Chapter 1: Melbourne Mine

1) Melbourne Mine

Weed used the teleport gate to arrive at Treipeak Fortress in the Haineph mountain area..

"It is just my luck that there are hardly any people around."

The Versailles Continent felt narrower as he travelled around it. He couldn't feel the pleasure of travelling around to dangerous places in order to obtain gold.

"Iron ore is needed."

"Discount sale! This is the last bargain for iron ores!"

Many users were trading at Treipeak. Even though they weren't merchants, the users were selling minerals obtained from hunting in the Melbourne mine.

Melbourne Mine Entrance Fee

Underground 1st Floor 300 gold

2nd Floor 850 gold

3rd Floor 1,800 gold

The 4th Floor is a guild restricted area

Users had to pay the Black Lion Guild a fee to access the hunting grounds so users were also selling any loot they obtained. Sometimes they obtained precious items but they had to split the share with the Black Lion guild so they obtained almost no profit from hunting. But the Melbourne Mine was popular with users whose priority was raising their levels instead of earning money. Miners digging for iron ore were also common so they needed to pay a separate fee over time.

Weed shook his head.

"They really have a lot to learn about governance. If this was a dictatorship than it would be perfect."

He had just become the king of the Arpen Kingdom. It was only a small kingdom but if he learned advanced ruling techniques then he would become a vicious king later on.

"Looking for people to hunt on the 2nd floor. You can hunt until late at night!"

"Black Lion Guild is forming a party. They will keep all the items but the admission fee will be free. There is a profession and level restriction."

Weed spent a short time at the peak of the mountain watching the people and the drifting clouds. There was an admission fee so he sent a whisper to Hegel who belonged to the Black Lion Guild and who was willing to listen to him. Users were gathered at the walls built along the mountain ridges. It was a necessary structure for comfortable walking.

"Aren't there people completing the Class Master quest these days?"

"Isn't it Bardray? He is being actively supported by the Hermes Guild."

"Phew, the God of War Weed-nim is a match even without the support of a guild."

"Do you know what the reward will be for the Black Knight Master Quest?"

The Class Master quest was a popular topic among users. The scale of the quest would be enormous considering they needed to master a skill. Based on the information revealed by the Unicorn Corporation, a special reward would be given for mastering a profession skill so it became a hot topic among the users as time passed. It was enough to make people who were indifferent to skill levels start grinding their skill proficiency.

"I saw on the bulletin boards and news broadcasts that the Black Knight completed a class quest."

"I heard from CTS Media that he obtained a legendary spear and armour."

"Bardray obtained that with the eleventh quest."

"When did he do the eleventh quest?"

"He succeeded yesterday and it was broadcasted live all night."

"Wow. Then I should watch the reruns."

"The CTS media broadcast is good because CTS has a cooperation with the Hermes Guild on their screen time."

Weed's eyes filled with jealousy. He didn't receive any special rewards for his Sculpting Master Quest except for an increase in the friendship of each race and the discovery of ancient ruins.

Meanwhile Bardray who was a competitor with a similar quest, the master quest, received the best equipment to continue his adventure. The thought of it caused a pain in his stomach!

Hegel finally arrived through the teleport gate while Weed was agonizing about it. Weed shook his hand.

"Ah, you're here!"

"Weed hyung?"

"Yes, it's me."

Hegel tilted his head to one side.

"Eh, wasn't Hyung a dwarf?"

Weed had the body of a dwarf the last time Hegel saw him. Weed roughly explained it.

"There were circumstances so I briefly changed by body in order to enter the Dwarf Kingdom for a quest. But why were you late?"

"I'm late because I dropped in at the guild office. Ah, do you know my colleagues here from school?"

Hegel pointed towards 2 girls who bowed.

"Hello Sunbae-nim!"

Dine and Alice attended school along with Choi Sang-jun. In Royal Road he was known as Hegel.

"It's great to see you again."

Weed greeted them roughly.

"Yes, me too."

"Hyung wanted to see the Melbourne Mine..... I called these kids here to accompany hyung. Is that okay?"

"It doesn't matter to me."

Weed only cared about entering the Melbourne Mine for free.

"The Melbourne Mine isn't a simple dungeon so a bit of preparation is needed. Follow me."

Hegel was a member with the mark of the Black Lion Guild stamped on his armour so he received enormous benefits on Treipeak. At every store he visited he could buy things at a low price without any tax. The prices were cheap enough to make him envious and the items had a high rating.

"I hope you enjoy your visit Sir Hegel-nim."

The soldiers politely greeted while lifting their spears.

"He is a member of the Black Lion Guild."

"Look at that great equipment."

Even Hegel's arrogance was natural based on the reactions in the surroundings.

"Sir Hegel-nim, good luck. There are a lot of monsters in the mine."

"Thank you for coming to this place Sir Hegel-nim. Please come in."

It was to the extent that the guards gave them VIP treatment at the entrance of the Melbourne Mine. This respect was realistic to Weed.

When he was a child he had been envious of children from rich homes. But it would be difficult to succeed in this tough world with such a narrow mindset. That's why he actively used flattery!

"Hegel you really are big."

"Hehe, this is just something basic."

"It seems like you've gained a lot of levels and your equipment is also better."

"This time I've received the best equipment from the guild so monsters of this degree won't be much risk."

"The Black Lion Guild is really amazing!"

"Hyung isn't in a guild?"

"I've also joined one."

The standards of the members of the Travellers of the Wilderness Guild was quite high. Whenever he opened the guild chat he mainly heard talk about treasure hunting or boss monster hunting.

In general small guilds needed dozens or hundreds of people to hunt a boss monster. Hunting boss monsters increased the guild's reputation, causing more people to want to join and then allowing them to hunt stronger boss monsters.

The Travellers of the Wilderness Guild never summoned their members for a reason like that. They were a hermit type guild so they would just quickly gather a few people if needed for a boss hunt.

"If it is difficult at any time than just tell me hyung. Everybody in the Black Lion Guild receives this treatment."

"Yes, thank you."

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People arrived one after another at the teleport gate of Treipeak.

"The air is truly refreshing."

"This is the Tullen Kingdom with a high teleport fee so you need to hunt eagerly."

The users who arrived were prepared and scouted the surroundings.

Turok: The Black Lion guild doesn't seem like much.Arkhim: Is the area around the teleport gate safe?Turok: Yes. The group can move here.

The 10 users scattered around the fortress reported back. They were secret scouts belong to the Hermes Guild. A bright light continuously occurred at the teleport gate.

Papapat!

Bardray, his Royal Guards and the assassination squad had moved here with the teleport gate. The dark ruler of the Hermes Guild, Bardray the King of the Haven Kingdom had arrived at Treipeak.

His group disguised themselves by wearing equipment of a much lower level. Bardray and the Royal Guards had recognizable faces so they needed to take precautions. The assassination squad that followed them wore plain clothes and make-up that hid their faces like dancers.

Kasim: We will split up after arriving at the Melbourne Mine. If we are detected by the Black Lion Guild then it will become difficult.

Bardray, the Royal Guards and the assassination squad dropped by the stores and bought useless items to buy some time. 500 people were moving to Treipeak so the teleport gate was a lot more active than usual. In order to avoid suspicion they arrived at different times throughout the next two hours. Scouts were placed on the main street in order to observe the military personnel of the fortress and members of the Black Lion Guild.

Greiden: I've confirmed that there are 60000 infantry, 20000 archers and 3000 knights at the fortress. There are members of the Black Lion Guild at the fortress but they think that other areas are more important so most of the users have been deployed elsewhere.Turok: If a battle starts then reinforcements will come very quickly.Kasim: If we disrupt the power maintaining the Melbourne Mine then those guys won't be able to come in time.

Bardray's quest was taking place in the Melbourne Mine, an area under the control of the Black Lion Guild. His Class Master Quest attracted a lot of attention so he had to hide while fighting the boss monster hiding in the mine. There was no way the Black Lion Guild would allow the Hermes Guild to dispatch troops to the Melbourne Mine. Instead of requesting cooperation, he decided to just use all his power to sweep through it.

Reikina: The scouts have arrived at the mine. I've checked the entrance but haven't seen anything special. I will pay the toll and enter first.

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Weed and Hegel entered the underground 1st floor of the Melbourne Mine.

Kang kang kang!

The scene of users mining was common. Good quality iron ore could be obtained in large quantities at the Melbourne Mine. Iron ore could be easily changed into money and if they were lucky enough then some people could obtain gold.

'There are a lot of people here.'

Weed usually hunted with a small handful of colleagues or alone. The Melbourne Mine was a popular hunting ground so it wasn't an exaggeration to say that people were flocking in groups. There were buried miners, lost soldiers and people hunting monsters in parties. Alice asked in a cute voice mixed with charm.

"Sunbae-nim, what type of place is this?"

"It is a good hunting place for level 150 and loot often drops here so some people stay until level 250. You can even become intimate with blacksmiths in this place."

Hegel kindly explained to his juniors. Parties who came first could occupy a decent hunting spot but they averted their gazes whenever they saw a member of the Black Lion Guild.

"Then what is your level?"

"Both of us are a little bit over 220."

"Then you could just move straight to the 2nd floor."

"Really? Thank you Sunbae-nim."

Hegel brought his juniors down another floor.

"Is Hyung okay?"

"I don't care. You know better than me what to do in the Melbourne Mine."

Weed followed without any complaints because he could dig sapphires from the 3rd underground floor. The problem started from the 3rd floor because he couldn't go down further without any identification. That's why he was going to adhere himself to Hegel.

A member with the mark of the Black Lion Guild descended to the 2nd underground floor. There were a lot of people hunting but there were some empty sections. Hegel brought them to an empty place.

"This is a place where only members of the Black Lion Guild can hunt. I'm here so you guys can hunt here as well."

Dine then asked like she noticed something strange.

"Thank you Sunbae-nim. By the way, are you going to run around hunting?"

"Yes. I'll be guarding the passage from any monsters that might run out. You don't need to move around so hunting should be easier."

"Ah, I see.

The Black Lion Guild had secured all the good hunting spots. This was one of the benefits of being a member of a large guild who owned hunting grounds. The problem was that these people were weak in long distance adventures despite their high levels. This was because they weren't used to improvisation when encountering a problem.

"Now let's get started. A lot of monsters may appear but just remain calm."

"We're going to be hunting here?"

"Don't worry, I'll watch for any dangers."

Hegel blocked the front of the passage. He was wearing high defense armour that exerted a strong power in combat. It was an armour that absorbed most destructive attacks. He even had a Kite Shield that protected his whole body so he could defend against a lot of monster attacks. The high defense ability of the equipment made it possible to fight on the front lines. Hegel stood while holding his shield.

'This is tasteful armour.'

He felt his heart pound. He was excited to start the hunt and receive attention for his armour.

"Sunbae-nim, you look so cool!"

"Please show me how to hunt. I think it will be really helpful if I see you fight first."

The girls' cheers increased Hegel's good mood.

'This isn't that hard.'

Weed observed the surrounding parties fighting monsters. The 2nd floor was mainly infested with a monster called Menchura. They were level 210 so Weed just had to swing a fist and they would die! Even if several hundred monsters suddenly appeared, he could just move forward and wipe out all of them by wildly swinging his sword. Sometimes a Menchura would summon flames that roamed around. The flames lit up the mine and shiny minerals, making the surroundings look beautiful.

"Now!"

3 Menchura that had long feelers like a cockroach appeared. They attacked Hegel all at once but couldn't deal any significant damage because of his high defense. Hegel easily defeated the 3 of them with a few swings of his sword.

"Sunbae-nim, you're so strong!"

"This is just a basic level. I will worry about blocking so just attack it."

"Yep!"

Hegel, Dine and Alice worked together to deal with any Menchura that appeared.

Weed was in an ambiguous position. He accumulated almost no experience from hunting the Menchura. However he was a master at grinding in any situation!

"3rd grade iron ore. This is what I need. If you have any items you want then just tell me."

Hegel generously split up the loot with the two girls.

"Sunbae-nim, that magic didn't seem to work just now. How much resistance is there?"

"Approximately 39%. It isn't an exaggeration to say that even fire won't damage it."

Hegel's equipment came in handy when fighting monsters with Dine and Alice. The Black Lion Guild knew a lot about the monsters they were hunting. While the three of them were hunting harmoniously, Weed was bored.

He was level 400 so he couldn't help feeling safe and comfortable in this dungeon. The Melbourne Mine was a popular hunting ground so any monsters that appeared were taken care of by other users.

'It should be more dangerous. This method of hunting monsters is inefficient. Instead of a mixed buffet style meal, they are just adding water to rice and eating it.'

But it was difficult to go down to the 3rd floor when considering the other peoples' views. Rather than trying to hunt, Weed just sat down and started making sculptures. He would make some profit rather than waste time.

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The members of the Hermes Guild were arranged in the Melbourne Mine.

Turok: The scouts have finished being placed around the mine.Reikina: There is nothing unusual around the entrance of the mine and the 1st floor.Kasim: The Black Lion Guild's troops?Turok: It seems like the level in the dungeon isn't that high. According to the reports from an agent we dispatched 3 days in advance, a total of 160 people over level 300 entered the mine since yesterday. Among them are 75 members of the Black Lion Guild.

On the 3rd floor the level of the monsters exceeded 300. Therefore quite a few high level users tended to visit there. Of course that was nothing compared to the invading forces of the Hermes Guild.

Kasim: If it is only that degree then we can quickly obliterate them.Arkhim: It won't be good if we drag it out for a long time. They can notice at any time so we'll start immediately once Bardray and his guards arrive.Kasim: I'm asking for final confirmation. Are we only fighting against the Black Lion Guild?

In the current guild chat channel, those given a special mission were given permission for a separate chat channel by the Hermes Guild. It was in order to maintain the security of the mission against other guilds.

Arkhim: Our goal is the success of Bardray-nim's quest, even if that means the death of everybody in the Melbourne Mine.

The Black Lion Guild was one of the prestigious guilds. It is because they were the Hermes Guild that they could make such a drastic decision.

Arkhim: I'll briefly tell you the plans. The Melbourne Mine belongs to the Black Lion Guild but they are also fighting in 11 other places. Even if the Black Lion Guild notices our intentions, it will take some time for their troops to arrive.

The Hermes Guild had sent teams to attack several places at the same time to act as a distraction. They also entered an agreement with the Beden guild for a siege mission.

The Black Lion Guild was completely rattled because of their calculations.

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Hegel boasted of his strength while fighting the Menchura on the 2nd floor.

"Most of the monsters are vulnerable to continuous attacks. They will fall into a state of confusion so just keep hitting them."

"It's hard Sunbae-nim."

"I'll give you a demonstration."

Hegel's aim was to spend quality time with his juniors. Meanwhile Weed yawned as he made simple sculptures. The sculptures were completed in no time. If he sold the sculptures for an extravagant price than he could make money!

"Hyung should hunt as well."

"No, I'm fine. I'll do it later."

Weed sometimes raised his head to watch the hunt while creating sculptures. He needed to go with Hegel to the 3rd floor anyway. The petty rules meant he couldn't go downstairs without being attacked by the Black Lion Guild. Flattering Hegel was the price he had to pay for it.

"Hegel, you are really cool when fighting."

"No, it's nothing."

"You seemed to have gained many levels while fighting."

"Ah! Hyung, I got to level 330 this time."

Occasionally he would throw out words of praise!

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Melbourne Mine's underground 4th floor!

Here users more than level 360 hunted in parties formed by the Black Lion Guild. The 4th floor had the form of a seven branched tunnel. This was the territory of the Black Lion Guild and they even manufactured maps of it. Many monsters emerged and users enjoyed hunting here.

"Today we've hunted quite a lot."

"If you're tired do you want to go out and get some fresh air?"

"It's okay."

One Black Lion Guild party was preparing to return to the fortress. Then the mine started shaking.

Kurururung!

"This earth is shaking!"

"Is it going to collapse?"

"It would be tough for a big mine like this to collapse."

"But the ground is shaking... Watch out, rocks are falling from the ceiling!"

The Black Lion Guild members hunting in the Melbourne Mine started clamouring in the guild chat. It was like an earthquake had occurred through the entire Melbourne Mine.

The earth shook, revealing the hidden dungeon Belkain's Lair.

Currently all users who enter the dungeon connected with the Melbourne Mine will receive 2 times the experience and item drop rate for one week.

The best item will drop from the first person to hunt the monster.

"What's this? The entrance to a dungeon suddenly appeared."

"Should we enter through here?"

"It seems to be connected to Melbourne Mine's 4th floor so the degree of difficulty won't be ordinary. Should we contact the guild first?"

A hole had suddenly appeared in the wall, revealing a huge cave. Users from the Black Lion Guild gathered and consulted with their guild. And prompt reports starting flying through the guild chat.

Kamaras: Many holes were created in the dungeon. An identified force came to kill the users! A member of the Black Lion Guild tried to stop them but came under attack and died. Other people appeared and also died. It is impossible with just us so we need support.

It took only 1 minute before other users reported.

Ject: An unidentified party enter the dungeon en masse, killing all users. A battle ensued and they mercilessly attacked our guild. The power of the enemy is beyond imagination.Pum: A battle has also started on the mountain range. The guard posts and fortress has also received fire. This is an urgent request for reinforcements!

The Black Lion Guild's members hunting in the dungeon were suddenly attacked. The situation didn't end there.

Mirnak: Large scale combat troops from the Beden Guild are approaching Kurun Castle. Judging by all the magicians, it seems like a siege is about to occur!

It wasn't difficult to recover when the peace of a dungeon was disturbed. Unless the monsters stormed out and slaughtered the inhabitants, it wouldn't deal substantial economic or security damage.

But if they lost the siege then the castle and surrounding area would be passed to the Beden Guild. The Black Lion Guild had invested a lot in the development so it would become extremely unstable. If the residents were reduced then it would take some time to recover.

That's why most of the central area of Versailles where the war was concentrated had a reduction in inhabitants, agricultural areas and technology. They would still receive a loss if they surrendered to the enemy.

Nechak: I'm now in Kurun Castle. I've observed that the number of Beden Guild members challenging us is quite significant. The Black Lion Guild is convening an emergency meeting for the first time in its history.Koka: All users engaged in hunting, questing or business are ready for battle and waiting for a command.

The Black Lion Guild entered into an emergency system. The guild leader quickly grasped the situation and urgently sent reinforcements to Kurun Castle. It was a priority to prevent their castle from being taken away.

While the Black Lion Guild was waking up, the massacre of the Melbourne Mine by the Hermes Guild had begun.

Chapter 2: Bardray and the Royal Guards

2) Bardray and the Royal Guards

Sakain: Clean up the 1st floor as quickly as possible then proceed to penetrate a path for Bardray to go down to the 2nd floor.

The Royal Guards and 2 Night Blade assassination squads from the Hermes Guild had been mobilized to fight in the Melbourne Mine. The Night Blade Assassin Guild had at least 300 assassins. 2 groups of 80 elite assassins with terrible power had been selected. Those two groups from Night Blade were enough to completely dispatch a smaller guilds. The assassins rushed out holding their weapons.

"Kyaaaak!"

"I'll leave the dungeon so spare me."

"Everybody is indiscriminately being killed. Run away!"

The users hunting in the Melbourne Mine were being wiped out. Some begged and some cursed but the assassins from the Hermes Guild were merciless. It was a source of decent income for them so they thoroughly slaughtered everyone.

Bardray walked through the dead towards the 2nd floor with the Royal Guards.

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"Hyung, what do we do? There is a sudden attack so are we going to die?"

"What's the big deal? We'll just step carefully."

"That......"

Hegel explained the contents of his guild chat.

"Oh, they're really bad guys."

"Completely unlucky."

Alice and Dine had annoyed him but Weed was the type to drink every last drop of milk even if it was two months overdue. Therefore he had stayed with them and discovered the serious problem too late.

"Can't troops from the Black Lion Guild stop them?"

"The event is occurring in many places at the same time. A war is occurring so there is no guarantee they will send help here."

The Black Lion Guild had experienced many wars. Hegel was also experienced in many sieges upon the enemy but now it was the rare situation where they were being attacked!

Usually if there was a hunting ground or dungeon then a village would naturally be in that area. Sending a raiding party was a dangerous tactic because there was no guarantee they could return safely.

Weed sighed as he discovered that the Black Lion Guild was too busy to control the situation.

"The hospital bill had just decreased and now this happened."

"Eh?"

"There is such a thing."

He thought this would be easy thanks to Hegel, only to have an accident like this happen again.

"I couldn't guess it at all. For an incident to occur in the dungeon while the Beden Guild is attacking."

Something like this happened when they didn't even know the identity of the enemies. It would be too late by the time they figured it out. Weed stopped making his sculptures and stood up.

"What did the Black Lion Guild members in the mine decide to do?"

"They tried to fight back but I heard reports that the enemies on the 1st floor are no joke. So we decided to gather on the 4th floor."

"Is that so? Then can I go there?"

"It won't matter if I bring you with me."

"Thank you. Let's go."

Weed checked his backpack.

He had stored some of his equipment in case he needed to meet a lord or noble. But Kolderim's Daemon Sword, Talrock's Armour, the Ancient Shield, Saint's Staff, Barkhan's full set, Baharan's Bracelet and Seulroeo's Wedding Ring were present. If he lost even one of those items then it would be a huge psychological impact.

'Even if the forces of the Black Lion Guild are spread, the invaders' power truly isn't ordinary.'

Weed couldn't imagine that the people in the Melbourne Mine were Bardray and the Hermes Guild. Still, they needed to be of a very high level if they were stepping on the Black Lion Guild. Judging from Hegel's expression and the great number of intruders, this was a really big crisis. The entire Melbourne Mine was a combat area so logging out was impossible.

"Let's go down the stairs to the lower floors."

Weed also had a map of the mine so he knew the approximate route.

"Hyung, I will open the way."

Hegel said while holding his sword and shield.

"There's no time for that now."

Weed drew his Daemon Sword.

Then there was an eerie feeling! Weed jumped across the gap and attacked the Menchura that was frozen by Weed's charisma and fighting spirit. It couldn't even attack Weed and kept on trembling pitifully.

Seokeok!

-The Menchura has died from the devastating attack.

He hadn't aimed for a vital spot yet it had died just from a graze of the Daemon Sword! All the Menchura blocking the route died from just a touch from Weed.

"Uh?"

Hegel was outraged. He had diligently raised his level to 330 thanks to hunting with his guild. The Menchura was still scary even if he was this level. But just lightly wielding his sword like it was a joke and killing the Menchura was an impossible task.

'Even one of the hyungs who founded the Black Lion Guild can't do this much.'

Hegel couldn't demonstrate his full ability in fights because of his own lack of judgement and senses. But many users included Hegel were weak compared to their level.

When Weed was level 330, he had been fighting against dragons and touring Todeum. This was because he increased his stats more than others and he persistently raised his many skills. Compare that to other users who were accustomed to wearing good equipment and facing moderate monsters. While Weed was eating barley bread, other users were living while eating well cooked beef steak.

Weed disposed of the Menchura and asked.

"When will reinforcements from the Black Lion Guild come?"

"I don't know yet. Right now other places are more urgent. I won't be able to tell you the time."

Weed continued fighting while surveying the area. Some parties were still hunting because they hadn't gotten the news yet and some users were talking in loud voices.

"Do you have any information about the enemies that struck?"

"I don't know."

"Then you don't know how many there are?"

"A little more information just came from the Melbourne Mine. There are at least 300 people."

"Their estimated level?"

"It's outrageous. A user from our guild who hunted on the 4th floor fought one of them on the 1st floor and died. That's despite the fact that he is level 367."

When it was this degree, it wasn't just the hospital bill but the insurance expenses as well.

'It is really dangerous.'

Weed moved at a faster pace.

He had learnt how to live a proper life when he was a child. He had learnt different things from society as he grew older. How to endure injustice. What to do when work wasn't easy. The way to tread on other people to take the ball away.

"It is really hard to live honestly..... No wonder good people like me have no choice but to suffer and resent the world."

"Eh?"

"It's nothing."

A bunch of Menchura had gathered at the entrance to go down to the 3rd floor. The monsters in the Melbourne Mine happened to breed very fast. Usually it was a condition for good hunting but it was just an obstacle in situations like this.

"I'm going to drill a path."

Weed had many sword skills. Although he trained in all the skills, he focused on some exceptional ones.

The Imperial Formless Sword style!

It could be properly utilized for hunting as long as he didn't break the opponent's weapons. He might win the battle but there was no telling what loot he might not obtain if he recklessly broke equipment.

Sculpting Blade, Heriam Fencing and Radiant Sword, Weed had diverse skills that could be used depending on the characteristics of the fight. Radiant Sword was a ranged attack skill that used beautiful light.

"If I eat the entire roast chicken as a midnight snack then I won't be able to eat grilled rib eye."

A knife used to catch a chicken couldn't be used to catch a cow.

Given the level of damage dealt to the Menchura, using Radiant Sword would just be abusing the monster.

"Huh?"

Hegel, Alice and Dine couldn't understand the meaning of the words Weed kept on muttering.

"Hyung, let's fight together."

"No. I'm going to eat alone."

Weed steadily walked through the congregating Menchura towards the 3rd floor.

Kyahaoo!

Kuyayang!

The Menchura didn't have the capacity to threaten him. Instead their eyes were filled with deep fear. Weed's fighting spirit was strongly emitted when a battle started.

The God of War.

He had fought countless battles with the strongest monsters on the Versailles Continent so the Menchura found it difficult to attack against his fighting spirit. The Menchura willingly fled to the rear to retreat. It was only 1 person approaching but 17 Menchura were running away. However it was impossible for Weed to just leave the obvious experience and loot to descend to the 3rd floor.

"Sculpting Blade!"

Weed's sword plunged towards the Menchura. It was the mass death of all monsters within the radius of the sword! It dealt a mental shock to anyone who watched the Menchura simultaneously disappear.

Now the Menchura desperately fought back despite the pressure from his fighting spirit. Weed generously welcomed their attacks with his body. He was in the state where he wasn't wearing proper armour since it was packed.

-The Menchura's attack has grazed you.

Health has fallen by 46.

-The Menchura's attack has hit a vital spot.

Your Perseverance has increased from the pain.

You have tolerated the damage thanks to Resilience.

Health has decreased by 159.

Weed felt ticklish!

"Let's clean this up."

The monsters gathered around the entrance to the 3rd floor quickly disappeared. Weed had been completing his Master quest not just in the Melbourne Mine so he hadn't been able to fight as much as he wanted. He made sure to wipe them all out without leaving even one behind.

"Wah! Sunbae-nim, you're the best."

"So strong! What is the name of that attack skill?"

Alice and Dine started talking in appealing tones. Hegel spent that time being shamed and it was a repeat of a nightmare.

'Ah.... This happened before.'

The Dwarf sculptor Weed! He remembered Weed's surprising actions in the Kramador dungeon. When they went down to the 3rd floor, the users there were aware of and preparing for the attack.

"Where are those guys?"

"I don't know but they seem to be fighting furiously so we should prepare for a battle."

The Black Lion Guild members were guiding users down to the 4th floor. The Melbourne Mine's 4th floor was a tunnel so the entrances were narrows when plenty of obstacles. Therefore it was a good terrain for a fight. The members had faith that the Black Lion Guild would send reinforcements even if it took some time. So they were bringing users from the 3rd floor down.

"Hyung, let's go quickly as well."

Hegel would feel more relieved if he was with his guild members so he wanted to rush. But Weed had work to do on the 3rd floor.

"A lot of people seem to be descending... This is a great opportunity."

"What type of opportunity?"

"I don't care if you go down first."

Weed took a pickaxe out of his backpack and headed towards the mining area. The deeper it was in the mine, the better the iron ore that emerged was. Of course he also dug out sapphires.

Kang! Kang! Kang!

A lot of sapphires came out thanks to the skilled use of his pickaxe. It was a technique that controlled the power in accordance with the pickaxe weight and aiming for the exact spot. It was similar to the attack used when fighting a large enemy.

-Kuhehehe.

-Let's release our grudge. Those bad guys left us locked up here to starve to death.

-You must be the servant sent by the Tullen King.

Angry spirits appeared on the 3rd floor every time someone started mining. They were dead knights with a hatred for invaders. A battle would occur whenever they appeared so the soldiers needed to protect the miners. Of course, most miners moved with a hunting party. This was also a good place for priests to hunt with their purify magic.

"Wait a little bit."

-What is he saying? Our desired vengeance......

"Take this and eat it."

Weed threw the spirits an apple.

-Apple.

-It is ripe and delicious.

The evil spirits attached themselves to the apple. The coveted apple disappeared in a few bites.

-Sweet.

-A few more.

-Then we won't kill you.

"Whew."

Weed sighed while moving his pickaxe and started throwing them fruit one by one.

-Your friendship with the spirits has increased.

A relationship of mutual trust is generated with the Melbourne spirits

.If he had time then catching the Melbourne spirits wouldn't be difficult. Sculpting Blade and Radiant Sword were techniques that could even take care of spirits. But right now dangerous forces had entered the mine so he wasn't in a position to do that.

"Live and offer up fruits to spirits, their fate....."

Weed sang as he focused on his pickaxe.

-Sway sway, look over there.

-Are you looking for the sparkling blue jewels? There are some on the right side.

He dug where the spirits told him to with his intermediate mining skills and sapphires came pouring out. The spirits liked the fruit and gave him valuable information about where to mine.

-A medium sapphire gemstone has been unearthed.

Luck has increased by 1.

-A large sapphire gemstone has been unearthed.

Luck has increased by 2.

The degree of proficiency of the Mining skill has increased.

"For mining skills to be used in a Sculpting Master Quest....."

It meant a character needed to be a jack of many trades to complete the quest. He needed sapphires to complete the quest so finding a lot was good. He needed to make a sculpture so different quantities of sapphires were needed. Weed continued digging despite being satisfied with the quantity of stones.

"I don't know when I can get such a quest again."

His mining skill also continued rising as he continuously dug out quality sapphires. Sapphires were beautiful so they could be processed into jewelry or when given to a senior magician, it could add attributes to swords and armour. Jewelry that increased attack damage could be sold for an expensive price.

"Hyung, let's stop now."

They didn't dare leave Weed so Hegel and his two juniors were restless. Weed who was surrounded by spirits just kept on mining.

-It's there, right there.

-There is a huge gemstone...... If he wanted to eat something sour then shouldn't he buy a pomegranate?

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The Hermes Guild had no difficulty wiping out the 1st floor of the Melbourne Mine. The Night Blade assasssins wiped out all parties. The assassins' names were flashing red.

But they had the skill to hide it so that their infamy didn't show when entering a village. Of course, if the other side had excellent observation or surveillance skills then they would be exposed and difficulty would ensue. However the territories dominated by the Hermes Guild granted amnesty to them so they didn't care about their infamy.

"Let's go."

Bardray and the Royal Guards went down to the 2nd underground floor. A portion of the Royal Guards had already gone ahead and slaughtered the users with overwhelming force. Some users tried to escape to a tunnel but the Night Blade assassins caught up and ended their lives.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Yoo Byung-jin felt like he became a lot older every morning.

"In retrospect, my youth passed by really quickly."

He didn't know how precious time was when he was young. He spent the entire time inventing Royal Road. Now his body had grown old and it wasn't the same any longer.

Virtual reality drew a clear line in human history. There was so much potential for future development but Yoo Byung-jin thought that he probably wouldn't see it.

"One day I'd like to live quietly in a place where people don't know where I am."

Looking back the ambition that had burned in him just increase the burden and made living life harder. Yoo Byung-jin wanted to find his successor so he watched what was happening in Royal Road on a daily basis.

"Tsk tsk, greed is never ending. If it isn't stopped......"

The greed of a giant guild. The greedy humans moved in a herd and caused endless disputes. This could also be called human nature so Yoo Byung-jin watched it thoroughly.

"Morata... The Arpen Kingdom will probably become quite big. The growth is surprisingly quite rapid."

There hadn't been anything left in the Northern Continent so it was a poor area. Weed's adventure had truly been beyond expectations. He had gone through many adventures since becoming a Legendary Moonlight Sculptor and raising a kingdom. His actions were amazing in a world dominated by monsters, swords and magics.

"If I played Royal Road then I would probably start in Morata."

If people gathered together than a huge power would naturally be formed. Yoo Byung-jin saw the variety of events that happened daily in Morata.

Adventurers triumphantly returned with new discoveries. Warriors going out to increasingly distant places to hunt and bringing back news of the defeat of a dungeon. Bards succeeded in putting on great peformances. Tailors carefully wove fabric to develop their skills and it was the same for blacksmiths. Sculptors and painters created pieces of beautiful art on the streets. Gardeners pulled out weeds while carefully growing their prized flowers and trees.

Morata didn't have sudden changes. All sectors were gradually getting better every day. This ordinary miracle would eventually lead to a kingdom. That's why Yoo Byung-jin often watched Weed. While the war-torn cities on the continent were hard for beginners, Morat was a surprisingly good living area. In addition, Weed was currently part of the competitors ahead in their fields who were completing the Master Quest.

"He might meet Bardray in the Melbourne Mine."

The two people didn't know that they were in the same dungeon. Normally millions of people watched Bardray and Weed's adventures but the nature of the incident meant that it couldn't be broadcasted live. The only person who saw the surrounding circumstances was Yoo Byung-jin.

"What will happen......"

Yoo Byung-jin curiously watched the monitor. And he became more impatient as he watched Weed continue mining sapphires.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

"There's this much?"

Weed's eyes twinkled as he looked at the sapphires in the basket. He also obtained quite a significant amount of 2nd and 3rd grade iron ores. The minerals had quite a significant weight but he didn't think they were heavy.

"In order to make money in this land... It is worth learning the mining skill."

It was one of the skills that made money in Royal Road.

"Now I should do a little more digging."

"Hyung, we should go quickly. There's no time to waste here anymore."

Hegel said from the side. He had been upset since finding out the Melbourne Mine was attacked. Meanwhile the Black Lion Guild were gathering the users on the 4th floor. Hegel was anxious and wanted to join them soon but Weed was doing something unexpected.

'This Hyung's level is significant. I can tell that his combat ability isn't ordinary just from the little bit of fighting I saw. He will be useful for today's war. However, if I can't pry him from the sapphires.....'

Weed had completely fallen under the spell of the sapphires. He could obtain plenty of gems and minerals by listening to the spirits. If he combined his sculpting and blacksmithing skills in the future to earn money then he would be really satisfied.

"Sunbae-nim, come quickly."

"You can't do this here!"

Dine and Alice couldn't hold back their words anymore. The memory of Weed's charisma when fighting against the Menchura had vanished. It was annoying since Weed was busy.

"Kekekeket. A sapphire. It is a top of the line goods without any scratches."

He couldn't just mine recklessly. He needed to be careful whenever he found a sapphire. If he didn't cause any damage to the surface of the gemstone with his pickaxe then the price would climb higher.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Yurin met many people as she freely travelled around the continent.

"This beautiful lady painter, can I request a favour?"

A man wearing a magician's robe approached.

"Your sense of colour is very good. I'd like a picture..... I'll even buy you a drink so we can talk."

A knight also approached.

"Can I entrust this picture that I excavated to Yurin-nim?"

An adventurer brought a picture that had been painted a long time ago. She liked painting pictures of cities and scenic views while talking to people. Users and residents sometimes told her stories of hidden trails and valleys with flowers blooming.

"This place is also hidden. Draw it as soon as possible."

While drinking milk with barley bread, the painting remained in her mind not just on the canvas. She remained lost in thought while drawing a picture of a beautiful landscape, and enjoyed the free and satisfying time until it was completed. She also talked with people while drawing portraits. It was to the extent that her friends and connections couldn't be ignored.

But Yurin was happiest when she was in Morata and Vargo Fortress. She went hunting with beginners and gave out small amounts of paintings. Her ability to paint also progressed rapidly.

"Do you want to have a meal together? I know a good cook. I think you'll love it."

Sometimes Yurin met Hwaryeong who was having a difficult time hunting with Geomchi.

"Okay unni."

The two of them had a meal and saw a performance. Morata was a city of art and performances so the ratio of female users was high compared to other areas. Morata was a city of art and performances so the ratio of female users was high compared to other areas.

"Was Weed-nim cool even when he was a child?"

"He... He made sure I always wore 2 layers of thick underwear even in the house."

The two women often discussed Weed. Yurin had a good sibling relationship with Weed while Hwaryeong was interested in him.

"But can I ask if the two of you ever fought?"

"When I was young I used to misunderstand Oppa but now he is the one I love most in the world."

"That's right. There probably isn't anything to fight about. I asked something unnecessary."

Yurin and Weed had a positive relationship like Hwaryeong expected.

"No unni. I also got annoyed at Oppa... Although it happened some time ago."

"Did you?"

"It was last winter."

Yurin's eyes were already wet just thinking about it.

"These ugg boots that I really wanted to buy...."

Girls liked wearing ugg boots in winter because they were cool and cute. But the larger reason was because they were warm and big so they were convenient to wear. Yurin wanted to wear the boots when studying in the library.

"I asked Oppa to buy me those boots."

"So?"

Hwaryeong's eyes flashed once she realized the story was about shoes.

"Did he buy you pretty ugg boots?"

Usually men didn't have a very good response to women's shoes or bags. In particular there were many men who didn't like ugg boots.

"He didn't buy it. He took it as a declaration that my feet were cold and gave me socks....."

"Keeek!"

"But they were thick socks that can't be easily worn with shoes. He assumed that all boots were identical even when explained about the ugg boots... Euheuheuk."

Hwaryeong patted the devastated Yurin on the shoulder.

It was the saddest story she had heard recently.

Chapter 3: Woomba Belkain

3) Woomba Belkain

Bardray and the Royal Guards arrived on the Melbourne Mine's 3rd floor.

"They've been informed that we were coming."

"It seems like that."

The 3rd floor was empty of users. A few thieves searched the area but couldn't find anyone in the vicinity.

"There is no time to delay. Anybody who is hiding here will be allowed to live."

"Let's go."

The Hermes Guild split into two parties after dealing with the users on the 1st and 2nd floor. The Magician Hit Squad took the thieves to set traps to prepare for when the Black Lion Guild's reinforcements arrived. They created a perfect layer of trap fortifications on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd floor to buy time. Meanwhile Bardray, the Royal Guards and the battle group continued going down.

"Now it is a little bit exciting."

"How strong is it really... It will be an exhilarating fight."

The battle group pulled out their weapons. They had to get rid of the remaining users in the mine and complete the quest. It was Bardray's Master Quest so it was natural that they mobilized all the capabilities of the Hermes Guild.

They figured out that Belkain was hiding in the Melbourne Mine. Belkain was classified as a medium to large sized monster. Its level was estimated to be more than 620! According to the history of the continent, it was said to have climbed out of the bottom of hell. 100 years ago it caused terrible damage to the Tullen Kingdom until the High Elves eventually defeated it. It escaped while wounded to the Haineph Mountains and hadn't appeared since.

"According to a report someone found Belkain's tail feathers in this part of the mine... There is a high possibility that we will have to fight it soon."

"I've heard its cries once or twice but never figured out the location. I decided to leave it alone."

History stated that Belkain had a very destructive power over the earth so it was dangerous.

"Get ready for battle."

They had reached the entrance of the 4th underground floor so heavy resistance from the Black Lion Guild and the users gathered there was expected. The knights with high defense went down the stairs while covering themselves with shields. But unexpectedly there were no attacks from the Black Lion Guilds and hunting users.

Kentrio: The enemies aren't visible. Come down and see.

Originally the Black Lion Guild had planned a line of defense at the entrance. But they felt it was too reckless since the dungeon was revealed after the earthquake.

Belkain's lair!

They could buy some time when moving there and if lucky then they could find an exit for the mine on the other side. The trails around the entrance was investigated.

"They aren't in the area. And the footprints have continued into the dungeon."

"How pitiful. Did they enter just to die?"

Krobidyun said.

He was a level 446 Necromancer in the Royal Guards whose original profession was a senior magician. He hadn't changed to a Necromancer while Barkhan and his Undead Legion were still alive. He had been watching Weed defeat the Undead Legion on the broadcasts and started to wonder about the potential of Necromancers. He had the basic skills of a magician and the full backing of the guild so his abilities as a Necromancer quickly grew. A Necromancer was active in large scale battles which is why he came along this time.

"Leave some troops behind while we enter Belkan's lair."

Bardray began to take the lead. He changed his armour and sword to his original one. It was armour he got from the Royal Knight of the Kelton Kingdom while completing his class quest.

The Black Knight's full set!

It wasn't an exaggeration to say that it was one of the best items that had appeared in the Versailles Continent to date. The Royal Guards also changed into their equipment for fighting boss level monsters. They used spears, maces and axes with destructive power to fight against medium and large sized monsters.

"We're going to smash that guy."

"The battle axes will move forward first."

Bardray walked faster than usual. Rather than feeling burdened at the possible appearance of the Black Lion Guild's reinforcements, he welcomed it because he could show a strong appearance in combat. He could show off the power of the strongest warrior on the Versailles Continent. No one could touch the mighty Bardray.

"Kukukuk, come with me."

Krobidyun started summoning the undead. A Necromancer's role was to create an undead army as combat troops. He raised the corpses of the users hunting in the Melbourne Mine so a minimum of Death Knights and Dullahans were summoned. There were also a few people with the power of a Doom Knight. If he used the Black Lion Guild members on the 4th floor then his undead would grow even more.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

-What should we do? I think they're coming this way.

-Shhh, be quiet.

-Hyung, do you plan to just wait until they pass?

-Maybe they won't see us and will just pass unaware.

Weed and the other 3 people were hiding on the 3rd underground floor. Hegel had been eager to go down to the 4th floor but when he calmed down, he realized that there was no point.

The intruders weren't idiots so they had probably come with enough power to attack the Black Lion Guild. Hegel heard about the situation on the 1st and 2nd floors so he knew the users on the 4th floor didn't have the level to stop them.

He had lost his sense of judgement when he panicked but that was when Weed's survival instinct shone. He decided to remain on the 3rd floor that most users had abandoned.

'It doesn't seem like there are a lot of people here. Therefore the intruders would only leave a small amount of people behind to search.'

He had learnt to quickly calculate money under a vicious boss so his head came to a quick conclusion. But the other 3 people didn't understand that Weed's judgement was that good based on their expressions.

'I dug sapphires until it was quite late......'

There was no denying that he was greedy for gems.

"Kuaaak!"

"We didn't commit any crime......"

"Banish!"

The sound of users hiding elsewhere and being caught could be heard. The users couldn't hide from the enemies who had assassin or thief classes. Weed was hiding in a recess at the end of the long tunnel where he had been digging the sapphires.

Now some assassins were heading this way. Professional assassins could hear any low breathing as a loud sound and determine minor temperature differences. Meanwhile the thieves specialized in dismantling traps in dungeons. But when it came to installing traps or surprise attacks, the assassins were the class with the superior ability. They had high destruction capabilities but low stamina so they couldn't fight for a long time on the battlefield.

'If they come closer than they'll find us.'

The assassins could use stealth technique when walking. Although their movement speed would increase if they released stealth. The assassins thought the enemies were weak so they didn't feel the need to hide and searched in pairs. Two assassins were also coming to scout the place where Weed was hiding.

'There are two of them so I need to end it quickly.'

Weed pushed Hegel forward when the assassins approached.

"H-huh! Hyung!"

The two assassins who discovered their prey kicked hard across the ground and ran forward. Both foreheads were tagged with the mark of a murderer. Hegel could tell that they were at a reasonable level just by looking at their equipment. This was a clean-up strategy so they didn't bother informing the other assassins.

"Guardian Wall!"

Hegel struck a defense pose with the shield in front of him. His body was frozen and he didn't even dare strike back. The assassins used the momentum of their speed to execute a jump attack. Suddenly birds of light came down on them. It accurately aimed for their heads!

"Keuuuuk!"

"T-this....."

One of the assassins suddenly had their health rapidly reduced. They raised their dagger to try and defend from the continuous attacks. But the birds of light just changed trajectory and attacked the assassins' vital spots. There were seven consecutive critical hits! The two assassins disappeared into the grey light.

The assassins had offensive capabilities but their health and fitness were significantly lower. They also couldn't wear heavy armour so their defense was low. Therefore they were weak in a frontal confrontation.

Weed used the perfect opportunity to make Hegel bait. The assassins were careless while expending their power on attacking. They never expected that someone with Weed's sword skills would be hiding in order to take advantage of it.

"Hyung, what skill is that?"

Hegel was more interested in Radiant Sword than being resentful. The sword technique was very flashy and powerful.

"It's no big deal. We've caught two of them so that will buy us some time."

"Now we will be safe?"

"No, the other assassins will probably flock here when those two don't come back after a period of time."

Weed said while picking up the loot the assassins dropped. They were murderers so it was possible to obtain gold coins, jewellery, a poisonous dagger and a ring that increased the critical strike chance.

"Too bad. These aren't expensive."

A lot of people chose to play assassins. The items could be easily sold despite not being worth much so he couldn't complain.

'I wonder if these guys belong to the Beden Guild.'

If the Beden Guild had this power then they wouldn't have been successively defeated by the Black Lion Guild. A great power was needed in order to simultaneously attack the Melbourne Mine and other places.

'Right now they're unidentified. Did someone join forces with the Beden Guild in order to deal damage to the Black Lion Guild?'

Of course, this raiding operation could cause quite a few losses since it involved hundreds of users. The reinforcements from the Black Lion Guild could confine them and deal damage in return. In addition, they indiscriminately slaughtered users so the Black Lion Guild wouldn't be the only ones hostile to them. He didn't understand the reasons but he had become involved in it anyway.

"Now I see no other methods besides fighting."

The God of War.

Weed's combat instincts were unleashed.

"I'll just dig up 2 more sapphires......"

"Hyung, please!"

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The assassins moved quickly. They laid their traps while searching for users and killing them. 25 assassins were executing their mission on the 3rd underground floor.

"It has been some time and no. 43 and no. 44 haven't come back yet."

"Are they just delayed?"

The mine was complicated so it would take different amounts of time to return. Despite the degree of error being taken into consideration, all of the assassins had gathered except for 2.

"There was no indication of it earlier."

"Call them in the guild chat."

The assassins called the colleagues that hadn't appeared. There was no answer.

"They're not even responding to whispers."

"Perhaps....."

They either terminated their access or died! There was a battle occurring in the Melbourne Mine area so they couldn't log out.

"They're dead. Someone strong is lurking."

"What was no. 43 and no. 44's search direction?"

"The coal mine area."

"Let's go there."

6 assassins moved to that area to search for their colleagues.

Sneak sneak.

They used their stealth skills to become invisible when walking! The assassins also wore camouflage clothes so they assimilated with the surrounding landscape. They also wore boots that didn't make a sound when stepping on leaves or gravel. The only indication that something was moving was a transparent afterimage.

-It is this area.

-Look carefully and don't forget to check the boundaries.

The assassins slowly moved forward.

Rumble!

"It is a trap."

"Twieot!"

The assassins thought there were traps installed in the ground so three ran forward while the remaining three retreated. The assassins were good at discovering traps because they installed it themselves. Normally traps had a minimum size and were interlinked.

'If a small trap is installed then we won't be able to notice it......'

'Is it a user with the same class? Then no wonder why no. 43 and no. 44 didn't return.'

The assassin had a brief thought. Those with higher skills could install smaller traps with intense power.

'Pop.'

The assassins scattered and crouched down. They were prepared to defend against explosions, arrows, poison or anything else!

"Van Hawk, strike!"

"Understood Master."

Instead of a trap, a Death Knight was waiting in the dark to strike. Van Hawk's attack power and level wasn't something that the assassins could endure. Two assassins were killed with consecutive attacks! Meanwhile Weed had taken care of one assassin.

"It was a fake trap!"

The three assassins that escaped to the rear realized their mistake. They were assassins so they reacted more keenly to traps compared to other people. They had also been tense because two of their colleagues had disappeared without a trace. Now three of them had died without a proper fight.

"Let's retreat and return with more numbers."

The remaining assassins weren't fools and tried to retreat after three of them died. They had already announced in the guild chat that there was a surprise attack. It was reasonable for the assassins to consider their safety and retreat.

"This fragrant smell. I'm feeling thirsty."

Torido appeared behind the assassins' backs. He used the vampire movement skill Nobility of the Night to suddenly appear behind an assassin's neck.

"Yum yum yum!"

The body of one person became paralyzed by Torido's attack. The two remaining assassins that were still free made eye contact and nodded at the same time.

"I'm sorry."

"I'll see you afterwards."

The assassins realized how difficult the opponent was when the monster Torido appeared. The ring he wore indicated that he was a Vampire Lord. They would rather live with regrets then die trying to save their colleague. But the vampire servants that appeared completely blocked their escape.

"Death Blade!"

Van Hawk's black sword flew towards them. The assassins split to either side to avoid it.

"Sword Kaiser!"

Weed's Daemon Sword became absurdly large and split apart an assassin. It was a skill that burned all his mana to deal one blow. It was a bit excessive to use on one person but he chose it when considering the assassin's ability to make a rapid escape. Van Hawk had also taken care of the remaining assassin.

"This is a decent item that dropped."

Weed acquired boots that increased agility and movement speed. The level limit was 320. These boots would have a wide usage on the Versailles Continent. It was also useful in battle so it was an item that anyone would desire.

"Ah... Hyung!"

Hegel said after emerging from his hiding spot. He saw Weed's ability in a fight so he knew Weed was a high level user with great skills. Yet he had summoned a Death Knight and Vampire Lord as his subordinates. They were the famous Van Hawk and Torido.

If someone didn't know about Weed then it wasn't possible to call them a fan of Royal Road. Hegel considered Weed the War God as a hero. Hegel personally envied and admired him despite belonging to the Black Lion Guild.

"Omo, Sunbae-nim!"

Alice and Dine's eyes also changed. They looked like brightly shining lanterns. Anyone who knew they were with the God of War would envy them!

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Bardray and the Royal Guards safely arrived at Belkain's lair.

"Strengthen the boundaries."

The 220 Hermes Guild members raised their tension. The thieves and scouts in the Royal Guards went to check the situation and returned.

"There are traces of a battle. We also found 7 bodies around Belkain."

"There's already been a fight since they entered."

The users hunting in the Melbourne Mine had an average level of 380. Once there were no more monsters then they would move to another hunting ground to obtain profits. The monsters in Belkain's lair were level 440 so there would be casualties even if the users teamed up. Separate users had to suddenly form a team so it was difficult even if the class configuration was good.

Krobidyun used those bodies to produce Doom Knights. Necromancers who raised their skills quickly could participate in boss fights with the Hermes Guild. That's because Necromancers wearing class exclusive items could summon undead creatures from friends and foes.

They discovered less monsters and significantly more corpses of users as they entered deeper into Belkain's lair. Krobidyun counted the number of undead created so far and shook his head.

"If it's like this then they should've let us wipe them out first."

The users seemed to prefer going to the end of the dungeon than to be killed by the invaders. Little by little they discovered the corpses of the Black Lion Guild members.

"Well we shouldn't pay any regard to it. They were already destined to die."

Arkhim said with a laugh. Power and strong forces ruled on the Versailles Continent. It was natural for the Royal Guards to think that the weak would die.

"Let's continue."

Krobidyun continued summoning Doom Knights. The Elementalists used a skill to transfer mana to him so he could keep summoning an undead legion. Bardray and the Royal Guards continued deeper into Belkain's lair.

"If an enemy appears now......"

"I can see why those that entered recklessly died.

Belkain's lair wasn't a long dungeon. They finally arrived at the last location where the boss monster was.

-Kuuwaaah!

A huge roar!

-You're stupid for trying to find me when I've been living quietly... You made me decide to enter the world once again!

The Woomba Belkain was fighting the Black Lion Guild and general users who seemed like they were going to die.

"Unbelievable......"

Kasim's jaw dropped at the sight of the surprising battle. The Woomba Belkain had sturdy arms and legs as well as a head with big, menacing horns. He held stones that he rotating viciously to bump into users. It lived up to its reputation in the Tullen history books as it slaughtered the users that came to its lair.

-Humans, you are savage beings that need to be stepped on. I don't know how you came here but I'll kill you all.

The brutal Woomba Belkain swung its paws and tail, killing 5~6 users. That wasn't the only thing that froze the chests of the battle company. The loud noises of the users hunting in the Melbourne Mine drew the monsters.

They entered the dungeon to find a way to somehow live. But the monsters' levels were too high than they ran into the boss class monster Woomba Belkain.

"The intruders are behind us and the monsters in front so how can we win?"

"I won't surrender and die if there is even a slight chance of living."

"If it is like this then I should at least have a clean death."

"I can't just die like this."

The users chose to fight and die. The intruders or the boss class monster! They chose to die by the hands of Belkain instead of the Hermes Guild. Belkain had also drawn the wild monsters wandering the dungeon. They headed towards the place where Woomba Belkain was.

Thus the Hermes Guild were welcomed by various monsters and were plunged into pandemonium.

Chapter 4: Approaching Danger

4) Approaching Danger

"Sunbae-nim, I really wanted to meet you. Can I ask you to sign my leather armour?"

"Me too. I wanted to see you. My dream is to be able to see and listen to Karichwi!"

Weed's adventures were often shown on TV and as reruns. Alice and Dine were fans that watched the live broadcasts of all his adventures.

Records of Weed's Adventures

They even joined the fan cafe that spread stories of Weed's adventures. The girls liked Weed so much that they connected to it every day to write something. Of course, Weed had no interest in such popularity.

"Well, I'm busy now......"

"Kyaa! Sunbae-nim's voice really lifts the atmosphere."

"This is my opinion. I'm sorry. Later on... No, when it is a more comfortable time."

Weed coolly accepted it despite his annoyance. His eyes changed the moment his true identity was known.

"Wah! Hyung, can you also sign something for me in the future? It's such an honour to be friends with the God of War....."

Hegel was also jumping with joy They were in danger because of the intruders in the Melbourne Mine. But even if he died, he thought it was more important that he met Weed. Weed didn't agree of course.

"We killed them quickly this time but the remaining assassins will start to move."

The assassins would come like a swarm of bees once communication was cut off with their colleagues. This trap worked well but he couldn't hope that such luck would continue. Weed sighed.

"This is always my fate. Although I hesitated for a while......"

Van Hawk wiped the blood off his sword and said.

"Don't worry Master. I'll fight against them."

Torido stepped forward as well.

"My throat is still dry. I'm going to soak my fangs in their blood."

Weed felt it was worth training them as subordinates.

"I can throw them if I want to live....."

"......."

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The assassins who had gone searching for their colleagues were ambushed.

-How many are there?

-They seem strong so shouldn't we be especially vigilant?

Usually a report would've come in by now. But this time there was no news. That could mean an early death in the battlefield.

"Were they careless?"

"It doesn't seem like it. No. 21 is very prudent."

"It seems like a formidable enemy is hiding."

The assassins had all types of means to fight against their enemies. Stingers, poison spray, smoke and curse magic were the basic items! Relentless attacks and surprise skills that lowered stamina and health. The assassins' weak point was that if they encountered someone with high defense then they wouldn't last long. But the assassins' critical hit probability and attack damage was much better than other classes and they were excellent at causing confusion and paralysis. The remaining 17 assassins tried to develop a methodical way of fighting.

"We don't know how many there are."

"We need to pull out our weapons in case the Black Lion Guild members arrive."

The assassins equipped a crossbow on their arms. It took a longer time to reload than regular bows but the enchanted arrows were fired faster and dealt more damage. This was the combat equipment for assassins. The preparations for battle quickly finished. The assassins also prepared traps. Just before the 17 assassins were about to start moving, a message appeared over the guild chat.

The Hermes Guild chat was also filled with members not active in the Melbourne Mine.

Steer: Weed the God of War has been discovered in the Melbourne Mine.Reikina: What?Steer: I was told the news by a spy who sneaked into the Black Lion Guild. Weed seems to have killed the assassins on our side in the Melbourne Mine.

The assassins panicked. The damage to the Hermes Guild after they entered the mine was negligible. There had been no deaths on the 1st and 2nd floor. Given the circumstances, the assassins that disappeared must've been killed by Weed.

Steer was an assassin who specialized in overseeing information for the guild so there was no doubt he was correct. Hegel had expressed his delight at Weed's appearance in the Black Lion's guild chat.

Steer: I just received more news from my spy. Weed is on the 3rd underground floor while hiding his identity.Teurok: Then this is a golden opportunity to kill Weed.Credun: We need to use this chance to get rid of Weed who has been causing our guild headaches.

The chat window for the Hermes Guild was in an uproar. Bardray and the Royal Guards were already fighting in the Melbourne Mines and now new information had come up. They could finally kill Weed for the guild's honour. The users in the Hermes Guild were all excited.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Members of the Black Lion Guild gathered one after another at the teleport gate.

"What is the power of the Beden Guild that attacked the castle?"

"More than 70,000."

"They've collected a lot more than usual."

"This time it seems to be life and death for them."

Carlise, the head of the Black Lion Guild received the reports. He made the decision to fight the enemy.

"Siege weapons have been installed in Kurun Castle and the battle seems to be starting in the evening."

"There is a little time. If we can't stop them then the Beden Guild will be one step closer to occupying the Tullen Kingdom."

That's why the Black Lion Guild sent temporary reinforcements to Kurun Castle. The Beden Guild had insufficient troops compared to them. If they expanded their defense using the castle walls then the Black Lion Guild could hold out for one day. The time was limited but it was enough to defeat the party invading the mine then return to win the siege. That's what the leaders of the Black Lion Guild thought.

"For Weed the God of War to appear in the Melbourne Mine... Why is he there?"

"Is he working with those guys?"

"There are no reports that Weed attacked us. They're saying that he is fighting the assassins that attacked the mine."

"Maybe he came because of his quest."

"The Melbourne Mine possesses sapphires with the best clarity as well as good iron ore that might be required for a sculpting quest."

If it was any other time than the Black Lion Guild would be sensitive about Weed entering their area. Weed had a huge reputation as the God of War so they would either react hostilely or cooperate when meeting him. Now an urgent problem has occurred in the place they controlled so that couldn't care too deeply about it. A magician called Tefest suddenly pulled out a crystal ball.

"Guild Master! You should see this. KMC Media is currently broadcasting live about the Melbourne Mine."

"It isn't good that the surprise attack is being broadcasted."

The Black Lion Guild didn't find it pleasant that the attack on a major hunting ground would be known.

"That's not the problem. Look at the broadcast."

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

KMC Media was suddenly organizing a live broadcast. Oh Joo-wan was speaking some exciting news.

"A great event has just occurred in the Melbourne Mine. I told you about the attack on the Black Lion Guild and was going to organize some videos for the viewers about the siege."

"Oh Joo-wan, are you saying that isn't the case any longer?"

"Yes. First, we have determined the identity of the intruders. Surprisingly we discovered that Bardray is among them. As you can see from the video."

-Kuoooooh!

The Woomba Belkain's paw hit the ground. The earth moved like a wave and attacked the users. It was an attack that buried them in earth! The Woomba Belkain continuously waves its large paws and hit the users. It was a procession of death in front of the monster!

Bardray and his Royal Guards were also engaged in the battle against Belkain. It wasn't a situation that could continue for a long time as monsters kept on gathering. Originally they wanted to get rid of all the users in the Melbourne Mine before starting a fight with Belkain. But the users had started the battle first and monsters were gathering in the lair.

"It will be difficult if we delay any longer. Let's go!"

The Royal Guards and their combat group armed themselves and fought against Belkain and the wild dogs of hell. The undead summoned by Krobidyun rushed towards Belkain. They didn't have that many expectations from the undead but it would be good if they blocked Belkain a little bit. Bardray showed off his battle skills.

"Sword Awakening, Strong Will, Power of Birth, Black Knight's Strike, Summon Another Sword!"

Four reinforcement skills. And sword techniques! Bardray ran towards the Woomba Belkain despite the rippling land. The video was forwarded by a user hunting in the Melbourne Mine who entered Belkain's lair. The user was associated with the KMC Media so the video was sent to the station. The broadcasting station had seen it while analyzing various videos. And the Head Director made a decision without taking the time to hold a separate meeting.

"Broadcast it now."

The user from the Melbourne Mine had sent an approximately 7 minute long video before dying. The user's job was a thief so they managed to avoid attacks until they were killed by the Royal Guards. The users belonging to the Black Lion Guild lacked experience in melee fights so they died quickly. Belkain and the various monsters caused a large scene of confusion.

"It's really is amazing. Bardray and members of the Hermes Guild has appeared in the Melbourne Mine. Is the Black Lion Guild aware of this fact?"

"The possibility it high that they didn't know until now."

"It is difficult to think the Hermes Guild would attack a hunting ground belonging to a rival guild."

"Presently we can only make guesses about their current state. I will let you know as more solid information comes in but based on the current situation, the probability is high that they are the suspects."

Oh Joo-wan continued talking while looking at the footage. Bardray had taken members of the Hermes Guild to hunt a boss monster. Sweeping through an area until the Black Lion Guild's influence was an event that would have a large impact. It was a short video but the sight of the Woomba Belkain slaughtering the users made it obvious that it wasn't an ordinary monster.

"News has come in again and the monster in the video is the Woomba Belkain! It is the legendary devil like monster that swept through the Tullen Kingdom."

"A tip came in. There is a user still alive. A video is being sent and I will connect the video as soon as it is ready."

CTS Media and LK Game Broadcasting didn't fall behind KMC Media and also broadcasted about the situation in the Melbourne Mine. The PDs were sent videos from users who died fighting against the Woomba Belkain or from users still alive. The Woomba Belkain's lair was a hellish battle zone but users who stayed far away in a corner could survive. However the monsters and Hermes Guild were both enemies so there was no guarantee how long they could last.

Yoo Ah-ring suddenly screamed.

"Ahhh!"

"Yoo Ah-ring ssi must be really surprised by Bardray's force."

"It's not that... Another man is also in the Melbourne Mine."

"Who is it that made you so surprised?"

"Weed! I received information from a reliable source that Weed the God of War is in the Melbourne Mine!"

The news made each broadcasting station even more frantic.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

A painter in the Black Lion Guild was upset after watching the broadcast.

"Hermes Guild... They dare do this when they haven't even disbanded the United Supremacy Alliance yet! They have violated the agreement."

"We can't forgive them for entering our area and slaughtering our members."

It wasn't just the Melbourne Mine. If the Hermes Guild was behind it then it explained everything that happened today. Carlise had a cold smile on his face.

"The attacks on the other places were just to disguise that they were coming to the Melbourne Mine."

The Black Lion Guild had sustained considerable damage in various hunting grounds. But if they looked at the reported numbers than the invaders of the Melbourne Mine were absolutely overwhelming.

"An earthquake occurred in the Melbourne Mine the moment they entered and then we received reports that a dungeon entrance appeared."

"What is the target they are trying to obtain in the Melbourne Mine?"

"It must be something really valuable if they dared to worsen their relationship with the Black Lion Guild."

"Even Weed the God of War is inside there. He is with Allen's younger brother but we also need to consider him."

The opinions of the Black Lion Guild were divided. Carlise wanted to lead a giant guild that could step on the Versailles Continent. He fought and raised his military power before gradually expanding his territory. He had raised a successful guild so far. Now was the time to make a serious decision.

"All reinforcements sent to the other hunting grounds will be cancelled."

"What about the Melbourne Mine?"

"I will take some warriors and go there directly."

The Black Lion Guild suddenly moved away from what the Hermes Guild predicted.

Their original plan had been to take care of all the users in the Melbourne Mine first. But users had entered Belkain's dungeon and the news about them was discovered too early.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Weed started wearing his armour.

-You have worn Talrock's Armour.

Defense has increased by 102.

Faith has increased by 100 due to your pious heart.

Fame has increased by 300.

Strength has increased by 20.

Agility has increased by 30.

Charm has increased by 25.

Fighting Spirit against an enemy has increased by 40.

Maximum mana has increased by 15%.

Magic damage reduced by 10%.

You are immune to Confusion and Fear.

You can acquire favour from the Dwarves by wearing this armour.

It was the armour he received from the Freya Church. It was a valuable equipment that increased his combat ability and magic defense. Although it was a snow white armour, it changed into black armour thanks to mithril's light absorbing properties.

'I have to set the groundwork.'

Weed use his skills like Sword Grinding and Armour Polishing. He needed to create an optimal physical state in order to escape.

"That armour looks cool."

"Where did you get such armour?"

Weed just walked forward instead of talking about pointless things. If the opponent didn't move then finding hidden assassins was extremely difficult.

'They could pop out anywhere.'

Weed grasped his sword lightly for a quick response. Van Hawk and Tori were to his left and right while Hegel, Alice and Dine were behind him. They wouldn't be much help even if they participated in the battle.

'There might be 1 person or 3 people hiding in the area.'

Weed didn't slow his pace even when he came to a place with of rubble and stone scattered around. He suddenly stopped moving when he sensed that he was being watched. There was a large gap when walking through for several people so the assassins intended to attack there.

'If I go past then I'll be more nervous about a possible attack from behind.'

Now was a great chance to get the jump on them. He would rather fight the assassins head on with the element of surprise. He instantly came to a conclusion the moment he sensed it.

-Weed-nim, are you in the Melbourne Mine right now?

The whisper came from Pale. Weed had never told him that he was going to the Melbourne Mine. Pale and his other colleagues had gone hunting with Geomchi. Weed hesitated before sending a reply back through a whisper.

-I am in the Melbourne Mine.

-I'm watching the broadcast right now and they're stating that Weed-nim is in the Melbourne Mine.

Weed thought that he needed to leave this place as soon as possible. He wasn't interested in how it was discovered. Hegel might've said it through the Black Lion Guild Chat or Alice and Dine might've spread it. The dead assassins also might have recognized Tori and Van Hawk and mentioned it before they died.

-And the people indiscriminately killing everyone are the Hermes Guild.

Weed was still walking while on the lookout for assassins but he was finally able to understand.

'As expected... It needs to be a large organization to do something like this to the mine controlled by the Black Lion Guild.'

Pale's whisper continued.

-And it was mentioned that Bardray and elite troops from the Hermes Guild are in that place.

Weed stopped moving.

'Even if my fate is to be entangled with that guy, this is just too twisted.'

It was to the extent that he wanted to yell at the developers! He hadn't doubted that the assassins had a high level but he never thought they were with Bardray and the Hermes Guild.

'It will be tough for me to survive.'

This had become a serious problem of survival. Weed knew it was inevitable and that he couldn't avoid a large fight with them anymore. Judging by this situation, he would even have to destroy a Masterpiece sculpture.

"It is valuable but....."

Weed didn't carry Masterpiece sculptures with him so he pulled out the Fine piece, the Last Warrior. The sculpture showed the courage of a warrior standing up to the King Hydra.

"In the end it became like this. Sculptural Destruction! All of it will go to agility."

The sculpture was crushed and scattered like sand. He gave priority to agility over strength because he was fighting assassins.

At that moment.

Weed's body became lighter.

-You have used Sculptural Destruction.

The pain of destroying a Fine sculpture! The grief!

5 Art stats have permanently disappeared. Fame has decreased by 100.

The Art stat has been converted to Agility for one day.

Since your Art stat is too high and your Agility stat is too low, the conversion won't be converted all at once.

980 Agility has been changed to the level 9 advanced skill 'Wind Sprint.' You can use mana to run with the wind.

This will be more useful when travelling long distances outdoors than indoors.

650 Agility has been changed to the level 8 advanced skill 'Avoidance.' The enemy won't be able to attack accurately.

The efficiency of leather armour has also increased.

430 Agility has been changed to the level 5 advanced skill 'Lucky Help.'

Enhances the probability of a critical hit to increase damage.

1,040 Agility has been changed to the level 2 advanced skill 'Excellent Experience.' Reduces the activation time required for an attack skill.

It is also possible to grasp the weak points of the skill that an opponent users.

760 Agility has been changed to the level 6 intermediate skill 'Distance Reduction.'

Stamina and mana will be consumed to strike the enemy with extremely quick movements while ignoring distance.

-The proficiency of the Sculpting skill has increased.

Weed felt his lighter body become steady.

"This is the taste."

He was so light it felt like he could fly freely. Both feet were on the ground but he felt pushed whenever the wind flowed. Of course it consumed mana. Weed walked quickly without paying attention to the assassins anymore. The situation had changed so there was no need to worry about the time anymore.

'He is suddenly walking faster.'

'An opportunity.'

The assassins made preparations to move from their ambush spot. One strike would mean the difference between life and death! They just needed one hit to paralyze him for a short period of time. If their surprise succeeded than an assassin could catch someone stronger than them. It was a great honour that their opponent was Weed the God of War.

'Now!'

4 assassins came running out of the shadows. Two of them came from the land while two jumped down from the ceiling of the dungeon.

"Die, Weed!"

"This is your end."

The assassins had been through many fights but they had never been as thrilled as they were now. They aimed their crossbow at Weed the God of War. Torido and Van Hawk were there as well. But Weed was the only thing visible in their eyes.

"Fire!"

Syu syu syu syuk!

The arrows loaded on the crossbow fired in a straight line. The arrows seemed to go straight through Weed's body! At that moment, Weed popped in front of them at an unimaginable speed. Thanks to his high agility and evasion skills, the arrows only hit his shoulder, left hip and right leg.

-Poison! Poison! You have been poisoned.

Your health has decreased.

Your mind and body will be damaged unless you detoxify quickly.

-You have suffered injuries in battle.

Your vitality will drop quickly.

Your health has been reduced by 2,180.

-Damage has been decreased thanks to the faith given by Talrock's Armour.

The arrow that hit his left hip did quite a bit of damage. But Weed was unconcerned about it and just rushed at the assassins with a terrible speed.

"Wah!"

"So fast......"

The assassins quickly pulled out a dagger as he approached.

"Heriam Fencing!"

Weed struck the assassin.

-The 1st consecutive attack has succeeded.

Agility increased by 20%.

-The 2nd consecutive attack has succeeded.

Strength increased by 40%.

His accuracy and destructive power rose greatly thanks to the increase in Agility from Sculptural Destruction. Radiant Sword was a ranged attack skill and Sculpting Blade a moonlight sword skill that the assassins could avoid. It also consumed a lot of mana despite its strength.

Thus he approached so quickly that afterimages were created and used Heriam Fencing on a nearby assassin with low defense. Unfortunately even if the consecutive strikes succeeded, his Agility was already increased from Sculptural Destruction so there was only a basic rise in the stat.

-The assassin has received a crucial impact.

Health decreased by 31,760.

Maximum health will be decreased by 2,110 until a complete healing is accomplished.

Stun has been caused for 2 seconds.

Stealth techniques can't be used.

The appearance of a blurry assassin became clearer.

-The 3rd consecutive attack has succeeded.

Agility increased by 40%.

-The 4th consecutive attack has succeeded.

Strength increased by 40%.

-You have killed an assassin on the Tullen Kingdom's wanted list.

Fame has increased by 15!

If you go to the Tullen Kingdom then you can receive the reward.

-You have gained experience.

An assassin died due to the continuous attacks! Weed didn't stop using Heriam Fencing and maintained the maximum power while hitting another opponent. He picked the vulnerable areas with low defense to deal more damage.

The sophistication of his destructive power was completely different from when he fought the Menchura. The benefit of Heriam Fencing was that attacks would increase exponentially when the consecutive attacks succeeded.

The first assassin couldn't escape from it and died instantly. They were equipped with a dagger in one hand and a crossbow on the other. They didn't have any shields and meagre armour so they were easily damaged.

-The 5th consecutive attack has succeeded.

The enemy has become confused.

The enemy's Fighting Spirit has fallen.

Agility increased by 40%.

-The 6th consecutive attack has succeeded.

Strength increased by 50%.

The damage of the secondary shock wave has increased by 15%.

-The 7th consecutive attack has succeeded.

Agility has increased by an additional 30%.

Strength has increased by an additional 20%.

These attacks used 1,500 mana.

Weed took care of two more assassins. He acquired a cloak, dagger and crossbow as loot. The experience and items dropped was large because the murderers were wanted in a kingdom. Torido had also sucked the blood of one person.

"It really is worth drinking corrupted human blood."

"Let's go!"

Weed took out his bandages and did simple emergency aid before advancing openly. He wasn't concerned about being seen by assassins.

Hegel continued to boast about Weed in the guild chat. Dine and Alice's hearts were pounding excitedly. They didn't know Weed's inner thoughts at all!

'If I'm going to be fighting then I should show the world a confident strut.'

It was like how those who took a minicar to a hotel would receive worse treatment than those riding large, foreign cars. He didn't know if it was true but the outer appearance was necessary.

'I need to make the assassins hesitate. They are moving systematically but they will be tense.'

In a battle, the side that cowered first would be more disadvantaged. Weed smiled like an office worker returning home with his favourite cake. He had polished his rotten acting skills while watching morning shows with his grandmother.

Surge!

Something rolled under Weed's feet as arrows fired from the left and right.

"This....."

Weed stopped as he was about to take out the Ancient Shield. He had used it too much and there was only 31 durability left. He shouldn't use it unless he was really desperate or there was an important purpose.

"Torido, Van Hawk! Unite!"

"Understood Master."

All three of them tolerated the arrows with their bodies. Van Hawk had high health because he was a Death Knight. Torido also had a tenacious health because he was a Vampire Lord. Weed's resilience didn't need to be mentioned. He also had high agility and evasion so he could avoid flying arrows by shifting his body.

"I am loyal and will happily obey Master's command."

"I have to quickly catch one human and drink from them. Beautiful lady over there, I will prepare a bunch of flowers for you......"

Van Hawk and Torido had different ways to endure the pain. Weed just wrapped more bandages around his body. There was nothing like a bandage to restore health in combat. It was a bandage made with advanced Sewing and Herbalism so these trivial injuries were quickly treated.

Snap!

"Hey, over here!"

Kwaaaaang!

"Is everybody okay?"

Weed, Torido and Van Hawk had been caught in a trap. But the situation wasn't that dangerous. It was mostly due to Dine who was a shaman so she gave them healing potions that recovered health. However, it was impossible for the assassins to have left after installing the traps.

"We really managed to catch Weed?"

"We made perfect use of the timing."

"It is difficult to deal with him ourselves. We should wait until reinforcements from the Night Blade or the battle company arrives."

Weed had been caught by a trap and ambushed by assassins in the immediate vicinity.

Chapter 5: Excavated Ice Beauty

5) Excavated Ice Beauty

Bardray, the Royal Guards and the battle company heard the news about Weed.

'This is a really good chance. We can finally catch the ankles of the guy irritating us and execute him.'

'The heavens are helping the Hermes Guild. If we defeat him today.....'

The assassins had secured the Melbourne Mine's 1st, 2nd and 3rd floors. This mine contained the power of the Hermes Guild so they could turn to Weed after completing Bardray's class quest.

'This has become interesting.'

Bardray was also thrilled at the thought of Weed. He had wanted to meet Weed again in Royal Road to get revenge. Unfortunately he was in the Woomba Belkain's lair and he needed to get rid of the Black Lion Guild first. He would show Weed the colossal gap in power and defeat him. The Black Lion Guild was coming here but this dungeon was under the Hermes Guild's control.

"The monsters are continuing to gather!"

"I've sealed the three back passages. There are additional monsters in the passage."

The Woomba Belkain's lair was a huge cave with many passages connected to it.

-Kiiek!

-I'll eat the humans who dare attack my mother.

Users had run away from the Melbourne Mine only to intrude and annoy the boss monster. They had dragged the monsters only to die but it caused difficulty for the Royal Guards and battle company.

"Stay here. Endure and don't leave even if you have no health left."

The priests belonging to the Royal Guards and battle group became busy. If they were kicked by the Woomba Belkain or stabbed by its horn then it was no different from death. Belkain's children and the wild dogs of hell were also tough. They were at least level 400, with skin as hard as steel so they didn't suffer much damage.

"Wounded Heal!"

It was a 4th stage magic used for absolute recovery. The level of the priests wasn't ordinary so if they didn't die then their health would be half recovered. Bardray walked to the side of the Woomba Belkain. His legs sank into the ground whenever he moved a step. The ground changed into a swamp due to intensity of the technique to increase his strength and vitality.

"Shock Wave!"

"Thunder Arrow."

The magicians and archers indiscriminately attacked the Woomba Belkain. Its health steadily decreased despite there being no change in the outward appearance. The Woomba Belkain continued attacking users with its horns and paws. The surrounding stones were also thrown at people so the collateral damage was significant.

"Heavy Blow of Satisfaction!"

Bardray walked towards and Woomba Belkain's side and dealt several attacks in a row. If vulnerable areas with low defense was hit in succession than symptoms of Stun or Paralysis would occur. The Woomba Belkain wasn't so weak that it would suffer those effects but it still lost a considerable amount of health. He used his sword techniques and repeatedly struck the Woomba Belkain. It was a medium sized monster so it wasn't pushed back by the intense attacks.

-You're the strongest human here.

The Woomba Belkain showed fierce hostility towards Bardray. He had struck its flesh more times compared to the other Hermes Guild members so naturally he would attract its hostility.

-The Woomba Belkain has unleashed its Fighting Spirit.

You have overcome it due to your high Honour.

Bardray stood facing it. Meanwhile pieces of stone, arrows, magic and even axes were flying about in the surroundings.

-Kueeeeek

The Woomba Belkain stumbled as it experienced attacks from all sides. But it was a boss class monster so it tightened its stance without falling down.

"I guess I have to use this. Hero's Sword!"

Bardray's Sword emitted a pale light. It was another sword technique! It was useful when the hero's fame was high and the opponent was a legendary monster. Once the skill was used, the sword would break and it would be impossible to recover. The Hermes Guild obtained many of the best magic swords so Bardray didn't regret losing the weapon.

-Kuaah!

The Woomba Belkain jumped and twisted its front paw. Bardray swung his sword towards the paw.

Pwaaaaang!

There was an enormous noise as an explosion occurred.

Strength vs. strength.

While Bardray confronted it head on, the Royal Guards continued reducing its health with magic and arrows. Over 14 Hermes Guild members were sacrificed to the Woomba Belkain's paws and horns. Their deaths were a shame but it was because Bardray used his command skill.

Black Knights had a skill called 'Brave Conductor' that raised the combat power of his subordinates when he was the leader. All the Hermes Guild members belonging to the Haven Kingdom needed to fight against the Woomba Belkain directly.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Flames rose once Weed was caught in the trap. Arrows flew from every direction.

"Now."

The assassins didn't miss this opportunity and started to attack. Hegel, Alice and Dine were in the back but they didn't care about them.

'I'll kill them later.'

'It isn't worth dealing with those guys.'

The assassins' goal was Weed! They concentrated their attacks on Weed in order to kill him. Despite his high resilience and evasion, Weed lost 30% of his health the moment he fell into the trap. He was also previously injury and had bandages wrapped around him so it had the effect of weakening his vitality. Weed closed his eyes. It was the Close Eyes Tightly skill that increased defense!

"Van Hawk, forward."

"Understood Master!"

Death Knight Van Hawk dashed forward with Weed, it was a risky move. Weed had his eyes closed so he had to believe in Van Hawk. He used his improved agility and the Wind Sprint skill! He exquisitely avoided the arrows and spears fired from the trap. Some hit but he endured it with his resilience and perseverance. Van Hawk then reached the assassins. Weed flew at an alarming rate and opened his eyes in front of them.

"Heriam Fencing!"

The assassins' form was completely weak. Their secret was to hide in the darkness until the moment they could inflict maximum damage. Weed fell into the trap so the assassins had decided it was time to attack. Now there was a frontal confrontation with the assassins so his chances were good.

Of course, if he was attacked in his vulnerable spots when surrounded then it could be dangerous. When he decided on a place and time to fight the assassins, he had wanted a war of speed. The front two assassins tried to defend but Weed's attacks exploded on their body. Heriam Fencing hit 6 times as it became stronger!

"Our chance is still here."

"He is weakened so we can kill him."

The assassins' attack with the trap was in vain so they had to chase after Weed. Weed struck with the much stronger Heriam Fencing.

-The 7th consecutive attack has succeeded.

Agility has increased by 30%.

Strength has increased by 20%.

The destructive power of a fatal blow has increased.

-The 8th consecutive attack has succeeded.

Agility has increased by an additional 15%.

The enemy will be pushed away.

-The 9th consecutive attack has succeeded.

Strength has increased by an additional 25%.

Enemies are stunned.

A fatal blow has been dealt.

There was a total of sixteen consecutive attacks! It was a high level sword technique that the enemy couldn't stop. Weed used the chance to press and knock down the assassins with his swordplay. His heightened agility shortened the skill activation time and Heriam Fencing proceeded from the beginning to the end. Weed's feet, lower back, shoulders and hands were in a perfect posture like an action figure performing a skill.

-The skill proficiency of Heriam Fencing has increased by 0.1%.-The skill proficiency of Sword Mastery has improved.-The durability of the Daemon Sword has decreased due to the violent movements.

Van Hawk and Torido also attacked them from behind. The battle that began since the trap was activated proceeded at a lightning fast speed.

"Kuooh....."

"So strong."

The assassins hit by Heriam Fencing were either killed or suffered significant damage to their health. His agility was also high from destroying the Fine sculpture. He suppressed the assassins secret attack with his defense and attack speed.

"Weed, you disturbed the Hermes Guild so you will surely die here today."

A wounded assassin then said. Weed killed him and took his items. The acquisition of smoke bombs!

"I am honoured to fight Weed the God of War today. Let's have a great battle next time......"

"More troops will come to kill Weed. It's a shame I can't see how long you last."

Weed swung his sword at another assassins without any regrets. The assassins were fully exposed and slower than Weed so they couldn't escape. Their escape routes were also blocked by Torido and Van Hawk. The last assassin begged him.

"Spare me just once. My wife is playing at the beginner's hunting ground and my children are crying for barley bread......"

Weed struck with his sword. This was a battle where lives were risked so begging for mercy didn't make sense. He also couldn't give up the loot and experience.

"This area seems to be almost cleaned up."

Weed had exterminated all the assassins from the Hermes Guild on the 3rd floor. In addition to Sculptural Destruction, the help from Torido and Van Hawk ensured his victory. But Weed's body was a wreck from falling in the assassins' trap.

The big disadvantage of Heriam Fencing was that he couldn't avoid enemy attacks because it would stop the sword's movements. His health had fallen to 57% by the time the attacks ended.

"I've gained some time but they will soon be swarming like bees."

Just when Weed thought about escaping.

The Black Lion guild had passed onto Hegel the information gathered from the broadcast and he received a communication saying that they were the Hermes Guild.

300 people had entered from the Hermes Guild. The assassins had also covered the 1st and 2nd floor with traps so he needed to take that into consideration. Weed didn't have a skill to release traps so the chance of fleeing through dozens of assassins and traps were unlikely. In addition, there were still the general soldiers of the Hermes Guild waiting.

"If the assassins are preparing traps for a raid then there is no way to sneak out. I'm not about to risk my monthly salary on being reckless."

If his health was reduced a lot then he could use Seo-yoon's Berserker skills. If he fell in many traps then his chances of survival would become much slimmer.

"If someone enters then the assassins would gather upstairs. Even if I hide again, those guys will be searching so I'll just be detected."

Weed looked at the items he obtained.

Assassin's camouflage clothes, dagger, crossbow, boots, gloves, belts, masks, he came across quite a few decent items.

The assassins dropped more items than usual because of their murderer state.

"Now that I have this......"

Weed disarmed his Talrock's Armour, Daemon Sword and other equipment.

"I need to get dressed."

He wore the assassin's equipment! Users with the Blacksmith skill could wear clothes of different professions. Weed's level in the Blacksmith skill meant he could wear level 409 equipment.

"Well, this much should be similar."

The equipment obscured his face so he couldn't be distinguished from the Hermes Guild's assassins.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Dante was a beginner user just getting started in Morata. He was the classic beginner grown on grass tea. He had to decide on a class.

"I'd like to be a sculptor like Weed-nim... Although I'll never exceed him."

He first felt admiration when seeing Weed's sculptors in the Art Centre. There wasn't any wasted materials. They had simple and concise forms that were expressed clearly. There were also no mistakes. Weed wasn't afraid of failure so he tested various possibilities.

"The challenge is becoming a sculptor everyone respects."

That was the reality that came to his mind when thinking of Weed. In the worst case situation, he needed to have confidence to rip people off! Dante chose not to become a sculptor. If he couldn't be the best then he didn't want to do it.

"I should get a different job that suits me."

He also engaged in business by the square and learned basic ice magic. There was a time when the north was covered in the ice. There was a high percentage of ice magicians so the magic related to it developed a lot.

Dante read the books in Morata's library to boost his knowledge and wisdom and admired the artworks. Morata's knowledge, art and religion was a lot higher than other areas.

"You don't have enough money. You can eat for free until you gather enough money."

Dante turned to construction to earn money. Morata had a lot of construction of villas, houses and commercial facilities. Right now there was the construction of Research Tower and the Forge of Hestia. Beginners earned money by carrying stones and sand. Sculptors, painters, architects, magicians and blacksmiths all participated so the great work of architecture was carried out smoothly.

"I need a job....."

After hunting in the area nearby, Dante returned to the village and read a book related to adventures. He still had a general profession despite passing level 47. Some fellow novices only obtained a good job when their level exceeded the 60s'. Then a Morata villager called Karen approached him

"Ajusshi, hello."

Dante happily received the greeting.

"I have a question. Do you know a lot of things from reading books?"

"It's nothing. Still, I might be able to answer your questions so please ask it."

Karen had been a Morata villager since the days when they were turned into statues by the vampires. Currently the users' interest in them was receding.

That's because they could get larger quests and more rewards from those that immigrated to the north compared to the natives. But Dante didn't care about that and liked conversing with all users and residents.

"Morata in the past... There was only winter in the north. A cold and hungry hunter told a story about seeing an ice sculpture."

"Ah, wasn't there something like that?"

Dante said with a laugh. This was a city that Weed established. So the story about the sculpture was right. Residents often told useless stories like these so to more users it was a waste of time.

"Those who were tired could take a rest when they arrived at the sculpture. Surprisingly they couldn't feel the cold anymore. The hunters really valued the sculpture."

"There is a special power concentrated in the sculpture."

"I also think so. After all, we are Morata villagers so we are proud of sculptures. There was a giant ice dragon and....."

Something flashed in Dante's head.

'Wait! This story isn't just about Bingryong?'

Bingryong who followed Weed was already a celebrity and there was no one in the north who didn't know about him. Users would after chase after Bingryong when he was hunting at Morata to see him use his Ice Breath on monsters. In particular, young children really liked Bingryong.

"There was the ice dragon but also a sculpture of a mysterious beauty.

"A beauty?"

"The hunters and travellers who saw the sculpture were suffering from fever so I don't know if it is attractive but...... Can you find out a little more about the sculpture?"

Ddiring!

-Ice Beauty made for Morata!

The master sculptor Weed made a number of sculptures for Morata. One of the pieces was praised as a work of beauty!

Level of difficulty: D

Quest Restriction: Be acquaintances with the Morata villagers, miscellaneous knowledge, walking around many areas in the surroundings and acquisition of ice magic.

"I'll look for it."

-You have accepted the quest.

Dante willingly received the quest. He couldn't help feeling excited about a sculpture of Weed's that hadn't been discovered yet.

"The quest restriction is a complicated. Aren't I the only one who can do this quest? Ah, that can't be."

Dante used his remaining money on a map of the area that cost 14 silver. There were many novice painters so he could buy a drawn map for a cheap price. Dante looked at the map of the mountains that he spent his fortune on.

"Where is it? I heard that Weed made Bingryong in an icy storm."

If he looked at Weed's history behind his sculptors then he really admired him. There was a philosophy that those who lived a righteous path could cut costs. Sculptors were always spending money like water while struggling with deficits. Weed lived with strict moderation while making sculptures so he could make a profit. Dante looked at the map and muttered.

"It would be nice if I could get information about Serbian Witch's curse that covered the north."

In those days it was rare for users to come here because of the environment impact. The quests were low value and likely to fail. Then the painter Aiels who sold him the map asked.

"Are you looking for a specific place?"

"That's right, I'd like to know the place where Weed-nim created the Bingryong sculpture."

"Not a lot of people know that. You should go to the top of Painter's Hill. There is a painter there who draws Bingryong professionally."

Morata had a separate place called Painter's Hill. It was a place where 1 and then 2 painters gathered until a village of shabby shacks were created. People wanting to buy paintings also gathered so the place was called Painter's Hill.

"I'll draw the painting you want. You've just finished a dungeon hunt. I'll draw your moment of glory."

"Professional portraits! I can also draw pictures of you hunting monsters. Even if you are level 1, it is possible to have a picture of you hunting a dragon!"

"Paints for sale. The colour will slightly vary when it is used."

Dante climbed up the hill and saw many pictures of Bingryong. Bingryong, the Wyverns, Yellowy, Golden Bird and Phoenix. They were popular subjects so there were main products containing them on Painter's Hill. People who loved Weed's adventures collected pieces about these creatures as well as the orc Karichwi. Tori, Van Hawk, Lich Shire and Lich Barkhan were also popular pieces. Users sightseeing in Morata often bought these types of souvenirs.

"The contents of Weed's adventures are really valued. He's gone to various places."

There was a painting of lava erupting from the volcano in the Jigolaths. Some painters professionally drew scenes of Weed's adventures. There was also paintings of several places in the Versailles Continent. Dante headed towards the area filled with Morata scenes.

Among the pictures was one where Morata was covered with snow. The mountains and hills were covered in ice and snow and looked completely different to now. He automatically felt cold as he saw the imagines until he observed one of Bingryong. A few days later, Dante climbed up the mountains with three miners he made friends with.

"It's really here? It is too close to Morata."

"It is true. There were many ice storms in those days so we have to dig to prevent ice and snow from covering the village."

"Well, even if you don't believe it... Let's just try it."

The miners had a lot of work these days. They dug iron, copper and jewels from the mines nearby as well as participated in the construction of a Grand Building. It was an important time but they accepted this request because of the intimacy Dante built with them.

"It might seem a bit ridiculous. But Weed sculpted his pieces in this area."

"Soon he shall be the king."

"He might be the king but he is ruling over a narrow land."

A road was being built between Morata and Vargo Fortress that was wide enough for 4 carriages to pass at once. Morata had invested quite a lot into road construction. Once the road was completed then the merchant's carriages could move more easily. This would reduce that rate that vitality was lost.

If a monster appeared then the carriage could easily escape so it was a big benefit to merchants. An expansion of trade would naturally occur and fresh products could be obtained. It was also possible to receive fame and money by completing quests to procure goods. In the north most roads were to connect long-distance cities. It was started quietly but that wouldn't last long since it was Morata.

"Let's dig quickly."

The miners carefully dug at the ground. For a while they didn't find anything.

"Phew, it was in vain like I expected. If we can't find it here then I'll have to give up the quest."

Dante said in a bittersweet voice to the miners. Morata was quite wide and quickly growing so he couldn't go around searching different areas. Then one of the miners suddenly shouted.

"Wait a minute, there's something here!"

There was a piece of ice protruding from the surrounding stones and soil. It was hard to recognize the shape because it was melting. Dante quickly cast a spell.

"Cold Spray!"

It was a simple magic that caused a chill so it wasn't suitable for fighting monsters. However Dante considered it a good magic to know and learnt it.

"Please take it out."

"Understood. We'll have to dig by hand without using equipment since this might be a sculpture."

The miners removed the earth with the hand and started excavating a lump of ice. Unfortunately the hands and legs of the statue had been melted in the meantime.

"Well, I don't know what value this will have since it is melted."

"Didn't you want to find it to complete a quest?'

The miners continued digging until they saw the sculpture's face.

"A sculpture of a beautiful girl......"

"Kuuuk! This is worth the lifetime I spent solo. I feel comforted just looking at the sculpture's face."

Weed's work was worthy of being called an Ice Beauty. It was an ice sculpture so it should be cold but the sculpted figure caused a warm energy. But when the Serbian Witch's curse was broken, this portion of the land was pulled down. The Ice Beauty was buried in the ground along with snow and ice so it was preserved.

Bingryong also remembered the Ice Beauty that was born with him in the past, like a chicken and its eggs. It was fortunate that the face and body shape was left. This was the second sculpture Weed properly made after the statue of Freya at Baran village.

"This sculpture isn't just for us... Now other people can see it."

Dante decided on a class. He decided to didn't want to wait for a noble profession. Right now he could feel the excitement of a class.

"I will be an Adventurer. There is still a lot of mysteries and legends in the Versailles Continent that will take a lifetime to discover."

A warrior, magician or even merchants could comfortably go to a resort area to rest. On the other hand, there was a lot of work to do for the Adventurer's quests so it was a highly competitive field.

Discovery, excavation, searching and limited terrains were all areas difficult to find in another job.

Chapter 6: Special Reunion

6) Special Reunion

Weed secretly descended to the Melbourne Mine's 4th floor. He was fully equipped in the assassin's costume so he wouldn't easily be suspected.

"As expected, there is no one here now."

There didn't seem to be anyone protecting the entrance of the 4th underground floor. They had completely moved into the Belkain's lair. They never imagined that the assassins upstairs would fail!

"As expected from my cheap tricks....."

Weed briefly became conceited. The other assassins would be searching the 3rd floor. In the end they would come down but he had earned some time.

"The 4th floor is also dangerous. There isn't anywhere to hide so I have to keep on moving."

He slowly walked towards the Belkain's Lair. Things had turned out like this so it was meaningless to rush. The assassins were hunting upstairs while nearby, Bardray and the Hermes Guild were hunting monsters. Either way he was surrounded by enemies so he had no choice but to improvise.

-Come down now.

Weed sent a whisper to Hegel.

-Thank you, Hyung.

Hegel, Alice and Dine chose to go a different way from Weed once they came down to the 4th floor. They decided to hide in the tunnels until the Black Lion Guild's reinforcements arrived. They couldn't help in a battle against the Hermes Guild so they could only wish him good luck.

"I'll only believe in you."

Hegel declared proudly. The monsters on the 4th floor were daunting opponents. The two women, Dine and Alice's hearts were also towards Weed.

"Sunbae-nim, no Oppa, be careful!"

"Oppa, I'll cheer for you in my mind."

His heart pounded with excitement as he entered the Belkain's lair where Bardray and the Hermes Guild were fighting.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

"Ah, unfortunately the video isn't showing anymore. If it lasted a bit longer than I think the many viewers would be delighted."

The user who communicated the video died so the broadcast of Belkain's lair stopped and changed back to the studio.

"Bardray's combat ability is really frightening. Have we ever had such a strong user on the continent?"

"The power and techniques that battered Belkain like a storm is truly outstanding. He is the warrior that can pull out all the potential of a sword! The sword techniques shown in the video is brilliant."

While the host was commenting, there was a war going on behind the scenes. The broadcasters were trying to secure various contacts for the videos of Belkain's lair. Bardray's quest wasn't the only significant thing.

"If the Black Lion Guild enters then a war will occur between them. I've heard reports that Guild Master Carlise is already there... If we broadcast it then it will be a ratings jackpot."

"Contact the advertisers. Ask them to put advertisements during the late night dinner time and the reruns in the empty hours."

The advertisers had to wait in line as well as pay a premium. Weed was in the Melbourne Mine. His rivalry with the Hermes Guild was well known so it was difficult for the broadcasting officials to predict what would happen. The broadcast officials were hoping such a situation would occur in the Melbourne Mine.

The Master Quest competition between the Hermes Guild and Weed were the viewer's favourite material.

"What are the ratings right now?"

"It is at 12% and rising. It is the highest daily value in recent months."

"The bulletin boards?"

"It is paralyzed. The pages can't move quickly and the title can't even be read properly."

The bulletin board was filled with requests to quickly show the videos. The video had stopped at such a moment! CTS Media, KMC media, Digital Media and LK games were all annoyed. While they were trying to contact the general users who survived, an official reply came from the Hermes Guild.

They had accepted an offer to broadcast a video!

The Hermes Guild would provide the best audience ratings in return for some of the proceeds from the advertisements. It might seem a bit excessive but the broadcasting stations didn't dare refuse.

Other stations played regular programs so they couldn't obtain game scoops. Every station organized regular programs throughout the week related to Royal Road. But the regular programs could be put on hold or cancelled based on the audience ratings. Royal Road had many adventures that could occur at any time and stimulated excitement in people's chests during the live broadcasts.

"Today will require working overtime into the night. Deputy Park, have you ordered toast?"

"Yes! I called and the auntie is already making it."

"Order some kimbap as well."

"I'll also call the lunch bento place."

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Weed slipped into Belkain's lair. The Hermes Guild users were fighting like crazy. Various magic effects raged while weapons were raised with violent cries.

'It really is spectacular.'

This was the combat power of the Hermes Guild that was said to be the strongest on the continent. Even the Baby Belkains were at least level 450. The demon species were usually strong. They had exceptional physical abilities and could even use black magic. There was also their resistance to magic, arrows and spirit magic.

The Baby Belkain and the wild dogs of hell frantically ran around killing the Hermes Guild members. Sometimes some users were unfortunate enough to be surrounded by monsters and killed. They wore great armour while high level priests used their recovery magic in a magnificent fight.

The Hermes Guild had brought their elites so not one user was lax. Their level, skills and equipment all played a role in the battle. Everybody here had a level that would raise a great fuss if they were in a city.

'As expected, the Hermes Guild is brilliant.'

Weed watched the battle from an inconspicuous corner. It was the skill of finding a quiet corner that he polished in middle school, high school and university! There were a few people here that were also assassins.

The assassins fought by aiming at the monster's back but it was a risk in a large scale battle like this. Those in a crisis situation could only watch. Weed looked similar to the assassins so they weren't interested in him.

'No. 19.'

'Weed must've been stopped on the 3rd floor so he ran here.'

'This will result in censure from the guild..... Right now there is a battle so I'll leave it be.'

The Hermes Guild had a simple marker on the assassin clothes. The identification number would be written on the pants or coat. Weed used the Sewing skill in order to repair the clothes and create a disguise. It was impossible to consider him as anything other than a fellow assassin.

'He's fighting well.'

Weed primarily observed Bardray fighting.

He was fighting equally or even had a slight advantage with the Woomba Belkain. His body was fast and his finesse and strength were overwhelming the monster. Of course, he also received blessings from the shaman, priests and other attack support. But the Black Knight at the front was still considered the most dangerous one.

'Fight to your heart's content.'

Weed waited quietly for the battle to finish. Time passed without any special incidents and it seemed to be Bardray's victory. Arrows, axes and spears were driven into the Woomba Belkain's body. The body became a wreck as its health suddenly reduced.

-Kuooh. You won't be safe either!

Stones flew and a minor earthquake occurred from its death throes. The Hermes Guild had a lot of experience with boss class monsters so the priests had already formed a protective layer. After that the warriors backed off and long distance attacks were used until the Woomba Belkain collapsed.

The Baby Belkains and wild dogs of hell were completely wiped out by the Royal Guards and the battle group. The knights drove them into a corner while the magicians used mass destruction magic on the group. The Necromancer Krobidyun also systematically raised his power by calling more undead.

'Undead......'

Weed had a close relationship with them so he wasn't disturbed. In fact some zombies even seemed cute if he looked at it for a long time! He couldn't help admiring the Hermes Guild's Necromancer summoning Doom Knights.

'Summoning so many undead would consume enormous amounts of mana. His equipment is also excellent.'

Weed felt a stab of jealousy whenever he saw a user with a higher level than him. His relationship with the Hermes Guild might be hostile but he still admired them. They had been together for a long time so they knew their roles in catching the monster.

The strategies to fight in a group in Weed's head were implemented at quite a high standard here. The Hermes Guild optimized every aspect, including power and loyalty.

'If I was in command then I would quickly take care of the boss monster before sweeping through the dungeon.'

There were many boss level creatures in the Versailles Continent that hadn't been caught yet. There were monsters that dominated an area as well as legendary evil monsters. Elves, Fairies, spirit monsters, their difficulty was much higher. In Jigolaths and beyond Vargo Fortress there were bosses that transcending imagination. There were those like Kubichya the Chaos Warrior who had a great ambition to rule.

Such creatures would also hunt to raise their level and gain rare items. Weed had no interest in users that were a little stronger than him. He just wanted to challenge himself and hunt every type of monster. Yet in reality he was a Sculptor!

"It is almost going to fall!"

"Be strong until the end. Archer unit, don't save your arrows and don't miss. Magicians prepare to deal the final blow."

Bardray and the Royal Guards moved without hesitation. They had brought weapons suitable to hunt a boss monster. They systematically hunted the Woomba Belkain.

'My body is itching.'

Weed desperately wanted to barge into the battle. But if he moved then his plan of hiding in a quiet corner and not attract attention would fail.

-Kkueeeeeee!

The Woomba Belkain gave its dying shriek. The Hermes Guild had sacrificed 35 people from the Royal Guards and battle company. A boss class monster had more resistance as it approached its end. Its attacks were focused on Bardray so the other warriors threw their bodies.

"Kuwawawak!"

The warriors shouted in order to attract the Woomba Belkain's attention. The Hermes Guild thoroughly defended Bardray through the crisis. The commander was the pillar that supported the Hermes Guild. The Woomba Belkain howled as it was wounded by Bardray.

-The Woomba Belkain in the Melbourne Mine has entered its eternal rest.

"Success!"

"The Hermes Guild has done it again!"

"The Woomba Belkain. With this we've accomplished another myth. We are the strongest on this continent!"

The Royal Guards and battle group raised their weapons and cried out. Weed watched the Hermes Guild with envious eyes. They were so happy about causing another legend.

'They played a firm part.'

Hunting boss monsters allowed them to obtain difficult items as well as increase their fame and stats. That's why every guild periodically hunted monsters in the dungeons. Boss class monsters were fairly limited and were quite dangerous. But if they thought of the sweet fruit of victory than they would have no choice but to grab their swords and depart.

Bardray picked up the equipment that the Woomba Belkain dropped. Many viewers were probably seeing this through the live broadcast!

'They can even get a transit fee.'

Weed counted the number of Hermes Guild users still alive. The number of Royal Guards and battle company still alive were 160 people. They were sitting down to rest as well as maintaining their weapons.

'Let's just settle down and watch. I'll just the moment they're fighting against the Black Lion Guild to escape.'

The cave that the Woomba Belkain and the Baby Belkains hadn't been explored yet. The Hermes Guild would probably be able to obtain a treasure chest there. Weed didn't think that he could obtain anything. In this world, guys like that wouldn't leave anything behind. Among there were people with the Adventurer class who would clean everything out.

Weed was watching with a pain in his stomach when the movement of the Hermes Guild subtly changed. Users who had been relaxing got up one by one and headed towards the entrance. Weed's nerves became sensitive. The Hermes Guild blocked the entrance and were then gradually approaching him.

'Was I discovered? Indeed... By now they should've finished searching the 3rd floor and might've come downstairs.'

However it wasn't definite that he was discovered. He had worn the assassin costume obtained from the ones he fought on the 3rd floor and sneaked onto the 4th floor. Weed didn't change his attitude and just stood there calmly. Only his eyes were rolling around while calculating ways to escape.

Then Bardray who had been resting after defeating the Woomba Belkain walked towards him. Bardray spoke first.

"How are you?"

"......"

Weed's mouth slightly opened. It was difficult to answer but he couldn't pretend not to understand. Bardray would discover he was camouflaged as an assassin. But the movements of the Hermes Guild seemed to suggest he was already discovered.

"I knew you had escaped from your pursuers but I didn't expect to meet you here."

"......"

Weed was definitely discovered. He didn't know how to react.

"How did you know?"

"I received word that the assassins searching upstairs couldn't find Weed. And you're not a murderer."

The assassins had slaughtered the users when they entered the Melbourne Mine. So most of the users' names had the murderer status. Weed might look the part but there was no way to camouflage the murderer state.

'Of all things... He also noticed pretty fast.'

Weed was in a difficult situation. Normally it wouldn't be that bad even if it was a great power like Bardray and the Hermes Guild

'I really have no luck.'

Weed couldn't deal with them in a place like this! The archers and magicians were ready for battle while the armoured knights were narrowing the distance. The earlier scene where the Woomba Belkain received a concentrated attack crossed his mind. Bardray also hadn't put his sword into his scabbard yet.

'They're almost fine after the hunt because of the treatment from the priests.'

Bardray said arrogantly.

"Anyone who rebels against the Hermes Guild will die. Weed, today is the day you're going to be trampled."

He was qualified to be the strongest person on the Versailles Continent. If the opponent was anyone else then Weed would either fight or reconcile peacefully. But there was no way to escape from the dragon's claw or bite. If he had to die anyway then he chose to die fighting.

"This will be a fun day."

Weed slowly took off the clothes of an assassin. The equipment didn't match him and it was also low level so it wouldn't be good in a fight. He wore the Talrock's Armour and other equipment while the Hermes Guild watched.

'They have no choice but to watch.'

Bardray and the other users had already changed their armour and weapons. It made no difference to the power of the Hermes Guild here. The archers and magicians could easily take care of Weed with their ranged attacks. They were some of the highest ranking users on the Versailles Continent!

This was basically saying that Bardray agreed to fight the opponent alone. He had received the blessings of the best shamans and priests on the continent so his health and mana were already recovered. The effect of blessings, even when it was low levelled meant the situation wouldn't ever be fair.

Bardray thought he couldn't defeat Weed unless he as in the best state. Bardray would gain great honour from Weed's death and he would gain a lead in the competition to complete the Master Quest!

Weed grasped the Daemon Sword and took deep, short breaths.

'I need to cause chaos and scatter the enemy.'

Even if he couldn't prevail against the power of the Hermes Guild, he had no intention of just dying. Weed was about to use Wind Sprint when the hiding place behind Belkain shook.

Kwarururururung!

It became difficult to keep his foot steady on the shaking ground. And a monster appeared!

-My dead wife here......! You humans dare commit such a reckless thing.

The body was even larger than the Woomba Belkain. He had intimidating horns and the body was covered in dark red hair. In addition, the eyes and mouth showed its vicious natured. It was the Woomba Belkain's husband, the Red Belkain!

"W-what the. There is still one left."

"This guy isn't ordinary."

The Hermes Guild moved quickly. The troops that had surrounded Weed prepared for battle with the Red Belkain. The Necromancer Krobidyun used magic to confirm the monster's information.

"Blooming health, show me everything. View Life Force!"

Ddiring!

-Red Belkain

A devil that personally dragged himself out of hell. The husband of the Woomba Belkain, he rules the Haineph Mountains.

-He doesn't take damage from steel weapons.

-Very high magic resistance.

-Not affected by black magic.

-All spirits summoned below intermediate level will be sealed.

Health: 100%

Mana: 100%

"T-this....."

Krobidyun's complexion became dark. Bardray's quest was to hunt the boss monster of the Haineph Mountain region. Judging by the description, he was the real monster. He was at least a minimum of level 620 and judging by the appearance, stronger than the Woomba Belkain.

The most challenging thing was that steel weapons wouldn't do any damage to him.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Carlise and the soldiers from the Black Lion Guild arrived at Treipeak's teleport gate.

"We have to go as quickly as possible."

The rode their prepared horses from the fortress to the Melbourne Mine. Dust was raised in the mountain area as hundreds of horses sprinted. The Hermes Guild had placed intelligence agents in good positions to observe the mountain area so they reported the situation in real time.

-They're currently at Treipeak, the Black Lion Guild has arrived faster than expected.

-Guild Master Carlise is accompanied by a large number of members.

-They passed point 3 without any hesitation and 20 magicians were visible.

The Hermes Guild also left rangers and archers to ambush them in the forest.

"Multiple Shot!"

Arrows poured down on the moving Black Lion Guild.

"Surprise attack. Just go through without paying attention to it!"

The warriors struck the arrows with their swords. They bombarded the rangers' hiding spot with magic attacks but ran through without confirming the result!

They quickly arrived at the entrance to the Melbourne Mine. All the attempts from the Hermes Guild to contain them were ignored. The Black Lion Guild members were still gathering at Treipeak so they were assigned as the rear-guard unit.

"Are we really going to fight? It will be irreversible once we enter the Melbourne Mine."

A magician called Rondal asked Carlise.

Rondal was one of the founders of the Black Lion Guild. Their hunting party became famous as they rode through the Tullen Kingdom until Carlise, Rondal and a few other members formed the Black Lion Guild.

"The Hermes Guild was the one who broke up the United Supremacy Alliance first." They have to pay the price for that."

Carlise had decided to fight. Bardray and the Hermes Guild had invaded the Tullen Kingdom so his pride couldn't let them get away with it. The military forces at Treipeak were also moving to this area. They restored peace and order to the vicinity of the mine as well as taking care of the remnants of the Hermes Guild.

"Enter."

The high defense warriors and paladins of the Black Lion Guild entered the Melbourne Mine.

Chapter 7: Inferior Duel

7) Inferior Duel

Weed moved at the same time as the Red Belkain attacking the battle group.

'I'm alone so it is too disadvantageous.'

The entrance of the lair was being blocked by the Hermes Guild.

'If so.'

Weed decided to believe in the intelligence of a monster.

"Those are the guys. They attacked your wife!"

He immediately ran to the Red Belkain's side and attacked the knights of the Hermes Guild. It was a difficult tactic to choose but he had no choice if he wanted to live!

"Heriam Fencing!"

"This is....."

The Hermes Guild members were astonished A boss class monster appeared and now he was fighting on the side of that monster! His actions were ridiculous.

-Burial Ground!

The Red Belkain sank to his knees on the ground and used a wide area skill. Those wearing thick armour had their agility reduced and were buried in the ground. Weed was close to the Red Belkain but he wasn't affected. This was the amazing intelligence of a boss class monster!

'I will fight this little guy after killing them.'

Weed also had similar thoughts.

'If I survive here then can I kill him and collect his items?'

The two of them attacked without hesitation. The Red Belkain ran and thrust his shoulders, making a warrior's body bounce back. The defense of the shield and armour meant the warrior didn't die but Weed attacked again. He used Wind Sprint from next to the Red Belkain to move at a speed that was difficult to follow and attacked the warrior.

"Strong Shield!"

The warrior decided to withstand it. Weed's damage might be great but a warrior with high defense and the priest's healing wouldn't be easily killed.

Meanwhile the Red Belkain was dashing around and using attack skills on the users. A boss class monster recklessly used wide area skills.

-You have heard Belkain's cry.

Fighting Spirit has decreased.

Morale has decreased.

The probability of a skill succeeding has decrease and mana is consumed faster.

The Red Belkain's Phantom has appeared. Any attacks will damage it instead.

Arrows and magic furiously attacked the Red Belkain. The Hermes Guild had changed to an active offense. If the Woomba Belkain and Red Belkain appeared at the same time then they would've received more damage. But each one was hunted separately so the battle became much easier. The advantage of a large scale hunt was that each class could play a role in restraining the boss monster.

'The Red Belkain needs more strength. Right now he is my ally.'

Weed used Wind Sprint to chase the melee classes.

'If more time passes then the Red Belkain will become easier to hunt.'

Even if dozens of Hermes Guild users died, their damage still accumulated on the Red Belkain. Krobidyun was already summoning a doom knight to attack the Red Belkain. Other users would find it hard to judge because of the danger but Weed wasn't scared of the undead.

Huge explosions and attack skills ran rampant in the dungeon! In the midst of this hectic scene, the Hermes Guild was focusing all their attacks on the Red Belkain. They were experienced in hunting boss class monsters so even minor attacks hit the Red Belkain's leather and slightly reduced his health. That damage would accumulate and he would eventually collapse.

The Red Belkain had the largest power but the close combat users received the priests' help and persistently held on. Warriors at the forefront of the battle held up their shields and took the attacks head on. Weed had to shake this balance of power.

"Radiant Sword!"

Birds of light flew from Weed's sword and struck the warrior from behind. This sword skill consumed mana but he wasn't in a position to worry about that. The Red Belkain was suffering from huge attacks! The warrior's health was reduced from Radian Sword.

-You have killed the warrior Wabulla.

-Experience has been acquired.

-Fame has increased by 169.

-The Knight Burgulleo has been killed.

-Your level has risen.

-Fame has increased by 369.

-Due to the cowardly act of targeting the back during a battle, the Honour stat will decrease by 1.

A master of turning over the situation! Weed was also level 410. The Hermes users' level started in the early 400s and some users were beyond level 430. He gained a lot of experience from putting these users away. Usually it was difficult to meet so many high level users in common dungeons.

"Kill him! The damage is greater because of him!"

The cry was heard and the long range attack unit started aiming at Weed with arrows and magic. If that much power hit his body then it would be impossible to live! The archers and magicians aimed their tremendous firepower from the Red Belkain to Weed. Weed kicked the ground and ran from side to side as he kept on changing directions.

Kwang! Kwa kwa kwang!

Pusyu syu syu syuk!

Every place he passed had arrows, ice chunks and flames narrowly land on either side of him. The arrows chased behind him. The Hermes Guild's extravagant long-range firepower was aimed at Weed. Weed's health dripped out as the arrows grazed him. He moved suddenly and was able to avoid being damaged by every arrow thanks to his evasive measures. However Weed still lost 20% of his health in an instant.

"This degree isn't enough!"

Weed went in front of the Red Belkain. The long ranged attacks then stopped as they worried about hitting the warriors and knights. The little bit of damage he received was nothing compared to the power of the Hermes Guild. There was no way to escape this dungeon anyway and it wasn't an exaggeration to say that the Red Belkain was rampaging wildly.

"Radiant Sword!"

Weed used Radiant Sword while the priests prepared shields and health recovery spells. The Hermes Guild's iron wall was to such a degree that anyone would feel despair.

This was from the perspective of the battle group and the Royal Guards. Usually they were at a standard where monsters could only do minor harm to them. That's because they prepared the best equipment and manpower before they went. That's why they could endure it when the Red Belkain appeared after the Woomba Belkain. But Weed's interruptions made it much more difficult.

They were worried that his cunning would make the battle more hectic! The warriors whose health fell into a dangerous state sighed with relief as they managed to interrupt the Red Belkain's attacks.

"I barely lived."

"I almost fell into a critical condition. Please treat me quickly!"

The priests' mana wasn't infinite so they couldn't use healing magic continuously. Weed's Radiant Sword exploded during that short moment of carelessness! Weed used a powerful attack skill so there were almost no players who could escape unscathed.

"Calling Death Knight Van Hawk, Calling the Vampire Lord Torido!"

"You called Master."

The Red Belkain fired sharp needles from his skin as Weed's subordinates were summoned. Van Hawk grasped his sword and tried to attack the Red Belkain as soon as he appeared.

"I'll fight with this guy."

"Not this guy."

"Master, what should we do then?"

"Those humans and the others. Along with the barbarians...... And that big monster is on our side."

His subordinates quickly understood that the Hermes Guild were the enemy without the need for a long explanation.

"As expected from Master......"

"I thought it would be like this."

Van Hawk and Torido were easily convinced by Weed so they commenced the fight against the Hermes Guild. Whether it was a good or bad command, they just believed in Weed's instructions.

Despite that, Weed's complexion didn't brighten. Not a lot of people had died from the Hermes Guild despite Van Hawk and Torido being summoned.

There were the warriors, priests and ranged attack troops. It would be impossible to change the military situation if he stayed faithful to this method. The melee users also changed their battle formation and tactics when dealing with the Red Belkain. Weed needed to try more active and colourful attacks.

But to be able to steadily block a strong monster deserved praise. Long distance classes like archers, magicians and shamans were good at pouring out firepower. The effect of the monster was nullified by long range attacks.

Weed had previously seen a video of the guild hunting a dragon. The Hermes Guild was filled with high power individuals faithful to the basics. He had never seen such a massive, stable hunt. There were also 30 Royal Guards in the background that hadn't come out yet. They stayed back in order to defend the archers and magicians from the boss monster.

'The Hermes Guild is certainly worthy of being called the strongest power on the continent. They can hunt monsters effectively even when being disturbed.'

Bardray walked over to Weed with some knights. He hadn't participated in the Red Belkain hunt. Most of the damage had been done by the battle company and the Royal Guards. The Necromancer Krobidyun only increased the number of undead for the hunt. So Bardray decided to do what he wanted on the battlefield.

"Resistance is futile. But as a minimal courtesy, I will give you the opportunity to fight me alone."

Weed had no intention of fighting Bardray. He had seen Bardray's destructive power and swordplay when fighting the Woomba Belkain. The level difference was quite obvious so it would be difficult to deal with him. It was inevitable that he would be lacking in power and die!

Weed's Heriam Fencing wasn't suitable for fighting against a strong soldier. It was a series of consecutive attacks aimed at any gaps! The skill took advantage of any holes in the enemy's defense.

Moonlight Sculpting Blade might be gorgeous and beautify but it wasn't enough in a 1 on 1 battle. There was also the Emperor's Triple, Back Stab, Sword Break, Sword Dance and Sword Kaiser. But even if Triple or Sword Dance succeeded a few times, it wouldn't deal that much damage to a knight. Sword Kaiser was a very powerful skill but the level difference and equipment meant there was no guarantee the opponent would die. In addition, it would consume almost all his mana.

The only sword technique Weed had left was Radiant Sword. It was very convenient so he used it a lot in battle. But the skill proficiency compared to the mana consumption meant it was largely useless now.

It was okay when dealing with other users but it wasn't enough for Bardray. He needed to take advantage of the terrain of the Belkain's lair. When he took into account Bardray's support army, Weed was inferior in all aspects.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

"If it is inevitable then I'll have to fight."

Weed checked the Daemon Sword with his eyes. He had been using this sword for a few battles. If the durability was reduced than maximum damage couldn't be exerted and the accuracy would become poor.

'If only I could use repair, Sword Grinding or even Armour Polishing......'

They wouldn't give him time for that. The fight wouldn't be easy even with the Red Belkain still alive.

"I'm going to start. If you want to fight than follow me."

Weed ran next to the Red Belkain.

"He's moving. Get ready to fire!"

The archers and magicians tried to respond. But the Royal Guards used their jurisdiction to stop them.

"Weed is Bardray's. Don't touch him and focus on the monster!"

"Understood."

The ranged troops didn't attack Weed. Weed's movement speed was fast enough to confuse Bardray.

"He really is an irritating guy."

Bardray shook his head as he spoke. Then a magician summoned his horse, Rindullin!

It was a horse with the best blood handed down from the Royal Family of the Haven Kingdom. It possessed elegant white hair that was beautiful like a jewel and was worth more than a greatsword. It was a horse with wise intelligence and good luck!

He also held the legendary Lightning Spear that was an item he obtained from the Black Knight Master quest.

"Let's go!"

Bardray pursued him on horseback. Weed, Van Hawk and Torido ran across the confusing battlefield the Red Belkain created. And Bardray willingly followed.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

"To the rescue!"

"It isn't a problem if we die. If a friend is in danger then of course we have to go rescue him."

Pale, Irene strongly argued to Yurin. Weed had fallen into the worse danger because of the Hermes Guild so they couldn't just sit back and not fight. Even if they were just eggs being smashed against rocks, they still decided to go to the Melbourne Mine.

"Yurin, please send me there. I'll risk my life to rescue him."

Zephyr also didn't miss this moment to gain Yurin's heart.

Previously he had gone to play at Yurin's house. He came to her house to fix some home electronics but he received a formal invitation to lunch as a friend. He wanted to see many sides to Lee Hye-yeon as she prepared rice for him.

'This is a chance for a date......'

Choi Ji-hoon felt like this was a time to become closer to her. So he had paid more attention to his attire than usual and also sprayed perfume.

'It will be nice if we can carry on a dialogue over sweet rice. If we're alone than the intensity of the conversation will increase. If this is a success than maybe......'

He even brought a ring as a gift when he went to Lee Hye-yeon's house. A wolf with a lot of experience was visiting. And at a time when Lee Hyun wasn't there!

"The house's ceiling is a bit lacking. Oppa is busy these days... Can I entrust it to you instead?"

"Please leave it to me."

He had to fix the sink in a luxury shirt. In return Lee Hye-yeon gave him delicious soybean soup. The atmosphere was completely different from the food he normally ate like steak.

'I will aim for my chance after eating the food.'

A chance for love could pop up at any time. He was eating fermented soybeans but Choi Ji-hoon's nature as a player was too durable. He was silent for a while.

"Is there anything to drink?"

Choi Ji-hoon had to drink something in order to get rid of the soybean smell.

"There is cinnamon tea."

"That....."

"You don't like that drink?"

"It is a good drink."

They watched television while drinking cinnamon tea.

'This atmosphere is difficult. The sweet moments......'

Choi Ji-hoon was proud of his ability to talk to women. He was just thinking that when Lee Hye-yeon stood up from her seat.

"I'll bring some snacks."

"Oh, thank you."

Eating snacks would ensure a better flow of conversation than watching television.

Yurin brought out kudzu roots!

"What is this?"

"Snacks. Oppa dug up a lot of them."

They watched television while chewing on the bitter kudzu roots.

"Isn't there any coffee?"

"I have some Heotgae Tree Juice if you want to drink it?"

"Ah, no. It's okay."

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Weed's spine was cold.

'Left side.'

He changed directions and plunged to the right. A sword descended on the spot where he was! He freely attacked and defended with his sword as he ran.

-You are inside the sword's attack radius.

Avoidance has been applied.

You haven't received a serious injury but your health has reduced by 4,324.

The skill had a wide radius so his health has suffered a major blow from just being in the area. Of course, he was fighting in the area where the Red Belkain was so they both naturally got injured.

"Healing Hands!"

The priests urgently used healing on Bardray. Bardray continue chasing after him on Rindullin. The horse didn't miss its target despite the chaotic battlefield.

Kwarurung!

A colossal explosion occurred every time he thrust the Lightning Spear. Weed moved between the Red Belkain and the users he was fighting so Bardray ended up dealing damage to the Hermes Guild instead. The Red Belkain was also cooperating so it helped Weed play an active role. Bardray just ignored the Red Belkain as he rode past.

"Wind Sprint!"

Weed used his maximum speed and ran up the wall towards the ceiling. The eyes of the watching Hermes Guild users widened.

"What amazing speed. How can he run so fast?"

"I wouldn't be able to keep up if he runs like that in the field."

It was to the extent that Bardray couldn't chase him on Rindullin. He ran between users and monsters as well as jumped up complex obstacles.

"Radiant Sword!"

Weed attacked from a distance but the blade of light passed Bardray to hit another warrior. Bardray was insensitive to the damage dealt to his guild. He didn't pay attention no matter how many people from the Hermes Guild died.

The Red Belkain stomped the ground with his strong hind legs.

-Earth's Wrath!

A massive shock wave spread in all directions at once. Weed's excellent agility and being in a place that wasn't affected beforehand meant he barely received any damage. The Hermes Guild continued using melee skills in order to keep the Red Belkain in check. But this time they were disturbed by Weed and the aftermath was colossal.

Belkain's lair shook like it was about to crumble from the tremendous skill.

"A warrior died. The monster has broken through the line of defense!"

"Knights stand in until another warrior arrives! Archer unit, use your powerful arrows to stop the Red Belkain from escaping the encirclement."

It was easy to see why formations and specific roles were important in hunting a boss monster. That's why Weed focused his attacks on the battle company instead of Bardray.

Weed and Bardray's game of tag!

Usually a knight riding a horse had more of an advantage but Weed utilized his agility and the terrain around him.

-Lightning has been summoned with the Lightning Spear.

Your health has reduced by 2,892 due to the electric shock.

Your movement speed has decreased for 9 seconds due to temporary paralysis.

'The odds aren't in my favour at all.'

If the situation continued like this then it would be impossible for Weed to survive. Bardray's attack range was wide and the confined space meant he couldn't completely avoid it. Apart from his rapidly declining health, his vitality and mana were also at its limit thanks to the use of Radiant Sword and Wind Sprint. Bardray quickly rode Rindullin up to him.

"Hero's Sword!"

Bardray's attacks strengthened even further as he used another sword technique.

'As expected, it is impossible to get out of this. It might've been possible if the Black Lion Guild arrived early.....'

The Black Lion Guild was currently being detained on Melbourne Mine's 2nd floor by the traps and assassins. Weed looked at the Red Belkain and decided to give up on finding a way to live. There was hardly any ways left visible.

'Now it is a plan of desperation.'

"Van Hawk, Torido! Attack."

Weed ran to the place where Bardray was. Van Hawk and Torido who had been half watching the Red Belkain's battle followed his command. The two of them were ranked quite highly among the boss class!

Van Hawk flew towards Bardray with his sword while Torido called a Blade Storm. Weed then struck using Radiant Sword. The sum of the combo caused Bardray to suddenly experience a moment of great crisis. Then the priests gathered in a corner started singing.

-The hymn of the god Tyr has been used on the battlefield.

Bardray has temporarily gained an invincible state!

For a brief moment he will experience no loss of health and his power will double without any side effects.

"You can't resist the assault of the Black Knight!"

Bardray combined his power and Rindullin's speed as he charged.

"Tahaaaat!"

Van Hawk tried to block the horse with his sword.

Jjaeng kang!

Van Hawk's sword broke and he fell into a ghost state.

"Master, I'm sorry."

The Death Knight Van Hawk groaned with pain before he was recalled with a burst of grey smoke. The damage received from magic and arrows had accumulated then he received Bardray's attack directly. Weed watched it with regret.

'If only the sword didn't break......'

It was an equipment that he had handed to Van Hawk. Of course, the standard of the equipment was low compared to his level but it was broken in the fight against Bardray. Bardray also just rushed through Torido's Blade Storm. Tyr's Hymn was applied so he just ignored the attack.

"Heavy Blow of Satisfaction!"

The small birds made with Radiant Sword were destroyed. Bardray ran up on Rindullin and swept his sword from the bottom to the top.

"Sunset Sword!"

A flow of mana was shot out of the sword.

'This is dangerous.'

Weed was stuck in one place because he used Radiant Sword. Bardray was combining his power with Rindullin's acceleration so the destructive force would be huge if it hit him directly. The range of the mana flow was broad so Weed couldn't find a place to avoid it. The skill was now being used against one person but it was originally used to slaughter an enormous number of people or to destroy castle walls.

"Close Eyes Tightly!"

Weed closed his eyes, took out the Ancient Shield and threw his body to the left. The Daemon Sword could also be used as a means of defense against the enemy's skill. But the durability had fallen so he needed to rely on the shield to reduce the damage. However Bardray's skill had reached him before he escaped.

-You have become Stunned from the huge impact.

There is a sharp decline in health!

Your high Concentration overcame the Stun.

There is a chance that your body may receive paralytic symptoms.

All skills aren't available for 22 seconds.

The enemy has absorbed some of your mana.

2,795 mana absorbed.

Fighting Spirit has temporarily been decreased by 29%.

The Sword of Holy Power has been received.

You aren't a monster or wicked person so no additional damage is received.

-You have received a large injury.

If you don't heal it quickly than your resilience will permanently decrease by 2.

-The durability of the Ancient Shield has fallen.

The durability of Talrock's Armour has fallen.

The connection to your chest has weakened.

Defense reduced by 17% until it is worn again.

Chapter 8: Armour Taken Away

8) Armour Taken Away

Weed's health was only just over 40,000 at best. He had low health and resilience compared to his level but he overcame it with perseverance and his armour.

Bardray's attack was powerful enough that he lost 17,000 health. The Black Knight had high level equipment and various blessings placed on him so a frontal attack was extremely successful.

"Kuook."

Weed was thrown back and fell to the ground.

"Master!"

Torido rushed out to oppose Bardray. He could attack and defend but Torido couldn't fight in a one on one battle without getting injured. Fortunately Torido was in a good condition compared to Van Hawk because he could suck blood to recover.

'This method won't work.'

Weed touched his chest where his armour was crumpled. Bardray's level was definitely higher than his own. His attack skills were also superior. Aside from Radiant Sword, he didn't any useful skills to fight against Bardray with.

The thing that differentiated Weed from other users was his much higher stats. The stats stacked due to his sculptor skill, blacksmith skill and sewing skills so they were a big help.

Bardray raised his stats by clearing dungeons, hunting boss class monsters and completing difficult quests with the Hermes Guild.

If compared than their stats would be at an almost equal level.

Right now Weed needed a drastic measure. Disaster Nature Sculpting!

'A volcanic eruption, earthquake, landslide, mine collapse or even filling it with water would be nice.'

But Disaster Nature Sculpting required an appropriate sculpture to use it. Even if Weed had a sculpture of a volcanic eruption then it was also likely that he would die as well. If the disaster was too big then it was highly likely that he would break his own rice bowl! If he caused a volcanic eruption then he couldn't escape the cave so he would be caught up in it.

'There's also Summon Sculpture but I don't want to use that.'

He could summon some sculptural lifeforms as reinforcement. But this place was too confined for Phoenix and Bingryong to play an active role. The wyverns were too weak so he couldn't bring them. Goldman and Yellowy had struggled in the Jigolaths so he would feel sorry if they had to struggle on the brink of death again. The King Hydra would but suitable but the Red Belkain was here so it might turn into a situation where they fought each other instead.

"I need to do this by myself."

Weed decided to fight alone. In the worst case situation he would just lose a bit of experience, skill proficiency and an equipment.

"I have to gather myself and try again. Bardray, I can truly feel the power of the person called the strongest on the Versailles Continent."

Weed had never met a rival before. He had a few exchanges with people from prestigious guilds on quests but he had always been stronger. Now the target he wanted to fight was Bardray! His life would fly away if he was defeated but for now he had courage. If a drop of soy sauce was buried with bean sprouts then it wouldn't be afraid to sprout anywhere on the Versailles Continent.

Weed wound a bandage around his body at a fast pace. Torido's health was rapidly falling as he duelled with Bardray. This was due to the holy damage received from the priests' support.

"T-thirsty."

He fought a lot harder when his health fell. Weed inwardly thought 'Torido, I'm going now.' He was thinking of landing a surprise blow on Bardray. The surprise attack wasn't effective.

"Oheok!"

"Bardray-nim, danger!"

The Hermes Guild's priests watching the battle noticed it seconds before he struck. The fight against the Red Belkain had become stable so many eyes were turned towards Bardray. The Red Belkain was losing health and vitality under the onslaught.

Weed ran to Bardray's side.

"Seven Celestial Footsteps!"

It was a technique that could change the direction of each step! With Wind Sprint also activated, he moved so fast that afterimages could be seen.

"I've been waiting for you to come."

Bardray blocked with his sword like he already knew about it. Weed knew that there was a limit to his attacks.

'The performance of his armour is really amazing. I've barely done any damage to him.'

If a strong attack was about to be used then he needed to take advantage of the time required for Bardray to activate it. Weed immediately turned sideways and continued his offensive.

"Sword Dance!"

Brandish, stab, slash!

The continuous swordsmanship made it difficult to even respond. He was looking for a gap in Bardray's defense.

"This isn't enough."

Bardray said as he blocked the sword. Some attacks he missed while some he blocked brilliantly. Weed moved to the side and continued attacking. Although Bardray tried to take one or two steps backwards to counterattack but Weed just struck more harshly.

'The differences between level and equipment is somewhat reduced in close combat. If it doesn't take one or two hits then I will hit him a hundred thousand times!'

Weed's speed was so quick that Bardray couldn't stop everything.

-Your sword has been blocked by the defense.

You have hit the shoulder armour of your opponent!

An accurate attack has succeeded.

The armour has absorbed a lot of the sword's destructive power.

Vitality has been reduced by 149.

-Your sword has clashed with the other sword.-Your sword has pierced the enemy's chest.

An accurate attack has succeeded.

A fatal blow!

The opponent is wearing an item that gives immunity to confusion and paralysis.

Health has been reduced by 617.

Weed's sword was incredibly fast. The attack speed was almost impossible to believe. Bardray blocked with his sword at an angle and aimed for a counterattack.

"Quite good."

But Bardray grasped the fact that Weed's offensive power was weaker after their swords clashed. Weed's movements might be fast but Bardray didn't have to stop every attack. Bardray fought back and the battle between the two of them became even fiercer.

He remembered something Geomchi said when sparring.

-Look at your opponent. If you look straight at the opponent then you won't lose.

He looked at Bardray's eyes, shoulders and muscles hidden by the armour. The sound of swords hitting each other rang out through Belkain's lair like a musical instrument. Weed concentrated his nerves as he battled carefully.

Flames flew forcefully as the two swords clashed. The flames were like a tumultuous wave! Bardray didn't see a message window.

'It really is enough to make me nervous.'

Weed's level was definitely lower and Bardray was overwhelming in many aspects. The difference between the power and skill when handling a sword was obvious. However his continuous, aggressive attacks meant Bardray lost the initiative and was forced on the defense.

'It is good that I met him now. It might've been dangerous if I met him later.'

Weed would grow very quickly while continuing his adventures. Bardray considered it fortunate that they encountered each other right now.

'I will thoroughly defeat him. He will be unable to face me again.'

His level was high enough to bully people. He wanted to prove that the Black Knight had the ultimate power so Bardray's sword dealt some serious damage. He estimated that they were trivial attacks and his armour absorbed most of the damage.

He just needed to defend his weak points and counterattack against Weed. Of course, if he used his wide area skills than this fight could end more easily.

"If this is the extent of your skills then it is time to die."

Bardray strongly wielded his sword.

"Spatial Destruction!"

Spatial Destruction occurred in the entire radius around them! A colossal wind swept through the area.

"Kuuuk."

"Treat us faster!"

The Hermes Guild members fighting the Red Belkain also received damage. The priests hurriedly used healing magic. Usually a boss monster hunt would get all the attention but the top priority was Bardray's battle with Weed.

Weed passed behind Bardray's back. Thanks to the 'Excellent Experience' skill and his agility, he was able to grasp the direction of the attack as soon as the skill was used. He was able to move quickly because of the rise in agility gained from Sculptural Destruction!

Until now he hadn't been that tense about the series of attacks. It might be difficult but he also felt that it was fun.

'My vitality won't hold......'

Weed's vitality stat had reached 423 points thanks to making sculptures and production skills. Wind Sprint and Seven Star Form meant he could quickly change directions. Unfortunately his speed decreased as his vitality fell. It would be difficult for Weed to continue fighting Bardray with low health and vitality.

Then the Hermes Guild magicians secretly gathered together and chanted a spell.

"The caught body will be held and can't move. Twilight Pressure!"

It was a magic to restrict movement!

Weed's magic resistance was decent but it failed to block the spell from a coalition of senior magicians. Breaking the binding would require a significant amount of time and magic items. In the meantime, Bardray turned towards him.

"The time has come for you to die."

Bardray's sword was covered with a pure white flame.

"Noble Sword. Saint Flame."

Weed tried to avoid it but his foot wouldn't move.

"This! My leg......"

He tried to stop him but it was meaningless. Weed tried to call Torido but he had changed into a bat and was too busy avoiding the arrows to come and help.

"Close Eyes Tightly!"

Weed covered his body with the Ancient Sword and struck a defense pose. Bardray's sword was swung. The warrior's sword struck Weed completely. It wouldn't be easy to catch Weed again if he missed so Bardray poured all his power into this attack.

-Your strength and vitality has decreased and you can't properly defend.

A fatal blow!

-You have received a massive attack and died.

Additional damage is caused by the flames.

You don't have the help from high rank healing magic or water spirits so your health will decrease by 475 every second..

Your waist protective piece has received a blow beyond its limits and has been destroyed.

-The effect of Seulroeo's Wedding Ring isn't applied due to the drastic drop in health.-Your health has decreased and you have died.

The skill level of 'Power to Reject Death' is low. The skill isn't activated thanks to the holy power entering your body.

It is impossible to log in for 24 hours. Your skill level and proficiency has declined due to your death.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Weed disappeared into a grey light after Bardray's attack.

"Hooray Bardray-nim!"

"He won! Bardray-nim is the strongest in the continent!"

The Hermes Guild members cheered at the historic victory. Congratulations poured over the guild chat.

Bardray had made his competitors kneel in many battles. But their chests trembled at the thought that millions of people would be watching it through the broadcasting stations.

"This armour."

Bardray picked up the Talrock's Armour that Weed had dropped. The size of the armour wasn't different from some of the other japtem dropped from the monsters in the Melbourne Mine.

'This armour isn't that good. He was wearing something like this to fight?'

The Talrock's Armour didn't even register in Bardray's eyes. He found the best items and wore legendary equipment so this armour was just disappointing to him.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The Black Lion Guild had dismantled all the traps and arrived on the 4th underground floor.

"Those guys should be in the dungeon. Let's go."

Carlise and the elite members of the Black Lion Guild moved. Hegel, Alice and Dine had already been discovered by the assassins and died!

When they arrived at the lair the Red Belkain was almost dead. The continuous attacks from Bardray, the Royal Guards and the battle company meant the momentum of the hunt was in their favour. Even the assassins helped by hitting the Red Belkain in the back.

The Red Belkain cried out as he continued dying. He would exert more power as his life decreased but the users were experienced in fighting boss monsters.

"Fire!"

The prepared arrows and magic were launched. The Red Belkain was interrupted and couldn't concentrate on using his skills. There were also shamans in the battle company that helped in decreasing the monster's attack, defense, vitality, strength and concentration.

-The Red Belkain in the Melbourne Mine has entered its eternal rest.

The hunt was a success! Bardray delivered the final blow and also monopolized the loot. A recording of the Black Knight's swordsmanship was obtained.

"The 12th stage of the Black Knight Quest has been fulfilled."

"Congratulations Commander-nim."

"There isn't much left in the future."

Carlise had brought 750 people from the Black Lion Guild. They came to reclaim their territory from the Hermes Guild running wild in the Melbourne Mine.

"Strike!"

The Black Lion Guild fired off magic attacks. The conflict between the core power of two giant guilds started.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The special KMC broadcast with Oh Joo-wan was in progress!

"Ah, look at the Black Lion Guild."

"Today is certainly an unforgettable day. The magician Puroyan is now using the large scale ice magic, Ice Storm."

"The ground has frozen so that will be a problem for the knights of the Hermes Guild."

"This is still too premature to judge but from Oh Joo-wan ssi's view, who do you think will win?"

"It's really hard to know before the results come out. The Hermes Guild generally is much more powerful than other guilds and they have Bardray......"

"Are you saying the Hermes Guild will win?"

"Yes. I will give it to the Hermes Guild."

Many broadcasters reporting on the battle between the two guilds predicted that the Hermes Guild would be superior.

The battle group was filled while outstanding users and the Royal Guards had a large number of users with their level unknown. They also weren't busy hunting the Red Belkain anymore. There was no chance if Bardray and the Royal Guards came out.

"Ah! Now assassins have showed up behind the Black Lion Guild and are attacking. It is an ambush and they assassinated the priests first."

Even if the host didn't talk, the video looked incredibly violent. The Hermes Guild sent a video and the Black Lion Guild also agreed to cooperate and send in their side. The location of the battle kept changing and the sight was enough to make someone's mouth drop open.

The elite of the high level guilds fought together in the midst of explosions, lights and noise. Meanwhile shamans and necromancers were summoning the undead and spirits.

The team were editing the video in real time and adding effects so they had no time to go to the restroom. The production team also talked about Weed's battle with Bardray while working.

"Weed died......"

"Oh, Weed the God of War is no match for Bardray."

Bardray's victory was also discussed on Royal Road's various bulletin boards.

Many people talked about Bardray's use of various blessings and fighting against the tired Weed, calling it a cowardly victory. A few people mentioned how Weed tried to use the Red Belkain to conquer the disadvantage of the battle.

The audience rating already wasn't a concern anymore. There was no doubt that today would have the highest ratings. It should've been a happy day from the position of the station but KMC Media who often reported on Weed's adventures was disappointed.

CTS Media and LK Games were also talking more about Weed and Bardray's fight than the battle between the Hermes Guild and the Black Lion Guild.

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Seo-yoon went to the beauty salon to do her makeup and hair. She also bought clothes at the department stores.

'I should cook a dish.'

She wanted to go to the mart in order to cheer up Lee Hyun.

Bardray and the Hermes Guild had defeated the Black Lion Guild. The Hermes Guild had elite members and were tactically superior compared to the hastily gathered Black Lion Guild. The priests, magicians and warriors all cooperated together after the Red Belkain was killed. On the other hand, the rushed Black Lion Guild couldn't cooperate properly so they couldn't demonstrate their full abilities.

Bardray and the Royal Guards. Bardray overwhelmingly won in a confrontation with the head of the Black Lion Guild but he was out of mana afterwards. In a perfect trap, 200 more reinforcements from the Hermes Guild had showed up on the 4th floor.

Pale, Irene, Surka, Hwaryeong, Romuna, Zephyr, Seechwi and Seo-yoon belatedly arrived as the Hermes Guild were leaving the Melbourne Mine. Needless to say, they were killed by the wide range attacks from the archers and magicians with Bardray.

Seo-yoon could penetrate through the large number of attacks to kill 7 knights but she eventually died under the concentrated firepower. The Hermes Guild then strolled to a special teleport gate and disappeared.

Seo-yoon was more worried about Lee Hyun than dying in Royal Road. He had a high pride as the God of War only to be killed. In fact, it was difficult to win every time. She had failed many times when participating in quests or hunting monsters. But he had died and even lost armour so his heartache would be too big.

'I need to be beautiful and give him comfort.'

Seo-yoon headed to Lee Hyun's house with a shopping cart. Then she saw a neighbourhood grandmother dressed in shabby clothes and pushing a cart full of recyclables.

"I'll help you."

Seo-yoon took the handle from the grandmother. She wanted to see Lee Hyun but the cart looked heavy.

"Young Lady, you don't need to do something like this..... It is quite heavy so pushing isn't easy."

Syu syu syu syu syuk!

The cart steadily moved! Seo-yoon gently pushed the cart and said.

"Where are you going?"

"To my house to finish some work."

"Then let me know where your house is. I'll take you."

"You don't have to do that......"

"I want to."

"It is pretty far Young Lady."

"It's okay. I am able to take you."

If Seo-yoon told Lee Hyun about a good deed then he might feel less sad. She didn't want to see Lee Hyun with a sad face. She felt the need to quickly go and soothe his pain so that he wouldn't be sad. If he had only died then she wouldn't worry so much but he had lost the Talrock's Armour.

Seo-yoon guided the grandmother up the slope.

'The place isn't too far......'

When she climbed up the slope in Lee Hyun's neighbourhood, there were narrow and shabby houses gathered together which was where the grandmother lived.

"By the way Young Lady."

"Yes, Grandmother."

"Are you heading towards the house where there is a pomegranate and fig tree in the courtyard?"

Lee Hyun had several fruit trees growing at his house. There were apples, pears, peaches, chestnuts and even oranges.

"How did you know?"

"I've seen you a few times."

The grandmother pushed the cart with Seo-yoon while they climbed the slope.

"Are you dating the young man living in that house?"

"No."

"Then why are you visiting his house?"

In the grandmother's point of view, there was no need to say anything else since she kept on visiting his house.

Seo-yoon's face turned red.

"I'm glad he seems to have met a good woman. It has eased my heart a little bit."

"......."

"That young man, he is very famous since our neighbourhood is filled with elderly people."

"Huh?"

The fact that Lee Hyun was famous in his neighbourhood was new to Seo-yoon. She was worried that he might've done something wrong or committed extortion.

"That young man really lives a tenacious life. He tries to raise his younger sibling decently....."

"Yes."

"He delivered the milk and newspaper to everyone in the neighbourhood. He even carried all the bags from the market despite the fact that I can't pay him. Another time he helped me while I was doing a trade at the market. He chased after some thieves that stole something when I wasn't looking and I really felt sorry looking at his distant form......"

"Ah....."

Seo-yoon was finding out how Lee Hyun lived in the past. He lived a hard life so he was diligent even now.

"That young man was able to later buy a house.... It turned out really well. Has it been 1 year and a half since then? I didn't want him to live like that. Sometimes his body was so sick yet he still conducted business. Even now he is still collecting scrap items in order to live."

Seo-yoon just listened to the grandmother's quiet words. The grandmother seemed to be choked up with emotion. She was getting good information about Lee Hyun so she couldn't say anything.

"Is it difficult for you to come around here? There are a lot of empty bottles and cans in that park."

The grandmother gave her valuable information about her life. She talked about Lee Hyun again as she looked at the distant mountains.

"Although he could receive various benefits from going to the government's office, he still needed to raise a sibling."

His grandmother was in a really difficult situation at that time. He didn't know when the welfare benefits would come in but survived the winter thanks to support and advice.

"Last winter he placed an electric blanket and kimchi rice in my house at dawn. It wasn't just me but every elderly person in the area received it. It would've cost quite a bit of money...... But there was an old man who saw him place it in the middle of the night."

"He did."

"It snowed quite a bit last time so there wasn't too much work. But the young man still made boxed lunches with seaweed wraps and took it out of his house every day."

"There is no reason to make it if people don't eat it. If you like it then please take it. Because I made it just now."

"Thank you. I don't know how to pay you back."

"The food would just go into the garbage bag anyway."

Lee Hyun and his sister made a lot of food for half a month.

"And he also gave us some medicine. If he sees us become injured then he won't leave without treating it... The hospital bills are quite high these days but it makes me feel warm whenever he tells me to be careful."

Tears gathered in Seo-yoon's eyes. She understood. Lee Hyun had experienced many pains in the past so he could understand the pain of other people.

"He even helped one grandmother to the hospital and paid for the bill when she was worried about it. There is no elderly person in this neighbourhood who hasn't received the help of that young man. He also bought books for children living without parents and helped them study. His good deeds......"

Seo-yoon headed to Lee Hyun's house after taking the grandmother home.

Bark bark bark!

The dog was barking in front of the strangely silent house.

'Don't tell me......'

Seo-yoon felt her heart sink as she opened the gate. There were 7 different locks on the gate but fortunately she had all the keys in advance. She walked through the yard on trembling legs and stood before the front door. She dimly saw someone lying down in the living room.

'No!'

Seo-yoon opened the front door and entered the living room. Lee Hyun was lying collapsed on the living room floor.

"Heu heu heu heu heuk."

Her heart jumped like crazy as tears emerged. The makeup she did in the beauty salon became a mess because of her tears. Seo-yoon's heart ached as something she never considered happened.

A door that had been closed in her mind broke open.

'When I was a child... It is the same.'

When Seo-yoon was a very young child, she had seen something she really didn't want to see.It caused a huge wound in her mind until she met Lee Hyun.....

The person who helped Seo-yoon was lying there collapsed.

"I-I....."

She staggered as her legs seemed to lose all power. She was scared to even approach Lee Hyun. Something precious had been taken from her while she was pushing the cart.

"W-why did he do this? Why......?"

Seo-yoon whimpered. A huge wave of sorrow rose inside her and she thought that she might never be able to smile again.

Then Lee Hyun started moving and twitching. He was still alive so the idea of calling an ambulance passed quickly through her head.....

"Keeeeeeok!"

A long yawn came out.

She suddenly saw traces of kimchi fried rice and jjapaghetti (black bean instant noodles) on the table in the living room.

Lee Hyun touched his stomach.

"I carelessly slept after I ate too much and now I need to go to the bathroom."

Seo-yoon stared at him with tear stained eyes mixed with a violent anger.

Chapter 9: Second Secret Sword Technique

9) Second Secret Sword Technique

On the road to Korea University.

Lee Hyun was disgruntled.

"I really can't understand the heart of a woman. If a formula to understand a woman's heart was published in a global journal then it would be the best discovery."

Yesterday Seo-yoon had went to the kitchen without saying a word. She prepared the ingredients and had cooked a dish with a light smile. Then she committed an atrocity by forcefully feeding Lee Hyun curry.

Seo-yoon still looked beautiful despite her tear streaked voice and cruelly sat next to him. Lee Hyun was reminded of his bad relationship with her in the past.

Then Seo-yoon left and Jung Hyo-rin arrived in the evening. She arrived late because she couldn't cancel her schedule and wanted to go out to a night club as a distraction. Alcohol wasn't good for his the health and it cost money so it wasn't his first choice.

However Lee Hye-yeon wanted to go so the three of them went.

It was full of many lights and loud music. He found a quiet room to drink alcohol. Lee Hyun had needed to make a booking for this club. It was the place where Choi Ji-hoon often got the number of girls after a short conversation so he recommended it to Lee Hyun.

"Excuse me."

The women who followed the waiter left after seeing Lee Hye-yeon and Jung Hyo-rin's faces.

He wandered about what happened but Lee Hyun just blamed it on his plain face. In the end the three of them drank alcohol and exchanged stories. Lee Hye-yeon and Jung Hyo-rin even sang to brighten up the atmosphere.

So yesterday's evening disappeared in vain!

Now Lee Hyun was going to school early in the morning. The freshman welcoming party, the MT, the festival and now summer vacation had passed.

"The tuition fee is flying away really quickly. I can see why university professor is listed as a good job."

Middle school and high school studies who studied a lot really had foresight.

"A cosy job without the possibility of becoming unemployed should be chosen."

Lee Hyun said as he sat down on the bus. He finally arrived at the school after half-dozing off. The surrounding students stared at Lee Hyun and whispered.

"Isn't that him?"

"Who?"

"On the school's website... A member of the virtual reality department."

"That person?"

"He looks like the student in the MT photos."

The university students showed an intensive interest in Lee Hyun. Older women and adults also looked at him as he walked to his destination.

"He's already arrived."

Lee Hyun went through the front entrance of Korea University. Students kept on pointing towards him as he walked towards the classroom.

"Virtual reality department....."

"Yes."

"Can I receive his signature?"

People made a lot of noise and they paid a lot of attention to Lee Hyun. He usually lived an unobtrusive life so the pointing wasn't usual. Then students suddenly started stampeding as Lee Hyun arrived at the classroom.

"Sunbae-nim!"

"Hello!"

"Yesterday's battle was really cool. Although it is a little regretful that your myth of invincibility broke."

"To be so close to Weed the God of War..... Sunbae-nim, can you give any advice about Royal Road?"

"Please recommend a hunting ground for a level 234 ranger."

The school boards had revealed the identity of Weed the God of War. Choi Sang-jun and his two juniors told their friends and it quickly spread through the entire school and also on their bulletin boards. The prominent Weed from Royal Road went to their school so he had the popularity of a celebrity!

"Sunbae-nim, I really respect you."

"Can't you talk a little bit about the battle?"

"How did you obtain the Death Knight?"

Students who hadn't always been friendly flocked around Lee Hyun. Students from other departments also came to ask Lee Hyun questions. His popularity was enough for a celebrity to run away.

'This is why I can't sleep.'

Lee Hyun wasn't friendly to his fans.

"The secret to being good at fighting in Royal Road....."

"What is it?"

"Gulp!"

"I don't know. I just hunt."

Lee Hyun ignored them and went to his seat. His desk was still uncomfortable as people swarmed around it.

'Bardray......'

The people who watched on television wouldn't know any better. In the battle between Lee Hyun and Bardray, Lee Hyun had definitely attacked more fiercely.

'I couldn't win.'

Lee Hyun really felt like there was a drastic gap between him and Bardray. Bardray had formidable defense and attack. It was apparent that Bardray's combat skills were above his. The only area he overwhelmed Bardray in was speed but that was just temporary due to Sculptural Destruction.

'Bardray... I can fight to a certain extent in a melee match. If I only use skills that it will be impossible to win.'

If this had been a broad terrain then he would've died without being able to run away at all. Even if he hadn't been bound by the magicians, there would be no way for him to win if they fought a little longer.

'If only I had resurrected with the Power to Reject Death......'

The Royal Road related boards were also actively debating that point. Weed the God of War could resurrect to a more powerful form after dying. He was reborn as an undead and led other subordinates in a miracle like battle. If Weed had revived than there was a lot of expectation that he would've changed the situation.

Barkhan's full set. He had obtained the skull, robe, cloak, boots, necklace, ring and magic book. If he equipped Barkhan's full set then his power would be comparable to the Hermes Guild's to a certain extent.

'But it wouldn't have changed the situation completely.'

Lee Hyun exerted the largest strength when he becomes a Necromancer. A Lich could create a legion of undead but they were weak in the beginning and would need to be trained. It would be difficult to overcome the interference from Bardray and the Royal Guards to summon the undead.

'I don't want to.'

Lee Hyun didn't want to be defeated because he would lose skill proficiency, experience and drop items. There were a lot of people who still respected Weed as the God of War.

Even if he was defeated by Bardray, he was still the user with the best popularity in Royal Road. Everyone still liked Weed the God of War.

'I don't want to live like that.'

Lee Hyun wasn't satisfied with his strength. During his days playing Continent of Magic, he really had a nasty temper. He would step on others, kill anyone who attacked him and sweep away anyone making noise.

The name God of War had a different weight in Royal Road. His true nature was kept unchanged.

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"Fighting until they're sick. Then they will take a little more from someone else......"

The war between users was fun for Yoo Byung-jin to watch. The development of the Central Continent was high so war constantly broke out in it. There were many sieges in order to expand their power.

After the Hermes Guild occupied the Kallamore Kingdom, other guilds couldn't make their headquarters there. The surrounding castles, cities and fortresses were eaten. A union tried to actively resist against them. The King had withdrawn like the Haven Kingdom and there were several places far from the guild's reach where an army was gathered.

The Embinyu Church was also spreading like wildfire by gathering new followers through brainwashing and fear. From the viewpoint of a large guild, the confusion caused was a chance for them and it wasn't possible to reserve hunting grounds so it wasn't bad.

If the Embinyu Church occupied an area than urban development would fly away but taking back the plundered riches could secure contributions and public sentiment.

Most of the huge guilds based their growth on aggressive invasion rather than managing domestic affairs.

"If the chaos continues getting out of hand than the Central Continent will go through the Dark Ages."

Yoo Byung-jin knew information about Royal Road that wasn't available to broadcasting stations.

The Embinyu Church got its energy from public sentiment. Their rapid spread was enough to make someone tremble with anxiety and their hidden strength transcended imagination!

If they became a powerful force in the Central Continent than it would be difficult to knock them down. If the Embinyu Church developed into a new kingdom then it was likely that the Dark Ages would spread to the rest of the land.

"This will be a historic occurrence. It isn't surprising that such a thing happened in Royal Road."

Yoo Byung-jin asked the artificial intelligence system that governed Royal Road.

"What happened to the Hermes Guild and the Black Lion Guild?"

-After the Black Lion Guild was defeated, the Hermes Guild moved everywhere. The United Supremacy Alliance is still valid and a war is carefully spreading. The Black Lion Guild seems to be shrinking as the users are leaving for other prestigious guilds.

"What happened to the Black Lion Guild's plan to occupy Tullen Kingdom?"

-They are spending a significant amount of time to control internal affairs. Carlise had power and a high level of popularity but it wasn't easy to restore his reputation after losing so miserably to Bardray on television.

"The Hermes Guild is quite tricky."

-They have a large structure, excellent momentum and daring tactics.

The Hermes Guild had trampled the Black Lion Guild in the Melbourne Mine so recovery wasn't easy. The users lost a lot of experience and skill proficiency and their confidence was shattered by the defeat. The Black Lion Guild had been dragged into the Hermes Guild's tactics from the start.

Bardray didn't withdraw even when his boss monster hunt was revealed on broadcast. Carlise and the Black Lion Guild were furious and ran there only to be completely smashed by the full power of the battle company and Royal Guards.

The result would be the same even if the Black Lion Guild sealed the entrance of the Melbourne Mine and waited. Yoo Byung-jin could see everything through the AI. The Hermes Guild had secretly concealed 200 people around the Melbourne Mine. Their strategy to not withdraw and lure the Black Lion Guild down to them succeeded.

The ones who benefited the most from this battle was the Hermes Guild.

"A guy with decisiveness is good."

-Lafaye being the Guild Master is justified.

"He has the ability to manage the guild's external affairs. His schemes seems to be okay since they've managed to swallow the Haven Kingdom."

Yoo Byung-jin surveyed various locations in Royal Road.

Known tourists sights overflowing with people. The cliffs, mountains, volcanoes, lakes, swamps, rivers and oceans. There were superb views and many people were living happily. There were those enjoying farming and picking up fruit. They could have fun and experience various disciplines they couldn't in reality.

Users were playing the role they desired. Defeating wild monsters for growth and requesting help from others were also important elements. The number of users increased daily but the continent was very wide. Endless risks and adventures could be found. Those who couldn't invest time in hunting and adventures could stay around famous cities for safety.

"How is the Class Master Quest of the farmer Miretas proceeding?"

-Stage 9 has just been completed and they are proceeding to the 10th part.

The Farmer Master Quest was proceeding a bit slowly because they needed to cultivate the seeds they sowed.

"Adventurer Chase?"

-He can't find the necessary purple small sword. He hasn't found the 2 clues necessary for a later adventure.

"He has been blocked for a while on the 11th quest. His ability to solve riddles and sociability is a little low compared to his pathfinding abilities in a dungeon."

Yoo Byung-jin observed the users challenging their Master Quests one by one. The amount to time associated with each quest was steadily increasing.

The broadcasting stations were eager to get an interview with players challenging the Master Quest or a video of them completing the quest. If Yoo Byung-jin provided the scenes he was currently looking at to the broadcasters than it would lead to great popularity but he wouldn't do such a thing.

As the Class Master Quest progressed, it could change the lives of users. New products never seen before would be registered, new dungeons opened and even friendship between nations would be affected.

"Weed?"

-He hasn't logged in yet. Not enough time has passed for him to log in.

If a player died than they couldn't log in for 24 hours of real time.

"The blow would be huge. Bardray publicly defeated him so his level and skill proficiency would drop. Right now is an important time."

A sculptor was a professional that was a lot more difficult to raise the skill proficiency compared to others.

"Please let me know when he connects. And set up Weed's video on the bottom of the monitor."

-I will carry out your command. If Weed connects then his image would be displayed on the 8th or 9th monitor.

Yoo Byung-jin prepared a huge space so he could monitor Weed.

"It would be fun to watch him connect and feel despair. Kul kul kul."

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Lee Hyun had a hard time at school due to the students crowding around him. It had even been reported among the juniors.

"Will you be at Morata?"

"I would like to go eat together with Sunbae-nim."

He kept on receiving greetings from juniors he didn't know. There were no juniors who didn't know Lee Hyun after the MT and festival. He was part of the virtual reality department and now they discovered that Lee Hyun accomplished huge achievements in Royal Road.

He was only a 3rd year senior but his popularity and influence as the Lord of Morata was incomparable. In a vote conducted by a broadcasting station, Morata was chosen as the number 1 place people wanted to live in.

"If I'm in Morata then can I meet Sunbae-nim?"

He also heard shy confessions from female students. Even the university professors thought positively of Lee Hyun.

'It would be useful to get credits.'

Lee Hyun headed home after class. He couldn't access the game yesterday so he had cleaned the house with Seo-yoon. It had that refreshing feeling after the housework was finished!

"It is time to go back to the battlefield."

Lee Hyun entered the capsule.

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Weed reconnected under the walls of Treipeak.

"Wear leather armour."

He quickly wore the costume for level 130 beginners.

"Having a plain appearance if useful in times like this."

If he changed into common clothes then not that many people would recognize him. Treipeak was still the area of the Black Lion Guild. Weed's presence here wasn't important to them as they were still confused by the Hermes Guild's raid.

"I need to check it out... My lost experience!"

Weed had to observe three different types of bad news. Experience, skills and equipment!

"Stat Window!"

Character NameWeedAlignmentHistorical HeroLevel409ProfessionLegendary Moonlight SculptorTitleWorld-changing SculptorFame92,007Health41,230Mana19,405Strength1,443Agility1,097Vitality209Wisdom355 (+51)Intelligence505 (+55)Fighting Spirit525Endurance270 (+68)Perseverance55 (+8)Art2,430Charisma530Leadership787Luck143Faith207+435Charm451+30Resilience471Dignity153Concentration92Courage200Honour43Affinity to Nature1,043Attack7,103Defense1,941Magic ResistanceFire33%Water39%Earth39%Black Magic41%+ All stats have an additional 20 points added.

+ The Art stat is granted an additional 80 points.

+ All stats will increase by 30% on a moonlit night.

+ Specialized items.

+ All production skills can be learnt up to the master level. Preferential treatment will be applied to the skills of all items manufactured with Smelting. You can learn the best skills.

+ Unusual sculptures or sculptures will high artistic value will increase your fame.

+ All stats have been raised by 178 points due to sculptures, production skills, combat experience and quests.

+ All stats will increase by 15 thanks to wearing Baharan's Bracelet.

His level had fallen back to 409. Even if experience was difficult to gain, it was easy compared to others. His sculpting proficiency had fallen 11.4% and was now at 49.7% advanced level 8. His Handicraft, Blacksmith, Sewing, Cooking, Fishing and attack skills had all declined slightly.

"Indeed... It wasn't possible to receive help from luck."

An Adventurer's Luck stat could lessen the damage of death. But the effect of Luck didn't really apply well to other professions. Weed's Luck wasn't high enough to decrease the death penalty.

"Then the item......"

He manually identified all his belongings. Bandages and herbs, arrows, fishing rod, whetstone, sculpting materials, the quest sapphires were all meticulously checked!

"T-Talrock's Armour of Faith is gone."

The wonderful armour that protected him from monster attacks for a long time was lost.

"This damage......"

Weed briefly closed his eyes. He had to endure the fury pumping in his chest. His heart wanted to go to Haven Kingdom, the area of the Hermes Guild to get revenge. But the result would just be his death again.

"I'll definitely make them pay."

Weed decided to focus on his work to push down the anger.

"I need to report back for my Class Quest and obtain a secret swordsmanship technique."

The first step to becoming stronger! He could receive a sword skill if he met the Sword Master Ash. Weed was eligible because his Sword Mastery skill had reached the advanced level. Radiant Sword couldn't be the only secret sword technique that he learnt.

"Anyway, the proficiency of Radiant Sword is still low so it would be better to learn another skill."

Weed's resolution to become a jack of all trades!

Ash's island was a place where students accidentally stumbled upon by boat and was difficult to revisit. The route changed due to wind and ocean currents so it would require a few months investment. But he had Yurin so it was possible to go there by painting.

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Splash... Splash...

Seagulls flew around an island that had waves hitting it. Weed arrived at the unknown island where Ash lived with Geomchi and Geomchi2.

"Weed, this is the place to learn a sword technique."

"Yes. I understand, Master-nim."

"It might not be any good but it would be better to learn it."

Geomchi, Geomchi2 and his other teachers had also arrived at the Melbourne Mine yesterday with Yurin but they arrived late. They had attacked the Hermes Guild entering the teleport gate only to bravely die!

Geomchi and Geomchi2 prided themselves on their strength but they were incited by Weed and decided to come to the island to learn the secret sword technique.

"You have to learn from other people......"

"........"

"Of course Master-nim doesn't need to learn the sword technique but you can look cool if you use it in a fight."

"......."

"Well, your popularity with women......."

"........!"

When Weed, Geomchi and Geomchi2 arrived, Ash walked out from among the trees.

"You came here to learn swordsmanship from me? If so then you must be qualified for it."

Ash raised his sword for a confrontation as soon as he appeared.

"Your short words are convenient."

Geomchi took out a sword from his bag and easily proved his eligibility. The fight didn't even last 30 minutes. He had technical sword skills and could also use mana to double the damage and push the enemy away. The fake bodies were too flimsy.

Geomchi enjoyed a relaxing few minutes before Ash was forced to admit his skill. Geomchi was the strongest with a long sword!

Geomchi2 also achieved a similar result against the clones.

"I am Weed. I am a sculptor but I really admire you. I want to learn this sword technique to ensure the peace of the continent. It is an honour to meet you."

Weed was a little different. His opponent was a higher levelled Sword Master so flattery naturally emerged from his mouth.

"Your profession is a sculptor so you must've gone to a lot of effort to learn the sword. I'm looking forward to a good fight."

Weed carefully controlled his breathing as he watched Ash make some clones. It would be difficult to find the real body among all the clones.

Weed chose the simplest approach. He would just fight recklessly until they all died!

"I'll start."

Weed was surrounded by many layers of Ash and his clones who poured attacks towards him. Weed demonstrated a high degree of concentration.

'I need to think faster and move more quickly. My body's reaction speed needs to reach the maximum... Just like when I found 100 won that fell on the road.'

When fighting he had to consider the enemy in front, on the sides and even an attack from his back.

-You have been injured in the leg by Ash's clone.

Until the injured area is recovered, movement speed will decrease by 7%.

Health has decrease by 983 due to your resilience.

The fake bodies weren't as strong as the real thing. The attacks didn't have a high risk due to his resilience and perseverance so he wildly swung his sword.

"Heriam Fencing!"

Weed was full of scars every time he defeated a clone. He looked like a mad berserker in battle as he attacked without defending his body. It was awfully ignorant compared to how the Geomchis had performed. Weed jumped into the centre of the clones.

Violent sparks flew every time his sword hit something. Weed fought like he was the last remaining knight in a destroyed kingdom! He breathed roughly while competing with Ash's clones. He didn't want to step back anymore since his loss to Bardray.

'If I'm defeated by this much... I'll have no choice but to envy the son of a rich family.'

Weed had 1/3rd of his health left. Ash made an offer once he eliminated 10 clones.

"This degree is enough to stop. You seem to be lacking the skill to digest my technique."

Weed shook his head.

"I will keep fighting."

"Then don't regret it if I kill you."

"I'll regret it but I will still fight."

The battle became easier for Weed as he reduced more clones. However his health was still decreasing and he had a lot of minor injuries. His movements slowed and became more difficult due to his wounds.

'The only thing I can believe in is my body. I will win this!'

He was the Geomchis' student so he had a high level of technical skill. He was able to enhance his attack damage while the real Ash was hiding. Weed's Sword Mastery skill was advanced level 2.

Thanks to the difference in attack and mana management, it was difficult to block the strikes from the real Ash. It was difficult because Ash kept on hiding his body among the clones.

'I have to smash everything.'

Weed threw his body at the clones.

-Your Fighting Spirit has increased thanks to the violent battle.

Your attack and defense stats will rise.

"Keheok!"

Weed only had 4% health left. However all the clones were gone. The only one left was Ash. If he threw his body then there would be a 2 out of 3 chance of death.

"Your technical skill might be lacking but you have the quality of never giving up. I've realized that after a few minutes of fighting you."

Ddiring!

-You have fought against Ash with much lower weapons and armour so all stats have increased by 3.-Through the match you have acquired the Sword-cloning skill.

The Sword-cloning skill! Geomchi and Geomchi2 decided to go to Morata to drink beer with the other instructors and trainees. It was to learn Radiant Sword from the statue kept inside the castle. Weed moved to Ugoth to report his Master Quest to the Ellyon.

Chapter 10: Helium's Rebirth

10) Helium's Rebirth

He needed to make a Magnum Opus sculpture out of the sapphires for the Ellyon.

"A sculptor doesn't seem to be a good profession."

Those who enjoyed making things would like having it as a career. But his greed deepened as people continued passing through the area. The desire to make a better work!

From that point on, he was under enormous stress as he tried to create something.

"I need to sacrifice all these sapphires for the Fairies... If it wasn't for the quest....."

Weed had to use the precious ingredients. If he used good materials than his ability as a professional sculptor would often rise. It was difficult to suppress his desire to sell the materials for money.

"The sapphires from the Melbourne Mine are the best. There is enough to make a sculpture."

Weed decided to make the piece of work in the Ellyon's area. Working with jewels needed precision. Morata was filled with the sound of people bustling by and the noise from the construction of the Grand Buildings. He needed to make something that appealed to the Ellyon's desires so he could correct it if he saw their reactions!

"I need to invest a bit more in order to make a Magnum Opus sculpture."

It was difficult to return to the Melbourne Mine to dig more sapphires. The mine had been closed by the Black Lion Guild. Only the guild members could go hunting there and the miners received a thorough inspection. The Black Lion Guild didn't want to permit another humiliation from outsiders.

It would be a big blow if the sculpture failed so Weed pulled out some rubies. They were rubies mined from Syaspen Mine. He had heard from the Dwarf artisans in Kuruso that good quality rubies came from that mine. So he mined rubies in a dungeon seething with monsters. Weed collected a large share of rubies this time.

"The harmony of the blue sapphire and red rubies....."

Sapphires meant wisdom and ruby was power. The sculpture was designed to combine power and wisdom!

"It would be better if the sculpture is beautiful and has a historical value. Something that will be nostalgic for the Ellyons....."

Weed had already decided.

Geihar Von Arpen!

He was the Emperor who unified the continent and led the sculptural lifeforms. If he wanted to increase his skill proficiency then he needed to endure it. He needed a theme in order to create a great sculpture.

"I've seen the video several times as a sculptor. I should be able to reproduce his majestic form from the past."

Weed shaved a big rock. He used the Sculpting Knife and hammer to precisely carve Emperor Geihar. The Emperor often ate so his stomach was big and his legs were short and thick. His arms were also short and his fingers were a mess of calluses and scars from the sculpting. The chin was fleshy so it was the most difficult part to express with sculpting.

"Indeed, it definitely isn't that easy."

Fortunately (?) his head was bald so Weed didn't have to worry about expressing his hair. He looked like an ordinary old man but he was the great Emperor Geihar so it was a challenging sculpture. His expression had to convey confidence and conviction while he looked at his sculptures with soft eyes.

To be honest, the sculpture that Weed made wasn't handsome. Despite the appearance, the difficult part was capturing the feeling of Emperor Geihar.

"It should be decorated with gold, rubies and sapphires. He needs to have the best clothes and decorates to represent the greatness of the Emperor."

The sculpture shone with a splendid light as rubies were placed on it. And he decided to take advantage of the sculptor's wide shoulders. He placed a sculpture of a bird made out of melted gold on the right shoulder. He often looked at the real thing so it was possible to sculpt a figure that was almost the same. On the other shoulder he laid down the sapphires very elaborately. There was also an Ellyon mischievously grabbing Emperor Geihar's sleeve.

The process of making a sculpture was very important to Weed. While creating Emperor Geihar he carefully carved the rock, melted the gold and precisely worked the rubies and sapphires.

The sculpture of Geihar Von Arpen who was Arpen's Emperor and an important part of Versailles Continent's history was completed.

Ddiring!

-Please set the name of the new sculpture.

"The name of this sculpture will be Emperor Geihar von Arpen."

-Emperor Geihar von Arpen is correct?

"Yes."

Ddiring!

-A historic sculpture, a Magnum Opus! Emperor Geihar von Arpen is completed.This is in the distant past but there was once a time when the Versailles Continent was united under one flag. The borders between kingdoms disappeared and all species kneeled down to the Emperor!

The luxurious and extravagant sculpture embellished with rubies, sapphires and gold clearly shows the Emperor who managed to achieve the great feat of conquering the continent.

This charming and incomparable piece of art is created by a master sculptor popular among the masses.

There are no current sculptures of Geihar von Arpen so this sculpture has a high historical value.

Artistic Value: 24,789

Special Options:

Anyone who sees the sculpture of Emperor Geihar von Arpen will have their health and mana regeneration rate increased by 34% for a day.

You have acquired historical knowledge about the Arpen Empire.

Fame has increased from the creation of this sculpture.

All stats related to sculpting will increase by 30% for a day.

The prestige of Kings and Emperors has increased.

If you own a palace or a castle than the areas political power will expand.

Relationships with various species in that territory won't deteriorate.

All stats increased by 30.

The effect doesn't overlap with other sculptures.

Current number of Magnum Opus created: 12

-The skill proficiency of Sculpting has improved.

-The skill proficiency of Handicraft has improved.

-Fame has increased by 2,670.

-Art stat has increased by 37.

-Charm increased by 8.

-Charisma increased by 9.

-All stats will gain an additional 3 points for making a Magnum Opus sculpture.

-You have completed the sculpture necessary for the quest.

Weed had a soft smile on his face.

'Emperor Geihar is wonderful as expected.'

The exquisite sculpture was able to successfully satisfy the Ellyons! His sculpting proficiency also increased by 5.4%. It still wasn't enough to recover the damage from dying. But he was able to gain a lot of experience from the Magnum Opus sculpture.

Ddiring!

-The Ellyon born from a continent of art and culture desired a sculpture made of sapphires.

The Ellyons have been waiting for a good sculpture to appear among the humans.

Now you have demonstrated an ability to sculpt without betraying their faith. The Ellyons will now leave the home where they've lived so far to follow you.

They are like blades of grass that don't grow in deserts......

-Fame has increased by 1,600.-Friendship with the Ellyon race has increased. Unless you make a critical mistake to disappoint them, this friendship won't fall.

The 13th stage of the Master Quest has been completed. An Ellyon then carefully said.

-Will you lead us well?

They were a playful, small species. It was natural for them to be frightened of Weed.

"I will be a good master so you and your companions don't need to worry."

While he was obtaining the sapphires from the Melbourne Mine, he died and his Talrock's Armour was taken away. Given the reward for such a difficult quest, he definitely had to make them work!

'Farming, mineral extraction, lake and pond management etc... There are many uses for the fairies.'

Morata has a mining team, a large granary and employed workers at the lake. If the fairies help than the yield from the work will increase. The Ellyon continued.

-By the way, can I bring my friends? They're poor and hungry.

"Friends?"

The Ellyon hadn't brought any meal expenses yet they wanted to bring a guest! As the amount of sculptural lifeforms increased, Weed had to move from persuasion rather than violence to earn their respect. The sculptural lifeforms possessed a pristine innocence so he had to soothe them while they were working.

'I have to act calmly and decisively if it is like this. If I hesitate even a little bit than I will seem weak. Even if I beat them up, I need to precisely control my power while their health is reducing......'

The Ellyon replied.

-They are friends who worked together with us in the Arpen Empire. They have an outstanding talent for raising animals.

Weed's voice became tender.

"Your friends have a talent like that?"

There were many benefits to large scale breeding of sheep, rabbits, cows, horses, pigs etc. Morata required leather as well as to stabilize the price of meat in the food industry. In fact, Weed used quite a few ingredients to make delicious food so he was sensitive to these areas. If the food was delicious than the number of users staying in the city would increase and they would use more money.

Thanks to Yellowy, there was a large cattle breeding and transport industry so there were various benefits to raising animals.

-Yes. But right now they have been confined by the Sulleion.

"Confinement. Good gracious!"

Weed's voice had a note of fake concern in it.

-Can you defeat the Sulleions and save my friends? It is dangerous work but it might be possible for a sculptor like you.

Ddiring!

-The Ellyons were a race of fairies that live with their friends the Arnin and their animals.

They have no combat power and have been forced into labour by the Sulleion.

Defeat the Sulleions who rules the Harsel Mountains and rescue them!

It is impossible without a large war.

This will be very dangerous for a sculptor.

Level of difficulty: Sculpting Master Quest

Quest Restriction: Level 8 Advanced Sculpting

Sculpture Life Bestowal is necessary.

"Hrmm."

Fortunately, this commission this time was in the north. The Sulleion was a reptile like warrior tribe with yellow eyes and skin covered with a thick substance like keratin. There were a tribe with numerous forces in the Harsel Mountains. Cities and villages were difficult due to the steep terrain and rivers so settlements were formed rather than large villages and cities.

"The Sulleions... They really aren't an easy opponent."

There were at least several thousand warriors in a large settlement. They were also spread out through the Harsel Mountains so it was difficult to judge their scale.

'I can't give up here... It seems like I have to use Sculpture Life Bestowal for a large scale battle.'

It was a quest where he had to train sculptural lifeforms to fight in a war! If successful than he could obtain an entire tribe of sculptural lifeforms. Weed decided to accept the commission. He had kept the lifeforms for something like this.

"I'll accept the quest."

-You have accepted the quest.-You have consented to a dangerous task so all stats will increase by 2.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The information about the Class Master Quest competition was the most popular program for each broadcasting station.

"According to the Hermes Guild, Bardray has currently completed his 12th Black Knight quest so what about Adventurer Chase?"

"I've just received news that he has collected the necessary materials and is preparing to challenge his 11th quest."

"The warrior Paiton has also proceeded to the 9th quest and was aiming to hunt monsters yesterday. The detailed video is ready so I will show it later."

"It is still unknown if there are other people doing the Master Quests. CTS Media promises to give the viewers the information as quickly as possible."

"Su-hwi ssi, the competition is getter hotter and many people seem interested in the Master Quest."

"Doesn't everyone wish to become the master of their class?"

Among all the players, there were 9 people revealed to be challenging the Master Quest. The broadcasting stations wanted to know their every move.

Becoming the first Class Master was an unspeakable honour and a record that couldn't be established again. But there was almost no talk about the Sculptor Weed. Weed only informed a few people about his progress and he didn't brag about it in cities.

Recently he had died to Bardray so the broadcasting stations became negligent about mentioning him in the Master Quest competition. To finish the quest they needed to master their class skills.

The sculpting proficiency he lost due to his death couldn't be raised in a short period of time so they thought he had fallen behind the competition.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

"Tsk tsk, he made a mistake. The quest this time is too difficult."

Yoo Byung-jin clicked his tongue as he watched the monitor. He had watched his videos as soon as Weed connected. The degree that he completed the Ellyons' quest was expected. However the difficulty level for the next quest received was too high.

Even if his subordinates listened to Weed, the Sulleions wouldn't be easily defeated. They had a great ability to utilize the caves in the Harsel Mountains. It would be difficult to suppress them even with a large scale army.

"His misfortunes only get worse. It will be bad if he fails this quest or dies."

Yoo Byung-jin thought it was fun to watch Weed. No matter what type of difficulty, he always seemed to succeed.

"Bardray has a significant advantage because he can easily raise Sword Mastery. It won't be easy to raise Sculpting proficiency even if the quest is completed."

If he had to use an analogy, it was like climbing a high mountain and the current location was under the cliff. If he climbed to the top of the cliff then he would become a Sculpting Master.

Weed would definitely reach the Master stage someday but he was severely disadvantaged compared to his competitors due to the nature of the class.

"On top of that... I don't know when he will get the final sculpting special technique. It is great that he even collected this much."

So far Weed had collected all the class related secret techniques except for one. Yoo Byung-jin asked the artificial intelligence system.

"What are the current odds if Weed and Bardray fight?"

-Weed improves depending on the geographical elements and skill utilization. Bardray has many people under his command. If these elements are met for both people than Weed's chance of victory is 7.2%.

If the favourable blessings and military aspect is removed from Bardray than Weed has a slight chance. If they are fighting on a cliff where the wind is blowing hard and Weed rides the wyverns than his odds will increase to 19%. Even if he is at a disadvantage against Bardray, in most cases he can escape without dying.

If Bardray's dangerous attacks continuously succeed in a row than he will die. Bardray has a higher level but Weed is used to hunting against a large number of monsters. Van Hawk and the sculptural lifeforms will also increase his damage.

"If Weed obtains the final secret sculpting technique than what are his odds?"

-The effect of the final sculpting secret technique depends on the user but it would make his power dozens of times more effective. If Weed obtains it than he will be able to properly take advantage of sculpting's characteristics. Weed's chances will rise relatively high if his attack power and reaction rate is taken into consideration.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

"Oh, level 14."

Bart killed a wolf using a rusty sword near the gates.

"Congratulations, ajusshi."

"Thank you."

The people in his party congratulated him. The others were also beginners like Bart.

"Now you can use a sturdy iron sword. Your damage will increase even further."

Bart felt a pleasant feeling while hunting in a party. He had come to the northern city of Morata! Beginners could ride transportation carriages for merchants for free. Travelling here and hunting gave him a feeling of excitement. The people here were also friendly so it was easy to adapt.

'I can understand why Royal Road is so popular. This is completely a community.'

He could clearly feel that as he watched Morata. Adventurers who completed great explorations would report to the residents in the square! Their appearance was always greeted with applause. There were also sweaty people participating in the creation of the Grand Buildings. Many people admired the cool sight of Hestia's Forge and the Research Tower being built.

"Has the budget exceeded this time as well?"

"By an awful amount. Nevertheless, the Grand Buildings will continue without being cancelled."

"When they are completed then it will be good to be a Blacksmith or a Magician."

Morata had a lot of fame even in the Central Continent. The local specialties were sold at a much more expensive price in other cities. In the future Morata would certainly be the main city of the kingdom. Central Square had also acquired a new specialty.

"Wah! It is the Ice Beauty! It really was worth coming here to see this."

"So pretty. A goddess."

The restored Ice Beauty had been left in the square. Ice would melt in the sun but magicians used magic to lower the temperature. Morata was a large city so magicians were commonplace. The magicians thought of it as an honour to lower the temperature of the Ice Beauty.

"That is my daughter...... The ice creates a different feeling but she is still very pretty. Yes, even as a child she was pretty."

Bart wanted to boast about his daughter. But that was impossible when he recalled what happened after he said he knew Weed. Weed was the God of War so the Ice Beauty's existence was above people like him.

"Bart ajusshi, collect the wolf leather and bring it to the general store."

"I'll do that. I need to buy a sturdy iron sword."

Bart quickly rose from where he was sitting. It wasn't easy to meet a party he could trust.

He was busy with his company so his growth in Royal Road was slow. It was normal for him to fall behind beginners moving fast.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

The capital of the Thor Kingdom, Iron Hammer!

Weed headed to the government office and met the Dwarf Elder Einhand.

"I've returned after cleaning up the monsters at Ugoth."

"Thank you for your hard work. I've heard news from a dwarf that Ugoth has become safe. I was thoughtless last time but my recognition of a sculptor has changed recently thanks to you."

Weed was happiest in these moments. He had completed the quest and came to receive the compensation. It was the feeling of returning home after a hard adventure.

"The four dwarves that you assisted have prepared a gift."

"Such a thing... I wasn't thinking about it."

This was just out of politeness but he had no intention of refusing.

"We dwarves are good at making things. We wanted to make you a desired equipment but...."

The Thor Kingdom contained the best dwarven blacksmiths who could make luxury equipment. Einhand swept his hand over his beard.

"You are a sculptor that can draw out the beauty of every type of material. So I gathered the materials and waited for you to visit."

Einhand handed over a backpack. Weed immediately opened the backpack and looked over the goods. There were 22 pieces of Mithril, 5 top class pieces of Adamantium and 20 of the best iron ores. When combined with the reward he received for completing the Akryong Kaybern quest, the quantity was enough to make 3 armours.

"Thank you very much. I will use this well to safeguard the peace of the continent."

"The burden you carry on your shoulders is truly big. Please continue walking the route of art in the future."

"In order to make a living... I will fulfil my duty to make art more widely recognized."

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

-The Grand Building Hestia's Forge has been completed.

Total construction period: 4 months and 26 days.

Cost of construction: 2,211,002 gold and 35 silver.

Number of construction staff who participated: 428,883 people

Building value: 142,329

More staff participated in the construction as planned so it finished 7 days faster.

Blacksmiths can extract iron from iron ore more quickly.

When an object is created with the Blacksmith skill, an additional effect of +3% attack and +11% defense will be added.

Items filled with Hestia's power can be created.

The Dwarf settlement rate has improved.

The satisfaction of dwarfs living in Morata will increase.

The great Hestia's Forge was completed.

It was created a few days quicker thanks to the active participation of the Morata users. The Research Tower was proceeding at a similar rate and was 97% completed.

The city was once again filled with a festival.

Weed walked through the uproar of people eating and drinking and entered Hestia's Forge. Hestia's Forge was filled with the best facilities and the offering to the temple meant an endless flame was always burning! Today was the completion date and tomorrow the forge would officially open.

"You can make whatever you want comfortably."

Weed used his power as the Lord to monopolize Hestia's Forge today. He decided to make an equipment from the Mithril, Adamantium and iron ore obtained from the dwarves' quest.

"I lost Talrock's Armour so I need to make something even better."

Unfortunately Weed's Blacksmith skill was only intermediate level 9. His Blacksmithing hadn't reached the advanced level but he needed an armour to wear in battle right now.

"There is merit in making the armour directly."

He could adjust the weight to distribute the necessary strength and agility. Wearing heavy armour was inconvenient to his movements in battle. The advantage was the high defense but it sacrificed agility. If Weed made it directly then he could create an armour matched to his combat style.

"Then let's start melting."

He placed 35 pieces of Mithril, 12 Adamantium pieces and 55 high grade iron ores into Hestia's hearth. The armour was difficult to obtain so a lot of materials were needed if he wanted to produce it directly.

"Mithril armour is light and has high magic resistance. It is worth every penny but....."

Weed took out the divine torch made of Helium. It was a Magnum Opus sculpture that had a lot of great options. If he carried the torch during battle than health and mana recovery rates would increase by more than 50%. It also increased the power of his battle skills and shrinking dark type monsters. It was useless against a strong human like Bardray but quite useful when monster hunting.

"It is better to use this as armour."

Weed threw the sculpture made of helium into the hearth.

Ddiring!

-A Magnum Opus sculpture can be destroyed.

When a sculpture is destroyed, a significant amount of fame and reputation will be lost.

The hearth's fire wrapped around the Helium sculpture and it started to melt. Weed didn't take it out and just looked on.

-The form of the Magnum Opus sculpture has been damaged.

The quality of the sculpture is doubted.

Fame has decreased by 4,250.

Your reputation as a sculptor has somewhat decreased.

The Art stat is permanently reduced by 31 points.

Helium was a precious material so it was too dangerous to leave it as a piece of art on the Versailles Continent.

"It would be better to use it as a material than to make a sculpture from it!"

Adamantium had high defensive powers and was difficult to break. But it had a heavy weight so it was better suited for warriors.

"If I make something from Adamantium than the Orc Karichwi can use it. Orcs are continuing to grow healthily so I can sell it later."

An excellent blacksmith had the skill to make superior steel armour. It was rarer for people to wear Mithril and Adamantium but they were uncommon materials.

The Mithril melted like water in the endless flames of the Hestia's Forge. Mithril was more expensive and precious than gold and silver. But that was a bargain compared to the brilliance of Helium.

"At this standard there won't be any impurities."

Weed scooped out the Mithril and Helium and poured it into a template he created. Sometimes materials wouldn't mix well so a conflict would rise. When a blacksmith handled the material, the synergy effect would maximize. Just mixing the Helium and Mithril was a big adventure.

"If it doesn't work than I'll have to melt it again."

He mixed the Adamantium with iron and poured it into a template for an Orc's armour. He waited for a short time next to Hestia's hearth. The flames were roaring upwards.

It wasn't easy for a blacksmith to create such huge flames. The forge was an underground facility so the flames seemed to emerge from the ground. Morata's blacksmiths were pleased by it so it became like a playground.

"It should be done."

Weed opened the template. The Helium and Mithril and the Adamantium armour revealed their shape to the world.

The Mithril armour synthesized with Helium emitted a refined beauty while the Adamantium armour was a fearful size and thickness.

The work hadn't ended so Weed grabbed a hammer.

Tang! Tang! Tang!

He struck the armour in order to temper it. He repeatedly heated it then hammered it in order to increase the defense and durability.

Chiiiiik!

Holy water was then used to cool off the Helium and the Adamantium armour. The holy water was obtained from his contributions to Freya's Church and the Church of Lugh.

Armour was being made even before Hestia's Forge opened the next day. Patience was necessary for the task but he had to spend a lot of time creating the armour that would protect his life from now on. It was a repetitive work that required strength, vitality and concentration.

"That Bardray bastard! Hermes Guild, I'll see you soon!"

He poured all his bitter feelings into striking the armour all night and it was finally completed.

Ddiring!

-The skill proficiency of Blacksmithing has increased.-The completed armour has become harder due to Hestia's flames.

"Identify!"

Weed examined the Mithril and Helium armour that he would mostly be wearing.

-Goddess' Knight Armour

Durability: 170/170

Defense: 197

A divine metal armour has been born. Made from a mix of Helium and Mithril from the Thor Kingdom.

Made by the genius Weed who excels in sculpting and blacksmithing!

Goddess Freya's love and Hestia's consideration resulted in the divine power dwelling in this armour. The blessings from the goddesses will be an absolute help in defeating monsters.

Restrictions: Level 530

Knights recognized by the Goddess only.

Strength: 900 Dignity: 200 Faith: 300

Options: Faith + 120, Fame +6,100

All stats increased by 31.

Arrows won't hit it correctly.

Mana recovery rate increased by 39%.

Enemies will require a lot of luck to rob you.

The probability of acquired gold and items will increase due to your luck.

Defends from the darkness.

Defends from abnormal states.

Leadership over paladins and soldiers of religious orders will increase.

Resistant to black magic and curses.

Effect of Freya's blessing:

-When the enemy has strong damage, the defense of the armour will increase by 42%.

-It is easier to obtain grain, herbs and nuts from the forests, mountains and fields.

Effect of Hestia's blessing:

-Damage from iron weapons will decrease.

-Very light.

-Very hard.

-Will never break.

"Keoheoheok!"

Despite the good materials and production environment, the armour came out a lot better than expected.

"As expected, it is worth living a sincere life."

The armour became a lot better thanks to the blessings of the goddesses. Weed didn't meet the wearer restrictions. But his blacksmith skill was able to lower the restrictions so he could wear it.

"I don't know whether to celebrate over a well-made piece or feel sad as a sculptor.

The Helium Torch was made to assist in battle. But the armour meant he could fight against much stronger monsters.

Weed worked hard to raise his resilience and perseverance but his defense was still lacking compared to his damage.

If he wore good armour then he could kill monsters that had been difficult up to now.

Chapter 11: 30 Gold Event

11) 30 Gold Event

The trees and flower seeds he obtained took root in Morata. Freya's followers generously blessed them, causing an abundance of fruit. Users took the fruits to the chefs who developed new recipes.

The Grand Buildings, the Research Tower and Hestia's Forge had also been completed. The users and military were working together at Vargo Fortress to suppress the monsters and enhance security. And it was finally the coronation day that Weed had been waiting for.

"A lot of soldiers can be seen in the city. What day is it today?"

"I don't know. There seem to be more people than usual."

Users who returned from hunting found that Morata's atmosphere was different than usual. Soldiers and knights were lining the streets from the gate.

"You're asking what day it is? Don't you know that today is the day of Lord-nim's coronation?"

"A serious event is occurring in the north. The Lord who I respect is about to become a King."

The users came to known that a coronation was taking place takes to the residents spreading it. They were surprised that Weed would become a king but there were no complaints. Morata was growing rapidly and spreading.

"But where is the coronation taking place?"

"Bingryong Square or Wyvern Square?"

"From the Central Square?"

"Is there nothing?"

"Then in front of the goddess statue?"

The Morata users wanted to attend the coronation. Usually the preparations for a state event like this would be started early. Morata was in a good state of urban development so there were several squares and parks suitable for a large scale event.

"Do you know where the coronation is?"

"I don't know."

The Grass Porridge Cult searched widely for the coronation ceremony. But they couldn't find the venue. The players in Morata were baffled. They wanted to know where Weed's coronation ceremony was going to take place! By the time the sun had risen halfway up, the soldiers and knights were arranged in the Central Square.

"The coronation is taking place in the Central Square."

"Let's go quickly!"

The users and residents also gathered in the Central Square so there was a population of thousands. Weed's friends like Pale also set aside anything else and attended his coronation ceremony.

A wooden table was placed in the Central Square with a thin gold crown and a clear glass of water on it.

"Don't tell me......"

"Only that......"

"Isn't it different from what I imagined?"

After a while, Weed was escorted out by knights. He wore his newly created Goddess' Knight Armour and a spectacular cloak.

Various local specialities were given to the Lord to commemorate the coronation. Morata's best tailors had created the cloak for him.

Weed appeared riding a nice, white horse and escorted by 30 knights! Weed stood in front of the fountain. The redness on his face wasn't from excitement. The budget for the coronation was 30 gold but it was a little embarrassing when standing in front of so many people.

'Should I have used 40 gold?'

Weed walked silently and stood in front of the table. Alveron, the pope candidate of Freya Church was standing there. Alveron bowed respectfully and said.

"It has been a long time."

Alveron had grown from a beautiful young boy. He grew taller and was handsome enough that even actresses would envy him. There were also no flaws in his smooth skin. In the past he had accompanied Weed but now Alveron occupied a great position in the Freya Church. He was in charge of the Cathedral and missionary activities in the north! Weed spoke in a low voice so that other people wouldn't hear.

"It's great to see you. You didn't experience anything difficult?"

"It is thanks to Weed-nim's effort in maintaining the peace of the continent....."

"I did go through some troubles. Then Alveron, what level are you now?"

In the past he had been depressed by Alveron's colossal level. They killed the vampires together but he couldn't help building up envy and jealousy.

"I'm ashamed since my service to God is a little lacking. I am only level 553."

"Keheok!"

It was really difficult to raise the level of priests. They were stuck hunting in parties and always needed to be looked after by others. But their abilities and blessings couldn't be compared to other professions. Alveron's level meant he had to perform a 'miracle' every day or use his blessings on fearful monsters. Weed suppressed his deep jealousy towards Alveron.

"Alveron, our time hunting together are still good memories for me."

"It is the same for me."

"I look forward to still being your close friend in the future."

"Understood."

Alveron started the coronation.

Marching soldiers and knights and a performance praising the king were boldly omitted. Weed thought it was a waste of time. Soldiers and knights had expensive operational costs so he would rather use them to get rid of nearby monsters.

"The Freya Church, the Church of Lugh and the four other religious orders of the Versailles Continent has blessed the rise of Weed's Arpen Kingdom."

-You have received the recognition of the religious orders.

Faith has increased by 25.

Honour has increased by 17.

Luck has increased by 10.

Leadership has increased by 10.

-You have received recognition as a King from the Gods.

There will be high levels of religious activities in your Kingdom.

The loyalty of residents with high Faith won't decline.

The religious orders in the Kingdom will give small support to quests and military activities.

Alveron placed the gold crown on Weed's head. It was an affordable crown that raised Charm by 7 points. Anyway, he couldn't wear the crown in battle so he was going to leave it in the castle.

"Let's have His Majesty the King say some words."

Alveron advanced to the last stage of the coronation ceremony.

The King's speech!

Weed was formally inaugurated as the King and was speaking to the residents and users for the first time.

"Hum hum."

Weed went up to the altar and looked out at the people. Many users had gathered in the Central Square. There weren't any empty places in the square and the streets were also busy.

"I'm speaking as the King."

-Skill: Lion's Roar has been used.

"Ohhhh!"

"Weed-nim is talking!"

The King received love from the crowd. The noisy square quieted as soon as Weed began to speak.

People had expected a grand coronation ceremony so they were disappointed when it ended so simply. But they watched in silence at the chance to hear King Weed's words.

"The Arpen Kingdom will continue to grow in the future with you. More commercial buildings will be built, trade will expand and more quests given. This will be a good land for people to live."

It was important for leaders to give hope with confident words. Of course, Weed's inner thoughts were completely different.

'I will collect the taxes from everyone in the Arpen Kingdom!'

"There is danger everywhere when we exit the gates but we can overcome that danger. It is possible if we have courage."

'They have to exit the gates and play even if it means dying."

"Go out into the wide land and adventure, fight, mine ores and also farm crops. The Arpen Kingdom will be waiting as your home."

'People who pay taxes are welcomed.'

Weed was respected by the users as the Lord of Morata. Users in the central, eastern, western and southern parts of the continent also praised Weed's reign. The users were immersed in Weed's words and gave cheers of joy.

"Now everyone close your eyes."

Most of the users closed their eyes at Weed's words. They were prepared for any type of surprise event. They had more expectations because the coronation was too simple.

Of course, Weed hadn't prepared anything separate. He didn't want to spend money on something like that.

"Close your eyes and see it. A spacious area filled with wandering herds of monsters......"

Nothing could be seen but the users imagined it. The target was different depending on their level and experience.

Kobolds and goblins were perfect threats for beginners. Other people imagined a variety of monsters like the undead, Lamia, trolls, lizardmen etc. The high level users experienced many unmatched, dangerous monsters. And it didn't matter what level they were as monsters they saw over the internet or through broadcasts moved through their thoughts.

People who liked Weed's adventures saw the time he fought the Skeleton Knight or the dragon in the Valley of Death. The time he transformed into Karichwi and commanded the Dark Elves and Orcs to fight against the Undead Legion was already a legend!

'If I was that character.....'

They were afraid of the monsters but there was also a lot of excitement. Their hearts pumped and limbs trembled at the thought of adventures.

"And listen with your ears. The rough breathing, roars and sounds of the monsters..... Now, open your eyes. Do you want to run there?"

"Yes!"

"I want to go!"

A smug smile formed on Weed's face. He realized how to scam using emotions when building the pyramid.

"The future of the Arpen Kingdom is bright. In the northern area, scary monsters often breed and expand so there are many unknown risks."

In fact, there were many fearful monsters in the north recently. As the north became warmer and more crops grew, monsters would naturally increase further.

"You will walk on rough land and fight against monsters. If you triumph and return to the Arpen Kingdom with the loot than it is possible for you to become a hero. This is the heart of the Arpen Kingdom!"

Weed emphatically yelled using Lion's Roar.

"Do you believe it?"

"I believe it!"

"Will you be residents of the Arpen Kingdom?"

"I will!"

The crowd replied in unison. Thus the coronation was finished with the imagination inspiring words.

Weed showed a speaking ability that was beyond that of a fraudulent founder of a religion!

A message window than appeared before all users in the Versailles Continent.

-The Arpen Kingdom has been established.

King Weed has created a small kingdom including Morata and Vargo Fortress.

It is the centre of trade in the north and is leading in arts and culture. It is a kingdom where a significant amount of weapons and quality fabric is created and possesses various types of local specialties..

There are a vast number of residents and many are talented people.

Due to the grain coming from an abundant land, the birth rate is very high.The Ellyons have moved to Arpen Kingdom and it is their new playground.The nutrient rich fruits and grains will grow even more abundantly.

The interest of the Elves has increased thanks to the Ellyon's move.

The support offered to the King by the residents are absolute and they will unite together to stand against any threats.The residents have leaped forward tremendously despite the difficult environment so they have an optimistic attitude.

The Grand Buildings the residents built together will be the light that illuminates the beginning of the Arpen Kingdom.

-The fame of Morata and Vargo Fortress has increased.-You will have a large political influence over any areas in the vicinity that doesn't belong to the kingdom yet.-A small riot is taking place in Vent Castle.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Bart's party arrived back late to Morata from their hunt. Morata's streets were wide so carriages and horses could run quickly. But there was an enormous crowd because of Weed's coronation ceremony so they couldn't go towards the Central Square. Bart spoke to his party members.

"Wah, as expected from Weed the God of War. Look at all the people gathered here."

"Is this the first time a kingdom was established on the continent?"

"The reason is that it is Weed-nim's kingdom. He restored the village single-handedly and gathered all the people together until it became a kingdom....."

Bart was once again surprised by Weed after listening to the words of his party members. He understood that Weed was a popular person and that everyone liked his adventures through experience. But he exerted an absolute influence.

"By the way, should we join the Grass Porridge Cult?"

"Will they accept someone level 25?"

"If we are Morata residents than they will welcome us. Does Bart ajusshi want to join the Grass Porridge Cult as well?"

Naturally Bart also wanted to join the Grass Porridge Cult. They were the organization with the largest number of forces. If he joined the Grass Porridge Cult than adventuring in the north won't be boring.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Meanwhile the competition to become a Class Master was in full swing on the Versailles Continent.

When the name and location of a user trying to become a Class Master was revealed, attempts of assassination and obstructions would occur. The broadcasting stations also encouraged this fighting in order to make it a more intense competition!

Geomchi yawned as he spoke to his trainees.

"The victory was too easy."

"I understand, Master-nim!"

Now that they knew Radiant Sword, hunting around Vargo Fortress was much easier.

"The increase in skill proficiency for Weapon Mastery feels much better than before."

"It is the same for me, Master-nim!"

In the past they just haphazardly swung their weapons while fighting. Aside from basic martials arts skills, they mainly used mere power. That's because they didn't have enough mana for their skills!

Now they looked at the artworks in Morata's Art Centre and distributed their stat points into wisdom and intelligence every time they levelled up. The result was that their mana grew enough to be able to use their secret sword techniques a few times. It was like going from rubbing two sticks together to make a fire to using a lighter!

"Now the fighting won't be as easy as before."

"Yes, Master-nim."

Geomchi, Geomchi2, Geomchi3 were heading to a place where 50 monsters were gathered.

Just previously, they had killed 120 monsters before their bodies became a wreck. They took a short break and wrapped bandages around them but that wasn't sufficient. They might fight like a berserker but they needed to manage their vitality and strength. During a battle they would tear out ribs and eat the meat!

"Those children should learn the skill quickly. When everyone reaches level 8-level 0 then we will start the quest."

"Yes. Geomchi5 will do it first and the rest will shortly follow."

Geomchi5 had already reached advanced level 8 in Weapon Mastery. He decided to experience the Class Master quest for a martial artist first. It was a judgement to reduce the trial and errors.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Geomchi5 met with the barbarian Hanson and had a conversation. He met with the barbarian to receive the martial artist quest.

"It has been about approximately 10 years. I met a very strong warrior."

"Should I kill him?"

"He was very good at handling weapons."

"Kill? Or should I pull it?"

"Beritan left its nest... The villagers that went to Beritan's nest only saw the corpse of a monster left behind. Now monsters have gathered in Beritan's nest."

"I'll kill everything."

"Please defeat the monsters and find any traces of the strong warrior that left the corpse behind."

The Class Quest was more fascinating than Geomchi5 had thought. There was a great martial artist. The request was to trace his tracks and battle him.

"In the end I will kill that guy!"

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Weed saw a separate message window after he became king of the Arpen Kingdom.

-The King has the authority to make any demand of the residents.

The residents won't be able to refuse the King's orders if they don't want to die.

However, if an impossible request is asked than loyalty will fall and a resistance army will be established.

You can appoint the nobility. The nobles are subject to the taxes and benefits of their territory.

Royal Knights can be installed.

You can select a state religion. Many residents believe in the Goddess Freya.When a state religion is established, any missionary work related to that religion will become smooth thanks to the Goddess of Luck.

But there will be strong opposition from other religions.

-The construction of a palace is necessary for many internal affairs and governing.

The King was able to exercise a strong authority. Fame, Dignity and Charm were best when dealing with residents. Any quest could be given or property taken away by compulsion.

"There is a reason for trying to obtain power."

Even after the coronation ceremony ended, the users and residents didn't scatter to other places. Their eyes were sparkling with expectations. This was the first time a kingdom was established on the Versailles Continent.

Even the release of Huksaeng (drink) from the warehouses would be looked upon favourable. Morata was a financially rich city so they were expecting even more.

It was Weed's extreme crisis! People were still flocking towards the Central Square and the streets.

Weed used Lion's Roar again.

"Morata has made 4 Grand Buildings!"

"Kyaaaak!"

"Waaaaaah!"

The sound of cheering filled the city.

"The Arpen Kingdom is a great place to live every day!"

"Hooray King Weed!"

The beginners that started in Morata responded loudly. It even reached unknowing users outside Morata's walls. More users were connected than normal in order to watch the coronation. More than 500,000 users were cheering King Weed!

Irene was worried about the situation right now.

"The atmosphere seems to be escalating. What is he going to do?"

Pale also had similar concerns. Even if the coronation ceremony was simple, astronomical funds would still end up being used.

"If this continues then it will be difficult......"

The atmosphere of the crowd was becoming alarming as they kept on being incited!

Surka and Mapan was the same.

"I really am worried. What will he do?"

"Judging by Weed's personality, a large incident could occur."

The target they were worried about wasn't Weed. It was the crowd gathered at Morata! Weed knew how to take advantage of all the gathered people. If they felt tricked by his sweet words than things might get out of hand!

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

"As the Arpen Kingdom's commerce and military expands, the area will become stable for everyone."

"Hooray His Majesty!"

"The treatment of blacksmiths and tailors will improve and they will be able to concentrate on their work."

"King, King, King!"

"I promise I will continue to implement support policies for artists in the kingdom."

"I believe in the Arpen Kingdom!"

The crowd's joy reached its peak.

To be honest, there were many people who suspected that Weed's attitude changed after he rose to the position of King. But he made large promises to many groups!

Weed had no choice but to talk like this.

"Morata's art and cultural community will continue to develop. Morata will become the capital of the Arpen Kingdom!"

"Waaaaaah!"

Cheers for the King and the Arpen Kingdom continued to emerge without any breaks.

He could speak fluently whether scratching the itch of a crowd or threatening Yellowy. He had the natural temperament of a con artist and he knew how to drive a herd mentality!

"If art and culture isn't delayed than the Arpen Kingdom will continue to prosper. The number of artworks will increase and new performances will be held!"

Weed's words aroused the users' sympathy. Many users raised their stats from looking at the sculptures and paintings in Morata. Some were less relevant to battle like Courage or Charm but all the stats went up permanently. If art and culture developed then it would be easy to raise a person's fame and ask for commissions from merchants.

"So I'm going to create a sculpture of an unprecendented scale to commemorate the founding of the Arpen Kingdom. And I'm giving you a chance to participate if you want to!"

King Weed, the best sculptor on the continent was giving them a chance to participate in his work!

"Please let me do it!"

"I want to make it."

More than anywhere else, the Morata users were used to labour. They were involved in the creation of the Art Centre as well as the 4 Grand Buildings. Users who migrated from the Rosenheim Kingdom also had experience with creating the pyramid. If Weed spread the rumour that a giant sculpture was being created than a crowd would follow. The fearsome support army, the Grass Porridge Cult consisted of 3,700,000 people alone!

'Now it isn't too late.'

Compared to other professions, the proficiency of Sculpting grew quite slowly. Obtaining the materials and manually working on it himself would take a long time. He had made a lot of sculptures since reaching advanced level 8 but the growth of his skill proficiency was still slow. In order to overcome this, Weed decided to not make the sculptures alone.

'There are a few stages left in my Master Quest. If the rest of the commission requires using the lifeforms to fight than it might end quicker than I thought.'

If he postponed the difficult battle then the sculptural lifeforms would grow stronger and his prospect of success will rise. Instead of making rushed sculptures, he should raise his skill so that he could complete the remaining requests quickly.

His Class Master Quest!

Weed aimed for a large reversal at the final stage.

TO BE CONTINUED