 

Never would have dreamed that a few hours of advice could lead to such a result. 

Coupled with the so-called ‘declaration of a duel of honor,’ her image as a noble lady who values honor was perfectly established. 

However, 

[Luciana’s downfall progress has been updated.] 

[35%->36%] 

[36%->32%] 

[32%->34%] 

Though it fluctuated slightly, Luciana’s fall from grace was still a concern. 

“By the way, where have you been wandering off to? Do you know how much Lucy has been looking for you?” 

“Cough! I had my reasons.” 

And the hidden dungeon too. 

Now that I’m here in the capital, shouldn’t I take everything I can get? 

Be it relics or connections. 

-Knock knock. 

“Hm? Who could it be at this time? Lucy?” 

I felt bad for Elizabeth, who was already getting her hopes up, but the person knocking on the door was someone I had called for. 

“You are…?” 

“Lady Elizabeth, pardon the intrusion.” 

A dancer-like, fluttering dress. 

A scorpion emblem badge pinned on the right chest. 

“…And long time no see. Hans Byron, or should I call you Frost Mane now?” 

“Just call me Hans for now.” 

My contact from the west, 

Camilla from the Duke of Roberck family had arrived. 

“Let’s get straight to the point. You said you know who my mother’s enemy is?” 

Smiling wryly at her, who recited the content of the letter verbatim.

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Act 43

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Having completed an academy mission and returning to the mansion, I was taken aback by the suddenly changed atmosphere of the estate, yet I managed to maintain a calm expression.

A mansion rippling with murderous intent.

An unnatural exterior.

Unstable mana.

‘The expected has come…’

Ever since I became the villain ‘Julian’ in ‘Let’s Kill the Demon King’, I anticipated such events would occur at least once.

There are as many individuals bearing grudges against this narrow-eyed villain as there are stars adorning the imperial night sky. It’s only natural that there are those out to settle their grudges.

‘But I have accumulated enough skill.’

Now, unlike before, I have perfected the ‘Moonlight Sword’.

I’m in a state where I can easily protect myself, so there’s no need to fear.

With heightened alertness, I slowly opened the entrance to the mansion and stepped inside.

The interior was a mess.

Fragments of unknown origin scattered here and there, artworks lying in pieces. The floors and walls splattered with a dark red liquid, and bodies strewn about, their identities unknown. These were all proofs of the fierce battle that had taken place here.

‘What happened here?’

Feeling puzzled, I continued walking towards the living room where I sensed movement.

Artworks ruined and shattered.

A brief surge of anger rose within me, seeing the destroyed items, though it quickly subsided, perhaps because they weren’t objects I was particularly fond of.

‘The real Julian would have screamed in anger here.’

I felt the strange boundary between ‘Julian’ and ‘me’.

Although this was ‘Julian’s’ mansion, I had lived here long enough for the chaos to not evoke much emotional change in me.

‘Could this life be changing my emotions…?’

Just as I was contemplating this odd feeling, a surge of intense emotion obliterated it.

‘Angelica!’

My reaction upon seeing the cherished orchid pot, ‘Angelica’, smashed to pieces in a corner of the living room.

“How much did Julian pay you? Five thousand nars? Ten thousand? You dog, you never imagined that would be the price of your life, did you?”

“- Cough, cough… Wait! I… I’m not… hired by Julian!”

I ignored the heightened voices and groans, drawn instead to the shattered pot.

This orchid pot was the first thing I watered when I became ‘Julian’.

‘Angelica’

It was a habit that started when I began growing orchids in this world.

Naming and nurturing them… it made them more endearing.

“Oh oh…”

The sight of ‘Angelica’s’ final state stirred indescribable emotions within me.

Unknowingly, an ‘aura’ began to emanate from my entire body.

Although using mana had always brought a certain discomfort, my anger now completely overshadowed it.

“Oh, aura… How can this be…”

Ssshhh.

Ignoring Joshua’s bewildered mutterings, I drew my sword. Without even thinking about it, the blade was imbued with the ‘Moonlight Sword’ skill, turning a bluish silver, and my mind was filled with nothing but fury towards the two uninvited guests before me.

‘Angelica’s’ death must be avenged.

For that purpose, these individuals… need to be eliminated.

‘Eh? Wait a minute…’

The flow of my thoughts was so swift yet natural that it startled me. The fact that I felt no emotion towards the chaos in the house and the bodies strewn about, yet was filled with such rage over a single orchid, was absurd.

‘This doesn’t make any sense, does it?’

Is this another change brought about by becoming ‘Julian’?

This isn’t a normal emotional response. Hadn’t I been trying not to let ‘Julian’s’ persona affect me, merely acting the part to the best of my ability?

And yet, here I am.

‘Ugh…’

Caught in a whirl of confusion, my gaze accidentally fell upon the broken pot, prompting me to quickly look away.

Calm down.

Don’t get swept away by emotions.

It’s just an orchid, after all.

Just an orchid that I watered every day, moved to a sunny window, wiped its leaves before bed, and even gave special nutrients…

That Angelica…!!

So infuriating.

“I didn’t hire anyone, just as he said.”

Feeling it difficult to control my emotions any longer, I changed the subject.

My quiet words made the two somewhat conscious individuals flinch.

Joshua and William.

They looked at each other with puzzled expressions. The awkward atmosphere between them clearly indicated they weren’t allies. There were even signs of a fight between them.

‘Is this mess the result of two groups trying to ambush me and running into each other?’

As unbelievable as it seemed, there was no other explanation for this situation.

I came to a temporary conclusion, feeling absurd, but I kept my composure as I looked at them.

“So, what will you do now?”

My question seemed to jolt them out of their stupor.

“The nighttime ambush has failed, after all. Do you have a next plan, Joshua?”

“Ugh.”

Mentioning the only name I knew, the guy cringed and stepped back.

A complete submission.

Above his head, the color of ‘fear’ was thickly flowing. The one lying down was in a similar state.

Should I start wrapping up this situation?

Just as I was about to move, a concern flashed through my mind.

‘But attempting an ambush on ‘Julian’ means they must have some confidence in their skills, right?’

Joshua, appearing to be a swordsman, seemed like he could be easily subdued. The problem is…

‘That wizard…’

The wizard, who had somehow picked up his fallen staff and was standing by Joshua’s side.

I’ve never fought a ‘wizard’ in this world before.

Of course, having played the game, I have some expectations about what kind of magic exists and what they might use, but that’s just speculation, not experience, making me cautious.

‘Of course, if it’s just the wizard alone, it seems like an opponent I could easily defeat…?’

In an attempt to resolve the situation, if I moved to deal with both of them, the two with similar objectives would likely band together against me.

‘That would be somewhat troublesome.’

While I didn’t feel a sense of impending defeat, the ordeal seemed like it would be bothersome regardless.

So, what should I do?

As I pondered, a brilliant idea struck me. But first, I needed to establish who held the position of the predator here.

“You both realize that even if you work together, you can’t defeat me, right? And I assume you know I don’t let those who bare their fangs at me off the hook easily.”

As I continued, the color of ‘fear’ above their heads deepened.

If they’re this frightened, they’re unlikely to act against me unless directly threatened.

“However! Since I’m in a good mood today, I’ll offer you both a chance.”

Having thought it through, I sat down in a chair, crossed my legs, and adopted a haughty demeanor.

“Fight each other. Hehe. The one who wins will be spared.”

I gave them my most disdainful smirk.

***

What?

Joshua, who had been quietly listening, doubted his ears at Julian’s words.

Fight this wizard and the survivor gets to live?

Joshua’s anger flared at the overbearing tone, and he gripped his sword tighter.

‘He wants me to perform like a clown…?’

What infuriated him more was that Julian hadn’t even bothered to ask him or the other party the ‘reason’ behind their scheme.

Joshua’s body trembled with rage as he grasped the underlying implication.

‘He doesn’t care about our motives!’

He wasn’t interested in the reasons behind their conspiracies and tricks. To him, they were merely intruders in his mansion.

Joshua, angered by this attitude, positioned himself to charge at Julian, but the intuition that he couldn’t defeat this monster on his own restrained his movements.

Even in an environment where magic was difficult to use, Julian managed to naturally wield his ‘aura’.

‘I don’t know who this is, but I have to join forces with this idiotic wizard. And the horn…’

Joshua glanced at the case he had brought.

Remembering what was inside, the fear in Joshua’s eyes seemed to dissipate slightly.

Slyly, Joshua looked at the wizard.

They had come to this mansion with the same goal; now, it was time to cooperate.

“Eeek!”

Whoosh-!

However, the terrified wizard, instead of conjuring magic, simply swung his staff at Joshua in panic.

“You madman…!”

Joshua cursed as he dodged backward, realizing that fighting like this would only play into Julian’s hands.

The very thought was intolerably vexing, prompting Joshua to speak up about cooperating.

“Don’t make me laugh…! You expect me to believe that, after saying such things, you won’t stab me in the back!?”

Fool!

Joshua trembled with rage at the sight of the wizard William, who, overwhelmed by fear, seemed to take Julian’s words as gospel truth.

To be spared if victorious?

‘The Laughing Execution Stand would do such a thing?’

To actually believe that?

‘He’s just enjoying watching us struggle!’

Regardless of Joshua’s thoughts, William, with eyes wide with fear, continued to swing his staff, despite foaming at the mouth from exhaustion and mana depletion, clinging desperately to Joshua.

“You idiotic fool!”

Swoosh- Swish.

In his anger, Joshua managed to dodge the staff and swung his sword at William’s torso, slicing through his shoulder.

“AAAAGHHH!”

With a horrific scream, William collapsed, clutching his blood-spurting shoulder. Though not a mortal wound, he would no longer be able to wield his staff.

Having subdued the wizard who had been against him, Joshua felt a sense of despair rather than victory. Now it was his turn. The Laughing Execution Stand does not let those who show animosity towards him go unpunished.

Death.

For Joshua, who had been favored by the elders of the Kraipart family and led a life of arrogance, death had always been a distant concept. But now, it felt ominously close.

“Um… Are we done here?”

That ‘death’ stood up from his chair with a nonchalant smile.

“Oh dear… So much blood. That must hurt.”

The face hidden under a mask smiled, but it didn’t seem to convey genuine emotion.

What now? Is there a way out of this situation?

‘The horn!’

The demon’s horn given by Alphas, while the exact side effects were unclear, promised the power inherent to a ‘demon’.

Using the horn could give Joshua the strength to kill Julian, or if not kill, at least flee with significant power.

Joshua hastily turned his head towards the case he had brought.

‘…Gone?’

However, the case that held the horn was missing from its original spot. After a brief search, Joshua finally located the case.

The case was empty.

“This, this is… the demon’s horn?”

Ironically, the contents of the case were found in front of the wizard he had knocked down.

With a furrowed brow, William grasped it in his injured hand and brought it to his mouth as if under a spell.

Prev I TOC I Next

Strike 93

Prev I TOC I Next

Riding on a horse, Hyun-soo heard the story from Belia.

“The fifth disaster?”

Hyun-soo wore a puzzled expression.

“Isn’t that quite different from me?”

The fifth disaster, though among the weakest of those who worship the disaster cult, was clearly a different entity from Hyun-soo.

“Disaster Jack used the scripture of the evil god.”

Belia explained that it was accessible only to those below level 200.

“Because the power was too strong, Jack and his followers also received a penalty. Jack, who was at level 365, dropped to 270, and his followers to around 180.”

The gap had significantly narrowed.

‘If it was deemed impossible, the god of blacksmiths wouldn’t have given me this mission.’

Yet, the difficulty seemed nonsensical. For now, he quickly brainstormed while riding.

Hyun-soo slowly nodded his head.

“It’s not entirely impossible.”

A thought flashed through Hyun-soo’s mind. Before long, they were nearing the sanctuary of wolves.

“Passing through the sanctuary of wolves is the fastest way to reach the temple. If you are the chosen savior by the god, passing through there should be quite easy for you.”

The two arrived in front of the sanctuary of wolves.

“Wolves have faster legs than horses, so it’s better to go hunting on the way.”

Hyun-soo dismounted and released the horse.

“Also, the wolves here are much stronger relative to their level. But to you, the descendant of Sword Saint, they are just kids, right?”

“The descendant of Sword Saint?”

Hyun-soo looked puzzled.

“I am not from the descendant of Sword Saint job class.”

“What? Then… perhaps the hidden descendant of the Sword King…?”

“No, I am a blacksmith.”

Belia’s head went blank as if it had been hammered by a strong force.

“A, a blacksmith?”

Then.

Screams and ferocious howling came from deep within the sanctuary of wolves.

But for Belia, there was something more important at the moment.

“Your level?”

“120.”

Something was wrong.

Belia, confused, saw users with stunned expressions passing by.

She wanted to deny this reality, so she asked again.

“A blacksmith at level 120? Not a descendant of Sword Saint?”

“Yes, but it will be okay. I am a blacksmith, but also a user with exceptional martial prowess, plus you have your holy power, Belia.”

“Mr. Hyun-soo. Is it really okay to go in? When the Ash Wolves appear, many wolves gather around.”

Hyun-soo looked into her eyes with determination.

Belia, unable to stay still, made a decision.

‘It’ll be too late to find someone else.’

They had no choice but to go.

Belia was stronger than she thought.

Instead of sitting idly by as the saintess was sacrificed, she chose to chase after the 1% chance.

The two dashed further inside.

“How to save the saintess from the fifth disaster was something I had thought about; there are a few methods.”

Hearing Hyun-soo’s voice, Belia, who had entered, froze.

It was a mistake.

Just moments ago, most users had fled while hunting.

The aggroed monsters had desperately chased after the users.

Because of the users who had escaped to the safe zone, the monsters were left to loiter around the entrance.

About twenty giant wolves were showing their teeth at the two of them.

Especially, a giant wolf that had just torn apart a user who had fallen behind from the party had blood all around its mouth.

[Giant Wolf Lv.179]

Belia had been playing a completely different game from ordinary people.

She, who liked to perform good deeds, had helped those in trouble.

One day, people from the Church of Ares came to her and granted her the epic class of the Child of the Saint.

The level-up process for the Child of the Saint was special.

It was achieved through good deeds, prayer, and praise.

She was one of the users who had done the least amount of hunting relative to her level in the game of Ares.

Facing a giant wolf, taller than herself and smelling of blood, was a terrifying experience for her.

As the wolf leaped at her with drool dripping, her thoughts froze.

At that moment, Belia felt a man brush past her.

[King of Wolves.]

[Exudes the dignity of a king towards monsters identified as beasts.]

[Causes fear for 4 seconds in those of higher levels.]

The leaping wolf changed direction. After passing Belia, it crashed into the ground.

“Keeeeng, Kking…!”

“Kiiiiing…”

Belia’s eyes shook.

‘Who, who is this…?’

Seeing the man step forward, Belia wore a puzzled expression.

‘Fenrir?’

The symbol of King Fenrir, the wolf king, was drawn on the red cloak, and the helmet seemed to mimic Fenrir’s face.

His back was broad and massive.

Dozens of giant wolves bowed before him as if in worship.

Belia thought to herself upon seeing this unknown man.

‘A descendant of Fenrir…?’

Yes, he seemed like a descendant of Fenrir.

An unknown thrill ran through her.

‘Could it be…?’

Did God not only give Hyun-soo but also Rookie, a supposed descendant of Fenrir, a mission?

The descendant of Fenrir slowly turned his head.

“Thank you for believing in me, Lady Belia.”

Belia was taken aback. When he turned his head, she could see it was Hyun-soo.

“Let’s handle this quickly.”

Hyun-soo struck down the bloodied wolf that was right in front of Belia.

[6 consecutive damages applied.]

The sword Baekya.

A masterpiece of the blacksmith Per, gifted to Hyun-soo.

The 6 consecutive damages were a passive skill imbued in Baekya.

It activated at a low chance, manifesting the power to deal six additional damages in a single attack.

Koo-kuh-kuh-kuh-kuk-!

With a single swing, one of the wolves was completely dissected, turning to ash.

[You have hunted a Giant Wolf.]

[You have gained 886 experience points.]

[You have leveled up.]

The level gap between Hyun-soo and the giant wolf was significant, so hunting just one allowed him to level up.

“Lady Belia, do you have a buff that increases experience points?”

“Yes.”

Regaining her composure, Belia clasped her hands and prayed.

[The Blessing of the Child.]

[For 30 minutes, the experience point gain rate increases by 18%.]

Hyun-soo was surprised.

[Belia Lv.201]

Despite not being at a very high level, Belia had significantly increased the acquisition rate.

‘Isn’t it usually a 6% increase for a level 200 healer…?’

Hyun-soo quickly slashed through the wolves worshipping him with Baekya.

Hyun-soo’s stats were similar to those of users around level 180.

Added to this, the nearly legendary Baekya.

The unique artifacts, Fenrir’s Helmet and Fenrir’s Cloak, made Hyun-soo a hunter with extraordinary power.

[You have leveled up.]

Instantly leveling up 4 levels.

The wolves, done with their worship, rushed at Hyun-soo.

Kwajak-

One of the wolves smacked his chest with its front paw.

“Kyaaaak!”

Belia screamed, certain that the armor Hyun-soo wore would tear and blood would spurt from his chest…

But to her astonishment, not only did the armor not tear, but it also only got a small scratch, and Hyun-soo’s HP dropped by just 2%.

‘What exactly is this person?’

Then.

[A new story begins.]

[With the appearance of a new challenger to the Wolf King, wolves start to gather.]

Wolves began to rush in from all directions without end.

‘I didn’t know this… But what’s with the Wolf King?’

Hyun-soo had to hunt the wolves as he passed through, anyway.

Seeing Belia panic as wolves appeared from all directions, Hyun-soo smiled.

“Do you remember what I said?”

“That there are a few methods?”

Belia recalled his words.

‘I did think about how to save the saintess from the fifth disaster, and there are indeed a few methods.’

A level 120 blacksmith’s methods to save the saintess.

“Let’s hit level 160 or higher here. You have heals, right? Please give me a ride on your bus.”

Hyun-soo needed to grow.

Not just as a blacksmith, but he also needed the strength to protect himself.

The best healer provides the heals.

Meaning, Hyun-soo was leveling up fast with the help of the best healer’s boost.

The rationale was clear.

“I will do my best to heal… Let’s hit level 170!”

She had to rescue Saintess Aria, and the higher Hyun-soo’s level got, the higher the likelihood of success.

‘Is that really possible?’

That small doubt.

When dozens of giant wolves rushed at them simultaneously.

Peeeeing-

[The Sword’s Cry]

Seeing wolves turned to ashes as they were sliced by the swordsmanship of the Sword King, Belia thought it might be possible.

‘I wished he was a descendant of Sword Saint.’

Not anymore.

‘Maybe this person can really save the saintess…!’

Hyun-soo listened to the notifications of explosive leveling up.

[You have leveled up.]

[Leveled up…]

By leveling up 15 levels in one go, Hyun-soo approached level 140, and a notification appeared.

[You have hunted many wolves in a short time.]

[A new episode like none before will soon begin.]

[If you hunt the Ashen Wolf, you can become the Wolf King.]

Hyun-soo wore a puzzled expression.

Just before, there had been a notification about a new challenger to the Wolf King.

‘What exactly is the Wolf King?’

Then.

[The appearance of a boss monster!]

[Ashen Wolf Lv.212]

[Whoever hunts the Ashen Wolf will become the Wolf King.]

Suddenly, a massive ashen wolf appeared.

Kwaaaang-!

[Wolf Strike]

[You are blown far away by a strong impact.]

The moment the ashen wolf leaped like a flash and collided with Hyun-soo, he began to fly about 50 meters away.

***

At the office of Blue Corp.

CEO Lee Se-jin wore an interested expression.

He had pondered whether Hyun-soo could really stand against the fifth disaster while drafting several stories.

No matter how he arranged it, that direction didn’t seem plausible. But then the possibility of becoming the Wolf King changed his thoughts.

‘The Wolf King, huh…’

The Ashen Wolf had never been hunted before, and killing it would trigger a hidden piece.

The Wolf King’s hidden piece.

“Once obtained, you can command the wolves in the sanctuary of wolves.”

This thought crossed Lee Se-jin’s mind.

‘There are hundreds of followers blocking the temple, it would be difficult for user Hyun-soo to break through.’

However, becoming the Wolf King changes the narrative.

Of course, the Ashen Wolf was not easy to hunt and was very cunning.

As if to demonstrate this, the ashen wolf that appeared like a flash knocked Hyun-soo away.

“Indeed smart.”

Why did it blow him away? Wouldn’t it be better to go for the throat?

No, it’s different.

Even though just a monster, the Ashen Wolf decided it needed to eliminate the healer first.

By blowing Hyun-soo away, it could then bite Belia’s neck.

‘Wrong.’

Hyun-soo cannot become the Wolf King.

It would be possible with Belia, but now she is about to die.

‘You can’t hit the Ashen Wolf, also known as the Flash Wolf, from that distance.’

Just as Lee Se-jin was convinced of this, he was surprised.

A hologram mineral began to smelt above Hyun-soo’s head as he was flying backward.

***

The Ashen Wolf sensed a challenger to the Wolf King.

Someone killing its minions and targeting its authority.

It cunningly plotted.

After separating the man and the woman, it decided to bite the woman’s neck.

Kwaaaang-!

As the ashen wolf, fast as light, saw the man flying and approached the woman.

“Hy, Hyun-soo? Kyaaaaaak!”

It moved to bite her neck but then witnessed a strange sight.

A mineral erupted above the tumbling man in mid-air.

The mineral melts.

Smelting.

Impurities disappear.

Refining.

The mineral forms into a single spear.

Forging.

The moment the man who had flown far landed on the ground.

Teuuuuruk-!

Sliding on the ground, he grabs the spear.

Ridiculous.

Pitiful.

Even if he threw the spear, he would have already missed him.

Just bite the woman and feast elsewhere.

“Ugh, ughaaaa…”

The weeping woman in its mouth, the Ashen Wolf leaped powerfully.

Taaat-!

The man threw the spear.

However, the Ashen Wolf had already leaped, evading the trajectory of the spear.

But then.

Swhhhhk-!

The spear, with a mysterious howling sound, changed its course and accelerated, shooting up into the sky.

“……!?”

The Ashen Wolf lost its grip on the woman.

It couldn’t read the inscription on the spear, which read:

‘Gungnir.’

The spear said to be held by Odin.

This spear is known to never miss its mark.

Prev I TOC I Next

Survival 62

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Imperial Palace.

The most revered place in the Manhett Empire, where the most noble of all resided.

Thus, it was also a place abundant with precious relics.

Upon hearing the objective, Bathory’s eyes widened in surprise.

“Right. Stealing other people’s belongings and emotions is your forte, isn’t it? Just take as much as you can. A raid on the Imperial Treasury should be suitable even for me.”

“…It won’t be that simple.”

Perhaps it was because Bathory had lived in a world of survival of the fittest.

She was already fully prepared to plunder properly.

I shook my head, trying to calm her down.

Just like any noble family, the Imperial Palace also had its treasury.

However,

Today, my target was not there.

“With the elite soldiers and Imperial Knights, and above all, the guardian deity being truly of another dimension.”

The security was terrifyingly strict.

A forceful breakthrough with our current specs?

It would be like strangling ourselves.

Moreover, Bathory, who could be powerful but not suited for stealthy actions, was completely useless in this regard.

“Then what are you aiming for?”

“Besides the treasury, the Imperial Palace is filled with relics everywhere.”

I smirked, recalling once again.

The Imperial Palace.

The main character and player character, the saintess, was a commoner, so although she visited the Imperial Palace often, it was difficult for her to stay or roam freely.

Access was restricted until the very end of the main story.

Normally, it would be a place to prepare before the final battle.

Therefore, most players were attracted to the treasures of the treasury, but there were others who were not.

[Did you guys know?]

There’s a dungeon in the Imperial Palace?

[What, you broke into the treasury illegally? They would just open it anyway.]

[Please, let’s explore the map when the new map opens.]

A dungeon discovered by a community user.

Unknown even to members of the royal family, so no worries about repercussions.

‘The difficulty level is just right for me now.’

“Please follow me. I need your help, Lady Bathory.”

“Hmm! Different from the descendants of that warrior who are only good as prey. I will gladly assist.”

‘Hmm?’

A vampire, dressed as a maid, following me diligently.

Her unusually cooperative attitude was puzzling, but I let it be.

***

“What is this place?”

“It’s the library.”

One of the resting places created for the guests of the Imperial Palace.

Endless rows of antique bookshelves.

The smell of old paper tickled my nose.

“It doesn’t seem special.”

After taking out a few books and flipping through them, she soon frowned.

“It’s about magic, but the level is uniformly terrible.”

“Of course. The truly precious books are either in the First Library or the treasury.”

Losing interest, Bathory became indifferent, while I momentarily recalled my memories from the game.

‘It was around here…’

From the entrance, go straight to the sixth bookshelf in the corridor.

The book with a green cover located at the three-quarters mark.

“Ah, here it is.”

Seemingly untouched, a layer of musty dust had settled on it.

[Introduction to Manhett Magic History]

“…It’s not much different from the earlier ones.”

In Bathory’s view, the book I handed her was worthless.

But the important thing was not the content of the book.

-Click.

Inside the bookshelf.

Upon pressing a button hidden behind a book, the entire bookshelf was wrapped in a soft glow.

[You have fulfilled the conditions!]

[The hidden dungeon, The Immortal Research Lab, will now open.]

“…Hmm? A teleportation magic circle.”

It seemed to be a rather well-crafted spell, even in the eyes of Bathory, a proficient wizard.

Interest sparked in her eyes, which had been filled with boredom just moments ago.

“Yes. It’s the magic that will lead us to treasure.”

I extended my hand towards Bathory.

Having always attended to Luciana, this gesture of escort had become almost unconscious.

“It’s reckless to enter when we don’t know what dangers lie inside.”

“Why worry when Lady Bathory will solve them all? Is there really a reason to be concerned?”

Bathory, grabbing my hand, flashed a fierce smile.

It seemed she quite liked my response.

“It’s only natural for a retainer to rely on their contractor. Trust me.”

As the soft light of the bookshelf enveloped us and we opened our eyes again,

What appeared before us was a deep, dark cave.

[The Immortal Research Lab]

[After the Manhett Empire unified all human nations.]

[Some members of the royal family, having obtained all power, coveted immortality.]

[Thus, they mobilized renowned knights and royal wizards to support their research in extending their lifespans.]

[However, their research ended in failure. All that remained of their quest for immortality were the hideous undead that were left.]

[Bury the secret of the royal family, and grant them eternal rest.]

As if proving we had arrived at the right location, the status window poured out information about the dungeon as an alert.

And slowly,

Those welcoming us, the intruders, also surrounded us.

“Not of the royal blood.”

“Unauthorized beings.”

“Even mixed with a demon. Deserving of execution.”

The same appearance as in the game.

Knights in black armor, armed with various weapons, aimed at us.

One peculiar thing was, a part that should exist in any living being was missing.

“They speak well for having no heads. Fascinating.”

Dullahans.

The knights, lacking everything above their necks, exuded a menacing aura.

“Insolent.”

“We’ll soon make you like us.”

As the Dullahans raised their weapons,

Just as they were about to step forward and strike,

‘As expected.’

“Mere wandering dead. The audacity.”

Suddenly, their menacing aura was extinguished.

Swallowed by a stronger storm of magical power.

-Woosh.

-Freeze.

The Dullahans attempting to push forward froze in their tracks.

“Such a powerful demon.”

“We must deploy a protective barrier.”

“Don’t be afraid. We are already dead, what is there to fear from dying again?”

Even as headless corpses, they had not forgotten the bravery of their knightly days.

They faced Bathory, backing each other up.

At that moment.

“Excuse me. Have you forgotten about me?”

-Clank, clank, clank.

The sound of rotting armor pieces falling echoed.

What they had overlooked was,

In focusing solely on the high-ranking demon, they had lost sight of me.

Stripped of their armor, the rotting flesh enraged, raising their weapons.

“This bastard removed the armor…!”

“How dare such a lowly creature!”

Against those clad in armor,

A shove was the best weapon.

I casually smiled and gestured with my chin.

“Thinking you had a chance against someone without armor?”

Some Dullahans swung their weapons at me, realizing the gravity of the situation.

But I could see it.

Greatswords, maces, and spears.

The trajectory of all their weapons.

-Crunch.

The heavily thrust greatsword only shattered the ground.

-Whoosh.

The mace aimed at my head cut through nothing but air,

-Swish.

And the spear trying to pierce my stomach barely grazed my side.

-Clank, clank.

After removing the remaining few pieces of armor, I returned to my spot, dusting off the gloves on my hands with a grumble.

“Seems like everyone’s been locked up for too long. So dull and slow that I might yawn.”

“…!”

It’s a pity I can’t see their expressions without heads. Watching the knights’ faces contort with such light taunting is always a pleasure.

“Well, now that the appetizers are set, I’ll leave the rest to you.”

“Good work.”

-Whoosh-

The moment a wave of heat swept past me from behind.

“Aaagh!”

“No! We must follow the royal command…”

Watching them collapse like straw men, I whistled.

Why else would this be a hidden dungeon?

The seemingly ordinary Dullahans boasted monstrous stamina, making them unworthy of even being called fodder, as they endured Bathory’s magic head-on for a moment.

‘Normally, stripping them of their armor would have only been the beginning of a long battle.’

A rogue like me, focused entirely on agility, would have needed to strike them hundreds, if not thousands, of times to bring them down.

“Grumble…”

“Ugh…”

Stripped of any semblance of armor, the bare corpses were crisply burned away.

“Hmph. Such trivial beings.”

Ah, satisfying.

Riding the dungeon-clearing bus courtesy of a vampire.

It was incredibly comfortable.

“Great. Let’s keep this pace up all the way to the boss!”

“…Sometimes you speak in ways I cannot comprehend.”

Along with a bewildered Bathory, we headed towards the deepest part of the cave.

***

“Annoying little fish.”

Bathory’s brow furrowed slightly.

The stench of rotten blood was overwhelmingly foul.

There was a significant number of them, but they were just low-tier undead. A single wide-area magic spell was enough to sweep them away.

‘But it’s still manageable…’

Perhaps due to constantly squeezing out mana, a slight fatigue loomed over my head.

“Frost Mane, are we there yet?”

“We’re almost there.”

She couldn’t show weakness in front of a retainer she had offered to help.

Concealing her weariness, she continued to deal with the undead as before.

“We’ve arrived.”

Guided by him, they reached their destination.

Suddenly, a chilling sensation swept over the back of her neck.

“Stop. I feel a sinister magical power.”

Magic power swirled beyond the skull-decorated gate.

Bathory involuntarily swallowed.

At least on par with herself.

‘Was there such a grand wizard among humans?’

She slowly gathered her internal mana, considering the need to consume her reserve of blood bags.

“Wow, great job getting us here. Now, I’ll take care of the rest.”

“Wait a moment!”

Ignoring her warning, Hans, as if undeterred, opened the door.

“Has the intruder come this far?”

‘…!’

Frozen in place, Bathory stared straight ahead.

A wizard in tattered robes sat upon a throne built of bones, looking down at us.

And within those robes,

No skin or muscles that should exist in a person were visible.

Just white bones and a skull.

That was all that made up the wizard.

“The scent of death fills the air.”

Facing the opponent, Bathory too, raised her mana.

Just as she was about to wrap flames around her fist,

“The court wizard, Deron. Your duty is ended.”

Stepping forward before her, Frost Mane took the lead.

“…Do you know me?”

“Of course. How could I not know of the Grand wizard who greatly contributed to the unification of the Manhett Empire?”

Even facing the Grand wizard, he displayed a relaxed smile.

Bathory bit her lip.

‘What is he thinking! At this rate, Frost Mane could be in danger.’

By now, the distance between Frost Mane and the lich was too close to intervene.

She hurriedly canceled her spell casting.

“Your name still appears often in the texts of the Manhett Empire.”

“What an honor.”

“However, I doubt anyone knows that such a person’s end would be in this cramped cave.”

The foolhardy words of her retainer went unheard.

She kept her gaze fixed on the enemy without easing her tension.

Where the eyeballs should have been, Bathory could see the flames flickering slightly in the eye sockets.

‘……?’

She tuned in to the conversation unfolding before her, which turned out to be quite surprising.

“It was the royal command.”

“Of course. I am well aware of your research on immortality. But you ended up failing, abandoned by the royal family.”

“No! The royal family still awaits the results of my research!”

“You know better than anyone that it’s nothing but a hollow promise.”

‘Now they’re even dragging the dead into this.’

Without any defense left, Frost Mane approached and whispered into his skull.

“The empire has abandoned you long ago. So, there’s no reason for you to continue your research under that command.”

“…What do you want to say?”

“I think I can help you with your dilemma.”

With a seemingly wicked smile, he handed over a mana stone clutched in his bony fingers.

“There’s someone in a similar predicament as you, but with a more powerful curse. He might be able to resolve your curse. It means you could also achieve nirvana.”

Nirvana.

Mentioning the word that the lich had dreamed of for centuries, both his eerie glow and voice trembled.

And Bathory, who had been watching all this, sighed in relief.

“Such rhetoric.”

Stimulating the opponent’s desires and creating a situation advantageous to oneself.

It was a remarkable talent she had seen countless times since Elizabeth, always impressive.

“Always said the boss fights are the easiest once you get through the initial stages. Ah, Lady Bathory, come over here and let’s see if we can find anything useful together.”

“Don’t be impatient. I’m coming.”

The now-empty throne.

The cave devoid of the lich.

As Frost Mane started rummaging around, a faint smile also began to form on Bathory’s lips.

Prev I TOC I Next

Act 42

Prev I TOC I Next

“Sigh, it seems like a trap, Master Joshua.”

What?

A knight who activated a barrier upon sensing someone’s presence showed a look of panic.

“A trap, you say? What on earth are you talking about?”

Joshua, who was completely convinced that Julian had returned after completing his mission, furrowed his brow slightly.

“Explain yourself properly.”

“It seems like Julian knew we would come and set a trap for us. It’s clear that our information leaked somewhere…”

“Shut up!”

Joshua, glaring at the knight with wide eyes, shouted with an elevated voice.

“There’s no way the information could have leaked! Tell me why you think we fell into a trap!”

“The moment we activated the barrier to disrupt the mana flow…”

Gulp.

The knight, swallowing his saliva, continued.

“Someone else, aside from us, appeared in the mansion in large numbers.”

“Large numbers?”

“Yes.”

At the mention of “large numbers,” Joshua bit his lip hard.

No one else lives in Julian’s mansion except for him.

Since the servants do not work late hours, by this time, the mansion, terribly large and quiet, should only have Julian in it.

And suddenly, there are signs of many people’s presence?

‘Especially today.’

Right now!?

Joshua began to understand why the knight accompanying him guessed it was a ‘trap.’

An unexpected event, which would not usually happen, had suddenly occurred.

“Master Joshua, what will you do?”

The knight, uncharacteristically shrinking in his posture, asked.

‘This damn guy, if he returns, it would be best to dismiss him.’

Thinking this, Joshua opened his mouth.

“Even if it’s a trap, it doesn’t matter. Because today, I’m going to kill Julian.”

Looking at the knight still trembling with fear, Joshua smirked.

“Since the barrier is activated, Julian is in a weakened state. The only change from the original plan is that while I deal with Julian, you guys will take care of the others.”

For the purpose of proving to the world that he is more capable than the infamously known ‘Julian’. There cannot be any setbacks in the plan. No, there shouldn’t be.

“Where are they now?”

“In the corridor outside the living room where we are.”

Perfect.

Muttering to himself, Joshua got up from the sofa. If necessary, ‘using the horn’ would suffice, so there’s no chance of failure in this plan.

“Before they make a move from there, we’ll strike from here.”

Clang.

At Joshua’s command, the knights and soldiers all drew their swords at once.

Simultaneously, the knight closest to the entrance kicked the door open and burst out.

“Perhaps, they might be waiting on the other side… Ahh!”

A panicked shout came from the corridor.

Ignoring it, the sound of swords cutting through the air was heard.

Joshua likewise moved outside of the living room. What caught his eye were men with suspicious looks, their faces hidden by robes.

At a glance, these were not ‘ordinary’ individuals. They must be those who engage in dirty deeds for a living. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be serving as Julian’s underlings.

“To work under such trash, you are all dishonorable swine,” Joshua spat out with a venomous voice.

William, who was looking over a fallen comrade, widened his eyes at Joshua’s sharp words like a dagger.

“Who are you to say such things…!”

William, responding with a heightened voice, began to gather mana into his staff, despite the barrier in place that disrupted the flow of mana. Being able to cast magic under these circumstances meant he was a wizard of high caliber.

“Master, he’s a third-tier wizard or higher.”

A knight by his side noted this.

“Even so, the barrier should weaken his powers. Take care of it.”

“Yes, Master.”

At Joshua’s command, his knights and soldiers charged at the men in robes.

In the dark of night, the clash of steel sparked flames. Watching this scene, Joshua scanned his surroundings.

‘Where is Julian?’

If this was the detestable ‘trap of the laughing execution stand,’ it would be normal for him to show himself. However, despite searching high and low, Julian was nowhere to be seen.

“Ah, ah!”

Clang -!

It was then. The knight who first kicked open the door was flung out through a window with a violent groan.

Startled, Joshua observed the knight’s body. Clearly affected by magic, the sight of him embedded in a tree with significant burns was undeniable. The problem was the power behind it.

“Despite the barrier, to have this much power…?”

Hearing the knight’s bewildered soliloquy, Joshua once again swore to dismiss this knight if they ever returned to the mansion.

***

“Ugh…!”

As searing flames grazed his side, Joshua scowled.

He glared at the wizard in front of him with sharp eyes. Despite the barrier disrupting the mana flow, this wizard could still use a few offensive spells.

As the knight had mentioned earlier, it seems true he is at least a third-tier wizard.

“Cough, cough…”

Of course, the barrier was not entirely useless. Perhaps due to the strain of using magic, the wizard’s mouth was filled with traces of coughing up blood.

Despite the wizard’s precarious appearance, Joshua could not easily close the distance. The spells, if allowed even once, could be fatal, and he could end up like the soldiers lying around him if he took the hits directly.

‘Damn it, just fall already…!’

Around them lay warriors alongside trails of blood. Only this wizard and Joshua remained standing. However, Joshua could not easily use ‘the horn.’

‘This is my trump card for dealing with Julian.’

Alphas had handed it to him, making it clear that it was a ‘consumable’. In a situation where Julian had yet to show himself, it couldn’t be wasted on catching mere small fry. The purpose of stepping into this mansion was to cut off Julian’s breath of life. As a result, the stalemate in the battle showed no signs of resolving.

‘Damn it!’

The prolonged fight blurred Joshua’s vision due to the accumulation of fatigue in his body. Of course, the other side was in the same condition. The continuously cast spells were starting to show their limits, and due to the adverse conditions of forcing magic use, the wizard’s pupils began to lose focus.

In that moment, as the wizard tried to wipe the blood from his mouth to maintain consciousness, ‘Now is the time!’

Joshua didn’t miss the exposed vulnerability, throwing a flowerpot to distract the wizard’s gaze before quickly closing the distance and rushing at him.

“Ugh…!”

The wizard, seeing Joshua charging, panicked and attempted to cast magic with his staff, but the flowerpot he had thrown distracted him, causing him to miss his timing.

Seizing the opportunity, Joshua swung his sword sideways, knocking the wizard’s staff aside, and then kicked the man in the stomach, knocking him down.

“Damn you.”

With his sword at the fallen wizard’s throat, he spat out curses.

Even with a barrier disrupting the mana flow, the wizard had been able to use magic, demonstrating a level of mana control that suggested he was at least a fourth-tier wizard. It was lamentable that someone with such talent was reduced to being a lackey for the cursed Julian.

“A piece of garbage without honor… Daring to block my path?”

“Ugh, ack!”

“How much did Julian pay you? Five thousand nars? Ten thousand? You dog, you never imagined that would be the price of your life, did you?”

“What… what!?”

As Joshua mocked him, he pressed down on the wizard’s solar plexus with his foot.

Crunch─!

“Ah… ah! Wait a moment!”

Ignoring the wizard’s groans, Joshua put more force into his foot, intending to crush his ribs.

“I… I’m not… employed by Julian!”

Joshua, shocked and pressing down harder, glared at him.

“Who’s going to believe such an absurd lie? You’re just a piece of trash without pride.”

“Ugh! Ah, ah! It’s true! I… ugh. Came to ambush Julian today… ack, ack. Not hired by him!”

“Really? Well, it doesn’t matter. You interfered with me, so you deserve to die.”

Despite the wizard’s continued words, Joshua looked suspicious but ignored them. The fact that he had disrupted Joshua’s plans was undeniable.

Joshua, gripping the handle tighter, was about to swing his sword at the fallen wizard.

“Oh, oh, oh…”

Hesitation.

At a voice not far away, Joshua halted his sword and turned his head. There stood the cause and origin of this entire incident, and the owner of the now chaotic mansion, ‘Julian Crypart Frason’, smiling with his usual twinkling eyes.

‘When exactly…?’

Despite being exhausted from dealing with the wizard sprawled on the floor, Joshua’s sharpened senses hadn’t dulled to the point of missing the surrounding sounds.

‘How? I didn’t sense any presence at all?’

Despite his heightened sensitivity from the battle, Joshua hadn’t felt Julian’s approach. This fact left him unable to hide his astonishment. Not detecting his approach was, in itself, proof of the difference in their levels.

‘This monstrous guy…?’

It was natural for the once arrogant Joshua to have such a thought.

Seeing the broken pieces of the pot and the orchid scattered about, which Joshua had thrown to distract William, Julian commented with an impassive expression, “The orchid pot… is broken.”

Gulp.

Leaving Joshua with his thoughts, Julian knelt down and gently touched the soil of the broken pot with his hands.

Joshua glanced at the box containing the horn and then shifted his gaze back to Julian.

‘Even so, the barrier should prevent him from using much of his aura. Then, we can settle this with pure swordsmanship!’

The doubt of whether he could win.

The fear bubbling up from deep within him.

Suppressing it as much as possible, Joshua gripped his sword tighter and prepared for battle.

“It was a cherished one, so it does hurt a little.”

Softly.

Julian, who brushed his hand over the broken pot and stood up, let a handful of soil spill through his fingers.

Joshua had no way of knowing what story this pot held or what emotions Julian harbored towards it. But one thing he could say for certain was,

‘…It’s impossible.’

Realizing that merely disrupting the flow of mana wasn’t enough to block Julian’s ‘aura’, Joshua was astounded by the phenomenon before him.

As Julian stood up, a bluish aura began to shimmer behind him.

“It seems you’re in need of some lessons in manners.”

Prev I TOC I Next

Strike 92

Prev I TOC I Next

“Go now, Belia. The disaster has not yet noticed you.”

Belia recalled the blurry smile of Saint Aria.

The Saint’s Child is a candidate class for sainthood.

Belonging to the epic class, the Saint’s Child possesses various buffs and outstanding healing abilities, learning much by following the Saint.

“Saint…”

Belia’s eyes teared up as she successfully escaped through the portal created by Saint Aria.

Her beauty was striking, with black hair and clear, almost transparent skin.

Though of average height at 165cm, her looks were comparable to those of celebrities, captivating many men.

“What should I do?”

Belia bit her lip.

As usual, the Saint’s Child visited a temple with the Saint.

The Temple of Ares.

The greatest of religions.

Temples of Ares are established all over the world.

Some temples are old, while others are vast enough to be mistaken for castles.

The temple they intended to visit this time was the Temple of Leas.

The Temple of Leas was akin to a fortress.

In ancient times, it served as a fortress and temple during battles against the hostile religion, the Cult of Calamity.

The Cult of Calamity.

A sect that worships evil, opposing the Ares religion.

Ares and several other religions have long waged war against the Cult of Calamity.

Belia remembered that time.

When the Saint, as usual, was imparting warm teachings to the worshippers of Ares.

Then, a notification came along with a surge of black light shooting into the sky.

[The appearance of the fifth disaster.]

[The fifth disaster uses the Book of Disaster to form a barrier over the entire territory.]

The barrier was the problem.

[NPCs and players above level 200 cannot enter the barrier.]

[The barrier extends 5km around the temple.]

[All beings with holy power are weakened by 20%.]

The spread of black rain formed a barrier over the entire fortress-temple.

What was the fifth disaster?

It was the powerful leaders who serve the evil gods.

Though higher numbers generally meant weaker forces, the fifth disaster, Jack, was exceptionally strong.

Assuming one could rely on the power of the Ares religion, it was possible to oppose him, but Jack had exploited this.

No access for those above level 200.

The power of an extraordinary debuff.

Of course, this meant Jack and his followers within the barrier also suffered significant debuffs.

But Jack achieved his goal.

To kidnap the Saint.

“There’s no time.”

Belia heard the notification.

[In 3 days, Saint Aria will be stripped of all her holy power and sacrificed.]

The fifth disaster intended to sacrifice the Saint to evil.

Tears fell from Belia’s eyes.

“Saint…”

Though an NPC, the thought of the Saint possibly dying brought an overwhelming sadness.

Though they were artificial intelligence, within the world of Ares, they were no different from real humans.

Her bond with the Saint was special.

“What should I do?”

Her mind raced.

Should she post on the Ares community to seek help from high-rankers?

“Impossible.”

The restriction above level 200 was a hindrance.

“Then, should I gather super rookies below level 200?”

That too was an impossibility.

She had at most three days left.

Even if super rookies gathered during this short period, the chances of winning were nonexistent.

“Even if Jack’s power has decreased his level, he’s still strong.”

Belia paced back and forth, unable to decide what to do.

“What if the Saint is sacrificed?”

At that moment, she was hit by a wave of helplessness, realizing her own weakness.

Then.

Ding!

[Job Quest: In Search of a Savior]

Grade: A

Requirement: Child of the Saint

Reward: 200 Holy Power

Penalty for Failure: Destruction of the Temple.

Description: Your temple and the Saint Aria you serve are in danger. Set out to find a savior, who is currently located at the Tower of Blacksmith.

Belia saw hope.

“A savior exists?”

The system itself was stating it.

The savior was there. Belia had no time to hesitate.

She was puzzled.

“Why would the savior be at the Tower of the Blacksmith?”

Soon, she realized.

“Ah… Did they request weapon crafting from the masters of the tower?”

The fact that Ares is a supercomputer was already known to the public.

“Who could it be?”

Ares too would not wish for the death of the Saint.

It was presumed that a very strong and special person had been carefully selected.

“A legendary combat class, perhaps? Or maybe…”

She was intrigued.

She had heard a rumor about one of the hot rookies recently becoming a descendant of Sword Saint, one of the ten legendary figures of the continent.

“Could it be that person?”

She set aside further thoughts.

Belia headed to the Tower of the Swordsmith to meet the savior.

***

[Job Quest: The Divine Wish is Formed]

A new story has unfolded for Hyun-soo.

[Job Quest: The Divine Wish]

Grade: S

Requirement: Descendant of the God of Blacksmiths

Reward: The mineral Asnium, Divine Secret Techniques.

Penalty for Failure: Inability to proceed to the next job quest.

Description: The God of Blacksmiths, Aska, despite his tremendous power and being an outstanding creator, has been denied by not only his followers but also among the gods. The Saint of the Ares religion is in danger. By rescuing her, show the extent of the power that the God of Blacksmiths holds. Soon, the Child of the Saint, Belia, will seek you out, the savior.

Hyun-soo looked at the new quest with a puzzled expression.

“The Child of the Saint, Belia?”

This was something even Hyun-soo didn’t have much information on.

Just then, the messenger of the gods, Balam, approached Hyun-soo.

“Descendant, I knew of the next task you were to undertake. It was to create a legend. Since you’ve already accomplished that, it seems a new mission has been assigned. May I inquire what it is?”

[Balam’s faith in you is MAX.]

Balam’s voice was gentle and humble, as if in the presence of a king.

Balam, who had hoped for a disconnect, found the strength to believe and follow the god.

All because of the achievements shown by Hyun-soo.

Hyun-soo explained the content of the quest.

Balam looked surprised.

“Ha, it seems the god wants to show something to the other gods through you.”

Hyun-soo had one question.

“What is the mineral Asnium?”

“Asnium? You’re going to obtain Asnium?”

Balam’s voice grew excited.

Hyun-soo looked puzzled. From his tone, he could tell the mineral was extraordinary.

‘It’s a mineral without any information available.’

In Ares, besides the commonly known iron ore, mithril, and orichalcum, there are many divine minerals.

“It’s a sacred mineral crafted by the God of Blacksmiths.”

This meant the mineral was created by the god Aska.

“It is one of the three divine minerals, imbued with a very powerful divine force.”

Balam shared his knowledge of the myth.

Listening, Hyun-soo realized.

“Could it be…”

“Correct. Asnium, one of the three divine minerals, is legendary for containing divine power.”

Hyun-soo’s face showed surprise.

‘Legendary mineral?’

The only legendary mineral Hyun-soo had encountered was the lowest grade of orichalcum, barely enough to make a single arrow.

‘This is insane…’

A spark of excitement ignited in Hyun-soo’s heart, fueled by the vast divine power contained in Asnium.

He had a specific sword in mind that he wanted to craft using it.

Previously, Hyun-soo had attempted an emergency crafting of this sword.

That sword was nothing but a fake.

The clear reason it was fake, despite Hyun-soo having made it in reality.

‘The system grants high efficiency if it deems the method of production most suitable.’

However, the actual sword could not be so.

It must be crafted only during the Year, Month, Day, and Hour of the Tiger, which realistically happens once every 60 years.

But with a mineral containing strong divine power, such conditions could be bypassed.

The sword Hyun-soo intended to craft with Asnium was the Four Tigers Sword.

‘What kind of power would a real Four Tigers Sword crafted in Ares hold?’

Most masters had left, and it was late at night.

“The Child of the Saint, Belia, has arrived.”

Hyun-soo was able to meet her. They briefly exchanged names, as there was little time.

The two mounted a horse provided by Dang.

“Where should we go?”

“We must head to the Wolf’s Sanctuary to the north. Only by passing through the Wolf’s Sanctuary can we reach the temple.”

The horse carrying the two dashed towards the Wolf’s Sanctuary.

***

Wolf’s Sanctuary.

A hunting ground for level 110~180 players, unpopular due to its remote location.

The place was thrown into chaos.

[Boss Monster Appearance!]

[Ashen Wolf Lv.212]

[Those who hunt the Ashen Wolf will receive a reward.]

The Ashen Wolf, rarely appearing once a month, had emerged.

“Run! We can’t possibly defeat the Ashen Wolf with our party!”

The party leader, Luke, hurriedly led his members towards a safe area.

“Kraaah!”

“Kuh-ack!”

“Aaagh!”

The chilling sounds of players being torn apart by the Ashen Wolf echoed from behind.

‘The Ashen Wolf has never been hunted by players of the appropriate level for this hunting ground.’

The terror of the Ashen Wolf lay in its characteristics.

The howling of the Ashen Wolf applies more debuffs to those within a 30m radius the more enemies it recognizes as wolves. If ten people gather, their stats decrease by a whopping 40%. Moreover, its speed is like lightning.

Luke, who was running fast, spotted two people who had just dismounted from a horse. A beautiful woman, presumed to be of the priest class, spoke.

“A blacksmith of level 120? Not a descendant of Sword Saint?”

“Yes, that’s right.”

“Hyun-soo, is it really okay to go in? When the Ashen Wolf appears, many wolves gather around.”

“…?”

Luke frowned.

‘A blacksmith?’

And a priest class?

And they’re going into that place at level 120?

Luke, running back, saw the priest and the blacksmith walking inside.

‘Is it bravado taking over their brains?’

As the priest said, wolves gather around the area where the Ashen Wolf appears.

A level 120 blacksmith is going in there?

‘Because of the pretty girl?’

Luke, having caught his breath in a safe area, was amused.

“Let’s go back in 30 minutes.”

“Are you crazy? Why would we go back there?”

“Didn’t you see the items that the priest and the blacksmith had?”

Luke had scanned the items of the blacksmith and the priest. If they were forced to log out, players would drop their items.

“Let’s go pick up the dropped items.”

However, the other party members shook their heads.

“We’d die before we could pick those up, right at the entrance.”

“Die on your own if you want to.”

“I’m not going either.”

The party members left the party. Since it was a one-time hunt in the Wolf’s Sanctuary, Luke wasn’t too bothered.

‘Such cowards. The sword that the blacksmith had looked at least epic.’

When 30 minutes passed, Luke started going back in.

‘I hope they’re dead right at the entrance.’

The priest and the blacksmith would have died together, so their items would be lying there, dropped next to each other.

Luke, entering the entrance, was shocked.

“What, what is this?”

The remains of over dozens of wolves were scattered around, turned into piles of ash.

Soon, Luke heard a shocking notification.

[The Ashen Wolf has been hunted.]

It was the notification that the Ashen Wolf, which had never been raided by players before, had been hunted.

Prev I TOC I Next

Survival 61

Prev I TOC I Next

“Lady Luciana, about the duel that happened at the banquet today, why did you do that?”

Even though it’s phrased as a question, there was a certain confidence in his eyes, as if he already knew what she would say.

‘Is he chastising me?’

Luciana felt a surge of irritation.

The very servant who should have been on her side was not.

“Your intentions are impure,” she bluntly pointed out, to which he awkwardly scratched the back of his head, “I’m sorry. But for educational purposes, correction will be the main focus. Please understand.”

Correction? As if she had done something wrong.

“You may think it insufficient, but I believed it to be the best response I could give.”

“…The duel?”

“Yes. How dare they tarnish the honor of the North.”

She would have overlooked it if it were just a personal insult.

But.

‘Indeed, a Northerner. Barbarically unmatched.’

‘To talk nonsense about what you don’t know.’

The foundation of the North is its martial prowess, proven by its history of driving out wild animals, monsters, and demons from its barren lands.

How could she stand by as they demean and belittle that as barbarism?

“If they dared insult the martial prowess of the North, it’s only right to pay them back in kind.”

That’s why she chose the duel, the most honorable way to compete in martial ability.

Yet, even after hearing her answer, Hans shook his head lightly.

“It’s correct by the standards of the North, but this is the Central region. And you, Lady, are a knight as well as a duchess’s daughter.”

Luciana closed her mouth, feeling caught.

Politics.

Just as a knight proves their honor with their sword, nobles must safeguard their standing with their words.

“And showing oneself to be easily provoked is not advisable. It only gives your opponent a handle to grasp.”

The anger and mockery of nobility should not be taken lightly, for their raw expression makes an easy target.

She understood this argument.

Surely, the gossips would have their field day.

‘The eldest daughter of the Speda ducal family is not serious,’ they would say.

“What does it matter?”

But Luciana stood proud.

The opinions of others?

Irrelevant.

Their endless babble could not break her resolve, as clear as the fact that they could not best her sword.

Mosquitoes and other flying insects are merely annoying, not frightening.

“It’s not that you’re wrong. Mostly, you would be right. And it’s a specialty of yours. But, I fail to see why I should endure an insult to the North and not challenge them to a duel.”

***

The ease of the strong.

This was starkly evident in Luciana.

It could have been mistaken for arrogance, but coming from Luciana, it was the epitome of a dignified noble lady.

What would be the right word to describe it?

Eyes filled with self-assurance.

The confidence emanating from her upright posture.

It suited her well.

‘Ah, this isn’t the time for admiration.’

Is now really the time to be admiring Luciana?

Chasing after duels.

I already knew all too well.

Expulsion,

A recommendation for self-reflection,

A ‘mysterious’ murder on the way back to her family.

Before her pride turns into arrogance, I had to change Luciana’s mind.

‘For Luciana, oratory is a solution to problems, inferior only to dueling.’

Continuing this conversation would be futile; she would just listen from one ear and let it out the other.

What she needs now is the unique advantage of oratory that distinguishes it from dueling.

And first, I had to explain why it was necessary for her to learn oratory.

“Your words are true, Lady. There’s no need to pay mind to those beneath you.”

“You understand quickly, as expected.”

“But what if it involves those above you?”

Luciana’s eyebrows drew together.

‘…Those above?’

“Yes. Those you cannot challenge to a duel. For example, the Duke Speda, who you cannot confront with force, or…”

Slowly.

I stirred up the secrets buried in her memory.

“Or someone in a position of power, like the Crown Prince.”

Her hand clenched into a small fist.

Though she tried to hide it by moving her right hand behind her, a slight tremor in her arm was visible.

Pretending not to notice, I sighed deeply and continued.

“It’s a dilemma for me too. My fiancée, Lady Elizabeth, is from a higher-ranked earl’s family, so it’s difficult to resolve disagreements through duels or sparring, given the unpredictability of human relationships.”

‘I would accept it, though.’

Hmm.

I hadn’t thought about that.

Given her personality, that would be expected.

“But Lady Elizabeth wouldn’t. That’s why we learn oratory.”

To add a bit of exaggeration to logic, making the opponent nod in agreement.

Oratory works regardless of the opponent’s force or power.

Of course, a slight misstep could worsen emotions and even lead to retaliation.

“Think about it. It’s a political marriage. Differences of opinion are inevitable.”

‘…Is that so?’

“We can’t just tolerate everything. We must express our opinions somehow, right?”

This was based on my knowledge of Luciana’s actions in the original story.

Despite the Crown Prince ignoring his fiancée and fooling around, she could not speak up and only harbored resentment.

At most, she would pass a casual rebuke about being cold to his fiancée.

‘It shouldn’t end there.’

If necessary, she shouldn’t hesitate to use threats.

Even if the Crown Prince lacks judgment and obsesses over any woman he fancies, appearing constantly in his thoughts like a fool.

Even if he’s a greedy wretch who can’t bear to let go of anything he holds.

He is of the most noble royal bloodline.

He, educated in the ways of emperors, must have known that his choices were not the best for the nation.

His strongest supporter, the Speda family of the imperial faction.

If the lady of that house, Luciana Speda, were to earnestly express her disapproval, it would be impossible not to feel pressured.

Luciana Speda.

She had more tools and weapons at her disposal than she thought.

But first, she needed to reform her too-generous nature towards the Crown Prince.

“Well, there’s an Eastern proverb that says ‘seeing once is better than hearing a hundred times’. Why don’t you see for yourself?”

“Directly?”

“Don’t we have an excellent teaching aid here?”

Like Luciana, someone with strong power.

A noble of high pride, used to living in a world where duels are commonplace.

“Huh? Are you talking about me…?”

Yes.

You, who understood and pointed at yourself with your index finger.

“Lord Báthory. Would you join me in a simple role-play?”

“So, this is why you brought me here. I feel like I’m being manipulated to your liking again.”

Despite her reluctance, Báthory nodded.

“I’ll play along. Let’s see what you’ve got.”

“Yes. I will be playing a weaker fiancé to Lord Báthory.”

Was it my imagination, or did Báthory’s gaze soften?

“A fiancé, huh? Among vampires, there have often been contracts made and deep relationships formed with their chosen kin. Haha.”

“…This is only temporary. Demon. You promised to find a way to break it.”

Báthory’s patronizing gaze.

And Luciana’s gaze, shooting back with hostility.

Sparks flew between the two women for a moment.

“Now, now. Don’t be too harsh on someone who came to help. Let’s get started.”

“Hmm. I’m ready.”

Let’s see.

Let’s start with the setting.

The closest situation to the relationship between the Crown Prince and Luciana.

“…Lady Báthory.”

A voice coldly settling.

A look that seems to gaze down upon an inferior.

A casual attitude with a chin propped up.

“Hans…?”

“Pretending to be close, don’t call me by my name. Address me with the respect due to Your Majesty.”

-Crack

A strange noise came from her mouth.

“Your Majesty? You?”

‘Remember, it’s a role-play, role-play!’

After blinking for a while and giving a hint, Báthory finally composed himself.

“…What business does Your Majesty have with me?”

Fortunately, no magic was cast rashly.

“I wished to discuss our engagement once more.”

Báthory averted her gaze.

The target was the sky.

“Do you believe in love?”

“I’m sorry, but I do not quite understand the intention behind your question.”

“I did not fully understand its meaning while I was with you.”

Words the Crown Prince said to Luciana in the game.

I recited them exactly to Báthory.

“But I have recently realized. Not just an alliance arranged by our families, but that there is such a thing as true love.”

The emotion that Crown Prince Garon must have harbored as he thought of the original protagonist.

That innocence, barely perceptible in a detached voice.

Acting, yet the hypocrisy of it all.

‘He’s truly malicious.’

To show no interest in the person in front of him, yet reveal feelings for someone not even present.

‘How can I not feel jealous and upset?’

This must have been the decisive moment when Luciana, who endured endlessly in the game, challenged the original protagonist to a duel.

“Let’s end this empty engagement.”

“I will bear the dishonor. You should go find your own love.”

Báthory, fully immersed, lowered her head for a moment and then shivered.

And then.

“Then, the solution would be to eliminate that person.”

In the Evildon Empire, power is synonymous with authority.

Báthory, with her red eyes narrowed and sharp fangs revealed, resembled a wild beast.

“If the one monopolizing His Majesty’s favor disappears, the remaining favor would naturally become mine. Just wait and see.”

“Sigh.”

She responded exactly as expected.

“Let’s end the role-play here. I’ve seen enough of Báthory’s level.”

“Is that so? How was it?”

“Um, to give you a blunt assessment, you’d probably lose your head immediately if you acted like that in the Manhett Empire.”

Still, she served well as a negative example for instructional purposes.

I spoke calmly.

To Báthory in front of me.

To Luciana of the future.

“Who would so openly persecute the emperor’s woman? It’s a perfect way to be attacked by public opinion.”

“…Then just smash all those who do.”

“What if the king comes forward to protect that woman?”

Duels and annihilation.

Though their methods were different, both women agreed on extreme solutions.

I clicked my tongue and shook my head.

“I can imagine how Lady Báthory managed her domain.”

Though which demon wouldn’t?

It likely wasn’t free from a reign of terror.

“I intended to teach Lady Luciana, but it feels like I’ve just gained another student.”

“…Hmph. I have no desire to receive lectures from you.”

“Well, that’s your prerogative. But what did Lady Luciana think?”

She looked at me with serious eyes.

Still seeming unsure, Luciana tilted her head slightly.

“Was there a problem with Báthory’s approach just now?”

“I’ll ask you the same question I asked Lady Báthory. What would you do if the Crown Prince stood in your way?”

Luciana couldn’t find an appropriate response.

Báthory was exactly as bad as expected.

So bad, in fact, that it was debatable whether the term ‘terrible’ was enough to describe her, being more brainwashed by the logic of power than behaving like a noble.

‘But that’s what makes her excellent teaching material.’

The sayings about learning from others’ mistakes and negative examples aren’t unfounded.

A duel with the Crown Prince?

It would negatively impact the imperial faction’s family policy, something Luciana surely understood.

But what about the Crown Prince’s woman?

In the game, Luciana trusted the Crown Prince, believed in the duty of noble blood, and followed the honor of the family too closely.

That’s why, even when the situation reached an extreme, she chose to eliminate the woman, accepting ‘a bit of dishonor.’

Just as Báthory thought.

She believed that the Crown Prince would follow his duties once the woman was gone.

‘It was a very foolish decision.’

“Let me give you a hint: you, Lady, are among the four noblest ranks in the empire.”

The woman of the Crown Prince, and the Crown Prince himself.

Even if the opponent is a member of the royal family.

It doesn’t mean Luciana couldn’t have voiced her opinion at all.

If the Luciana in the game had utilized even half of her position’s potential, her fate wouldn’t have been so tragic.

I took out an item and presented it to her.

Luciana’s eyes widened at the familiar sight.

“This is….”

“The fan you entrusted to me at lunch. A necessary accessory for a noble lady when going out.”

Depending on the decorations used, it could metaphorically display one’s status and also serve as a useful tool to hide one’s expressions when unfolded.

“The repair is complete. There’s still plenty of time left in the banquet, so remember my advice well.”

“…Weren’t you coming with me?”

“I am a servant and the second son of a baron. An unauthorized status.”

Luciana silently accepted the fan, her lips pressed together, as I muttered bitterly.

As much as I wanted to accompany her to the banquet and assist her closely.

I couldn’t.

‘There are things I must do.’

After leaving Luciana, who held the fan and was lost in thought, I turned to Báthory with a question.

“Lady Báthory. You can use magic here as part of our agreement, correct?”

“No problem. The restriction is only in the North; here, it’s possible.”

That’s some welcome news.

“Could you spare me some time?”

“A request from a vassal. Of course, I shall oblige.”

The Imperial Palace.

A space granted only to a few chosen ones, including the original protagonist.

‘Coming here and just enjoying the banquet would be foolish.’

I could leave Luciana’s side to someone eager and desperate to support her. I’ve already given strict warnings and instructions, so they should manage well.

It was time to return to being a strategist, after a long while.

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Act 41

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‘With so many eyes on you, shouldn’t you at least say something flattering for the sake of the royal family?’

Linné was taken aback by Julian’s straightforward manner of speaking. What an honest, or rather, shamelessly bold man he is.

“Then, let me ask again. Miss Linné, for what purpose have you honed your swordsmanship?”

Faced with another difficult question, Linné hesitated slightly in her response. However, as the eyes of those around her turned towards her, she eventually spoke up. “To train my mind and body to achieve my goal.” 

To be precise, for revenge. Yet, the words she had just uttered were not wrong, so her expression remained unchanged.

“Not bad. It can serve as a driving force to achieve your goals.”

After hearing Linné’s words, Julian resumed his lecture. “The reason I brought up this topic is because of this.” 

His voice was not loud, but it was clear enough to capture the attention of everyone present. “Well-honed swordsmanship is as difficult to correct as the time it took to build.” 

As he moved his hand towards his waist, the students looked nervously towards the simple-looking sheath.

“As a guest lecturer, it’s nearly impossible to refine your swordsmanship in this limited time.” 

Swordsmanship is something that is built up. No matter how talented one is, it takes a long time dedicated to swordsmanship for it to shine. A very valid point.

Linné was surprised that such wise words came from Julian but nodded in agreement.

“In that sense, let’s talk about aura today, instead of swordsmanship.” 

As the word ‘aura’ came from his mouth, a small ripple began to stir in the quiet classroom. Among the swordsmen of the royal family, he is one of the strongest in terms of utilizing aura. The fact that such a strong person was sharing his know-how made everyone quite nervous.

“Every human has mana veins. Utilizing them to strengthen the body or tools is one method of using ‘aura’.” 

Although he was speaking of something everyone knew, the speaker was Julian himself. The students paid close attention, not wanting to miss a single detail of his words. “Well, it’s all something we know.”

Just as they were about to become disinterested by Julian’s clichéd speech, “Additionally, this ‘aura’ allows you to clearly understand the gap between you and your opponent.” 

With a clank, Julian grasped the sheath at his waist, injected aura into it, and extended it forward. “Wow… it’s beautiful.”

Indeed, his sword, known as the ‘Moonlight Sword,’ was exceptionally beautiful even among the renowned auras for their brilliance.

“Do you see what color my aura is right now?”

Currently, Julian was not only surrounding the sheath with a faint ‘aura’ but also his right hand. It was so faint that it would not be seen unless one concentrated hard.

Most students gathered in this classroom likely did not notice the faint ‘aura’ wrapped around his right hand.

‘…So this is what he meant by understanding the gap between oneself and the opponent?’

As Linné grasped the intention Julian wanted to convey through this lecture, a smile leaked out.

“What color is it?”

At Julian’s question, the students unanimously answered.

“Gray, gray.”

“A gray close to moonlight.”

“Silver… isn’t it?”

Linné, like the other students, first spoke of the ‘aura’s’ color.

“Silver.”

Then, with a confident smile, she continued.

“And a light cobalt color.”

Linné added a comment beyond the other students. Her words shifted the focus from Julian to her.

“Sir Julian, you are using two auras right now. A silver aura for the sheath, and a cobalt aura for your right hand, correct?”

“Yes, that’s correct, Miss Linné.”

Julian’s affirmation led Linné to shrug her shoulders slightly. She had definitely caught the ‘second aura’ he tried to conceal.

This means the gap between Julian and her is not as wide as she thought.

After admiring the sword marks Julian left in the forge before, Linné acutely felt her own shortcomings. Since then, through bone-grinding effort, she had somewhat closed the gap between her and Julian to a degree.

“And, there is one more.”

Linné’s pupils dilated at Julian’s calm statement.

The aura flickering behind him. It was not the ‘first’ or ‘second’ they had seen until a moment ago but a clearly distinct ‘third aura.’

‘It can’t be…’

She hadn’t noticed this ‘third.’ Since when had he been hiding such a significant aura?

“No student has noticed this ‘third aura.”

His half-closed eyes showed no emotion; they did not convey joy, anger, sorrow, or pleasure. He simply stated this fact as if it were a matter of course.

“In this way, you can gauge the gap in skill between you and your opponent. Being able to produce an ‘aura’ that the opponent is unaware of means there’s hardly any chance of losing to them.”

She realized how arrogant it was to think she had closed the gap between her and that man, even by a little.

***

“Ye-yes, Sir Julian is truly remarkable.”

After finishing the special lecture and leaving the classroom, I ran into Vice Principal Allom Chorni. A bright smile lingered on his face.

Did he watch the lecture from outside the classroom?

How did he appear right after the lecture ended?

“I never imagined the students would be so enthusiastic about the special lecture! I was a bit skeptical when I heard Sir Julian was going to teach… Ahem!”

Allom, seemingly excited, quickly covered his mouth after realizing his slip of the tongue. Well, it wasn’t exactly wrong.

Who would have thought that ‘Julian’ of all people would be teaching others? ‘Even I doubted myself, so this reaction is only natural.’

Fortunately, judging by the atmosphere at the end of the lecture, it didn’t seem like a failure. With this, there shouldn’t be anyone doubting my competency.

“Please, Sir Julian, we’re counting on you to do well in the practical exam as well.”

With an awkward smile, Allom quickly walked towards the inside of the academy. It might be a good time for me to head home as well.

With that thought, I was about to take a step when the charming scenery of the academy caught my eye. This neatly and intricately designed landscape should have felt unfamiliar.

Yet, perhaps due to memories of playing the game, it somehow felt nostalgic. – ‘Right, the Black Knight was you. The demoted hero, Fallen Hayden Reich.’ Ugh.

As I was lost in thought, reminiscing, a scene from the trailer flashed through my mind. The scene where I, ‘Julian,’ now, was pointing a sword at the neck of the protagonist, Hayden Reich.

‘Perhaps, this time it won’t end up that way.’

With that thought, I took another look at the academy’s scenery. It was enough to evoke nostalgia.

‘Should I take a little detour?’

Maybe that’s why I suddenly felt whimsical.

***

“Why isn’t he coming back?”

Joshua, sitting on the sofa with a face full of discontent, muttered to himself. Around the sofa where he sat, bizarre pieces of art were abundant.

A marble statue with an indiscernible shape.

A strange painting of a sun with eyes shining over a wheat field.

For Joshua, who considered himself to have a conventional understanding of art, these pieces were beyond comprehension.

‘And why are there so many orchids?’

Numerous pots surrounded the living room.

He knew the mansion’s owner was incomprehensible, but he hadn’t expected such odd tastes.

“Sir, the barrier you requested has been set up. Just give the order, and we can immediately activate the barrier to block the flow of mana.”

A man approached Joshua and whispered with a trembling voice. One of the knights affiliated with the Crypart family.

Although not as overwhelmingly powerful as Alphas, making him an intimidating figure to confront, this knight possessed a strength that was formidable in its own right, lacking nothing when put to the test.

“Scared?”

When such a knight appeared somewhat restless, Joshua slightly furrowed his brow and asked.

“Huh?”

“Are you afraid of Julian?”

Hesitation flickered across the knight’s face before he seemed to make up his mind and spoke.

“Currently, the forces we have here at Julian’s mansion, including myself, are two knights with experience hunting a two-horned demon, six soldiers from the Crypart family, and you, sir. Plus, we have a barrier to block the flow of mana and a third-order ‘Kenser’ grade magician.”

“And?”

“It’s a considerable force for taking down a single knight, but if that person is ‘Julian,’ I must say it’s absolutely insufficient.”

“Go on.”

Joshua kept his gaze fixed on the knight.

“Not only that, the atmosphere of the mansion is strange. Sir… It’s late, but not a single servant is in sight…”

“They must have gone home early.”

“That would be fortunate, but if Julian has anticipated our arrival…”

Slap!

Joshua slapped the trembling knight across the face.

The knight’s head turned with the force of the slap, and after a moment of stunned silence, he quietly bowed, realizing his mistake.

“You coward! Are you that scared? And you call yourself a knight of the Crypart family?”

“…I’m sorry, sir.”

“You won’t have to fight directly. Just make sure the barrier is properly set up!”

“Understood.”

After receiving a slap, the knight respectfully bowed and turned to set up the barrier.

What good is a knight so full of fear?

Julian, who primarily uses aura, wouldn’t be able to use his full power once the barrier is activated.

Then—

“It’s only natural that I, who have obtained ‘its’ power, will win.”

The cabinet beside Joshua.

It was certain that the item inside was emitting a dubious aura, but the moment Joshua saw ‘it,’ he was enveloped in an inexplicable confidence.

With ‘it,’ he felt confident he could defeat Julian.

“Sir Joshua! There’s a noise coming from outside.”

“Heh heh.”

The time for revenge was drawing near.

Joshua laughed slyly.

***

In a mansion located in a secluded area.

Starlight and moonlight poured down on the place, which was silent except for the late-night hours.

Rustle!

Strangers began to stir around the mansion.

Men emerged from the bushes.

“It’s about time Julian would be going to bed.”

The man leading them was William Hylands.

“It’s beyond me why the Archbishop of the Order would treat Julian this way.”

“To maintain his arrogance despite breaking the rules.”

“And I can’t understand why he was granted the title of bishop right from the start!”

The individuals gathered here were all members of the Dawn Society, each harboring personal grudges against Julian.

“This incomprehensible affair ends tonight. By cutting off Julian’s breath.”

William felt a sense of solidarity as he looked at his comrades, united in purpose.

‘If only you hadn’t judged the Hylands family… I could have reached the fourth order and wouldn’t have been expelled from the Magic Tower!’

Thinking about personally executing Julian, known infamously as the ‘Laughing Guillotine,’ William couldn’t help but suppress a smile.

“Ahem.”

He nearly forgot his composure amidst such intense emotions. William, a mage recognized even within the Magic Tower, coughed to calm his excitement. A first-class mage would not lose their composure.

“Let’s break into the mansion. Everyone, gather around me.”

As William quietly chanted a spell, the members of the order began to gather around him. William focused all his attention on the staff in his hand. Soon, the gem at the end of the staff began to glow faintly.

“Within a 5M radius of the staff, sound and presence are somewhat blocked, so Julian won’t wake up because of us.”

“Wow.”

“Amazing, Sir William!”

His own unique magic, ‘Imperfect Silence.’ It wasn’t a spell he had learned for breaking into mansions, but William was satisfied that it could be utilized in this way.

“Let’s begin.”

After opening the magically sealed door and entering, the quiet interior of the mansion greeted William and the members of the order. According to their research on Julian’s mansion, all the servants went home before sunset. This meant that currently, only Julian should be in the mansion.

Though they were aware of this fact…

“Gulp.”

The moment William and the order members stepped into the mansion, they were overwhelmed by the suffocating silence.

Undeterred by the daunting atmosphere, William and his group moved forward. Their destination was Julian’s bedroom where he was presumed to be asleep.

“Ugh.”

It was then that William, concentrating on his ‘Imperfect Silence’ magic, furrowed his brows at a sudden, strange sensation.

“What’s wrong, Sir William?”

“Is there a problem?”

Feeling something was amiss, the order members inquired about William’s well-being. Meanwhile, William’s complexion grew even worse. His eyes turned to the gem decorating the end of his staff, the indicator of the magic’s operation. The light, though faint and refreshing, began to blur as if obscured by dark clouds.

‘The flow of mana is starting to distort!’

As the light from the gem began to fade, William turned pale.

“Sir William?”

With a tense expression, William looked around.

“Julian, that bastard, knew we were coming and set a trap!”

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Strike 91

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The tower master of the shield blacksmiths, Dang, and the other seven tower masters could not understand Colson.

The one who had most greedily denied the gods was now turning his back on them and standing with the god.

When it was said that the god was coming, they discussed among themselves.

“To serve a god without followers, what does that even mean?”

“Why would there be no followers? The myth of the God Blacksmith is well-packaged, but if you look into its essence, it is insignificant compared to the myths of other gods.”

Everyone agreed on this point.

Moreover, what troubled them the most was this:

“By the standards of outsiders, just reaching level 100 is merely like taking the first steps, why should we serve him? Someday, he might try to steal what we have built under the false name of a god.”

They thought he was merely someone who came in the name of a god.

And when they met the messenger of the god, Balam, they were pleased among themselves.

“Outsiders learn to walk by reaching level 100, now we start to walk beyond that. But can there be such a thing as achievement?”

“It’s impossible, of course. It cannot exist.”

“You can rest easy now. The descendant of the God Blacksmith will not exist in our time.”

They were not averse to serving a god.

It was just that the so-called descendant of the god seemed too insignificant, and they wondered why they were being forced to serve.

They could not understand this myth.

“Can a blacksmith become a strong warrior!?”

There is a myth that the Sword God unfolds the heart sword.

But how does the myth of the God Blacksmith as a strong warrior come about?

Such a false myth makes the God Blacksmith a false god.

And it’s even worse for outsiders.

“Outsiders can unlock their stats with something called bonus points. But these are limited in number.”

Because the number is limited, what can be increased is restricted.

“He might have learned swordsmanship from somewhere.”

“Yes, he might have, the kind of swordsmanship that soldiers or ordinary knights would have learned.”

Hyun-soo felt that the sword he carried was following part of the myth of the God Blacksmith.

But isn’t the quality different?

The Sword God unfolds the heart sword, and yet he’s compared to ordinary people wielding swordsmanship?

Hyun-soo draws the sword of the God Blacksmith behind his back. He locks eyes with them and finally speaks.

“One. I have learned the swordsmanship of the Sword King.”

“……!”

“……!”

The moment they heard those words, disbelief engulfed the tower masters.

But the mystery of the Sword King’s swordsmanship manifested from all directions, wildly rushing through their hearts.

Who is the Sword King?

The most outstanding swordsman of the time.

A legend among the top 10 legends of the continent, the king of the Goyard kingdom.

Hyun-soo moves the sword again as if to show off.

“I have saved the Sword King.”

Rex shook his head.

‘How could this be…?’

Could it be true that a mere beginner could save someone as formidable as the Sword King?

“I have created the first legend.”

[His recognition surpasses 45%.]

The sword left by the God Blacksmith proves it right in front of them.

One side is completely frozen.

Suddenly, the messenger of the god, Balam, slowly kneeling before him, enters their view.

***

[If you fail to prove more than 40% recognition, you will be deprived of the title of the God Blacksmith’s descendant.]

The occupational quest test that began as soon as he reached the tower.

Hyun-soo saw Dang and Colson turn pale.

‘Those who believe in me.’

Hyun-soo didn’t want to disappoint such people. Moreover, being among the eight tower masters, they must have faced many criticisms.

‘I don’t want to make them subject to criticism by believing in me.’

And he wanted to show them. Who he is, what he has done.

With each thing he mentioned, his achievements unfolded.

“I created the second legend, a world without dragons. I created a dragon.”

[Recognition surpasses 76%.]

A dragon appeared on one side.

Stepping forward, he swung again with the dragon, which looked at them with a dignified gaze, puffing out its breath behind him.

Swooosh-

“I made the clearest sounding bell in the world, becoming a benefactor.”

[Recognition surpasses 91%.]

A mirage.

The power of a hologram.

Minerals are refined, purified, and forged at high speed, and the bell of Ramas regains its original color as it’s heated red.

The white bell slowly swings and rings by itself, filling the entire tower with its clear sound.

Daaaaang-

Another one.

“I won the super rookies’ tournament most splendidly.”

There was no one here who did not know about the super rookies’ tournament.

It was one of the famous festivals of the neighboring kingdom of Goyard.

Rex found himself gaping at the unbelievable achievements being listed.

He looked around at the other tower masters.

“I made a bow that embeds the weight of a thousand pound.”

[Recognition surpasses 100%.]

The tower masters, who had been standing awkwardly, were now kneeling on one knee, showing their respect.

One of those who had denied the descendant of the god, the tower master of the Spear, Brey, said,

“I denied you. I only thought that someone who appeared from somewhere intended to take away what we had. I am sorry. Tower Master Brey of the Spear. I see the descendant of the god.”

The tower master of the Armor Tower.

“Me too…”

The tower master of the Cloak Tower.

“I felt the same. Please kill me!”

Looking at them, Rex, the tower master of the Shield Tower, found himself also kneeling on one knee, looking up at him.

What should he say?

What excuse should he make?

And then, Hyun-soo saw all the tower masters prostrated before him.

The so-called messenger of the god, Balam, was lying flat, unable to raise his head.

To be honest, Hyun-soo felt embarrassed.

Most of the tower masters were named NPCs over level 300.

‘I’m still just a shell.’

Yes, Hyun-soo had achieved a lot, but there was still so much more he had to do.

He said,

“Everyone, please stand up.”

At Hyun-soo’s gentle voice, Rex looked up with trembling eyes.

They had denied him, not acknowledged him, and until just a moment ago, had scorned him.

But he,

“It’s too much.”

Said with a gentle expression. Could he be someone with a too tender heart?

A god should sometimes be firm, a small worry surfaces.

Then,

“When I stand at a higher place, then I will accept it more proudly.”

No, he wasn’t just being gentle. He knew timing.

When the time comes, he will accept it calmly and lead them with equanimity. Moreover, his confident voice and smile captivated all the tower masters.

“Yes, we will wait! For the true day when you will lead us!”

All the tower masters had now united in spirit and changed.

And Hyun-soo realized,

‘Recognition…’

The first job quest was to verify what he had accumulated so far. Naturally, the higher the recognition, the more special the rewards given.

[Job Quest: The Sword Left by the God Blacksmith Completed]

[You have recorded an extraordinary achievement.]

Hyun-soo held firm belief.

The notifications of extraordinary achievements he had received several times had never disappointed him and had always provided greater rewards.

Soon, the Sword of the God Blacksmith resonated.

Hummm-

[The Sword of the God Blacksmith bestows a reward.]

[All stats +2, the probability of obtaining a higher grade increases by 10%…]

[Correction.]

[The Sword of the God Blacksmith deems this insufficient.]

Hyun-soo looked at the sword with a puzzled expression. Even when he first held the sword, it seemed as if it had its own will.

‘So the original reward was all stats +2 and a 10% increase in the probability of obtaining a higher grade…’

A job quest involves obtaining something related to that job class. While not a bad reward, it wasn’t truly satisfying for Hyun-soo.

[Reward assessment completed.]

[A job quest is generated that allows you to obtain one of the five secret techniques of the God Blacksmith.]

[You will receive the original rewards.]

[All stats +2, the probability of obtaining a higher grade increases by 10%.]

[You may also learn about one of the divine techniques in advance.]

[A new story begins.]

Hyun-soo, now familiar with Ares’ system, was confident.

‘Breaking a new story always leads to something great.’

Hyun-soo awaited the notification for the new job quest he would initiate.

***

[User Hyun-soo will start a new job quest.]

Special User Management Team.

Employee Lee Ji-hee showed a surprised expression.

“A new story…?”

Of course, a new story itself isn’t something particularly special for the team managing special users. The notification of a new story typically appears when significant achievements are made in limited places.

Hyun-soo’s new stories were always in limited locations.

The beginner zone’s expedition team.

The beginner’s domain war in the Casel territory.

The recent new story through the broadcast was also in a limited location, the time attack dungeon.

“A new story emerging from a job quest isn’t easy; it means that the God Blacksmith recognizes Hyun-soo as the rightful person.”

Hearing the voice from behind, Lee Ji-hee could see CEO Lee Se-jin standing there.

“Hello, Mr. President.”

Tae-seok and Ji-hee hurriedly greeted the CEO, who appeared like a ghost. Lee Se-jin waved his hand dismissively and said, “Getting the secret techniques of the God Blacksmith was never going to be easy in the first place.” 

The name secret technique (祕器) wasn’t given for nothing. 

The type of secret technique could either be an upgrade of what one already possessed or something entirely new that was unknown before. 

“It means a different job quest from the existing ones is going to be triggered, but which job quest will it be?” 

This was the key point that the Special User Management Team needed to focus on. 

The new job quest. How it would be triggered was the question. 

Then, 

[A job quest: In Search of a Savior is generated for the child of the Saintess, Belia.] 

CEO Lee Se-jin opened the quest received by the child of the Saintess with a surprised expression. 

[Job Quest: In Search of a Savior] 

Grade: A 

Restriction: Child of the Saintess 

Reward: 200 Holy Power 

Penalty if Failed: Destruction of the temple. 

Description: Your temple and the Saintess Aria you serve are in danger. Set out to find the savior, who is currently located at the Tower of the God Blacksmith. 

Lee Se-jin looked intrigued. 

‘So the stories are interconnected in this way.’ 

Tae-seok appeared puzzled. 

“What does the child of the Saintess have to do with Hyun-soo, the descendant of the God Blacksmith, for the job quest to be triggered?” 

Ji-hee quickly typed on the keyboard. 

“According to the setting, the God Blacksmith once promised the gods that he would someday create an artifact for their temples. It seems related to that.” 

It’s quite a setting. Soon, Lee Se-jin murmured, “Child Belia might become the best healer in our country, which worries me.” 

Team Leader Kim looked puzzled.

 “Why would that worry you?” 

Lee Se-jin couldn’t help but smile bitterly. 

“Who’s currently in the Guild Bright Future?” 

“Well, Nel, Lisel…” 

“No, not names.” 

This time, Ji-hee was quicker to catch on. 

“Strategist prodigy Nel, strongest tank Bark, strongest dealer Lisel, and strongest blacksmith Hyun-soo are there.” 

“Team Leader Kim, what’s missing?” 

Team Leader Kim thought hard. 

The most important elements when forming a team. A master to lead them. A strong dealer. An unbreakable tank. Nel, who might become an outstanding strategist. Suddenly, Tae-seok’s eyes widened. 

“Healer, they don’t have a healer.” 

“Right, with just one healer, Guild Bright Future could become the strongest elite guild.” 

CEO Lee Se-jin looked at the monitor with interest. 

‘Of course, all choices will be made by Belia.’

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