Strike 81

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Ares Community.

Helden, with 1.1 million subscribers, posted for the first time in a while.

[Guys, this is insane LOL, I found an amazing territory, the artifacts sold at the local blacksmith are above average. I’ll start the broadcast soon.]

The influence of a YouTuber with 1.1 million subscribers was significant domestically.

Especially in Helden’s case, as he thoroughly explores various territories, many people find his content useful.

[Look who’s making a fuss after so long LOL.]

[Right, seemed like there weren’t any decent territories lately, right?]

However, since it was Helden’s broadcast, the community users held a slight expectation.

[Helden is starting a live broadcast.]

[Current viewers: 34,414.]

As soon as the broadcast started, an impressive 30,000-plus viewers tuned in.

“This place is the Ballas Territory, located to the west of the Goyard Kingdom, known as a blacksmith territory.”

-What?

-Ballas Territory? Isn’t that the place overrun by other NPCs?

-Ballas Territory blacksmiths are famous for their crappy items.

-Wasn’t it the top territory people wanted updated in a recent survey?

-Don’t the blacksmiths in Ballas Territory do forced labor? They are so exhausted that they make artifacts in a slapdash way, much inferior to regular artifacts.

Helden laughed lightly at the viewers’ doubts.

“Guys, do you think I would start the broadcast without doing my homework? I know everything.”

Helden smiled as if to raise expectations.

-If this is just a clickbait, he’s going to get a lot of flak LOL

-He hasn’t found a decent territory for months, huh?

Soon, the view of the territory was shown.

-What’s going on? Why is it so crowded with users?

“I’ll show you the proof right now.”

Helden entered a blacksmith shop in the video.

They were selling a spear there.

-Oh, looks decent?

-It’s well-crafted and meticulous.

-Ah, quickly check the details.

Helden, with a wicked smile(?), spoke to the blacksmith.

“This is very well-made.”

“Right? It’s all thanks to him. I was reborn as a new blacksmith because of him. And I realized that every weapon should be made with utmost care.”

-The guy’s just dragging out time.

-Who is this ‘him’, otaku LOL

The viewers didn’t care who ‘he’ was.

But soon, Helden revealed the information about the spear.

“Now, everyone, please calculate the average value of this artifact.”

And there were many blacksmiths among the viewers.

-This is crazy? It’s 4% better than the same grade items.

-What are you talking about, that artifact is just that artifact LOL

-Really, making a big deal over nothing.

Then, a quite famous blacksmith among the viewers spoke up.

-This is impressive. It seems like a top-quality item, even if it’s a common grade.

-Wow, isn’t that blacksmith ranked 17th, Ford?

-Is a 4% difference really worth all this fuss LOL

Helden didn’t respond and moved on to another blacksmith shop.

“It’s fine anyway. That user named Ford will explain it.

-It’s not just a mere 4%. What would you guys choose, an artifact that’s 1% better or an ordinary one?

-Oh… certainly…

-Demand is like that. Consumers always go for even 1% better or 100 won cheaper.

Then, Helden entered another blacksmith shop. The viewers were astonished.

“Look, this is a rare item.”

-???????

-Excuse me?

-Don’t lie, bro.

-Who sells rare items in a street blacksmith shop?

Helden glanced at the number of viewers.

[Current viewers: 76,010.]

The number of viewers usually increases over time, especially if the content is interesting.

‘By now, this must be a hot topic in the blacksmith and Ares communities.’

“Let’s check it out.”

Helden revealed the artifact information.

-Wow, this is insane…

-Really selling a rare in a street blacksmith shop…

-Incredible…

It’s not common to find artifacts above the ordinary grade in street blacksmith shops.

There are occasional exceptions, but they are rare.

Helden moved on to the next blacksmith shop.

There…

-Is this for real…?

-It’s an epic…?

-Wow, an epic…!

For average users, not owning even one epic item is the reality.

Epic items are mostly from the top blacksmiths’ tower.

Or they can be purchased only from the best-known blacksmiths in a region.

However, these are very few, and over 90% are obtained through monster drops, quest rewards, etc., and typically sold among users.

-This feels like a setup?

-Seems so, Helden. Are you bribing NPCs now?

-Bribing NPCs for a fake broadcast LOL

Helden was waiting for this moment.

“What does the description say?”

A viewer read it out loud.

-It’s a masterpiece of the blacksmith Can, crafted under the guidance of an outstanding blacksmith…?

“What’s the name of the NPC here?”

The viewers saw the name Can floating above the blacksmith’s head.

“It clearly says it’s made by Can and the previous blacksmith is Can.”

Now the viewers focused on something else.

-It was crafted under the guidance of an outstanding blacksmith?

-Is this person ‘that person’?

“Who is this person?”

At Helden’s question, the blacksmith smiled contentedly.

“I can’t tell you about that person, like a master to me. All I can say is they are truly remarkable.”

The same answer was heard everywhere.

-Even Voldemort mentions his name, but they won’t even say who ‘that person’ is.

-Could it be a blacksmith specialized in teaching skills?

-Could be a possibility.

-Wow, incredible. A blacksmith with such power? 

Blacksmiths are really the talk of the town lately, with the Hyun Blacksmith, the teaching blacksmith.

Helden’s eyes sparkled.

“Teaching blacksmith, that has a nice ring to it. Let me tell you something certain. Everything they make sells out quickly, and they don’t sell anything they made before.”

-ㅠㅠㅠㅠ

-Are we too late?

-I want good items too…

“It’s not too late. You know why? Because you can place custom orders. What are you guys doing?”

-???

-Watching your stream while scratching my belly.

“Go place your orders quickly!”

-Huh…

-Right…

-If I’m late, I might have to wait three years to get my item.

-Hey, where did that top-ranked blacksmith from earlier go?

Helden was about to perfectly wrap up the stream. Thanks to Ford’s witty response.

-Running to Ballas Territory right now.

After the broadcast ended, posts about two topics continuously appeared on the Ares Community and the Blacksmith Community.

The topics were Ballas Territory and the Teaching blacksmith.

***

“Ugh…!”

Hyun-soo, who had woken up, stretched himself vigorously.

Having not slept for several days, he had slept for more than 12 hours.

Feeling refreshed, Hyun-soo went to check his phone after washing up.

“Huh? Why is it off?”

Looking puzzled, Hyun-soo plugged in his phone and immediately walked over to his gaming capsule.

He didn’t have many people to contact, so he planned to log into Ares right away.

‘I wonder how much the development has increased?’

There was one thing Hyun-soo regretted.

The quest he received from Barad was ultimately a time-limited quest.

Barad needed a reason to tell the nobles, “I will not eliminate this territory.”

Therefore, it was better to increase the development quickly.

Of course, Barad said he would be satisfied with just a 20% increase, but Hyun-soo felt it was not enough.

‘Starting the sales and attracting users will take time, and it will also take a while for the departed blacksmiths to hear about it.’

In other words, the development he could achieve within the set time was limited, which was disappointing.

‘Maybe it increased by about 3%?’

After all, he had only been sleeping.

Even that much increase would be a relief.

[You have logged in.]

However, upon logging in, Hyun-soo looked puzzled.

“Please line up!”

“Everyone, please wait your turn!”

He saw a street of blacksmith shops, which used to be empty, now filled with users.

[Foreigners are flocking to Ballas Territory.]

And that wasn’t all.

“Belz, is that you!?”

“Can! It’s been a while, the tales about you guys have already reached the nearby Pruk Territory!”

“Are they back?”

“Yes!”

[Blacksmiths who had left are returning to Ballas Territory after hearing rumors.]

[Currently, 49 blacksmiths have returned.]

[Rumors about Ballas Territory are spreading rapidly.]

[Development level is…]

[Development level is…]

Hyun-soo was astonished by the rapid notifications.

‘The development level has increased this much…?’

He figured out the reason.

“Is this the famous territory introduced by the ZluTuber Helden?”

“Look at the waiting line.”

‘Helden?’

Hyun-soo quickly brought up a hologram and searched for Helden on Zlutube.

There seemed to be a recorded segment.

[Views: 45,013.]

‘Wow?’

And after watching the broadcast, Hyun-soo was amazed.

‘This is incredible.’

The impact created by the coincidental visit of a ZluTuber with 1.1 million subscribers was beyond imagination.

And there was another astonishing fact.

“Who is the managing blacksmith here?”

A noble-looking person asked, and Ger quickly ran out.

“It’s me.”

“Excellent weapons, I am Lord Rok from Genya Territory. I would like to contract with you for weapon supplies, is that possible?”

“…I, I will do my best!”

[Ballas Territory is expected to sign a weapon supply contract with Genya Territory.]

[Development level is…]

“I shall discuss it with the lord.”

And then, Hyun-soo realized something.

“Who is the Teaching blacksmith?”

“Blacksmiths, please tell us!”

“I refuse.”

“We do not speak of that person.”

Hyun-soo’s eyes met Ger’s.

Ger passed by Hyun-soo with a very slight smile.

It was the same with the other blacksmiths.

[38 blacksmiths have found a new life through you.]

[They would not hesitate to give their lives for you.]

They were all thinking only of Hyun-soo.

They chose not to acknowledge their benefactor Hyun-soo, so as not to bring even a speck of harm his way.

[Development level is…]

[Development level is…]

Hyun-soo was dizzy with a development level beyond his expectations.

Having achieved sufficient development, Hyun-soo went to see King Barad.

Upon meeting him, Barad presented an enigmatic sword.

A sword imbued with bright light. As the sword passed by Hyun-soo, a notification sounded.

[The national power of Goyard Kingdom increases by 1%.]

[You gain 100 Charisma.]

[You gain 1,000 Fame.]

Hyun-soo himself was surprised.

‘National power increased by 1%?’

Then Barad, with a somewhat agitated expression, asked.

“…What percentage of development did you achieve?”

A confident smile formed on Hyun-soo’s lips.

***

Barad seemed to have never awaited someone’s response as much as he did today.

Hyun-soo, smiling confidently, answered.

“I achieved 110%.”

Hearing this, Barad’s eyes wavered.

He had told Bella that 40% would be sufficient.

He thought of Hyun-soo as just one of the many candidates being tested.

Among these candidates were dukes, dreamers of legends, and even a Sword Saint.

But Barad had overlooked something.

‘The possibility that you might have the greatest potential.’

He steadied his heart.

There was no need to speak of the distant future now, as there was still much to see.

Now was the time to talk about what Hyun-soo had achieved.

And then, Hyun-soo heard a notification.

[Quest: Develop Ballas Territory Completed]

[You have achieved a development level of 110%.]

[You have recorded an extraordinary achievement.]

Hyun-soo’s heart fluttered.

Extraordinary achievement.

This notification always excited him.

Whenever it sounded, something more special tended to happen.

“I shall grant you 220,000 gold.”

[You have received 220,000 gold.]

Barad felt it was not enough.

Ballas Territory was now poised to make a new leap forward.

It would even be possible to snub Sophia, the Duke who was the biggest opposing force advocating for the suppression of the territory.

What should be given?

‘A territory?’

It was too soon.

And due to Hyun-soo’s level, Barad couldn’t give it even if he wanted to.

Then what?

There was another reward.

“I wish to grant you one more thing.”

Hyun-soo knew his prediction was right.

Barad smiled faintly.

The most necessary and important thing for a blacksmith.

“I will grant you a blacksmith shop.”

The moment had finally come for Hyun-soo to have his own personal blacksmith shop.

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Act 30

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The intense smell of gunpowder filled the nostrils to the point of throbbing.

The flames devoured the trees, and between them, the monster Hameln slowly began to approach with its massive body.

Could this place be hell itself?

The scene was so horrific that it made one stick out their tongue in disgust, yet surprisingly, calmness was easily maintained.

It was a situation that had become familiar. In other words, one had gained experience.

“Everyone, please step back. I will take on this demon alone.”

“What?”

The demon that appeared before us, Monster Hameln, had three horns protruding from its head.

The number of horns being a measure of power.

Clearly, a demon of the Tri-horn (三角) rank was undoubtedly the strongest entity they had ever encountered since birth.

The members and soldiers of ‘Closed Eyes’ were startled and looked this way upon hearing the declaration to face such a demon alone.

“Is that… are you sure you’ll be okay?”

“Yes, please prepare to extinguish the fire once the extermination is complete.”

“But……”

“It will only get in the way.”

My cold and firm tone made the uneasy members nod.

“Understood. If we’re only going to be a hindrance… we will not participate in the combat, Sir Julian.”

The expression of the ‘Closed Eyes’ member who responded was quite complex.

Relieved that they did not have to face the Tri-horn demon, but at the same time, they felt bitter about their honed skills being denied.

Truthfully, I did not want to face Monster Hameln alone either. Even if the ‘fortress’ was gone, the creature was still a demon of the Tri-horn rank.

It was certainly a more powerful entity than the Bi-horn (二角) demons I had faced before.

‘But, those who cannot perfectly control their aura are nothing but good prey from Hameln’s perspective.’

It’s no coincidence that Hameln was nicknamed the ‘Dream Beast.’

Its trademark attack involves using pollen as a medium for psychic attacks.

Casting hypnosis or inducing seizures to make friend-or-foe identification impossible, creating confusion.

However, those powerful psychic attacks were useless in front of ‘Julian’s’ character traits.

Resisted Hameln’s psychic attack.

⇒ Presumptuous

⇒ Indifferent

Poker face…..

Because the character ‘Julian Crypart Frason’ was so arrogantly confident to the point of extreme faith, akin to unwavering belief.

In other words, a madman has no more madness left in him.

***

In an environment where constant disputes for power occur, there is neither blood, tears, recognition, nor consideration in the relationships between nobles.

However, Oronil had been through thick and thin with Hyrans, the head of the Hyrans family and his academy classmate, from a young age, and had established a solid mutual understanding.

Therefore, Oronil was busy hiding his displeasure when Julian showed his face at his mansion.

‘The Smiling Executioner’ of the empire that purged the family of his friend, the Hyrans.

Seeing that always smiling face, Oronil rejected all of Julian’s offers due to an indescribable intense anger deep in his heart.

Of course, there were other reasons as well, but that was only for a moment.

When he heard that his precious daughter had lost her mind due to a demon in the Pyrun Forest, Oronil had no choice but to set aside his displeasure and reluctantly seek Julian’s help.

**

“Thank you for your cooperation in the demon subjugation. The royal family will surely commend Sir Oronil’s swift decision.”

Living a life besmirched with all sorts of infamy, the foundation of that infamy is the overwhelming force that Julian possesses.

However, Oronil had not expected that the Tri-horn demon would be subjugated in less than a day.

“Has your daughter awoken?”

“Yes, she has, thanks to you dealing with the demon.”

“No, it’s all thanks to His Majesty’s grace.”

Oronil glanced at Julian’s face as he responded to his words.

Looking into the eyes during conversation to read emotions is an essential part of social interaction and negotiation.

However, it was nearly impossible to read any emotions from the squint-eyed Julian, leaving Oronil unable to guess what the man might be thinking.

‘He must vaguely know about the relationship between the Hyrans family and me. Surely, he’s sneering inside, seeing me like this. Standing before the person who killed my friend, and instead of seeking revenge, I’m thankful for saving my daughter.’

“Did you say your daughter’s name is Terina?”

Hmm?

Just as Oronil tried his best to hide his swelling sense of self-disgust, he was taken aback by Julian’s following question.

“Yes, that’s right.”

“Could you please give this to Miss Terina?”

Julian reached into his pocket and pulled out a small necklace. It wasn’t very flashy, but the gemstone set in the center was noticeable.

“It’s made from Hameln’s pollen crystal. The fact that she reacted to his pollen first means that the mana blood formed inside her body is more abundant compared to her peers. It likely indicates that her talent as a wizard is exceptional compared to other children.”

“……So this is.”

“Wizards start dreaming from a young age by extracting mana from gems. This pollen crystal will be a great help if Terina wishes to learn magic later.”

Isn’t it?

Giving Terina this gift was an incomprehensible act, even if ‘Frason’ was not well-regarded within the Crypart family. Wasn’t he a noble? How does such a discordant act benefit him?

‘Why exactly?’

Moreover, the man before him was Julian, known as the Smiling Executioner. A man ruthless enough to threaten a child if they obstructed his path. There must be an intention behind his gift.

“What’s the reason?”

Oronil couldn’t help asking about his intentions, but the sly smile on Julian’s face sparked fear deep within him.

“Haha. It’s my sincerity.”

Oronil took another look at Julian’s face. Despite the usual chilling vibe, Julian appeared differently in a strange way.

“Sincerity……?”

“Yes, while it was for the demon hunt, didn’t half of the Pyrun Forest end up as ashes?”

At Julian’s words, Oronil sighed softly.

“It’s a small token of my consideration for the hardships Sir Oronil will face in the future.”

Consideration. Coming from him, the word seemed absurd to Oronil.

“Is that really all?”

“Yes.”

Presumptuous

It was a response unfit for a man known to regard no one else. Oronil looked at Julian with a stunned expression, convinced there must be another motive.

“Then, I shall take my leave, Sir Oronil. Thank you for your cooperation in the hunt.”

Putting on his hat as if he had no further business, Julian left with a gentle smile. To Oronil, it was a terrifyingly eerie smile, but it proved harmless.

****

With Terina being treated, the demon subdued, and even though half of the Pyrun Forest was burned, peace returned to the mansion. Oronil watched Julian’s departing figure. The gift given to Terina was not meaningless, regardless of its value.

“Dear.”

“Is Terina okay?”

“Yes, she’s recovered enough to move around now.”

With a deep sigh, Oronil reached out to his wife, who then handed him a pen and a rolled scroll. “I must draft a letter to the chairman of the Noble Elders’ Council.”

“What will you do?” 

Julian Crypart Frason. 

The Noble Elders’ Council had already heard that he was coming to the border city of Berniden for a subjugation mission. 

Currently, the council’s aim, specifically that of the chairman, Oden Crypart, was to remove the family’s tumor, Julian. 

“Didn’t the council ask for your cooperation to delay the subjugation schedule a bit, for Julian’s restraint?”

“I had no choice. It was a matter concerning Terina’s life.”

After scribbling on the letter, Oronil sealed it with his stamp and began to roll it up again. 

Then, calling a servant who was waiting outside, he handed it over for delivery. 

“Deliver this to Sir Herand staying in Berniden. Tell him that cooperation will be difficult from now on.”

The servant nodded and began to move. Watching his retreating figure, Oronil sighed again. 

‘Forgive me for choosing the peace of my family over the revenge of a friend.’

Thinking this, Oronil remembered Julian’s words just before he left, which still left a sense of dissonance, yet one fact was clear enough. 

That inside the body of the monster known as the ‘Laughing Guillotine’, flows the same red blood as his. 

***

On the way back to the capital. 

Back on the train, I reached for the jewelry box I had purchased from the jeweler before leaving. 

Click!

Inside the small jewelry box was a soul stone, obtainable only from demons of a certain level, containing the heart of the monstrous Hameln, shimmering with a dim red light. 

“It’s redundant to say, but this is utterly unpleasant.”

The most coveted item by the Dawn Society. 

At the same time, an ingredient capable of awakening the ‘Demon God’, the source of all evil, in the narrative of <Let’s Kill the Demon Lord Now>. 

Upon opening the jewelry box, it began to emanate a tremendous aura, asserting its presence so powerfully that an ordinary person touching it could lose consciousness from the overwhelming energy. 

‘Now it gets real.’

Delivering this soul stone would undoubtedly earn the trust of the Dawn Society. 

Well, 

Given that Archbishop Tenellon oddly favored ‘Julian’, one might wonder if there was really any need to do so, but, 

“It’s necessary to gain some recognition from the other bishops, after all.”

My goal is to either eradicate the Dawn Society or, at the very least, bring them under my control. 

Gaining the trust of the other bishops is just as important as earning Tenellon’s trust. 

‘But if I hand over the soulstone, I would be contributing to the resurrection of the Demon God. It also means that I could strengthen Tenellon’s power even further…………… So, what should I do with this soulstone? There might be another option rather than just handing it over to the Dawn Society. 

‘If there is another option, what is it? No………… It might not be wise to make a hasty decision.’ 

As I was deep in thought, I felt the train gradually slowing down. 

[We will be stopping at Londrian Station.] 

The announcement of the stop came as the train approached, likely a station we pass through on our way to the capital. The trains of this era, which use resonating stones as fuel, are incredibly inefficient and must stop several times to refuel. This results in quite a number of stations. However, the number of passengers is limited. 

‘What about the Hayden Reich side? Can I keep hiding that I have joined the Dawn Society until the end?’ 

The deeper I get involved with the Dawn Society, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the chances of confronting the Sword Saint would increase. 

‘Let’s think about that later, for now, I’ll try to keep it as hidden as possible……………’ 

Lost in deep thought, I suddenly felt someone approaching and turned my head outside the compartment. 

“Room 114 is………….. Ah, here…………”

Muttering to herself, someone opened the door to my compartment. A familiar face, a woman. 

Linne Londebell 

The appearance of her, the disciple of the Sword Saint Hayden Reich, caught my eye, and I quickly closed the jewelry box containing the soulstone.

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Survival 49

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The operation was a success.

Luciana and I safely rescued the prisoners and joined our allies.

“Thank you for saving us!”

The guerrilla members, centered around the squad leader at the front, all bowed their heads deeply.

“Rescuing you was the least we could do. Please continue to take good care of the Balant Fortress.”

The noble’s mindset of cherishing the territorial people.

It was no exception even for soldiers.

The relief and sense of achievement from having safely rescued them brought out a rare gentle smile from the Ice Maiden, making everyone lose themselves in admiration.

…Except for me.

Under normal circumstances, I would have been like them, but there was something more pressing on my mind.

[Luciana’s Destruction Progress: 35%]

…This is bad.

What was once a default value of 30% had now fixed itself at 35%.

And it would have been fine if it stopped there, but it fluctuates in real-time.

Unfortunately, always in a bad way.

-Poof.

“Lady Luciana?”

I was startled. 

Why are you elbowing me in the side like that?

“What are you standing around for? Aren’t they waiting to give their thanks?”

Prompted by the gaze of those looking over tentatively, I quickly corrected my posture.

“Ahaha, sorry. I’ve been unable to sleep well recently, so I’m just doing what is expected of me as Lady Luciana’s attendant. You don’t have to feel too pressured.”

“Still, you’ve gone through a lot of trouble for us…”

Despite revealing that I was her attendant, they bowed their heads once more without regard.

Their pride as soldiers stationed at the northern frontlines was no different from the lords in the council.

It was the highest form of respect they could show.

“Then, since the thank yous are done, could you please leave?”

But I couldn’t be entirely welcoming towards them.

Specifically, one person.

‘Freedman’

The one who led the prisoners’ squad.

And the man who, standing at the front, represented them in expressing their gratitude.

The closer Luciana got to this unknown man, the more steadily her destruction progress increased.

“Lady, there’s something I need to report.”

And this suspicious character, despite my attempt to send him away, approached Luciana under the guise of making a report.

“Attendant? Why are you blocking my way?”

“There’s a procedure for reports. It’s better to seek General Bardik than to directly address the lady.”

His look seemed to say, “What’s with you?” as he scanned me from head to toe.

Luciana’s scrutinizing gaze was also on me, but she seemed to decide not to question my obstruction.

“Alright.”

In the end, it was Freedman who backed down first.

“What’s that?”

“Luciana’s exclusive attendant seems a bit difficult.”

Whispers from the rangers could be heard from behind.

However, there was no significant backlash to their leader being dismissed. 

After all, it’s not easy to openly disrespect one’s savior.

Of course, enduring some uncomfortable stares was a part of the problem.

“Then, we’ll take our leave.”

“Yes, you haven’t been rescued for long, so make sure to take care of yourself.”

“Thank you for your concern. However, a ranger from the 

North can’t just stand by.”

He opened his mouth as if to say something, but then closed it immediately.

-It couldn’t possibly be because of the wary look I gave him.

“So, why did you block his attempt to voice his opinion?”

It was only after everyone had left the tent that she asked me this question.

“I trust that you didn’t do it without reason.”

-Was there ever a time when the gaze of trust felt this burdensome?

“There’s nothing wrong with being cautious. Especially if it’s someone who was just captured by demons.”

Persuasion, brainwashing…

No one could know if he had turned against us through various means.

I pointed that out.

They may be warriors of our North, but

“To me, he’s still a suspicious individual whose identity hasn’t been fully verified. I couldn’t just let someone like that approach Lady Luciana.”

With a firm stance, Luciana placed her hand on her forehead.

“You’re overthinking it. I thought the chief steward had come.”

Her slightly mocking tone made me smile bitterly.

Had I hurt the feelings of the guerrilla members by being suspicious?

“Still, I understand your intention. If it’s advice like that, I’m willing to listen.”

Fortunately, she nodded without any particular suspicion.

‘I’ve exploited Luciana’s trust.’

I wasn’t comfortable.

It was as if I had deceived her kind heart, which genuinely cared for her subordinates.

‘But, this is all for Luciana’s sake.’

I silenced my pricking conscience like that.

“Thank you for understanding.”

“Actually, I’ve heard that there are demons who specialize in disguising themselves as other people. As you said, it doesn’t hurt to be cautious.”

The information I had indirectly shared through Elizabeth was now coming from her mouth.

Just as I was about to dismiss it lightly.

…Wait? Isn’t that not entirely impossible?

Doppelganger.

A demon of shadows skilled in disguise.

If Freedman was a doppelganger,

It would also explain why Luciana’s destruction progress had noticeably increased.

Moreover,

‘Since the Speda ducal family is practically the archenemy of demons, they’re a prime target for exclusion.’

Their formidable power was the only thing keeping them at bay.

Those who have been driving demons to the harsh northern lands for a long time were deep-seated objects of hatred.

Furthermore, it could clearly answer why I, who somewhat knew the original story, did not recognize his name, which seemed somewhat clever to me.

Because, like me, he could just disguise himself as someone else.

“Hans? Are you listening?”

“…Ah! I apologize. I was lost in thought. I’ll correct it immediately.”

At the moment of apologizing to Luciana, considering it as one of the likely possibilities,

-Knock, knock.

A knocking sound echoed.

“Come in.”

The person who entered was a fellow maid I was only slightly acquainted with.

The woman who entered the room bowed her head with the utmost restrained etiquette.

“Lady Luciana, the Duke is looking for you.”

“Hm? What does he want this time?”

Given that she had already received her accolades as a knight,

It seemed unnecessary to call Luciana away from strategizing, at least from my perspective.

To her master’s question, she politely answered,

“He has called for you to address a new issue that has arisen from the testimonies of the recently rescued guerrilla members.”

“A problem?”

“Yes. It seems to be related to you, Lady Luciana.”

Luciana, who had been tilting her head, soon reached out for the sword hanging on the wall.

“He claims to have information about that vampire, Bathory, from before.”

In an instant,

The chamber echoed with the rage and thirst for vengeance that her words evoked.

“Tell me more about it.”

“I’m sorry. That’s all I know… You will be able to hear more details from the Duke.”

Luciana nodded at me,

A clear signal to follow her.

Her determination was not only firm but almost palpable with intensity.

“…This is a mess.”

Before we could even resolve the issue with Freedman, another problem had erupted.

“Have you arrived?”

The middle-aged man, showing a kindly face in front of his daughter,

-Let the demons regret ever stepping foot on this land.

The atmosphere was entirely different from the overwhelming aura of a conquering king he displayed on the battlefield.

“I heard you called for me.”

“Yes. Since it’s the demon that defeated you, it would be best if you were the one to deal with it. I will assign guides, knights, and soldiers to you, so go and avenge yourself.”

Avenge.

Considering the chaos Bathory had caused before, the forces he promised to allocate would undoubtedly be significant.

Luciana clenched her fist, ready to rush off at any moment,

And the Duke, having insured his bets, watched her with satisfaction.

The only one feeling anxious in this situation was me.

‘I’m not fond of internal strife.’

Pitting allies against each other would only serve to amuse our enemy, Tyron.

Even as I worried, the conversation between father and daughter continued.

“I have a question.”

“Speak.”

“Who brought us this welcome news?”

The person who provided the opportunity for revenge.

Her words were laced with a resolve to personally reward the informant.

“The captured guerrilla squad leader, Freedman, reported it.”

As if waiting for that cue, a familiar face appeared behind the Duke.

A man saluting perfectly, his face a picture of loyalty.

“I overheard the demons’ conversation while captured! They plan to start a war in coordination with a vampire they’ve infiltrated inside. Fortunately, I glimpsed a map marking the hideout, so I was able to determine his location!”

A fierce smile spread across Freedman’s face.

“If you entrust me, I will serve as the guide.”

To others, it might seem a display of courage.

However, to me, it was a despicable resolution that filled the council chamber.

“A true role model for the warriors of the North. I will remember your name and face.”

“Rewarding and punishing one’s subordinates is a virtue that nobility should possess. That’s the right attitude.”

The conversation between father and daughter no longer reached my ears.

Suspicion had now turned into certainty.

‘Even if Bathory is a demon who is wary of humans, she definitely isn’t friendly with Levain.’

And then, there’s the negative instigation, but more importantly, there was decisive evidence.

A map marking the hideout?

Such a thing couldn’t exist.

‘Only Elizabeth, Camilla, and I know of her residence.’

Yet, he confidently volunteered to lead the way with some kind of certainty.

He must have some tool that could track Bathory’s location.

It’s obvious.

The only one who could provide such an artifact would be Levain.

‘Freedman is a doppelganger.’

One that has sided with Levain, the Demon King.

A clear enemy of the North.

[Condition: <Identify the suspicious person’s true identity> Achieved]

[Quest Triggered!]

Supporting my conjecture, the status window reacted.

[Freedman was once a noble warrior of the Northern guerrilla forces.]

[However, the Freedman now walking the North has swallowed all his feelings and donned the shell of a shadow demon, a doppelganger.]

[His primary mission, under Levain’s orders, is the assassination of Bathory.]

[Thwart his plans and bring peace to the North.]

[Reward: ???]

[Penalty for Failure: The death of Bathory]

‘…Bathory’s death.’

After all, she’s almost regained her strength and will soon leave my grasp to return to the demon world.

I’ve nearly received all that I could from her.

Even if the bird soon to leave its cage dies, the loss is minimal.

But…

-If you regain your strength, come back with me.

I remembered her reaching out to me in that cave.

Even though our first meeting was the worst and our relationship was built on deception.

‘…How could I just stand by and watch?’

Master and disciple,

Demon and demon advocate.

I’ve become too entangled with her.

Whether it’s practical gain or the realm of personal emotions.

“Hans, prepare my words. And you too, follow me on my journey of vengeance.”

“Yes, Lady.”

‘Let’s save her.’

The decision was already made.

The top priority is somehow dealing with Luciana, who is sharpening her teeth for Bathory.

“Then, I will lead the way. Knights, follow me.”

And to show a lesson to that despicable doppelganger wearing human skin.

For that, I secretly took a communication crystal.

Prev I TOC I Next

Strike 80

Prev I TOC I Next

After leaving the lord’s audience chamber, Hyun-soo organized what he had gained from the Ballas territory.

’20 million gold, plus the noble Per and the White Night.’

A staggering amount of about 200 million won in Korean currency.

But Hyun-soo was still thirsty for more.

‘The cost of rebuilding the forge alone is 400 million.’

It was only halfway there. What he needed to further fill this gap was development.

[Current Development: 53%]

This was already quite an impressive level of development. 

However, Hyun-soo himself found it lacking.

He planned to teach the blacksmiths for two weeks before leaving.

There were two key points.

‘Significantly improving their skills, and getting the blacksmiths who had left to return.’

And so, Hyun-soo had asked Per to gather the blacksmiths.

Hyun-soo headed towards where the blacksmiths were gathered.

***

Blacksmith Ger was a top-notch blacksmith.

Although he had lost to the examiner, Buks, he was clearly the one overseeing the local blacksmiths.

About thirty blacksmiths were gathered in the small plaza of the territory.

Once nearly a hundred, now only this many remained after deaths and departures.

They hadn’t been properly informed about the one who saved the territory.

Seeing the newcomer, the blacksmiths furrowed their brows.

“He’s just a kid, right?”

“This guy is going to teach us?”

They had heard he was quite skilled, but if that skill was some mystical power, how could they learn it?

“I will be teaching you for the next two weeks. Please take care of me.”

The blacksmiths, including Ger, responded lukewarmly.

But then Per personally came and said, “It’s the lord’s command. Trust his words and dedicate yourself to training for two weeks.”

It was ridiculous. What made them even angrier was hearing that Per was following this man’s lead.

“What kind of trickery has he used?”

But there was no helping it.

The blacksmiths reluctantly began to follow him.

Then he said something they couldn’t comprehend.

“I hope you can keep up without falling for the next two weeks.”

What did he mean?

“Let’s start by making a sword. Everyone, please pick up your hammers and anvils.”

And so it began.

He started making a sword.

The blacksmiths half-heartedly nodded along.

But then, Ger looked puzzled.

“Huh? This part, I couldn’t solve it before…?”

But it was solved.

He explained as he hammered. Listening to him, they were amazed.

“Huh? So that’s how it’s done?”

“Wow, so this is how it’s done!”

“What’s this?”

As half a day passed,

Sarak-

One of the blacksmiths took out a writing instrument to take notes.

Initially, the blacksmiths looked at him with a disdainful expression, as if to say, “What a pathetic guy.”

But as time went on, one by one, they started taking out their writing instruments too.

Two days, three days.

He explained the basic theories of major weapons and armor, demonstrating them in practice.

“Now, we all start the actual making. I hope you can all keep up.”

That phrase again.

Ger didn’t understand this ‘keeping up’ at first but then he got it.

‘Why isn’t he sleeping?’

The blacksmiths were puzzled. Those who were dozing off woke up.

Daaang-

The central forge was still filled with the sound of metalworking.

Ger and the blacksmiths blankly took in the scene.

‘He looks so happy…’

‘What? Why does he look so happy without even sleeping?’

‘Is this guy obsessed with blacksmithing?’

Looking at him, they felt a surge of desire and competitiveness.

‘I won’t lose when it comes to effort!’

‘I will create a sword worthy of Lord Per!’

One week.

The man continued his intense schedule.

At some point, the blacksmiths realized why he was such a skilled blacksmith.

Within a week, all the blacksmiths were intently listening to his words.

They became extremely respectful when he spoke.

They wrote down every word so as not to miss anything.

Every word he said resonated with them.

Cock-a-doodle-doo!

Repeatedly facing mornings with the crowing of roosters, the man should have been tired, but he still came to their forges to teach.

“The key to a crossbow is the tensioning process. It needs to be heated properly.”

“You might be tired, but just bear with it a bit longer, I’m not sleeping either, right?”

He was cunning and smart.

How could the learners sleep when the teacher didn’t?

That was unthinkable.

In fact, this attitude motivated the blacksmiths even more.

They couldn’t help but follow his lead, who stood tall without arrogance or laziness, unlike the others.

He said, “The Goyard Kingdom is a land of swords.”

Our kingdom, a very small nation, survives because of one person, the Sword King Barad.

Moreover, there were many knights and talented swordsmen.

“They need your weapons.”

Yes, the way for a land of swords to excel further.

The method was all too simple.

“The soldiers and knights have reached their limits.”

The human body has a limit to how much it can grow.

But there was a way to help them grow stronger and enhance the nation’s power.

“Your weapons can make them stronger. If you make good swords, the blacksmiths who left will return.”

They remembered.

Their colleagues who left as if fleeing.

‘This territory is doomed!’

‘We need to run!’

‘This place is finished!’

They left believing the territory was doomed, largely because of Buks.

But they must have known.

Although called a blacksmith’s territory, this place had been stagnant for a long time.

We were like a factory.

Producing armors with bored expressions every day.

But the man in front was different.

He was joyful and happy.

“It’s you who will make them return.”

Finally, they start crafting from their fingertips. The man continued to stay by their side.

Until the crafting was complete.

***

[The blacksmiths of the Ballas territory are awakened to a new spirit.]

[They become superior blacksmiths under your tutelage.]

[You gain 1 Charisma.]

Hyun-soo continued to gain charisma stats while teaching them.

Charisma is something that can be gained by users in the commander line.

And Hyun-soo enjoyed teaching the blacksmiths.

‘…Wasn’t there even one?’

People who came to his father’s forge asking to be taught. In the modern world, manual blacksmithing is a disregarded profession.

But these people were different.

The power of words was tremendous, and his grandiose speeches ignited their enthusiasm.

Moreover, Hyun-soo deliberately didn’t sleep.

‘Would any student openly sleep when a professor is giving their all in teaching?’

Especially when their performance was rapidly improving.

And Hyun-soo was satisfied as he watched one after another complete their creations.

[The skill level of the blacksmiths of Ballas territory significantly increases.]

[16 intermediate blacksmiths become advanced blacksmiths.]

[1 advanced blacksmith becomes a top-tier blacksmith.]

An unexpected notification also came.

[The teachings of a Master are special.]

[Artifacts crafted in Ballas territory will now be 7% more superior on average.]

[They will pass on your teachings to other blacksmiths.]

[Development increases by 13%.]

Hyun-soo wore a puzzled expression before understanding.

‘Is it because of the detail?’

Ares is, after all, a game.

NPC blacksmiths may talk about skill, but they too rely on the system.

But is this system focused on detail?

Armaments require more detail than one might think.

A good sword needs to be crafted more carefully and with more detail to be a superior weapon.

And Hyun-soo saw the blacksmiths, centered around blacksmith Ger, gathering.

“At first, I doubted you, Hyun-soo. I wondered what we could learn. But during these two weeks, we learned so much.”

Blacksmith Ger bowed respectfully, followed by the other blacksmiths.

[32 blacksmiths of Ballas territory will not forget you.]

Hyun-soo smiled satisfactorily.

“Now it’s time to bring back the blacksmiths who left. Start selling new weapons, take commissions, and show the change.”

Rumors create more rumors, and the territory develops.

The blacksmiths started their sales.

‘The development will continue to rise as they start selling.’

Hyun-soo was curious to see how far it would go.

But right now, Hyun-soo hadn’t slept for nearly four days in the real world.

He logged out to rest.

***

The moment Hyun-soo fell asleep.

A young male user arrived in Ballas territory.

‘The Edrol Syndicate that was dominating Ballas territory has left, haven’t they?’

The user’s name was Helden.

Though only in the 200s level-wise, he was a popular Zlutube streamer with 1.1 million subscribers.

Helden was also known as the ‘Territory Correspondent’.

His content involved introducing territories that users would like or informing about changes in territories.

Territories are very important to users.

They serve as their bases and sometimes as hunting grounds for monsters.

Territories also offer unique quests, special products, and features.

‘Ah, this last-place blacksmith territory. Tsk.’

He had visited Ballas territory about three months ago.

Nearly 70% of the forges were empty, and it was too shabby compared to its reputation as a blacksmith’s territory.

Additionally, the items they sold were subpar.

‘Users flock to a place even if only the artifacts are decently made.’

Helden had done extensive research on this blacksmith territory of Ballas.

‘It’s so bad that nobles even talk about eliminating it.’

In reality, Ballas territory seemed unnecessary.

The blacksmith territories or towers in every kingdom and empire offered items far superior to those found here.

Yet Helden had to visit this place out of professional obligation.

But surprisingly, the users in Ballas territory were causing a commotion.

“Amazing…”

“This is a standard grade? And it’s so cheap too?”

“…?”

Helden looked puzzled at the noisy users.

What’s going on?

He entered one of the forges.

The blacksmith had displayed just one sword. Helden checked it.

‘Huh?’

He sensed something unusual.

‘What’s this?’

To average users, the grade of an artifact isn’t that important.

They are happy and content even with just rare items.

Therefore, even a slight improvement within the standard grade artifacts is appreciated.

Even if it’s just 1% better.

‘Why is this so good?’

The sword was clearly of standard grade.

And Helden, being a territory correspondent, had far more knowledge about Ares than the average user.

‘This is almost 5% better than a regular standard sword?’

A 5% difference is significant.

Especially if it’s for the same price.

And naturally, people choose the better option.

‘Ah, so they’re only selling this because it’s special?’

No wonder they were selling just one piece, tsk tsk.

Helden then entered another forge, and this one too was selling only one artifact.

He checked it.

‘This is about 7% above the average?’

He wore a puzzled expression.

And then he asked the owner.

“Why are you only selling one item?”

“It’s because we realized how inferior our previous creations were before we were taught by him.”

“Who is this person?”

“I can’t speak about him until he gives permission.”

“…?”

What’s this? Such high respect for ‘him’?

Then Helden quickly checked other forges too.

‘What, all of them…?’

The performance of the artifacts is 4-8% better than average.

‘This is huge!’

Helden couldn’t contain his excitement.

Even some places were selling rare or epic items.

“In a regular forge?”

Of course, these were their masterpieces.

But Helden sensed something.

It was the scent of this territory, soon to be bustling.

Helden quickly started a live broadcast.

At that moment,

Hyun-soo’s phone, as he was asleep, kept buzzing with notifications.

[Ballas territory is being flooded with outsiders.]

[Blacksmiths who had left are returning to Ballas territory, having heard the rumors.]

Prev I TOC I Next

Act 29

Prev I TOC I Next

In this world, demons’ strength is classified by their form and the number of horns they possess. 

However, in the game, demons with three horns or more are given unique names based on their special abilities. 

One such demon is the Dream Beast, Hameln, which appears in the Pyrun Forest near the city of Berniden. 

The reason why I can recall this demon’s name so clearly is thanks to its infamous reputation. 

‘It even had over 15 pages of strategy guides on the wiki.’

As an erosion-type demon, once Hameln completes eroding a certain area, it can then transform that area into its fortress. 

A labyrinth with entrances and exits that change daily. 

A swamp that looks harmless but poisons you the moment you step into it. 

Demons armed with all sorts of status ailments and Hameln’s own mental attacks. 

And so on. 

Hameln was like a nightmare to players, so the words ‘Berniden,’ ‘tri-horned demon,’ and ‘Pyrun Forest’ immediately brought to mind the demon Hameln.

I anticipated that the schedule for subjugation missions would be moved up after the Ascension Festival because I could recall Hameln’s abilities. 

Now, about two days have passed, so probably tomorrow. 

If not, then on the day the festival begins………….

“Sir Julian! Lord Oronil has requested your immediate presence at the mansion!” 

I thought it would be soon, but this was faster than expected. 

As I was spreading Berniden’s famous bacon jam on my bread, enjoying the warm sunlight, I looked up at the ‘Closed Eyes’ member of the squad who had rushed in through the door. 

Then, ‘the color of fear’ started to rise above his head.

“I’m so, so sorry! I didn’t know you were eating!” 

“No, it’s okay. It was urgent.” 

As I took a bite of the bread, the rich sweet and salty flavor began to unfold on my tongue. 

No wonder it’s a specialty, I thought, smiling. 

It was just the right taste to start the day.

***

Upon arriving at the mansion, the first to greet me was Oronil, who looked deathly pale and defeated, a stark contrast to his proud demeanor the day before. 

Next to him stood a woman who appeared to be his wife. 

She, too, looked troubled and anxious, similar to Oronil. 

“You called for me, Lord Oronil.” 

As I greeted Oronil respectfully, he slowly lifted his head to meet my gaze. 

It hadn’t even been a full day since our conversation yesterday, yet his face was filled with worry, suggesting some troubling news. 

The first thing he mentioned was about his daughter. 

“My daughter, Terina, has not awakened since last night.” 

“I see.”

“The family doctor doesn’t know why she’s in this condition…?” 

Oronil mumbled with a look of utter despair. 

It seems his daughter fell unconscious last night. 

The cause is unknown. 

Since even the family doctor couldn’t determine the cause, this must have been devastating news for Oronil and his family. 

“Terina is like a treasure to me, born after several miscarriages. Why would this happen to her…….”

Had I been Julian, I might have responded with sarcasm. 

The thought crossed my mind, but I wasn’t heartless enough to say such things to a father distressed over his daughter. 

“You called me because of your daughter, Terina. You thought I might know why she cannot awaken.” 

“…..”

“Originally, I’m not a medical expert. I specialize in demon subjugation. By calling me, Lord Oronil, you must have some suspicion, don’t you?” 

Oronil let out a low sigh filled with self-reproach. 

“Then, let me say it first. As you suspected, Lord Oronil, the reason your daughter cannot wake up is indeed due to a demon from Pyrun Forest.” 

Seeing hope in Oronil’s eyes after my words, it was clear he had been desperate for an explanation for his daughter’s condition and the source of her affliction, which I had just confirmed. 

No longer appearing near death, Oronil urgently asked me for more information.

“If that’s the case… then let’s move up the subjugation schedule we postponed yesterday! Who cares about Ascension Day now! My daughter is…!” 

“It’s already too late.” 

However, when I pointed out that the recent incident was the work of a demon, the hope that had been blossoming on his face withered away with my response. 

“What do you mean by that?!” 

“The demon sleeping in the Pyrun Forest is named ‘Mongsu Hameln’. It is a Tri-horn-grade demon with three horns, an erosion type that roots itself into the ground, making the surrounding land its territory.” 

As I continued to speak, Oronil watched me open my mouth with a very serious expression. 

“As it absorbs the energy of the land, it also spreads pollen, implanting its seeds into the animals nearby.” 

“Seeds, you say?” 

“Animals implanted with the seed soon become Hameln’s limbs and start moving. Fortunately, it doesn’t have a significant effect on humans, but there are always exceptions.” 

“What are the exceptions?” 

“The exceptions are…” 

“Young children.” 

His face darkened dramatically. It was clear he could easily infer the situation his daughter was in from my words. 

“Especially for children who have just lost their baby teeth. The spots where the teeth fell out are connected to nerves, making it easier to reach the brain.” 

“Then shouldn’t we subjugate that demon as soon as possible?” 

Oronil yelled at me in frustration, but my response was cold. 

“As I said earlier, it’s too late. Hasn’t it already started its activity? Demons are not fools. Especially those of a Tri-horn grade have quite developed intelligence.” 

A war is started only when one thinks they can win. 

“Mongsu Hameln, judged that it has Pyrun Forest under its feet and resumed its activities. Using the forest it dominates, it will interfere with all our efforts to find it.” 

“Then, even now…………….” 

“Meanwhile, Sir Oronil’s daughter will lose her life.” 

Oronil glared at me with wide eyes, anger flickering above his head, ready to lash out at any moment. 

However, that intense emotion faded away soon. Like a flame with nothing left to burn, the color of ‘anger’ eventually disappeared completely. 

“Sir Julian, I must ask, just in case… 

“Yes.” 

“If I had granted permission for the subjugation when you came yesterday, could we have prevented this situation from happening?” 

“Yes, that’s why I came from the institution.” 

A sigh full of sorrow escaped Oronil’s lips. Unable to hold back her tears, his wife began to cry, and Oronil started to console her. 

“Do you want to save your daughter?” 

At my words, Oronil, startled, turned his gaze back to me. 

“Is that… possible?” 

“It is possible. But it will cause harm to Sir Oronil. No, to be precise, to the border city of Berniden.” 

“Damage, you say?” 

“Yes.” 

Despite sensing something suspicious, his concern for his daughter seemed to outweigh his mistrust of me. 

Instead, that mistrust turned into immense trust. 

The Empire’s laughing executioner, Julian Crypart Frason. 

This character has many nicknames, one of which is ‘the master of demon subjugation’, isn’t it? 

“I can bear any damage. For my daughter’s sake…!” 

“Is that so? Then, I’m glad.” 

As I was about to smile at Oronil’s response, I suddenly remembered to hide my emotions as much as possible. 

After all, Julian, already not well-received, smiling in such a situation would look like a villain playing with a daughter’s life.

***

Mongsu Hameln.

As I mentioned earlier, there are more than a few players who shudder at this name.

And for a good reason. If it begins to resume its activities, it starts by turning the Pyrun Forest into a maze, trapping players with its minions armed with various status ailments.

Moreover, the maze’s exit changes every day, making it impossible to develop a systematic strategy to conquer it.

This led people to call this Hameln a demon imbued with the developers’ malice.

‘If you vent this frustration on the forums, you’ll just get a bunch of replies telling you to endure with sheer grit.’

Of course, I’m also one of the victims of this bundle of malice.

Out of the 15 pages listed on the wiki, about 7 pages were written by me, so you can’t even begin to describe the rage I felt at the time.

Now, having become ‘Julian’, I find myself in a situation where I must eliminate this embodiment of evil.

However, I don’t feel as helpless as before.

I could spend days pondering how to breach the maze that Pyrun Forest has become.

I wasn’t afraid to face enemies armed with poison, convulsions, decay, and blindness, among other status ailments.

The reason is simple.

Instead of facing those dangers, I chose the simplest and easiest strategy.

Not thinking about the future.

“Preparations are complete, Sir Julian. We can start as soon as the wind changes direction.”

“But… must we really do this?”

“We must. If we leave it be, it will clearly become a threat to Berniden. Ignoring a danger is a foolish act.”

“But… to burn down Pyrun Forest…”

The members of ‘Closed Eyes’ looked at me bewildered, holding the oil drums they had spread around.

“We don’t intend to burn down Pyrun Forest entirely. We’re just exterminating the area where the demon has taken root.”

“Is that alright? Lord Oronil will be furious. Pyrun Forest is closely related to Ascension Day, isn’t it?”

When one of the Closed Eyes members asked with a worried voice, I replied, “Lord Oronil has given his permission. He prioritizes the safety of Berniden’s citizens over Ascension Day.”

“But why would he… Yesterday, he was against it…”

The member who was speaking glanced at me. When I gave him a reassuring smile, he coughed awkwardly and bowed his head.

“Ah, my apologies. It seems I spoke out of turn.”

Should I clear up this misunderstanding? It’s not like I’ve threatened them, but it seems they might be thinking that way.

“The wind has changed direction!”

That was when one of the other members loudly announced the change in wind direction.

All eyes turned to me.

The members of ‘Closed Eyes’ and the soldiers deployed from Berniden at Oronil’s behest.

“Then let’s begin.”

Was there a need to wait any longer?

With my word, the members and soldiers threw their lit torches into the depths of Pyrun Forest.

As the torches touched the oil-soaked trees, the flames grew into a blazing inferno.

Crackling!

The sound of sparks flying and the acrid smoke began to fill the surroundings, and I tapped the sword at my waist.

Roar!

Along with the monstrous screams filled with pain, a massive rumbling began.

At the center of that sound was a monstrous tree with human faces carved into it, ‘Mongsu Hameln,’ charging towards us.

“Eeek!”

“It’s the demon! Prepare for battle!”

Some of the soldiers, preemptively frightened by the giant Tri-horn demon’s charge, either froze in place or stumbled backward.

Unperturbed by their reaction, I stepped forward, drew my moon-blade sword as always, and sent aura flowing through the blade.

Its horrific appearance and tree-like size were no reason for fear.

Of the 15 pages listed on the wiki, 14.9 pages were all about how to break the fortress it had created.

The character count of the text detailing the strategy against the demon ‘Mongsu Hameln’ was barely 500.

The moment it revealed itself, its fate was as good as sealed.

Prev I TOC I Next

Survival 48

Prev I TOC I Next

For Luciana, demons were an evil presence worse than mindless monsters. 

“They have coveted our lands for centuries, plundering life and property. What need is there for mercy?” 

And when she watched them from atop the walls, the rage boiling within her felt entirely justified.

“Argh!”  

“Jack! Snap out of it!”  

“Maintain formation! Never yield the high ground to these human scum!”

…But now, she wasn’t so sure. 

Clashing with the knights, and facing the swords of her ancestors, the screams of those falling… didn’t seem all that different from humans.  

“Foolish. If death frightens you so, why invade our lands?” 

No reply came to the quietly muttered question. 

Luciana’s eyes grew heavy with resignation. 

The faces reflected in her sword did not belong to determined warriors, but showed fear more fitting of ordinary villagers.  

“Pff, what nonsense,” she scoffed. 

Of course, not all were like that.

-Crash-  

Levain, armored head to toe in steel, trampled over those felled by his sword.  

“Do not doubt. Simply offer your blood.” 

He stood before her, breathing heavily through the slit of his helm, a warrior prepared for death just like her knights, revealing the bare minimum required to stand on the battlefield.  

“We act as commanded by the True Dragon.”

However, she couldn’t help but frown upon hearing his reason.  

“Is that all there is to it? Even if it is for you, those fallen around you might not think the same.”  

“Hmph. Whether it’s those weaklings or myself, the will of the True Dragon is our will. It’s an instinct we cannot defy.” 

Spouting what seemed like nonsensical gibberish, he then raised a greatsword as large as himself.  

“My duty is to defend this place. Be prepared to die if you wish to cross.”

He was standing in front of a red tent, already knowing who was inside.  

-According to a deserter’s testimony, there are prisoners in a differently colored tent at the center of the enemy camp. 

That’s why she had taken the risk to come here.

“What do the demons plan to do with human prisoners?”  

“…I have no obligation to answer you.”  

“Well, fine. Just as you have, I will take what I want by force.”

Facing an opponent armed with heavy armor and a greatsword, she transformed her weapon into a rapier for a more agile response.  

“That sword. I covet it.”

-Bang!-  

At first glance, it seemed slow, but its heaviness was laden with a dark aura aiming straight for her head. 

Normally, she would have parried it.  

But.  

“Clashing is not the only way.” 

Gentle weakness overcomes rigid strength. 

She had learned this painful lesson well during her sparring sessions with Hans.

Therefore, she angled her blade diagonally and leaped to the side.  

Bang!  

In the moment the greatsword that missed her plunged into the ground, she counterattacked twice, ducked to dodge another swing of the greatsword, and then retreated.  

“I tried imitating Hans. It seems more doable than I thought.”  

She understood why he preferred lighter armor. 

Though the full plate armor she usually wore was enchanted to be lighter, the switch to thinner, leather armor made it much easier to move and dodge attacks.  

“Indeed, a knight! Good. You’ll make a fine opponent to conclude this battle!”  

A voice filled with the fervor of battle echoed from within the helmet across the snowy field.  

“Come at me, young human knight!”  

“Don’t rush me. I’ll fight you on your terms.”  

Luciana replied as such, but she clicked her tongue at the challenge before her.  

It was like a steel wall.  

There was seemingly no gap in his thick armor.  

The two counterattacks had also failed to make an impact.  

‘The seams of the armor must be the target.’  

While more difficult, it wasn’t impossible.  

Just as she fixed her gaze on the small grooves connecting each forearm and was about to thrust her sword,  

-Clatter-  

Suddenly, the armor on the forearm she had been focusing on fell to the ground at the seams.  

“What is this…!”  

That was just the beginning.  

Then the legs, helmet, and chest plate, one by one. 

Like bricks being removed from a wall causing the entire structure to collapse, all parts of the armor fell, revealing the demon’s bare flesh.  

“He’s here.”  

She immediately knew whose handiwork it was.

And she wasn’t about to waste the opportunity he created.  

-Thwack-  

A swift, fluid strike pierced through the elite demon warrior Levain’s vital spot.  

“Argh!”  

He fell to his knees and soon after, silence ensued.  

“That was timely help.”  

“Huff, huff… You flatter me. Are you injured anywhere?”  

Such unnecessary worry.  

“Do you think I’d let these fools best me? As you can see, I’m fine.”  

Despite her assurances, the shadow of concern didn’t leave her loyal servant’s face.  

***  

“Really? I trust you’re not hiding any injuries.”  

“…Now you’re really sounding like the steward. How many times must I say it? I’m fine.”  

Despite her assurances, and although she appeared unscathed on the outside, the unease lingered.  

[Luciana’s Demise Progress]  

[30% -> 35%]  

While on my way to find her, for some reason, the system displayed her demise progress with a loud warning sound.  

Though it was a slight increase, I hadn’t expected it to rise suddenly in such a place.  

The forgotten threat to her life sent a chill down my spine.  

‘Could it be the appearance of a higher entity like Bathory?’  

With that worrisome thought, I hurried towards Luciana.  

…Well, it seems she’s safe, at least.

The giant that Luciana had taken down was certainly among the elite of the Levain soldiers, but by no means a higher entity. 

Even without my help, she could have surely handled him alone.  

“So why exactly did the demise progress increase?”  

“Is something the matter with you? You look troubled.”  

“Oh, no! It’s truly a relief if nothing is wrong with you. Really!”  

While making excuses to shake off the awkwardness of the moment, I didn’t let my guard down.  

‘The status window can’t be wrong.’  

Whether it’s a Bathory appearance, a guardian’s rampage, or Camilla’s scheming, the changes in the status window have always been accurate amidst numerous variables.  

“Let’s not worry about that now. We’re about to rescue our allies. If you show such unease, that fear might spread.”  

“Ahaha… I’ll do just that.”  

Ouch.  

It’s as if her gaze had physical force.  

“…Well, you might have something on your mind, but it’s also a problem to brood over it alone. Feel free to share with me later.”  

I remained silent in response.  

After looking at me intently for a while, she finally concluded.  

“Rescuing our allies comes first. We’re short on hands; will you help?”  

“Of course. Leave it to me.”  

Truly my favorite, wise and infinitely kind. I can’t help but admire her for considering even the silence of her subordinate and moving on.  

She stepped forward to lead the way.  

In such times, I can’t let Luciana take the lead.  

Normally, a servant follows their master, but it’s different in dangerous places.  

“Huh.”  

“Is there a problem?”  

“There are no more Levain to deal with. But that doesn’t mean there’s no issue.”  

A group was found bound and unconscious.  

Among them, Luciana quickly approached the ones lying in the front.  

“Marc, Nazar!”  

“Do you know them?”  

“They’re part of the guerrilla unit. I even sparred with them when I was young.”  

-It’s rare for a noble to remember the names of ordinary citizens,  

Especially from just one sparring session.  

It made me realize anew how much Luciana cares about the people around her.  

“Fortunately, neither of them seems to have serious injuries. We should support them quickly.”  

“Wait! Please rest easy, my lady. I will carry them.”  

Then a questioning voice came.  

“You’re going to support two at once?”  

I know. It’s inefficient.  

But what can I do.  

[Luciana’s Demise Progress]  

[35% -> 36%]

As you get closer to them, an unidentified threat seems to approach as well.  

“Anyway, there are others here, so it’s not like you’ll only need to make one or two trips. I’ll help out as well.”  

“No, leave tasks like supporting them to me. Please, protect us from any remaining Levain stragglers that might appear.”  

Luciana nodded without much objection, accepting the convenient excuse.  

“I could take on the supporting role, and you could cover me.”  

“Ah! After such a strenuous battle, you should rest a bit.”  

Politely but firmly, I refused, hiding my desperate resolve behind a loyal facade. 

Now is not the time for me to be coddled!  

“Ha-ha, alright. I’ll make sure not a single hair on your head is touched.”  

Seemingly satisfied with my reasoning, she readily gripped her sword.  

“Then I’m in your debt.”  

“Don’t worry. My tactical acumen may still be developing, but I’m not so naive as to be oblivious to our current situation.”  

Indeed, she’s right. 

Though it’s framed as protection, the reality is that the situation has largely swung in our favor.  

“It was practically over the moment the duke overwhelmed their leader and broke through.”  

No doubt, the Levain, being one of the most formidable among demons and having honed their skills in internal conflicts, are formidable. 

But now, without a commander and being picked off one by one, the situation has essentially been resolved.  

Soon, preparations for a victorious return will likely begin.  

I heaved the slumped prisoner’s body back up.  

“Wouldn’t it be better if I supported one? You seem to be struggling.”  

“Ugh, no, it’s fine. There’s still the risk of remaining enemies.”  

But the good news gave me the strength to carry on with the hefty task of transporting two guerrilla members.  

[Luciana’s Demise Progress]  

[35% -> 33%]  

Fortunately, these two, connected to Luciana, do not seem to be a cause of her demise.  

“Your face has brightened again. See, that lively expression suits you best. Always keep it in front of me.”  

“I’ll try.”  

Yet, despite her wish, my expression gradually became harder to maintain.  

[33% -> 35%]  

[35% -> 32%]  

The status window fluctuated even as I moved the soldiers.  

It felt like monitoring stock trades in real-time.  

‘Why has the always reliable status window suddenly become so erratic?’  

If there was a clear cause, it might be different, but the uncertainty made it even more frustrating.  

“Are you sure you don’t need help? Now that the battlefield is nearly cleared, we could ask another knight.”  

“Heave, ho. No! You are currently of knightly status, my lady. Asking someone else would surely incur a debt. Better that I handle it.”  

Honestly, that’s nonsense.  

I can hardly believe what I just said.  

Just one last person to save.  

Once we rescue the man tied to the stake at the very back of the tent, the campaign against the Levain tribe will have successfully concluded.

[35% -> 38%]  

But somehow, as I got closer to the guy,  

[38% -> 40%]  

the alarm bells in my heart rang louder.  

“…It was him.”  

“Hans…? Why are you acting like this? He should be our comrade, yet you’re so guarded.”  

“…Ha-ha. I’m just naturally cautious.”  

“That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve heard lately. Where else would you find someone who opens up to strangers as easily as you do?”  

Unlike me, who hesitated, Luciana was all in on the rescue.  

“Wait a moment!”  

Before I could stop her, she approached him.  

“…Please, save me. I need water…”  

“Don’t just stand there. We need to save him first, don’t we?”  

She carefully poured water from the flask she carried into his mouth.  

“Ugh. Where am I?”  

“Are you alright? Who are you? Name and affiliation, now.”  

Dressed in the uniform of the northern army, he stuttered out his name in response to Luciana’s inquiry.  

“I am the squad leader of the 4th Guerrilla Unit, Freedman…”  

“Alright, I understand. You’ve had a tough time being captured by the enemy. We’ll arrange for you to return to 

your unit soon.”  

She attempted to support the now unconscious man again, in a show of camaraderie.  

“Ah! Let me handle the supporting. Such menial tasks should be left to the servant.”  

Though, to be precise, it was because I couldn’t trust him.  

“Always making a fuss. Fine, but don’t overdo it.”  

A bitter taste lingered in my mouth.  

Partly from exhaustion,  

‘Freedman, was it? I don’t recall hearing that name in the original story. Should I cut the problem off at its root right now?’  

For a moment, I entertained such a drastic option.  

The situation was clearly critical.  

Since the message in the status window was always right, it was clear that he was the cause of the increase in the demise progress.  

Ending his life would presumably return things to normal.  

‘No, that’s too hasty.’  

Considering the guerrilla unit and the fortress knights who value their comrades,  

And the risk of plummeting Luciana’s favorability,  

…It seemed I had to observe a bit longer.  

The body heat felt through the shoulder I supported was uncomfortably irksome.

Prev I TOC I Next

Strike 79

Prev I TOC I Next

[The grace of the Lord activates for user Hyun-soo.]

Upon hearing the alert, team member Lee Ji-hee called Team Leader Kim.

“T, Team Leader.”

Kim Tae-seok checked the monitor. This was what Lee Ji-hee was worried about.

“Could it be the blacksmith Per…?”

Hyun-soo’s level was just barely 120.

On the other hand, Per’s level was 286. Originally, Per was a blacksmith of level 230.

But, having been taught by Hyun-soo, his level had explosively increased by over 50 levels.

The biggest problem was that Per had become a master craftsman by creating an artifact close to legendary status.

“If a level 120 user has a master blacksmith as a vassal…”

Kim Team Leader smirked at her concern.

“Impossible.”

“Excuse me?”

Why would it be impossible?

In Ji-hee’s view, Per seemed sufficiently likely to be swayed by the grace of the Lord.

“What’s the difference between Banya and Per?”

Ji-hee thought hard.

“Ah…”

“Right, Banya was unaffiliated, while Old Man Per is the blacksmith of a lord.”

Right, even if the system alerts, that sense of belonging would restrain Per.

What’s more, if he were to betray his lord at will and follow Hyun-soo?

That would be a grave crime.

‘Is this the trap of the grace of the Lord?’

The highest S-class title available to commander types or guild masters!

That’s its limitation.

Then, Lee Ji-hee suddenly realized something.

“But, Team Leader, the grace of the Lord is random, right?”

“That’s right? Usually, it activates for the person most impressed, but it is random.”

“But it might not have activated for Per, right?”

“Then for whom… Ah…?”

Team Leader Kim had a shocked expression and chuckled in disbelief.

“Could it be…?”

Team Leader Kim hoped that his guess was not true.

***

[Nel: I learn a lot from you, Master.]

[Hyun-soo: Hehe….]

Hyun-soo, who had been moved to a hospital room, was hopeful.

The last alert that had sounded.

‘It must be Per?’

Currently, Hyun-soo was more aware of his situation than anyone else.

Lacking the power of Hyun’s forge, he even secretly founded a guild.

‘We need talented people.’

Both NPCs and players were needed. However, they must be a select few, trustworthy ones.

‘And I can’t always be at the forge.’

Ares isn’t just a game where you make items.

Hyun-soo felt the need to become stronger.

‘But I can’t just put any blacksmith in.’

If Master Blacksmith Per were there, it would be perfect.

Just then, Per entered.

Hyun-soo had subconsciously hoped.

As soon as he entered, like Banya, he would bow to him and swear loyalty!

But it wasn’t so.

“I misunderstood you, I’m sorry. To suspect someone who saved my life might have stolen the money and run away.”

“It’s alright.”

Hyun-soo smiled gently. Then Per handed him a sword.

“Take it, it’s a sword I made for the duel with Buks. It’s essentially thanks to you that it was made.”

“No, I couldn’t possibly accept this precious item…”

Although he said so, Hyun-soo keenly accepted it.

Hyun-soo actually needed a better sword.

Wasn’t Light a level 1 epic-grade sword?

He checked it right away.

(White Tiger)

Grade: Unique

Durability: 9,000/9,000

Attack Power: 401

Restrictions: No restrictions for the creator, above level 280, swordsman

Special Abilities:

· Strength 3%, Stamina 3% increase.

· Passive Skill Triple Damage.

· Passive Skill Sixfold Damage.

· Active Skill Light of White Tiger.

Description: This sword, a masterpiece of the elderly blacksmith Per, was crafted under the guidance of a distinguished blacksmith and is close to legendary status. 

It is a great sword. Particularly outstanding is its percentage increase in strength and stamina. 

‘% Increase shines more as the level rises.’ 

It’s a top-quality sword among great swords, with no unnecessary effects. 

Just looking at the attack power, while Light had 143, this sword boasts 401. 

And Hyun-soo was hopeful. 

‘If he’s giving his own sword, maybe Per is…?’ 

Hyun-soo raised his head slightly in anticipation, but Per looked puzzled. 

“Do you have a sore neck? Shall I massage it for you?” 

“No, don’t you respect or wish to join me?” Hyun-soo asked directly, albeit embarrassingly. 

“That is true.” Per spoke honestly. “But I am a person of the lord, how could I abandon my lord for another?” 

At this, Hyun-soo understood the reason. 

‘Even if it was activated, because he belongs to the lord, it doesn’t work?’ 

Hyun-soo felt disappointed, but it was unavoidable. The consequences of forcing him to serve could be unimaginable. 

“The lord is looking for you.” 

And then came the moment Hyun-soo had been waiting for. 

When the lord reclaimed the money, Hyun-soo received this notification. 

[Development progress increases by 15%.] 

Hyun-soo met with Lord Belin. To him, Belin was indeed a beauty. 

With a height of 167 cm, blonde hair, and a perfect figure, she was admirable. 

Nel was certainly beautiful, but even she seemed pale in comparison to Belin. 

Hyun-soo was convinced. If Belin hadn’t been confined and was well known to the players, perhaps she would have been ‘the most beloved NPC by the players’? 

Belin said, “Welcome, Hero Hyun-soo.” 

It was always a thrilling word to hear. Especially when Hyun-soo met lords or named NPCs, he always looked forward to something. 

“I bestow upon you the blacksmith’s blessing.” 

[You receive the Blacksmith’s Blessing.] 

[All artifact effects are enhanced by 5%.] 

Belin was truly the owner of the blacksmith territory. 

Although not a skilled blacksmith, she had acquired blacksmithing skills. 

“I heard from a woman named Nel. Why you were on your knees in that state.” Belin said with a slight smile. “If it weren’t for you, we wouldn’t have recovered the taxes from forced labor. Therefore, I’ve decided to give you 50% of the reclaimed money.” 

[You gain 160,000 gold.] 

Hyun-soo was astonished. In an instant, he received a huge sum of 160 million. And then Hyun-soo felt something strange. Every time Belin made eye contact with him, her face turned red. Her eyes also reddened, and she seemed unable to control her emotions. 

‘Wait a minute, could this be…’ 

“It’s strange.” Belin slowly stood up. “When I see you, I feel an inexplicable emotion. For a mere blacksmith, I feel an overwhelming respect.” 

Belin could not understand what this was. 

“I want to be with you and protect you.” 

Hyun-soo was taken aback. 

‘Why did the grace of the lord go there?’ 

But thinking about it, it made sense. Belin had been trapped for a long time and was freed thanks to Hyun-soo. 

Hyun-soo realized that she couldn’t serve him because she was a lord. 

After all, Hyun-soo was merely a man without a title. 

And Belin seemed anxious, troubled by these unknown feelings. 

Hyun-soo accepted it as right. 

He had intended to stay in this territory anyway to further increase its development. 

There was a simple way to raise the development level. And he wanted to make her respect and cherish him more to achieve his desired outcome. 

“I plan to stay and teach the blacksmiths before leaving.” 

Belin’s emotions swelled even more. 

“I want this territory to grow much more. I am a blacksmith. It’s only natural.” 

Belin felt grateful again and wanted to relieve these feelings. And she made a decision. 

“Per.” 

“Yes, my lord.” 

“…Please protect Hyun-soo.”

“Excuse me?”

Per, not quite understanding at first, slowly nodded his head. 

The lord cannot follow a trivial person, and she wanted to repay in some way. 

Moreover, even if the grace of the lord hadn’t activated, Per’s fondness for Hyun-soo was already at MAX. He had saved Per and fulfilled a 20-year longing in his life. And both Per and Belin had already heard about it from the previously awakened woman, Nel. 

“I think it would be helpful for Master Hyun-soo’s small guild. What do you think, Per?” 

“It’s a good idea.” 

Per stroked his chin. “In fact, if Master Hyun-soo had just left, I would have been very worried. But didn’t he say it himself? He will teach the blacksmiths before he leaves.” 

Per had personally witnessed Hyun-soo’s power. The lord allowed it, no, the lord personally sent him. Per took a step forward. 

“I, Per, have lived as a blacksmith for over 40 years.” He bowed slowly. “From now on, I will only create for Master Hyun-soo, and live only for him.” 

Lord Belin remembered Hyun-soo awkwardly accepting the master blacksmith. Now, a man who just manages a small guild is accepting a master blacksmith. But then… 

“No.” 

His voice was firm. 

And Belin’s mouth slightly opened. 

The power emanating from his small level, or perhaps because he stands at the pinnacle among blacksmiths. 

“Create for me and my people.” 

Belin was amazed. 

And she realized. 

Respect. Awe. Trust. At the end of admiration was excitement. 

And Per was awestruck. 

The order to create not for himself but for his people and their people. 

He truly felt like he was serving a rightful lord and responded energetically. 

“Yes!” 

[Per swears eternal loyalty.] 

***

“Your Majesty, may I ask something?” Vice Captain Bella asked while playing chess. 

“What is it?” 

“Why did you specifically send Hyun-soo?” 

Barad was silent for a moment, and Bella didn’t understand. 

She had heard that Barad would later grant him a territory. 

But why specifically send him to the blacksmith territory? 

Perhaps it would have been resolved if Bella had been sent. 

Yes, Bella felt it was like a test. A test to grant a territory? Does he need to achieve such accomplishments for that? 

Barad answered. “I have no children.” 

“Excuse me?” 

For a moment, Bella’s brain stopped. 

He has no children…? She pondered over his words again and again and then dropped a chess piece. 

“Does that mean…” 

The meaning of having no children to succeed his position. 

“I was just saying.” 

Despite his words, Barad chuckled bitterly. 

“Just a wish.” 

Someone in the kingdom is always waiting for his downfall. 

“I am still young.” 

Barad was still young. He just wanted to test many people before that time comes. 

“Just one of them.” 

Yes, just one among many. 

“Hyun-soo is still a commoner.” 

Yes, Bella realized. It was just His Majesty’s wish. And even if such a thing were to happen, it would be years away. 

“What percentage of development would satisfy Your Majesty?” 

“Hmm.” 

Barad touched his chin. A commoner and a level 120 blacksmith. 

“40% would be worth expecting, wouldn’t it?” 

“…As expected, it’s challenging to satisfy Your Majesty.”

Bella nodded her head.

A single foreigner bringing a territory’s development over 40%?

Of course, it’s difficult to say exactly how remarkable a 40% increase is.

However, this is a challenge even for the strongest rankers.

Then,

“Master Hyun-soo has arrived.”

Barad had heard the news.

Two weeks ago, Hyun-soo had driven out someone named Buks and had been staying in the territory for a while.

And Barad had given him a mission and the ‘Sword of Royal Judgment.’

The Sword of Royal Judgment possessed a unique power.

It could reveal how a foreigner completed a mission or what happened when the king commanded something.

Or, with this single sword, it was even possible to check the status of the entire kingdom – a mysterious sword indeed.

Hyun-soo was granted an audience with Barad.

Barad was curious.

Yes, how far had Hyun-soo brought the development of that territory?

20%?

‘That would be quite satisfying.’

After all, having a successor was just a wish.

With that thought, Barad drew the sword.

Curious about the progress Hyun-soo had made, he infused magic into it to activate it.

[The blacksmiths of Ballas Territory can now craft higher-quality weapons and armor.]

[The quality of artifacts supplied to soldiers and knights increases.]

[The national power of the Goyard Kingdom increases by 1%.]

Barad was astonished.

It wasn’t just a mere 1%.

The fact that it was possible to raise a nation’s power by 1% was astounding.

Even policies proposed by his ministers struggled to achieve a 1% increase.

Barad was immensely curious.

‘So, exactly how much…’

What percentage of development had been achieved?

Unable to hold back, he asked,

“…What percentage of development has been achieved?”

Hyun-soo opened his mouth to respond.

Prev I TOC I Next

Act 28

Prev I TOC I Next

This demon’s heart, extracted only from demons of a Tri-horn rank or higher, serves as the material for crafting horns of the Demon God Barbatos’ sacred relic, ‘Demon Godhood,’ and also acts as a vessel for gathering the residual thoughts of the Demon God. 

Moreover, gathering these residual thoughts (殘死念) together could lead to the resurrection of the Demon God, hence it is closely related to the current objective of the Dawn Society. 

‘To think that the moment one joins the Dawn Society, they’re tasked with hunting down Tri-horn demons.’ 

While it was anticipated that the Dawn Society would have informants within the royal family, the reality of this expectation brought a bitter taste to the tip of the tongue. 

Too large to be called a secret society, it’s an organization with unparalleled power. 

Thus, contemplating how to deal with the enormous influence of the Dawn Society was daunting. 

‘But what can I do? Now that I’m a part of it, I have to see it through to the end.’ 

With that thought, I leaned my arms on the window frame and continued to follow the moving scenery with my eyes. 

I am currently aboard the Adratan Empire’s proud tourist express train. 

The destination is the border city Berniden, where the ‘Tri-horn demon’ is reported to have appeared, as informed by the secretary’s office. 

The train was not crowded. 

Powered by the incredibly valuable ‘Resonance Stone,’ the train was merely a means of transport for the wealthy nobility. 

Moreover, since the railway does not cover the entire empire, the clientele is even more limited. 

*** 

“Ah, it’s so quiet and nice. Having a means of transportation that connects the major cities is truly a blessing.” 

While internally extending such praise about the train, Herand, sitting opposite, spoke up. 

“That’s right, Brother Herand.” 

“Ha, haha…….” 

He laughed an uncomfortable laugh, sweating profusely. 

It was quite a sight to encounter Herand by chance in the train’s assigned seating, as if having seen a ghoul with my own two eyes. 

“By the way, Brother Herand, what’s your destination? Are you thinking of going to the border city Berniden, like me?” 

“Yes, that’s right. The Ascension Day of the Sun God Religion is coming up, isn’t it? I am going as the representative of the Crypart family.” 

Ascension Day, now that I think about it, it’s about that time. 

Responding with ‘Is that so?’ and a smile to Herand’s question, Herand swallowed hard. 

“And what about you? Are you on a mission?” 

“Yes, that’s correct. It’s part of my duties as the ‘Closed Eye.'”

“That’s good to hear. You’ve had it tough.”

“Not at all.”

Glancing above Herand’s head, the ‘color of fear’ writhed continuously. 

He seemed eager to leave his seat as soon as possible, and even without seeing the ‘color,’ it was evident how uncomfortable he was in this situation. 

“By the way, Brother, have you been taking good care of the orchid I gave you?”

To alleviate Herand’s discomfort even slightly, I brought up the topic of the orchid. 

“Yes, yes, I’ve been taking very good care of it. I treasure every leaf… as if it were my own life!”

“It’s a relief to hear you’re treating it as precious as your life.”

“Ha, haha… Hahaha!”

Herand laughed heartily, but the ‘color of fear’ on his face writhed even more fiercely. 

I merely asked if he was taking good care of the orchid, but what was he thinking about?

***

Upon the train’s arrival in the border city, Berniden, I left the station and headed into the city. 

Unlike the developing Yulin Special District, Berniden had a decent crowd and felt like a city with a human touch. 

This meant I was the only person dispatched for this mission. 

There was no need for a wizard for the Resonance Stone’s upkeep, nor was there a need for an escort since we were using the train. 

In other words, it also meant that I might have to face and subdue demons alone. 

I knew someone here, but it would still be better to have more than just myself. 

‘I wonder how many ‘Closed Eyes’ members are in Berniden.’

***

“Then, I’ll be going ahead.”

“Yes, take care.”

“By the way, just a word of caution, don’t cross Lord Oronil of Byunghyang.”

Looking at Herand with surprise at his sudden advice, he continued with a worried voice.

“The Hyrans family… the family you put an end to with your own hands… had a close relationship with them.”

With those words, Herand dragged his case and headed into the city. 

The Hyrans family that I had put an end to.

‘I remember the second son had a particularly strong dislike for me, didn’t he?’

For some reason, the family was accused of treason, purged, and the survivors fled to the Fernand Holy Nation.

***

I wasn’t directly responsible, but it still bothered me.

However, I’ve come to accept it as it is.

After all, I came here on a mission, not to chat with nobles.

“Sir Julian, you’ve come a long way from the capital. Thank you for your efforts.”

As if they had been watching my arrival, a few ‘Closed Eyes’ members approached me after Herand left.

Squinting against the bright sunlight, I glanced at a member who greeted me while shielding his eyes.

“Where is the demon reported now?”

According to the report, the demon sighted around the border city of Berniden is presumed to be of the Tri-horn rank.

One more horn than the bi-horned demons I’ve dealt with before.

Though not an easy task, I felt somewhat confident with the completion of the <Moonlight Sword>.

Plus, I had acquired the <Opened Eye> trait.

“It seems to be in the Pyrun Forest, between the Fernand Holy Nation and the empire. But…”

The member trailed off, looking troubled, so I looked him straight in the face.

Julian’s reputation is immense. If it were merely about demon subjugation, his arrival would mean immediate resolution.

The hesitation suggested there was an issue beyond just ‘demon subjugation.’

“The Ascension Day of the Sun God Religion coincides with the subjugation schedule. Because of this, Lord Byunghyang has requested to postpone the subjugation until after the Ascension Day.”

“Requested to postpone it?”

“Yes!”

Though there’s no time limit on this mission, I need to return to the capital as soon as possible to keep an eye on the Dawn Society’s next move.

‘I also need to keep track of Hayden Reich’s movements.’

To do that, returning quickly to the capital, the epicenter of events, is crucial.

“When does the Ascension Day begin?”

“From now, it’s a week away. And the festival is expected to last two days.”

This is problematic.

If I end up tied down here for ten days, it will be impossible to grasp the next move of the Dawn Society. 

“It stretches the schedule too much. I think I need to speak with the Lord of Byunghyang.” 

“That means….” 

Was it the Oronil family that was in charge of this border city of Berniden? Just as I was about to ask to be led to Lord Oronil’s mansion, 

-Just a word of advice, but try not to upset Lord Oronil of Byunghyang. It’s not a good idea.

Suddenly, I remembered the words Herand had thrown at me before we parted. 

“It’s getting troublesome.” 

“Excuse me?” 

“No, it’s nothing.” 

This situation was ultimately created by ‘Julian.’ Internally clicking my tongue at this fact, I continued. 

“Please lead me to the Lord of Byunghyang’s mansion.” 

*** 

“I’m sorry, Sir Julian, but currently, the Pyrun Forest is off-limits to anyone outside the Sun God Religion due to preparations for the Ascension Day.” 

As expected, the proposal to finish the task before the start of the Ascension Day was rejected. At such a naive decision, I internally scoffed and replied. 

“The demon that has appeared in the Pyrun Forest is presumed to be of the Tri-horn rank. If this demon resumes activity, the Ascension Day will undoubtedly be ruined, won’t it?” 

“But it’s not moving right now, is it?” 

Is that supposed to be an argument? It was so absurd that I almost blurted out my thoughts, but I managed to swallow them. 

“The demon isn’t active right now. If we provoke it and it starts acting again, wouldn’t that be putting the cart before the horse?” 

“This is an order from the royal family, you know?” 

“I’m not saying to refuse the order. Just asking to delay the schedule briefly.” 

Looking at him intently, a hint of ‘fear’ began to surface above Oronil’s head. 

But that was momentary, and soon the color vanished. 

“Besides, the Ascension Day is one of the major tourist attractions here in Berniden.” 

It must be about revenue. 

“If the Ascension Day is ruined because of your demon subjugation mission… could you take responsibility for that?” 

Oronil looked at me with a clearly hostile gaze. It seemed words would not resolve this. With that thought, I stood up. 

Oronil flinched. For a moment, his gaze shifted to my waist. No, surely he didn’t think I would draw my sword over this. 

“Daddy!” 

Just then, a cute voice pierced through the tense atmosphere. 

The owner of the voice appeared to be a girl around 7 or 8 years old. Missing a front tooth, presumably just lost, she looked exactly her age. 

“Te, Terina!” 

“Hm? Daddy, who is this person? He’s really handsome!” 

“Do, don’t come closer, Terina! Come here, quickly!”

As his daughter entered, the ‘fear’ that had disappeared from Oronil re-emerged above his head.

The thought crossed my mind, “Who would be crazy enough to draw a sword on such a child?” However, recalling the notorious reputation ‘Julian’ had, this level of reaction seemed not to be an overreaction.

“Then, we’ll talk again later, Lord Oronil.”

Having no further discussion to share, I politely bowed to Oronil and left the mansion.

Passing through the well-maintained garden and the entrance of the mansion, the ‘Closed Eyes’ members who were waiting approached me.

“How did it go, Sir Julian?”

“It was impossible to advance the postponed schedule. He’s quite stubborn.”

“Is that so…?”

The disappointment was evident among the members. They seemed eager to return to the capital as soon as possible.

“Then, as Lord Byunghyang suggested, shall we proceed with the subjugation schedule after a week…”

“No, do not disarm. It might not go as scheduled.”

“Excuse me? What do you mean…”

Looking back at Oronil’s mansion, my mind started to envision the events that would unfold in the Pyrun Forest.

This place, the border city of Berniden, is where players in ‘Let’s Kill the Demon Lord’ first encounter a Tri-horn-ranked demon.

Like now, it was just before the Ascension Day, which gave me a hint about when the demons in the Pyrun Forest might become active again.

“How many members do we have stationed in Berniden currently?”

“Less than five.”

That number was far too insufficient to fend off the threat.

Following Lord Oronil’s directive to delay the subjugation, mobilizing soldiers from Berniden would also be impossible.

Despite this, I didn’t expect the subjugation schedule to extend much longer.

Prev I TOC I Next

Survival 47

Prev I TOC I Next

“So, what do you think? How does it feel to see it in person?”

Standing in front of the Balant Fortress, I shrugged my shoulders at Luciana’s appearance, which was filled with pride as she asked.

“Well? Did they slather it with money?”

Luciana’s eyebrows twitched, but I did not stop.

Let’s set aside the fact that the walls are stretched out long like the Great Wall.

“That, isn’t that the same demonic exclusive sniper magic circle that’s in the duke’s mansion?”

“You’ve seen it correctly.”

What about magic circles.

Aren’t they the epitome of luxury?

Having such things spread out at intervals along the wall, I couldn’t even begin to imagine how much it must have cost.

“A minor noble like me couldn’t afford it.”

“In national defense, thrift is rather a luxury.”

Well, that’s a very Northern answer.

“By the way, what do you plan to do with them?”

Beneath our feet, having entered the fortress, I could see demons milling around near the border line.

“They’re just small fries, after all. Just clash with them head-on.”

“That seems easier said than done.”

Among the crowd, but recognizable at a glance.

Sharp horns rising upwards from their foreheads. Wings that have scales and a membrane.

True to the setting that they have dragon blood, the Levain tribe stood at the apex among the mixed demon races.

“Why? Are you scared?”

Scared, what an unpleasant thing to say.

“I’m just weighing the pros and cons.”

The Levain tribe, because of their unique physical abilities, are tricky to deal with.

Given that they are direct subordinates of the final boss, their level design is bound to be set high.

The merit of giving up the geographical advantage of the fortress to face them head-on?

There was none.

“Wouldn’t it be enough to just hold out in the fortress?”

“What a foolish question. Isn’t that land they are stationed on the glorious land of the Manhet Empire?”

‘Ah, right.’

After all, the Manhet Empire does not recognize the state of demons.

They are technically occupying it without permission.

Beyond dimensions.

Just as the nuclear bomb enthusiast of the Eastern country of courtesy would.

Pride for the North, and anger towards other races, blazed in her eyes.

“I have no intention of simply watching the insolence of those demons trampling on this land.”

In other words, she intends to go out of the fortress to subjugate them herself.

I had guessed as much.

‘It’s just like with Bathory.’

Her voice, spewing out anger, seemed even more ethereal.

…Luciana is a perfect and noble lady in all respects, but somehow, when it comes to demons, the story changes a bit.

Well, that’s probably the same for any Northerner who has spent their life clashing with demons.

“Well, we are neither nuns nor servants at the moment. We’ll have to follow the orders from above.”

Fortunately.

The famous commander known as a master tactician is here.

‘Surely, he who is known as the War Hawk won’t do as Luciana says…’

Oh.

At that moment, the sound of a large horn, followed by the sound of drums, came from a corner of the fortress.

The signal for all available personnel to charge…

‘My prediction was wrong.’

Blood cannot lie, after all.

Seeing demons, it seems both daughter and father flip their eyes the same way.

Luciana quickly turned around.

“The trumpet of advance has sounded. Are you planning to stay here?”

“How could I? Who wouldn’t follow their knight?”

Soon.

One voice filled the battlefield.

“All forces, follow me!”

‘That is the strongest force of the North.’

Though it is said that an Aura-trained knight can move faster than a horse for a short time, still, is it because he is a duke?

The most revered figure in the North broke through the open castle gates without a word. 

The target was, of course, the demon encampment. 

Why forsake the advantage of the fortress? 

The honor of a Northerner? 

The demon-loathing that runs in the Speda family?

The moment the charge signal was heard, all the hypotheses I had merely speculated about crumbled. 

My mouth hung open at the magnificent sight before me. 

Because it was possible. 

Because it was more than enough.

“Indeed, it’s war.”

The sight of him crossing the battlefield like a beam of light was truly magnificent. 

Even I, who had been critical, felt my heart leap.

“The Duke has entered the fray!”

“What are you all looking at? Charge!”

Leaving behind the soldiers hastily mounting their horses, knights capable of manipulating mana also followed the Duke out of the castle gate. 

Luciana and I were mixed among the crowd.

“Everyone’s quite spirited.”

Every moment was astonishing. 

Even if the Duke, with his instinctive hatred for demons imprinted in his blood, was understandable, the fact that the knights did not hesitate to throw themselves into battle was impressive.

“Spirited? The people here were merely holding back their resentment for having their land ravaged by demons.”

“The blood shed, the lives lost are too numerous to count with both hands. Only their complete annihilation could possibly cover it.”

Certainly.

‘The knights… the soldiers’ faces from the fortress seemed grim.’

And the appearance of those I saw upon arriving here. 

Armor filled with scars. 

Whether knight or soldier, the fierce flames they held in their eyes.

Does the arrival of reinforcements mean there’s no longer any need to hold back?

-Clip-clop, clip-clop.

As everyone passed through the castle gate and moved forward, someone approached Luciana and me.

“Lady, the Duke has given an order.”

Luciana, who was about to move forward, stopped and turned around. 

A middle-aged man we had encountered in the meeting room. 

It was General Bardik.

“What is it?”

Perhaps because of the time he had scrutinized me, a chill reminiscent of the Northern coldness echoed in his voice.

“The Duke has requested that you infiltrate the rear.”

“Rear infiltration?”

“Some of the scouts who reported the demon invasion have been captured as prisoners. He has asked you to rescue them.”

Hearing his words, the reason for this rash frontal assault became clear.

‘It was a diversion.’

By infiltrating the rear, we were buying time for our forces to rescue the allies.

Indeed.

No one would have expected the War Hawk to be used as bait.

“…Understood. We cannot afford to lose the precious forces protecting the North. We will carry out the command.”

She, who was about to charge towards the Levain, pulled on the reins of her horse. I followed suit.

The raiding party consisted of just two: Luciana and me.

The War Hawk, dazzlingly wielding his aura on the battlefield right in front of us.

Taking advantage of the diverted attention, we managed to approach the encampment closely, but…

‘This will be hard to infiltrate.’

Unfortunately, about 10 meters around the encampment was a cleared barren land.

After exchanging looks with Luciana, we both spurred our horses and jumped down.

Slap!

Heeheehee!

I smacked the hindquarters of the two horses to send them off in the opposite direction. 

The unexpected sound of the horses drew the attention of the guards.

Of course.

That was enough.

Enough for her and me to infiltrate.

Thwoong- 

Bang!

Luciana, wielding the sword of her ancestors, was breaking pillars and tearing through tents wherever she went. 

Meanwhile, I was pouring oil on wagons and setting them on fire. 

I also made sure to leave a knife in the back of the neck of those who were decently armed.

“What, what’s this?”

“It’s an ambush! All forces, take up your weapons!”

The demon encampment, once quiet, was suddenly engulfed in chaos due to the surprise attack. 

However, like the Northerners, the demons were warriors who had gone through countless internal conflicts. 

Though taken by surprise in the dead of night, they quickly recovered, with each one grabbing their weapons to address the situation of being unilaterally attacked.

In the brief confusion, Luciana and I managed to set three wagons ablaze and took down about ten enemies. 

It was a decent achievement.

“So, the ones who were hiding in their fortress like turtles are finally sticking their heads out.”

A Levain commander spread his wings wide as he addressed the gathered demon warriors.

“There’s no need to panic! They are merely weak humans! 

Fight back!”

But they overlooked a crucial fact. 

The reason the demons hadn’t been able to take over this fortress wasn’t solely due to endless internal conflicts and thorough defenses.

“…What?!”

“Demons always think too highly of themselves and underestimate humans.”

The Levain’s spear snapped like a twig against the sword that pierced through it. 

Soon, it transformed into a long rapier, cutting off his breath.

“Fall back! Damn, get in formation!”

Various weapons were aimed at Luciana. 

I also stepped back to keep an eye on the commander and maintain a deterrent.

Rumble- 

Boom!

Suddenly, a massive vibration felt under our feet caused everyone in this rear battlefield to freeze in place momentarily.

“What is…?”

The demon commander, with eyes wide open, cast his gaze beyond the forest. 

It seemed as though sweat, invisible atop his horns, became visible.

In the moment the demons hesitated.

“Hans, follow me!”

A breakthrough point.

Heading towards the heart of the enemy, she began to run.

‘Beautiful.’

With every step she took, a life was extinguished. 

Her weapon, sometimes a sword, sometimes a spear, sometimes a dagger, swiftly claimed one life after another. 

Amidst the astonished warriors, Luciana toyed with them freely.

Naturally, some of the enemies’ attention also began to focus on me, standing behind her.

With strong vigilance and a budding sense of rivalry, all enveloped by a sharp murderous intent.

“…Ah, there’s no way to use the art of evasion here.”

“Following her would be difficult.”

“…Leave the rear to me.”

“I’ve been waiting for that command.”

And my role was to block those who would not just stand by and watch her advance.

“Hmph. You look nothing more than a human child, and you dare to oppose us?”

Oh dear.

I thought the commander I had been facing was the end of it, but that wasn’t the case.

A warrior appeared belatedly. 

A huge horn growing over his head and a grotesque tail studded with spikes, with thighs as thick as Luciana’s waist. 

He seemed even stronger than the winged commander.

Two of the strongest species among the knights had arrived.

“This would be fun to toy with.”

“No time for games.”

To the one brandishing a sword at us, the commander with a spear warned.

“The situation doesn’t look good. Seems like something happened over there. A woman just entered inside. We need to deal with this one quickly and provide support.”

Impressive.

To notice that amidst such a chaotic battle. 

His intelligence and the ability to read the battlefield seemed commendable.

A lowly Levain, yet capable enough to be a commander. 

But knowing something and dealing with it are two different matters.

“You speak as if you can easily deal with me and move on. Do you think I’ll just let you?”

Drawing out the Raven’s claw, I confronted them, and their eyes filled with greed.

Levains are a species that relishes combat. 

Hence, they always craved duels and were obsessed with acquiring better weapons and armor.

It’s no wonder they’re called demons. 

Plunder and slaughter were their way of life, their motto, and an instinct that flowed through their souls.

“That weapon is too good for you to have. It’d be perfect as a trophy.”

“The fact that we have to deal with you remains unchanged. Let the one who kills you have it.”

Eager for the prize, the two lunged towards me as if their feet were on fire.

“Die!”

The first to reach me was the swordsman, who had been flippant in speech throughout.

His sharp sword strike drew a diagonal line.

“Uh? What’s this…?”

But that was all there was to it, just momentum.

Half-kneeling, I looked up at him and smirked.

“Didn’t I say? I have no intention of being easily defeated.”

And though called a warrior, he was a Levain swordsman. 

Within the Levain race, he held the position of an elite soldier.

His main patterns were horizontal and diagonal slashes with his long sword. 

A special pattern of rapid strikes with a dagger in close combat.

Having encountered these mob patterns ad nauseam later in the story, I remembered them clearly.

The attack continued with three strikes.

The Levain swordsman, having halted abruptly, pointed at me accusingly.

“You… you dodged all my attacks? A mere human…?”

It couldn’t be helped. 

My movements were too swift for his long sword to follow.

“Move aside. I’ll handle this.”

The Levain spearman. 

His pattern was fundamentally stabbing, and if a certain distance was maintained, throwing spears as a special pattern.

Oh, and the wings they had were vestigial and useless, so ignore them. 

They’re just for show, no different from a peacock’s tail.

“This pesky little thing!”

He seemed furious. 

Sorry about that. 

When the trajectory of an attack is so clear, there’s no way I’m just going to stand there and get hit.

“Hahaha! Good! If a human brat has made it this far on the battlefield, does that mean he has some skill? Let’s see how long you can dodge!”

Perhaps it was his pride that was hurt after I dodged all his attacks.

Even though his spirit might have been expected to break, this warrior race instead ignited their will to fight even more.

The chatty swordsman and the spearman, who silently glared with murderous intent in his eyes.

I just shrugged.

“That’s my line. I wonder how long you’ll be able to swing those weapons.”

“Do you think I’ll get tired? Not a chance! I’ll swing them as many times as needed!”

Well.

I wonder if the reason you won’t be able to hold your weapons isn’t because you’re tired, but because you’re dead?

‘They can’t seem to conceive the possibility of their defeat.’

Meanwhile, it seemed like they had set up some kind of strategy; the swordsman kept engaging me while the spearman subtly retreated to the back, probably aiming to use their special patterns.

Now, in reality, should we call these “special abilities”?

“Enough! I’ll kill you!”

Like a bull in an arena, the Levain who threw his long sword to the ground and drew a dagger from his pocket charged at me, his muscles swelling immensely in an instant.

But.

“It seems you’re not the only one with a second weapon hidden away.”

The ground, slushy from snow trampled and melted by many feet. 

The psychological turmoil from having his attacks continuously blocked by a seemingly naive young human. 

His body, worn out without him realizing.

-Clang!

All of these elements combined created the perfect condition for a counterattack.

“…What?!”

He was astonished to see his dagger flying out of his hand. 

The exquisite dagger given to me by Mole Perno shone brilliantly.

Of course.

Luciana had disappeared from sight as well.

The limit is lifted for me too!

Click, clack.

Having charged and discarded his original long sword, and now without his last bastion, the dagger, he had no weapon left to defend himself.

Dodging his outstretched fist, I flowed smoothly into his embrace.

[Phantom Movement (Rank EX) Adjustment]

[Successful Perfect Counterattack]

[Critical Damage Determined]

[Critical Hit Proficiency Increased]

A welcome message appeared just in time.

“Ugh!”

The Night Raven’s claws raked across his chest, cutting off even a cry of agony mid-scream.

“Colin! Damn it all! Take this!”

In vengeance for his comrade, the spearman who rushed in immediately raised his spear high above his head.

That throwing spear, in terms of power alone, was so lethal it could be called a finishing move, beyond the scope of even imagining a counterattack.

However, the spear never left his hand to be thrown.

Whoosh!

“Ugh!”

“How regrettable. With such blinding light, you can’t even see your target properly.”

The preparation time required for the spear throw, being a large and powerful action, was its critical weakness, as it could be neutralized by a simple burst of blinding magic without any need for preparation.

Of course, pinpointing this exact moment requires the player’s talent.

‘Ah, I really made good use of this in the game.’

“Just a moment!”

I quickly approached him and swung my dagger.

“Gurk…”

“Phew. That was tough.”

He, too, couldn’t even properly scream before following his comrade to the afterlife.

In the middle of a now silent battlefield, where all signs of life had extinguished, I took a moment to catch my breath, resting on my knees.

Dodging and counterattacking require a high level of concentration, and mana drains the blood.

Above all, there was the burden of having killed not monsters, but people—well, not exactly humans, but for someone who was a modern human, speaking and resembling humans was enough to make them seem the same. 

Except for the Levains, there was hardly any difference in appearance from humans.

“…But I had no choice but to kill. It’s a battlefield, after all.”

Capture them alive with my current stats?

Impossible. 

Even using all my abilities to fight desperately was a toss-up.

Such worries were a luxury.

“I wonder how our lady is doing.”

I was more worried about how she was handling her first real combat.

But then I scoffed at my unnecessary worries.

“She’ll be fine.”

With the talent to be a mid-boss in a game, she wouldn’t fall here.

Now that the battlefield here was cleared, my task was to quickly follow her and provide support.

“Just wait a little. I’ll be right there.”

Leaving behind the bodies of the two demons, I moved towards the depths of the enemy’s stronghold, where she had gone.

Prev I TOC I Next

Strike 78

Prev I TOC I Next

The blacksmith is judged and a mandatory bet is placed.

Hyun-soo outperformed Buks in the rapid production challenge he had set.

Then,

[A new story begins.]

‘Hmm?’

He could sense the reason.

‘Perhaps Blue Inc., didn’t expect a user who could win the judgment against him to appear so quickly.’

In fact, Buks is a named NPC.

Considering the grade of the sword he just made in the hologram forge, it’s of the unique class.

Hyun-soo smiled.

New stories always bring greater trials and bigger rewards.

Ding!

[Sudden Quest: Blacksmith Buks’ Judgment]

Grade: A

Requirement: Anyone who has passed Buks’ judgment

Reward: 20% increase in progress.

Penalty for Failure: Buks escapes.

Description: Buks, the mainstay of Edrol Trading Company, has effectively taken control of the Ballas domain under the guise of the company. An eye for an eye. Let’s defeat him with the power of judgment temporarily granted.

Hyun-soo was surprised. The progress would increase by a whopping 20%.

He also learned one more fact.

‘The mainstay of Edrol Trading Company.’

Yes, this Edrol Trading Company was just a company in name.

The key figure was Buks himself. Winning the judgment against him led to an increase in progress?

Of course, Hyun-soo freed the blacksmiths from the 70% tax and double workload that had been shackling them.

‘But that doesn’t mean the root cause has been eliminated.’

Right, as long as Buks was alive, such incidents could happen again.

That’s why the progress measured was significantly low when he won the judgment.

[The power to judge will be temporarily granted to you.]

[You can temporarily decide the content of the judgment.]

Buks looked incredulous.

Hyun-soo said to him,

“The judgment begins.”

[The judgment begins.]

“What, what…”

Buks, taken aback, couldn’t hide his confusion.

It was said he was a level 101 blacksmith.

How could this blacksmith have made a sword faster than him?

Buks was nervous about what kind of judgment Hyun-soo would make.

And Hyun-soo looked at Buks with an indifferent gaze.

Even though this place was different from reality, as a fellow blacksmith, he had committed an act he shouldn’t have.

Hyun-soo said,

“The judgment is to clash once with the best thing each of us has made. The condition of the judgment is your life.”

A delighted smile formed on Buks’ face.

[If you fail to pass the judgment, you will be executed.]

Buks was taken aback.

‘Arrogant.’

That arrogance pokes the sky, leading himself into a pit.

Just because he made it quickly doesn’t mean he knows everything about him.

Buks had once made a spear that would have astounded the chief blacksmith of the spear blacksmith tower he served.

It was almost legendary. Among the top artifacts, it was of the highest grade.

Although the spear was created in a moment due to luck and several factors, it became the starting point, making him no longer feel the need to stay at the tower, so he burst out.

And to him, he dare,

“Let’s clash with the best thing each of us has made?”

A common blacksmith’s duel.

Similar to that, but with a slight twist.

Also, the judgment exudes a mysterious power. It seems the opponent knows that too.

The spear, even if just a hologram, revealed itself.

Fzzzzzzt-

A spear emitting rough sparks.

And the man named Hyun-soo also held a sword.

The sword bore the name ‘Hyun (現).’

‘I may not know what that sword is, but I, Buks, understand the limits of humans.’

In this era, a real legend has never originated from human hands in this Asgan continent.

‘You will lose whatever it is.’

Buks laughed.

“If I pass the judgment, the condition is to reinstate the 70% tax I had collected earlier. And I’ll take your life too. After you die, I’ll increase the workload of all the blacksmiths in this domain!”

This small domain is not worth his concern.

That’s why it has come to this.

He had heard the rumors anyway.

That this domain could soon be wiped out!

Before it disappears, he intended to exploit all the blacksmiths to the fullest.

“I shall exploit the blacksmiths to death, hahahahaha!”

The man remained silent, simply gripping the sword with both hands.

He too pulled back his spear, which emitted sparks.

The content of the judgment is simple.

Clash the two weapons, and the superior weapon wins.

And Buks’ face stiffened as he swung fiercely.

“……?”

At the moment their weapons clashed, he felt everything around him freeze.

The spear in his hand froze.

White breath streamed from his mouth.

The massive sparks emanating from his spear were completely swallowed by the cold.

Looking around, he saw huge pieces of ice, like frozen waves, around him.

[Your opponent’s sword is legendary.]

[Your spear is closest to a legend.]

‘Legendary…?’

It wasn’t arrogance but certainty in the man.

Chills ran down Buks’ back. An intermittent tremor in his body wouldn’t stop.

He couldn’t move.

Those who lose in the judgment and violate it receive divine punishment.

“Please spare me.”

Swoosh-

Both holographically created artifacts disappeared.

He pleaded as pitifully as he could, even thinking at this moment.

If he just says he will do so, the content of the judgment is nullified.

Then he can escape.

After escaping, he can plan for the future.

“I’ll give you everything I have, please!”

Hyun-soo responded to him.

“Give it to me first.”

It was a relief. Buks felt a thrill. This foreigner understands language.

After all, aren’t all greedy foreigners like that? They’re crazy for gold and obsessed with leveling up, aren’t they?

Buks handed over everything he currently had.

[You have acquired 51,014 gold.]

Hyun-soo instantly gained a huge amount of 51 million won, but he was not satisfied.

“Where have you hidden everything you embezzled from here until now?”

“In the basement of the company’s building.”

Buks felt relieved. He slowly got up.

It was okay to give everything away. He could always come back and take it again.

But then Hyun-soo’s sword sliced through Buks’ neck.

Swoosh-!

“I never said I’d spare you.”

Buks’ eyes widened in shock as he fell. Indeed, he had never said he would spare him.

“You ignored the pleas of the blacksmiths who were dying from overwork and high taxes, didn’t you?”

Those were the last words Buks heard.

***

As Hyun-soo beheaded Buks, he felt no guilt.

Forced labor for the blacksmiths.

Double the workload, 70% tax.

According to what he heard from Old Man Per, many blacksmiths died unable to withstand the workload.

[You have eliminated Buks, the cause of the downfall of Ballas domain.]

[You have acquired a large amount of experience.]

[You have leveled up.]

[You have leveled up.]

[You have leveled up.]

[Leveling up…]

Killing NPCs indiscriminately doesn’t increase experience. Only by killing a system-recognized villain can such experience be gained.

Hyun-soo achieved an incredible 19 levels up in an instant.

It was due to the level difference between Buks and Hyun-soo.

[Sudden Quest: Blacksmith Buks’ Judgment Completed]

[Your progress increases by 20%.]

[The control of Ballas domain by Edrol Trading Company was due to the chief and blacksmith Buks.]

[All restrictions on blacksmiths have been lifted.]

[Members of Edrol Trading Company begin to scatter and flee.]

Hyun-soo could soon see the blacksmiths running out of the forge.

“We are free!”

“We don’t have to do forced labor anymore!”

Among them, he could see Old Man Per celebrating. 

Hyun-soo had a place to go.

He said to Old Man Per, “Now that the lord has been freed from the bet, it seems right to bring him back.”

He had heard that after losing the bet here, the lord was practically imprisoned.

“I’ll go to the Edrol Trading Company’s headquarters first.”

“Ah, alright!”

Hyun-soo immediately entered the headquarters of Edrol Trading Company.

Fortunately, the remnants had already fled.

Hyun-soo opened the basement door. Inside were the taxes Buks had embezzled.

A total of 323,000 gold.

[This is the money collected as taxes from Ballas domain.]

[If discovered after acquisition, you will be expelled from the Goyard Kingdom.]

With Buks’ death, Ballas domain will start tracing the embezzled taxes.

Hyun-soo felt no regret.

Being expelled from the Goyard Kingdom means ruining the relationship with King Barad, a connection worth more than money.

‘What do I need to increase my progress?’

There’s a simple answer: generating wealth in the domain that can be used for development.

In this Ares, the value of such wealth is even greater.

Even if it’s money he can’t personally keep, he can still use it.

‘Why not just have it bestowed by the lord?’

Hyun-soo devised a plan.

[Nel: Where are you? I’m worried, so I came to Ballas domain.]

[Hyun-soo: Come to the coordinates I’ll send you.]

Having someone to help would certainly be a bonus!

Arriving in the basement, Nel heard the whole situation.

And then Hyun-soo’s plan.

“Can that really work?”

Nel was skeptical.

“Have you ever been at a loss following my advice?”

Nel was doubtful but decided to go along with his plan.

***

Lord Belin.

Rumored to be the most beautiful in the Goyard Kingdom, she was the lord of Ballas.

After losing the bet to Buks, she was confined to her bedroom like a prison.

But now, all her constraints were lifted.

Then, Per entered.

“Lord, let’s hurry to the headquarters of Edrol Trading Company.”

Belin listened to the whole story while going with him.

“A foreigner, you say?”

Belin initially thought the person who achieved this was sent by the kingdom.

‘Can I really trust a foreigner…?’ she wondered.

Belin was aware of the greed of these foreigners.

Referring to them as NPCs, they spare no means to acquire gold and artifacts.

Could such a person truly understand our hearts?

“It was he who made the bet with Buks,” Per added.

It was certain.

Belin quickened her steps and when she arrived on the first floor, there was no one.

Then,

“…Here.”

She heard the voice of a dying woman.

Descending to the basement, she was shocked by the scene before her eyes.

A woman was dying, leaning against a wall.

On the other side, in front of a pile of gold and treasures, a man knelt, unconscious.

The man’s body was pierced with spears and arrows, and he seemed to have fainted.

Belin’s eyes wavered.

“What happened here? Who are you?”

“…I am this man’s colleague. I came in response to his call. We fought against the remnants here trying to take the money. And Hyun-soo didn’t back down.”

Belin noticed Hyun-soo.

He was kneeling, apparently having fainted.

Meaning, he protected the money until he lost consciousness.

“Why, why go to such lengths…?”

“…He said it was money for the blacksmiths. That it must be protected at all costs to revive this domain. And he asked me to deliver a message.”

Belin’s heart sank.

“This money is for you.”

The woman, smiling faintly, soon laughed bitterly and fainted.

And Belin slowly walked towards Hyun-soo.

She trembled as she saw the weapons stuck in his body.

“Oh, aah… Thank you…! Thank you!”

[Lord Belin will never forget your kindness.]

***

Peek.

Nel, opening her eyes, was bewildered to see Lord Belin crying.

Could it be that the plan to win the NPCs’ favor with a performance was actually working, despite seeming so implausible?

‘Is this really working?’

And then Hyun-soo received this notification.

[The grace of lord has been activated.]

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