Overgeared Chapter 205:

Chapter 205

In this 'Golem Army Invasion' episode, the army of the Eternal Kingdom was helpless.

Not only did 1,000 golems advance to the capital, but the hundreds of thousands of troops couldn't eradicate them. 

On the Internet, the netizens laughed at the fact that the Eternal Kingdom couldn't do anything. They ridiculed King Wiesbaden and the nobles, stating that they were raising dogs instead of recruiting soldiers.

'They don't know.'

The Eternal Kingdom wasn't weak. Rather, they were strong. The evidence was that the Eternal Kingdom had maintained its position of neutrality for many years.

'But this time, their opponents were too bad.'

The golem army was unreasonably strong. In fact, the Giant Guild and 100,000 users weren't able to compete with the golems.

'Even I was barely able to destroy a soul doll, but the people of Grid's group are monsters…'

Huroi, Lauel, Euphemina and Grid. Grid already had powerful users and he absorbed the Tzedakah Guild while the world was watching. It was obvious that Grid's power would become stronger than the Giant Guild or Snake Guild in the future.

'Overgeared… Should I apply? My life will be set if I could join.'

Reinhardt was busy with recovery efforts.

“Can you help me?”

“I need a hand."

The soldiers and residents gave quests to join the restoration work. However, the 304th ranked Happy ignored them and headed towards the royal palace. 

'There are more people than I thought.'

Thousands of users were gathered in a huge training ground. They were people who made great achievements in the 'Fight the Golems' quest. It was a small number considering that 100,000 users gathered in Reinhardt.

The administrators gave them their rewards in turn.

"You are the 16 member squad that destroyed an old golem? It was hard. I want to thank you on behalf of the kingdom. You will be awarded with 300 gold and 100 kingdom contribution."

300 gold was worth 360,000 won. The users were quite satisfied. Sometimes, they looked with envy as a party that killed more than two old golems appeared.

"Ohh! Sir Happy!" Once Happy's turn came, the administrator was very enthusiastic. “Many soldiers and people witnessed you becoming active on the battlefield. You took on an old golem and soul doll alone? You will be awarded with 1,900 gold and 800 kingdom contribution. I am grateful for your defense of the kingdom."

The users made a fuss.

"Wow, amazing. He defeated an old golem and soul doll alone?"

“1,900 gold… I'm envious…"

“But isn't Happy a ranker?"

“That’s right. He's in the 300s or 400s?"

“Kyah~ as expected from a ranker."

Happy snorted at the users' envious gazes.

'They shouldn't be envious of me.'

Happy's gaze turned towards the golden group in the distance. At this moment, the king was paying direct attention to Grid. How much would Grid's group be rewarded? Happy was restless. He wanted to log out and watch the awards ceremony on TV.

***

'The legendary great magician…'

Grid hadn't thought that Braham was such a great person. A person who had already died for hundreds of years had moved golems that caused a kingdom to fall into crisis. Braham's ability was mind-boggling. But why did he invade the Eternal Kingdom?

'Whatever the reason, I don't like it.'

Due to that **** crazy magician, Sehee and his father-in-law almost died. Grid wanted to check what was contained in Braham's Message.

'However, I have to receive this first.'

The brilliant golden awards ceremony.

“Glory to Viscount Grid!"

Cheok!

The soldiers saluted as soon as Grid's party entered. It was unbelievable that they had just suffered from an invasion and lost family and friends. Grid was impressed by how strong their minds were.

'I remember my days as a soldier.'

Grid's military service wasn't good, but now he glorified those memories. Grid was proud of the soldiers who did their duty. At this moment, he felt a sense of gratitude to the Korean soldiers who were suffering to defend the country. It was sad that the world still wasn't united.

‘Aren't North Korean women pretty as well? I wish we could be unified.'

Thump, thump.

Grid walked straight through with an upright posture. He had great physical strength and concentration due to his stats, so dignity radiated from him. The king seated on the throne and the nobles gulped.

'Indeed, this is the appearance of a legendary warrior. There are no chinks.'

'He has a deep look in his eyes. It's like the ocean.'

'I am envious of that firm waist and broad soldiers… I would be able to love more women if I had that body in my youth…'

When armed with the Holy Light Crown, Grid's dignity exceeded 850 points. This was a figure that surpassed those of the major nobles of one kingdom, so it had a tremendous effect. The nobles forgot that Grid was a commoner and gazed at him with envy.

"Thank you, once again."

Wiesbaden expressed his gratitude again from his throne. He couldn't imagine that the cause of this incident was Grid, so he just considered Grid as his savior. But the important thing was that Grid also didn't know he was the culprit.

Grid showed a wait-and-see attitude.

"If it wasn't for you, this kingdom might've disappeared from history."

Grid currently had the upper hand. He judged that there was no need for him to show humility.

“I hope that Your Majesty will show me your sincerity."

It was a rude comment to the king of a nation. If Grid was a normal person, the king would've been very unhappy and the nobles would've resented him. However, Grid had high dignity and was the hero of the kingdom. No one questioned Grid's words. To them, Grid just looked like a charming figure. Grid would be praised as manly even if he took off his pants.

“Earl Aden."

The king called the person in charge of finances. Then an old nobleman came forward and said, “First of all, I will reward the achievements of Baroness Jishuka and the other 21 people who joined the battlefield later."

The Tzedakah Guild stepped forward as they were called.

Earl Aden conveyed King Wiesbaden's will.

“Baroness Jishuka and 21 others have saved Earl Steim and defended their kingdom, helping Viscount Grid defeat six of the ancient weapons. You will be awarded 20,000 gold and 10,000 kingdom contribution. In addition, they will be given the title of Viscount for their loyalty to their kingdom.”

“We are much obliged."

The compensation was as they expected. The Tzedakah Guild members were completely satisfied. The media were excited.

『 The experts speculate that there should be 20 users who became nobles in Satisfy. Among them, the only viscounts are Grid, Zibal and Chris. 』

『 But now, 22 more viscounts are born. In addition, all 22 people are Grid's subordinates. They can appoint three knights each, so the result is that Grid has around 70 knights. This is a truly tremendous power. 』

The earl continued.

“Huroi, Lauel, Euphemina, Ruby and Sexy Schoolgirl. You joined forces with Grid to defeat 733 old golems, 187 soul dolls and 12 ancient weapons. If you hadn't acted, this country would be in a great crisis. You will be honored as a hero of the kingdom, receive 442,900 gold and 184,800 kingdom contribution, as well as the title of Earl."

Numerous notification windows popped up in front of the five people.

[The title 'Kingdom's Hero' has been obtained.]

[The title 'First Earl' has been obtained.]

[You have become an earl of the Eternal Kingdom.]

[In accordance with the laws of the Eternal Kingdom, an earl can have 10,000 soldiers and five knights, and can have up to three spouses. You will receive a monthly salary of 3,000 gold.]

[Kingdom’s Hero]

A hero who saved the Eternal Kingdom from a crisis.

* All stats +120.

* The highest reputation throughout the Eternal Kingdom.

[First Earl]

A user has become an earl for the first time.

* Dignity +200

* Charm +500.

* If you have more than 500 charm, people of both sexes will show great favor towards you.

『 Earl…? 』

The reporters of each broadcasting station were astonished.

『 It's amazing. Didn't the kingdom originally have a limit on the number of senior nobles? To appoint five earls in one day… 』 

『 It means they are big enough to make the Eternal Kingdom endure the financial bleeding. 』

『 If they are earls, then… Grid should become at least a marquis. 』

『 Grid is truly amazing. He's writing a new legend every time. 』

『 … Sexy Schoolgirl didn't do anything during the battle, but she was still counted? 』

『 … 』

Five earls were born, and all of them were Grid's subordinates. The world became frenzied at the breaking news. Huroi, Lauel and Euphemina were pleased at gaining more rewards than expected.

But Sehee and Yerim didn't care.

“Is an earl good?"

"Perhaps?"

“Is 442,900 gold a lot?"

“Well, I don't know."

“…"

Lauel sighed as he looked at the two girls. People who were born with gold spoons couldn't perceive how good they had it.

‘I wish I had a brother or sister like Grid too…'

As Lauel was feeling jealousy, Grid was receiving his rewards.

“Viscount Grid, you led your knights and colleagues to defeat 733 old golems, 187 soul dolls and 12 ancient weapons. Your achievements can't be denied. You will be praised as the country's hero…"

“The next part will be a burden for Earl Aden."

King Wiesbaden got up from the throne. Then he congratulated Grid instead of Earl Aden.

“Viscount Grid will be given 500,000 gold, an infinite amount of kingdom contribution and the large city Reidan.  In addition, you will be awarded the title of duke and your statue will be set up in the Hall of Fame, keeping you alive to the next generation."

[The title 'Kingdom's Hero' has been obtained.]

[The title 'First Duke' has been obtained.]

[You have become a duke of the Eternal Kingdom.]

[Depending on the historical background of the continent, a duke has no limit on their expansion of power. The royal family won't be able to openly bind you.] 

[Please note that there will be repercussions if you expand your power to the extent that it infringes on the royal family's authority.]

[If a statue is made in the Hall of Fame, special effects will occur.]

[First Duke]

A user has become a duke for the first time.

* Dignity +600

* Charm +800.

[As a prominent figure, your reputation across the continent has risen by 10,000.]

“I want you to pledge eternal loyalty to the royal family."

“I, Grid…"

Grid was about to pledge to Wiesbaden when Lauel urgently sent him a whisper.

–Only swear allegiance to King Wiesbaden, not the royal family.

Grid didn't understand. But he did as Lauel said.

“I, Grid, swear eternal loyalty to Your Majesty."

“…"

Some nobles frowned. In particular, the princes' faces filled with anger. However, King Wiesbaden was over 70 years old and in a state of considerable decline. He didn't find any issue with Grid's remark and smiled.

On this day.

New articles praising Grid were spread all over the Internet. The number of fan cafes for Grid increased exponentially. But since the number of Noe's fan clubs increased more, Grid was struck with a sense of defeat.

OG: 

Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.

Chapter 206

After Grid became a duke.

“Thank you. Thanks to you, the kingdom was protected and my position rose. It was the luck of a lifetime that I could get you as a son-in-law."

Earl Steim became a marquis. It was appreciated that he dispatched more troops than anyone else and that Grid was his son-in-law. A marquis had a son-in-law that was a duke. Earl Steim's faction now became the largest in the kingdom. All of Marquis Steim's authority would be inherited by Irene, so this was a good thing for Grid.

“I will ask you to continue looking after my daughter, Duke Grid."

“I understand, Marquis Steim."

“But when will you give me a granddaughter? Duke Grid."

“We are working on it, Marquis Steim."

“I should prepare some healthy food for you! Hahahat!"

“It is only once a month…"

"Huh? Once a month?"

“I'm just talking to myself. Ignore it. Hahaha!"

The two people were so excited that they didn't notice the media focusing on them.

『 Earl Steim… No, doesn't the relationship between Marquis Steim and Grid seem really good? 』

『 That's right. Based on the contents of the conversation, it seems like a father and son-in-law relationship. 』

『 Did Marquis Steim have a daughter? 』

『 He has only one. The lady of Winston, Irene 』

『 Heok…! That beauty? 』

『 She is a beauty among beauties. She is a person who always occupies the top ranks in NPC popularity polls. A big uproar occurred when it was announced that she was married. To think that her marriage partner is a user instead of an NPC, and that he was Grid… 』

『 Hah! 』

The broadcasters sighed. They were envious of Grid to the point that their stomachs hurt. Among the viewers, the men were throwing their remote controls and there was also a fuss on the Internet.

–He married Irene, but still has Yura and Jishuka?

–A married couple can sleep together once a month…

–Hasn't the marriage lasted eight months in Satisfy time? So at least eight times…

-Damn! My Irene was defiled!

–Most important, Irene is the sole successor of Marquis Steim. If Marquis Steim dies, Grid will inherit.

-Crazy ㅋㅋㅋㅋ

–By the way. In the midst of this, don't you think that Euphemina, Ruby and Sexy Schoolgirl are pretty? 

-ㅇㅇ They are in the same class as Yura and Jishuka.

–So many beautiful women are around Grid… Furthermore, how much of Marquis Steim's power will Grid take on later? Hah… I'm really envious of God Grid.

As more curses than praise about Grid started to spread on the Internet, Grid was looking at several notification windows.

[The quest 'Save Earl Steim' has been completed.]

[Affinity with Marquis Steim has risen to the maximum. Marquis Steim will even jump into a fire for you.] 

[The quest 'Defense War II' has been completed.]

[The kingdom contribution of the Overgeared Guild has increased by 50,000.]

[The level of the Overgeared Guild has increased by 2.]

[5 million gold has been acquired.]

[You have acquired the big city Reidan.]

Apart from the 500,000 gold he received from the king, Grid was able to acquire another 5 million gold from the quest reward. 5.5 million gold. It was equivalent to 6.6 billion won. It was the first time Grid made such a huge amount of money at once.

'The quest reward is much higher than the price of a legendary item…'

Considering the contents of the quest, it was a satisfactory amount. But there was also a sense of dissatisfaction. He thought it would be more profitable to go around clearing quests than working hard at making items.

'The problem is how often quests like this will occur.'

Of course, it wasn't often. The probability of such large quests happening was very low. Grid thought about Braham's soul, scattered in labyrinths across the continent.

'I hope that he continues to invade the kingdom in the future.'

Wouldn't he become a tycoon if he defended the kingdom every time Braham attacked? Lauel approached the giggling Grid and spoke, “Your expression is too sneaky. Perhaps, are you thinking of the 5 million gold earned by completing the guild quest as your personal property?"

"If it isn't my property, than whose is it?"

Lauel sighed with a look of deep disappointment and explained to Grid. “Of course, it is the guild's property. The rewards earned by clearing the guild quest will obviously be invested in the guild."

"What? I have to do that?"

"It is possible for you to swallow it up alone. The problem is the credit. Do you want to disappoint the guild members?"

“…"

Grid turned pale. He even broke out into a sweat. He was a person who only acted for the purpose of money.

Lauel soothed him, “Have a broader perspective. If you invest that 5 million gold into our development, you will receive bigger profits in the future. Please think wisely and shake off this small regret."

Grid listened to him. Grid was aiming for the position of king, rather than being a duke. He was determined to make a fortune by becoming the king of a kingdom. Investing in order to reach that goal wasn't a waste.

At that time, King Wiesbaden yelled out.

“I will hold a banquet for Duke Grid and the Overgeared Guild!"

“Thank you for Your Majesty's grace."

Lauel thanked him and the quick-witted members did the same. However, the important Grid was standing at a distance.

"What are you doing?" Lauel asked.

Then Grid spoke with embarrassment.

“I have to eat my kan jajang."

Due to its nature, the speed at which the kan jajang became soggy was slower than ordinary jajangmyeon. So Grid was hoping that it wasn't completely wasted yet.

Lauel frowned, “Don't say strange things and please attend the banquet."

Lauel also tasted the food called jajangmyeon when he visited South Korea. He thought it was a delicious, salty food. But it wasn't good enough to postpone the king's banquet. In the end, Grid was too embarrassed to log out.

'My 7,000 won…'

Grid tried to soothe his mind as his stomach hurt.

***

Reinhardt Palace where the king resided was luxurious and spectacular. There was nothing missing.

"This garden is seven times as big as Winston Castle's garden."

“There are six training grounds behind the barracks. I could build some buildings on how big the land here is."

“I can see gold and jewels every time I turn my head. Amazing."

The live broadcast to the world was finished. Grid and the Overgeared members got to look around the palace while the banquet was being prepared. Grid was the only one grumbling while everyone else was fascinated by the scale and beauty of the palace.

“My kan jajang…"

“Why do you keep saying that? Is the state not good?"

“What is kan jajang? Is it the name of an item?"

The guild members were curious while Sehee and Yerim were freaked out.

“500,000 million…?

“5-5-5-500 million?"

Huroi held a calculator in his hand and nodded. “When comparing the Korean won and the gold exchange rate, it is exactly 531,480 million.

It was the value of the 442,900 gold they received as the quest reward. Sehee and Yerim were stunned. The two girls' mouths dropped open for a while before they said something completely frustrating.

“Was it originally this easy to make money?"

It was a misunderstanding.  The two girls had only been playing Satisfy for a few hours.  They mistook Satisfy for a great game that made everyone rich. Lauel was frustrated and explained it to the two girls.

"Ordinary people can't earn a huge sum from Satisfy, even if they invest all their time. The two of you could achieve this great luck due to Grid."

Sehee and Yerim's eyes shone.

'My brother was a bigger man than I thought.'

‘Youngwoo oppa is first-rate husband material.'

Jishuka frowned as she watched the two girls from afar.

"Sexy Schoolgirl? Who is this child? Is she looking at Grid?"

Jishuka had spent a few days at Grid's house. So she was friendly with Sehee, but unfamiliar with Yerim. Vantner didn't notice she was annoyed and said,

“Ruby's friend, isn't she pretty? She will be as **** as you in 2~3 years."

Another guild member disagreed.

"Right now is good enough."

"Um… Ruby and Sexy Schoolgirl are both very beautiful. I don't like Yura or Jishuka."

“I’m going to vote for Euphemina."

"Shut up, you lo*ic*n."

The fired up Jishuka met the eyes of Sexy Schoolgirl. At that moment.

Pisik.

It was obvious ridicule. Sexy Schoolgirl was laughing at Jishuka.

'I am better than the old one.'

She seemed to be saying.

“This girl with the perverted ID…!"

In the end, Jishuka exploded. She was about to run towards Yerim when Jude intervened.

“Ruby. Sexy Schoolgirl. Jude will protect them."

“You idiot, won't you go away?

"Jude. He isn't stupid. I heard that Grid is stupider."

"That idiot is more than an idiot! You fool!"

“I'm not an idiot. Idiot."

"The banquet is ready."

The timing was good.

A situation was about to break out when a low ranking noble ran over an led the party to the banquet hall. There was no armed conflict, but the strange air between Jishuka and Yerim continued throughout the banquet.

“Oppa~ ahh~ please." Yerim spoke in her natural coquettish manner.

“I will give this to you." Jishuka acted awkwardly.

The two women sat with Grid between them and tried to force feed him. They shoved so many foods into his mouth that he had no room to enjoy the taste.

"Kekek."

Marquis Steim laughed as he watched Grid choking.

"Ah! Heroes are always surrounded by beauties! Hahaha! It's like looking at my younger days! Hahahahat!"

Marquis Steim had only one wife. But he wasn't going to force his son-in-law to that. Lauel clicked his tongue.

'I feel sorry for Lady Irene.'

The situation was ridiculous. It was worse than the Korean morning dramas he watched while staying in South Korea for the National Competition. On the other hand, Sehee was filled with displeasure. She looked at her brother surrounded by women and cut her steak with a knife.

"An enemy!"

Jude sensed a strong killing intent and pulled out his sword, causing confusion. Thus, the atmosphere of the banquet gradually progressed in a strange direction. 

***

Yubadakan Castle in Haken Kingdom.

"It's lucky. His subordinates acquired titles, but he was the only one granted a territory. Aren't they just nobles in name?"

Box, one of the Snake Guild's 13 executives, said.

Then Zibal frowned. “Lucky? Lucky? You fool, the fact that they got the titles is what matters."

The fact that they received a title meant they were eligible to be lords.

"In the future, Grid will expand his territory with no restrictions as a lord, then he will give it to one of his subordinates. Grid's power will keep expanding. Imagine how great his authority will be with dozens of lords."

"…It's terrible."

Box realized that the situation was more severe than he realized. Then Zibal made his decision.

“We need to put aside our differences. I must contact the leaders of the seven guilds."

OG: 

Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.

Chapter 207

After the banquet ended. Grid and the Overgeared Guild returned to the north.

"What? All your stats have risen by 120?" 

The Tzedakah Guild admired the effect of the Kingdom’s Hero title. In the case of rankers, they had at least seven different types of stats. Assuming that all stats +120 were applied to all seven, it was similar to gaining 84 levels. 

"Wow, it's almost a legendary title.”

“A hero of a kingdom would naturally be recorded in history, and they will eventually become a legend."

"Aww… I wish we had joined the war a little sooner."

"I'm envious. It's amazing."

The former Tzedakah Guild members regretted that they didn't get the title because they arrived late to the battlefield. They never even imagined it. The fact that the legendary class Grid currently had 13 types of stats.

‘I want to boast about it.'

Grid was stiff. He wanted to brag to the about members about gaining '1,560 stat points!'

But.

'I have to be careful.'

Grid was determined not to act childishly in the future. It was the right judgment as the leader of the Overgeared Guild.

'I don't want to make the guild members feel bad.'

Grid learned how to care for others the more mature he became. He barely suppressed his childish nature and changed the topic.

"Sehee, what happened to you?"

She had just started Satisfy, so he was curious about how she obtained the Saintess class.

“It is…"

Sehee was sulky for some reason, so Yerim explained on behalf of her. Grid listened to the story before laughing.

“It's just like you."

Sacrificing herself to save others without any benefit? It was difficult for Grid to understand Sehee. He was worried that someone would take advantage of her good nature. But he was proud of Sehee. His sister could be as kind as she wanted.

Grid was smiling warmly when Yerim asked him a question.

“By the way Oppa. I also got the hidden class called Saintess' Knight? How do I change to it?”

"…Eh?"

Grid and the other guild members were shocked. Both Sehee and Yerim got a hidden class at level 1?

'What is this good luck?'

‘If I stay with Grid, I might open the good luck stat in reality…'

'It was good that I bought land next to Grid's building… I should move to South Korea as soon as possible.'

Lauel's complexion rapidly brightened as the guild members gossiped.

‘Sexy Schoolgirl seemed useless, but that was a mistake. Great.'

Laeul came forward. "Let me explain. The conditions are different for each class change but generally…"

With Lauel's help, Yerim was able to change to the Saintess' Knight class.

"Is this good?"

A Saintess' Knights had lower base abilities compared to other epic classes. The performance of the newly opened stats were moderate to low, and the power and function of the active skills were too plain.

However, the passive skills were admirable. If she was in a party with the Saintess, the performance of all skills rose by 20%, stats rose by 30% and her resistance increased by 50%. In addition, her defense increased by 40% of the Saintess' defense. It seemed to be an upgraded version of Huroi's second class, Apostle of Justice's Partner.

“Both of you should stick together in the game."

Satisfy would deepen the friendship between the two girls. Grid was very proud that Sehee had such a good best friend. It was because he recently became aware of how important the existence of friends was.

Before they knew it, the party reached the junction between Winston and Bairan.

Lauel pointed out Jishuka. “Jishuka, you should say goodbye here. Please rule Bairan as you have been doing so far."

Jishuka responded in a frustrated manner.

“Shouldn't I be near Grid to help him? Can't I leave Bairan to someone else and go with him to Reidan?"

“Do you think there are any guild members who can rule a city like Bairan as well as you?"

Jishuka was the only guild member who had proven their ability to manage a territory. They had to depend on Jishuka, who was an experienced person.

"The guild members will begin to rule over small villages and gain experience as a lord. Then your successor can be decided, so please endure until then."

"…Yes." 

"Don't forget to accumulate minerals in the guild's warehouse while steadily doing the Guardian of the Forest raid."

"I understand…"

Jishuka elected three guild members to help her and was about to leave with a bleak expression. Then Lauel offered something that interested her. "Do you want to swear a knight's oath to Grid before leaving? Then Grid can summon you anytime he needs you."

“I-Is that so?"

She could fly to Grid's side no matter how far away she was. Jishuka was enthusiastic and pledged to Grid without any hesitation.

[You have become the knight of Duke Grid of the Eternal Kingdom.]

[Grid can summon you to his side at any time, assuming that you agree.]

“Hehe, then I'll be going."

Jishuka finally regained her energy and headed towards Bairan with the three guild members.

Lauel added something. "In addition, keep searching for talent in Bairan. Please gather three great knights each. In addition, don't neglect the recruitment of soldiers."

The knights and soldiers would become Grid's power. Jishuka remembered this point and nodded while leaving. Then the rest of the guild members headed to Winston with Grid. 

***

“Dear husband!" Irene met Grid's group as they arrived in Winston. She didn't care about other people's eyes as she fell into Grid's arms. “Thank you for being safe! Thank you for helping my father! Thank you for protecting the kingdom! I'm so proud that you have become a duke!"

Irene's face was filled with love as she buried it into his chest without hesitation. Grid stroked her silver hair with a gentle expression before looking back.

Sehee and Yerim were staring at him.

'Why do they look so angry?'

Grid wondered as he introduced Irene to Sehee and Yerim.

“This is my wife."

“…"

Sehee and Yerim already knew that Grid was a married man in Satisfy. It was natural since his father-in-law was Marquis Steim. But they felt strange and uncomfortable when they directly saw the woman who was Grid's wife.

'Our parents are unaware that he is a married man… He's a completely bad person.'

‘I want to win Youngwoo oppa first.'

Irene confirmed that the girls were looking at her with hostility and spoke with an uneasy expression. “Dear husband, have you obtained concubines as soon as you became a duke? My heart hurts…"

"It isn't like that. They are…"

There was no time for Grid to explain. Sehee and Yerim cried out.

“W-Who is Oppa's concubine?"

"I'm not Youngwoo oppa's concubine. I will be his legal wife!"

It was quite a big disturbance. Sehee was confused about what was happening, while Yerim blatantly spoke Irene.

"Well, this is a game world, not reality. So Oppa and I can get married. I don't want that, but if Oppa asks me… Uh."

"You are Youngwoo oppa's wife with that body? Bah, did you use magic?"

“Oh my, oh my. What nonsense is this fox speaking?"

'I'm tired.'

Grid sighed and suddenly checked the time. It was 7 p.m. in reality. It had been 6 hours in reality and 18 hours in Satisfy time since the kan jajang arrived. Grid separated the two girls from Irene and said.

“You guys should log out. Even if it's Saturday, your parents will worry if you go home late."

“Ah…!"

Many events had occurred since connecting to the game.  There was the battle with the golem army, the banquet, the journey, etc.  Due to that, the girls hadn't been paying attention to the time.

"It's already this time?"

The girls belatedly realized the situation and prepared to log out. But before they logged out.

“Today’s money, I'll give it to Oppa."

“Me too."

Sehee and Yerim were only 18 years old this year. For them, 500,000 gold was a huge sum of money. Then what about 500 million won? It was an amount they couldn't handle. It made them scared.

Grid understood their minds and received the 442,900 gold that Sehee received from the 'Fight the Golems' quest. However, he refused Yerim's money.

“I'll take care of Sehee's money and return it when she is an adult. But Yerim, this is your money. If you want, then I'll exchange it for cash and give it to your parents."

Yerim stuck out her tongue. “Oppa, why are you acting like this? Please take my money. Then at a later time, make me an item with that money. I heard from the guild members that the items you make are expensive."

Lauel prompted the hesitant Grid. "Take it. Please manage Ruby and Sexy Schoolgirl's capital for a while until they level up. Then make them items. It's also good for the guild."

Eventually, Grid nodded. Sehee and Yerim confirmed it and logged out. The mood finally stabilized.

“Irene, I will need to go away for a while."

Irene looked sad.

“… Are you leaving for Reidan straight away?"

Tears filled her beautiful eyes. She didn't want to be separated from him. Grid ached as he watched Irene, who was like a wet puppy in the rain, but it couldn't be helped.

“Someday we will be able to travel together."

“…"

Irene wanted to tell Grid not to leave. Or she wanted to follow him. But she had a role to play as the heir of a marquis, and Grid was in a difficult position because he just became a duke. Things might change in the future.

“Before you leave, let me feel your love for the last time." Irene held Grid tightly. She didn't care about the eyes of the soldiers, knights and guild members as she kissed Grid and declared. “I want to conceive a child with you today."

“…"

Speaking such an explicit remark in public? The embarrassed Grid blushed while everyone else shifted their gaze as they coughed or whistled. But Irene's eyes didn't shake at all. She was serious. Grid was spellbound by her heart and beauty.

"I understand. I will do my best today."

After that. The two people headed to the bedroom and shared a hot and precious time. Grid's large and thick fingers moved over Irene's silky skin…

The details will be omitted.

“Ahh, dear husband…"

Grid went deeper than ever…

Omitted.

***

"Then I will move."

As Grid and Irene were busy, Lauel headed towards the dungeon. Shay's party was contained there. Lauel made a suggestion to the people who had already been trapped in prison for three days.

"Give me the most expensive item you have. Then I’ll guarantee your freedom and safety."

Shay snorted. "We will be released after three hours, so why should we?"

Huroi's situation in the past was a special case. Normally, no matter how big the crime, a user couldn't be locked up in prison for more than three days. Shay's group knew this better than anyone, so they laughed at Lauel's suggestion.

Lauel looked at them coldly. "I will make it easier for you to understand. I will kill you if you don't pass me an item. If you have eyes and ears, you should already know that I have that power."

"What…?"

PK users like Shay's party had a high probability of dropping items when they died. Lauel looked at their frightened expression and pulled out a list. It was the list that Irene gave him.

“This is a list of items that you currently own. Give me your most expensive and precious item. Then I will spare your lives."

"T-This…!"

Shay's party thought it was ridiculous. This young man called Lauel, he was as evil as them, who had threatened so many people? Once again, Shay's party vowed not to mess with Grid. 

On the other hand, Grid spent precious time with Irene before calling for Euphemina.

“Do you remember Rabbit?" 

OG: 

Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.

Chapter 208

“Do you remember Rabbit?"

"It's a dear name."

Euphemina met Grid due to Rabbit's quest. Rabbit asked Euphemina to participate in the item making game against Grid, then he asked her to rescue Grid from prison. He had a smarter, more flexible mindset than most humans, so she couldn't forget him.

"I remember. He was the brains of the Mero Company."

“You remembered pretty quickly. What do you think about inviting him to the guild?"

“…"

Did Grid really share his affection with Irene? He was soaked with sweat. His upper body was somewhat revealed by the robe he loosely wore, revealing a masculine appearance. It was appropriate to call him sexy.

It was the effect of the charm stat.  Grid's charm had sharply rising after becoming the first duke, so most people would feel favorable towards him. It was the reason why Euphemina was enchanted. But Grid wasn't yet aware of this fact.

"Euphemina?"

Euphemina regained her spirit and asked, “Ah, what did you say just now?”

Grid repeated. "What do you think about inviting Rabbit to the guild?"

Euphemina’s opinion was positive.

"I want to invite him. Wasn't he the one who drove the Mero Company to the top in the north? If you take into consideration his outstanding brain and experiences, his talent as a merchant and his ability to discern your value, he must be a named-grade NPC."

Their encounter with Rabbit was short, but intense. It was a common feeling for both Grid and Euphemina.

"He is probably a named NPC… I agree."

The current Grid was sure that Rabbit was an NPC with a much higher rating than Jude or Minor. He would be a great help if he was invited. But there was one problem. Rabbit was the hero who helped Grid and Euphemina save the people of Winston, but it couldn't be denied that he was the number two of the Mero Company. Thanks to that, Marquis Steim sentenced him to 10 years in prison.

"Isn't Rabbit still trapped in Frontier's prison? Can you invite a prisoner to the guild? I can't figure out how to get him out of prison.”

“Why can't I get him out?"

Grid opened his inventory. Then he pulled out an item he got along with Reidan.

[Great Lord's Sword]

Durability: 220/220   Attack Power: 220

* Dignity +150

* Insight +150

* Leadership +150

* Skill ‘Character Observation' will be generated.

* Skill 'Talent Search' will be generated.

A rare sword only given to the best lords.

You can observe the soldiers and residents more closely and efficiently command them. 

Weight: 200

It was an upgraded version of the Ruler’s Sword.

Grid handed it to Euphemina.

"I am a duke. With my authority, I can pardon a sinner sentenced by a marquis. Probably."

“…Probably." Grid shrugged at Euphemina's questioning gaze. “Will he refuse the request of his son-in-law who's a duke? He became a marquis thanks to me, so he should listen to this small request. Isn’t that right?”

“Ah, that’s right. I understand. I will go to Frontier and invite Rabbit to the guild. But I don't need this sword."

“We don't know. Don't you want to examine Rabbit with the sword first in order to determine if he is worth it?"

"The Character Observation skill was created on its own once my insight reached 1,600. So I don't need that item's help."

"1,600…?"

Grid currently only had 1,100 insight, even if the effect of Kingdom’s Hero was applied. However, Euphemina was a Duplicator and her main stat was insight, so it exceeded 1,600 points.

'I'm envious.'

Character Observation was a skill to check the NPC's stat information, skills information and potential. It would be much more comfortable if he could use this useful skill without relying on an item.

Euphemina asked Grid. “Should I come back to Winston with Rabbit?"

Grid shook his head. "No, go to Reidan. We will be departing for Reidan soon."

“I understand."

Euphemina said goodbye and left the office. Grid was left alone and he started thinking as he looked at the Great Lord's Sword.

'Is there a hidden talent in Winston?' Grid wanted to take care of everything before leaving Winston. 'I should explore with Talent Search.'

Grid was about to head into the city with the Great Lord's Sword when he suddenly stopped.

"That reminds me of Kesan Canyon…"

It happened when Grid entered Kesan Canyon to acquire Pagma's Swordsmanship. The NPC who called himself the captain of the Saharan Empire's knights had tried to give him a quest.

'Was his name Piero? He was incredibly strong.'

He had never seen such a strong NPC since Doran. Who was stronger between him and Jude? Jude wasn't a match, even armed with the +8 Dainsleif.

'I have to invite him.'

Grid worried for a while before quickly making a decision.

"I will attempt it once."

He had nothing to lose if the invitation failed. This was because the NPC had a quest related to the Saharan Empire.

"Reidan is near the border of Saharan, so that's a plus."

Grid determined his goal and gathered the guild members.

“Take Khan and head to Reidan first. Join forces and organize the place until I arrive. Oh, don't forget to take Minor along as well. I'm worried that he'll escape if he isn't under someone's eyes."

Vantner was puzzled.

“You aren't coming with us?"

“I have a place I need to stop by first."

Lauel had just taken the items away from Shay's party and he admonished Grid. “You're the leader of the guild. When you are doing your personal activities, you are obliged to explain the situation to the guild members in more detail. So that we don't worry."

Grid briefly explained. "I am going to pick up a treasure before heading to Reidan."

Treasure? The guild members were expectant after seeing Grid's attitude. Then they left for Reindan. Reidan was located to the west of the kingdom, so it would be a long journey.

"Then I'm going."

Grid separated from the guild, had a gratifying farewell with Irene, and ended up alone. He opened Braham's Message as he flew towards Kesan Canyon.

[Are you sure you want to open Braham's Message?]

[There is unidentified magic power. You need to be careful.]

Grid flinched. He recalled the time when he opened Braham's treasure box in the Golem's Labyrinth. He only opened the message after he fully armed himself with items and the pavranium.

[The unidentified magic power has formed someone's voice.]

Braham's voice was directly transmitted to his brain.

[Pagma's Descendant, the fact that you received this message means that you've defeated my golem army? This is a simple warning. Gain the four blessings of the gods and make the Vessel of the Soul! Then resurrect my body! If you keep delaying, then you will suffer a disaster!]

“He invaded the kingdom just to intimidate me?"

This crazy bastard. He killed thousands of people just for that reason?

‘He is beyond selfish.'

Grid called up the information of the quest he had been postponing.

[Great Magician's Resurrection]

Rating: Second Class Quest.

The legendary great magician Braham was a genius. He reigned as the best magician ever since he started learning magic. There was a myth that he survived against the fire dragon Trauka without dying.

As he grew old, he started mourning the fact that he was a mortal. Mentally and physically, he had already transcended humanity. Therefore, he wanted to become immortal.

After much research, he designed the 'Vessel of the Soul' that will regenerate his mortal soul into an immortal soul. 

But the Vessel of the Soul is an object that doesn't exist in this world and is impossible to create.

He searched for an entirely new mineral that could be used as a material for the Vessel of the Soul and learned that his old friend Pagma was trying to create a mineral that wasn't part of this world. He went to Pagma and assisted in the work.

The two combined their power and created the mineral called pavranium.

Braham had no doubts that pavranium could be used to make the Vessel of the Soul. 

But the only blacksmith who could smelt pavranium was Pagma, who unfortunately died of old age.

In the end, Braham didn't achieve his wish!

He looked forward to the day that Pagma's Descendant would be born to create the Vessel of the Soul, creating 28 mines and setting up mazes all over the place before he died. 

Each labyrinth is full of minerals, and he believed that it would be enough to lure Pagma’s Descendant.

Now 300 years have passed.

Out of 28 pieces of Braham's soul that were sealed in 28 labyrinths, one has finally encountered you.

Braham wants you to make the Vessel of the Soul. Through the Vessel of the Soul, he will be resurrected with the soul and body of an immortal.

* Second Class Quest Clear Condition: Create the Vessel of the Soul.

Second Class Quest Clear Reward: A large amount of pavranium. 

In order to create the Vessel of the Soul, the pavranium needed to obtain four blessings. But Grid had a hostile relationship with the Yatan Church, so it was close to impossible to receive their blessing.

'No matter how much Braham threatens, it's currently an impossible quest. There's something strange.'

Legend had it that Pagma died 100 years ago. But when reading the details of this quest, Braham's time of death was 300 years ago. From this perspective, Braham's story about the pavranium seemed to be full of mistakes. The past Grid wasn't cautious and didn't recognize this mistake, but now he was different.

‘There's something fishy about Braham.'

In fact, he could obtain the quest rewards with just Minor. Hadn't Grid already found seven pieces of pavranium in the north thanks to Minor?

"Great Magician's Resurrection? Damn, I can't complete this quest. If you want to warn me, then warn me. I don't like this attitude. Damn bastard."

Obviously, he had an obligation to complete the class quest. He had to clear the class quest in order to fully understand the story about Pagma and to complete his class. But Grid wasn't nervous. If all of the pavranium was recovered, it was assumed that the story would develop without Braham's help. It was a wisdom he naturally acquired while clearing various types of difficult quests.

[Braham's Message has been destroyed.] 

Grid removed the ridiculous message and his flight speed increased. Then after two hours, he arrived at Kesan Canyon.

“It was around this place?"

Loran Falls was one of the most sacred places for the people of the Eternal Kingdom.

Grid shouted, "Come out! Piero!"

His powerful voice echoed through the canyon. After a while.

“My name is Piaro, not Piero."

The middle-aged man showed up in front of Grid. Grid was completely different from the past, so Piaro didn't recognize him.

“Who are you? Were you sent by Asmophel?" In the past, Piaro thought highly of Grid's development. However, the current Piaro recognized Grid as strong and was very alert. “Based on your skills… It seems like you can handle the current Asmophel?”

An endless sense of dignity could be seen. This was the current Grid. Piaro was extremely nervous while Grid cut to the chase.

"You, won't you become my knight?"

Grid observed Piaro's details using the Great Lord's Sword and was more stimulated than when he made a legendary item.

OG: 

Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.

Chapter 209

Name: Piaro

Age: 39  Gender: Male

Class: Swordsman/ Hermit

Title: Great Swordsman

* The closest person to becoming a sword saint in this age.

* When a blade type weapon is equipped, attack power will increase by 40% and attack speed by 10%. This effect is applied separately from the Sword Mastery skill effect.

Level: 367

Strength: 2,038    Stamina: 1,380

Agility: 1,910    Intelligence: 530

Leadership: 812   Indomitable: 824

Skills: Trap Installation (C+), Empire's Swordsmanship (B), Overwhelming (A), Empire's Military Tactics (A+), Great Swordsman's Enlightenment (S+), Supreme Swordsmanship (SS), Fated to Perish (??).

A descendant of a prestigious bloodline in the Saharan Empire, he was born with a natural talent for swordsmanship and military tactics. He joined the knights at a young age and became a captain in only 12 years.

In the following 5 years, he succeeded in winning a lot of achievements. However, 2 years ago, he witnessed the liaison between Asmophel and Empress Marie.

He was wrongfully branded as an imperial traitor and forced to flee.

* Currently, this person is suffering from a severe sickness of the heart. He has lost his original nature and all stats are reduced by 20% from those shown in the status window.

[Trap Installation]

Piaro can install simple traps. It's a skill acquired to beat his pursuers.

[Empire’s Swordsmanship]

The basic swordsmanship passed down to the knights of the Saharan Empire. It is made of five forms and is easy to learn, but the power is relatively good.

Piaro has reconstructed this swordsmanship and raised it to a higher level.

[Overwhelming]

Piaro can overwhelm a target that has a much lower level than you. The overwhelmed target will feel fear.

[Empire’s Military Tactics]

High level military tactics that the Saharan commanders learn. Piaro personally studied these tactics and raised it to another level.

He can seamlessly command thousands of troops. 

[Great Swordsman's Enlightenment]

Pairo developed aura after achieving enlightenment as a swordsman. Be cautious, since the forming the aura will take some time.

Now that he has become one with the sword, his aura has become intangible and more powerful.

His sword techniques have gone beyond the limits of a human.

[Supreme Swordsmanship]

The swordsmanship that was passed through Piaro's family for generations. Piaro was able to become a great swordsman by mastering this swordsmanship that hasn't been mastered by anyone in his family for hundreds of years.

There is a theory that this swordsmanship originated on the Eastern Continent.

[Fated to Perish]

Piaro's unique technique. The sword will attack one point on the target. The target hit by the sword must die.

Piaro is deserving to be a legend just from this technique alone.

Skill Mana Consumption: 40% of the maximum mana.

Skill Cooldown Time: 1 hour.

* This skill can't be applied in quests and raids.  

‘It is beyond my expectations.'

Piaro's passive skill was comparable to Pagma's Swordsmanship (Lv. 2), which increased physical attack by 30%, critical hit rate by 20%, and critical damage by 10%. Moreover, his active skills were brilliant.

'In particular, the Fated to Perish skill is terrifying. A skill that will 100% kill a person?'

It was a technique that made him eligible to become a legend. It was safe to call this a legendary rated skill. But Grid admired something else about Piaro.

'There is no limit on his stats increase.'

So far, all NPCs that Grid observed had a limit on their stats. It was the same with higher rated NPCs like Jude and Minor. Piaro's name might be marked with gold, but there were no limits on his stats, so he could grow infinitely like a user.

'Yes, this is truly a named-grade NPC.'

Grid was thrilled. "You, won't you become my knight?"

"What?" Piaro frowned. “There are several things to point out. First of all, who are you?"

Grid introduced himself in a confident manner.

"I'm Grid, Pagma's Descendant and a duke of the Eternal Kingdom."

The Saharan Empire was the peak nation on the continent, so they dismissed the Eternal Kingdom. In fact, the Eternal Kingdom offered a tribute to the empire, just like other kingdoms. Piaro was a noble of the Saharan Empire, so the duke of a small kingdom didn't seem great at all.

Just, "Pagma’s Descendant?"

Piaro couldn't stand still. Blacksmith Pagma, he had earned the reputation as the best swordsman since Sword Saint Muller. It was natural that Piaro was interested in a legend's descendant.

"Is this the truth?"

Piaro quickly showed a combat posture. It was his instincts as a swordsman.

Grid smiled awkwardly. "Why do you suddenly look like that? Do you want to fight? I don't want to do that."

Piaro pointed his sword at Grid. "You are the one who rambled first. Suddenly asking me to become your knight? I should first check to see if you are qualified."

Piaro could accurately guess the level of Pagma’s Descendant. Then he could gauge his gap with Sword Saint Muller. Piaro decided and rushed towards Grid. Grid thought it was ridiculous as the distance between them was narrowed in an instant.

'Is he seriously brandishing a sword at me? Is he crazy about fighting?'

Grid had wanted to avoid the fight. His weak self in the past would've run away, but now he was strong. He pulled out the +9 Failure.

Jeeeong!

Piaro admired the blue shark-shaped greatsword.

"That's a great sword."

Grid identified Piaro's sword and scoffed.

“Your sword is unimpressive. Well, if it's repaired, then it will improve."

"Weapons aren't important."

Kkirik!

Piaro rotated the sword in his hand that had collided with Failure. Then Grid felt a tremendous pressure and almost let go of Failure. He had to tighten his grip in order to not lose it.

'I have more strength, but why am I being pushed in a power struggle? Is this technique?'

At this time, all of Grid's strength was concentrated on his upper body. Piaro kicked Grid's ankle.

"Eh?"

Grid stumbled. Piaro's foot aimed at his face while he was leaning sideways.

"Kuk!"

Grid raised his knee to defend against the kick. This time, his strength was concentrated on his lower body.

Chukak.

Piaro rotated his sword again and struck Failure. Blood spurted from Grid's chest. Piaro expressed his thoughts. “Poor techniques. Your claim about being Pagma’s Descendant is false. Or was Pagma's skill this low in the first place?"

"Poor techniques? It doesn't matter if you disrespect Pagma, but don't humiliate me!"

“…"

Grid became serious. His pride was dented so he triggered Pagma's Swordsmanship, Link. 21 blue-white blades were generated and covered Piaro at a fearsome speed.

However.

Chaeeeeeng!

Piaro defended against all 21 strikes by moving his sword with minimal movements. His stats might've fallen by 20%, but this was possible because his agility was twice as high as Grid's. In the meantime, Grid had only been investing his points in strength and stamina. But now he gained enlightenment.

'Speed is really important in swordsmanship. I need to invest in agility in the future.'

"Is this your best technique?"

Piaro was disappointed and looked at Grid with derision.

"No way!"

Grid used a combo skill that he developed over his many combat experiences. Theoretically, it was a combo guaranteed to win.

"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Restraint!"

Grid first restrained Piaro's actions. Rather than linking with Kill which might kill Piaro, he struck three times. Then once Restraint was almost over, he used Wave to slow down Piaro's movements and used Link again.

Piaro's high agility and passive skill meant he defended against most of the attacks, but he eventually allowed two attacks and coughed out blood.

Then he dropped his sword.

"What? Is this the end?" Grid was immersed in the duel, so he couldn't help asking Piaro with a frown.

“Doesn't it seem like you're holding back? I admit defeat."

In fact, Piaro also hadn't used all his strength. He didn't use Fated to Perish. But even if he used it, Grid had his invincible passive skill. Grid didn't doubt his victory, so his expression brightened.

"Okay. Now that I've won, will you become my knight?"

Piaro shook his head. “I just said I would see if you are qualified. I never promised to become your knight. I'm sorry, but I promised to never swear allegiance to anyone again. I can't accept your request."

“Are you traumatized because of your experience of being abandoned by your master?"

"What…?"

Grid spoke honestly to the baffled Piaro. “I’m well aware of your situation. Weren't you framed by a colleague and became a fugitive? The fact that the emperor didn't help you meant that he also doubted your loyalty… Now you're determined to completely isolate yourself from the world after being betrayed by your colleagues?"

Piaro showed killing intent for the first time.

“The empire is the only one who should know that story. It isn't something that can be discovered through rumors. Did Asmophel tell you?"

"No? I heard this story directly from you."

What was this nonsense? Piaro still looked puzzled, so Grid pointed to his face.

"Look closely. Aren't I somehow familiar?"

"Come to think of it…?" Piaro finally remembered. “Are you the person from that time?"

A year and a half ago. There was one person who entered Kesan Canyon, a place where powerful monsters were found, by himself. At the time, he was weak, but he seemed like he would grow quickly. So Piaro asked him to act on Piaro's behalf.

"Amazing. Your skills, atmosphere and appearance have changed. I didn't think you would be the ugly person from that time."

“No matter how ugly I was, saying that…"

Grid was shocked and frustrated by Piaro's blunt words.

After a short silence.

Grid barely managed to regain his mind and proposed.

"I will get revenge for you. Instead, come with me. Isn't it too unfair for you to live away from the world just because of a traitor?"

Piaro questioned him. "I don't know why you need me. Isn't the Eternal Kingdom guaranteed peace as a neutral kingdom? Why do you need my help?"

"I want you to **** me when I go to find minerals…"

“What nonsense…"

In fact, Grid's intentions didn't matter.

‘If I can achieve my revenge…'

Piaro lost everything due to Asmophel. His colleagues loyal to him were killed. Revenge was Piaro's last desire.

'If I can achieve my revenge, I'm even willing to sell my soul to the devil.'

But the problem was after his revenge was achieved. Was he willing to pledge the rest of his life to someone?

As Piaro hesitated, Grid stabbed right to his core.

“You wanted a duel as soon as you heard that I am Pagma's Descendant, so aren't you still longing for strength? Don't you want to become a sword saint? Among my companions, there are many strong people. Don't you want to live and train with them?"

“… But I doubt that I can be loyal to you."

“You don't have to force yourself to be loyal. You don't have to pledge to be a knight if you're unwilling. Stay as my guest. You can decide for yourself if you want to follow me."

Grid didn't want to miss Piaro, so he eventually took a step back. Therefore, Piaro had no choice but to accept Grid's proposal.

On that day, Grid left the city where he lived for a year and eight months after he became Pagma's Descendant. It was the moment when the legend shifted to a new stage.

OG: 

Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.

Chapter 210

Most of the magic formulas used by magicians today were established by Braham. Thanks to Braham, the science of magic was able to develop and the authority of magicians rose. For magicians, Braham was a teacher and object of respect.

But what was the truth? Braham's achievements that people knew about actually belonged to Mumud. The person who simplified complicated magic formulas, made it easier for training, and spread it into the world was Mumud, not Braham.

Then why was Mumud unknown, and Braham praised by the world? Braham was the only one who knew.

The Golem's Labyrinths.

[You ignored my warning. Pagma’s Descendant, you are the first person to make me so angry after Mumud.]

Braham was furious at Grid, who didn't respond to his message. His 28 souls twisted like they were flames in front of the wind.

[I will make you regret it.]

In the past, Mumud was Braham's best disciple. Mumud's talents grew day by day and would eventually transcend him. Braham couldn't tolerate it. He couldn't let his top position be taken by his disciple, so he monitored Mumud's every move.

That's how the 'Eyes of Surveillance' magic was attached to Mumud's Orb.

[I will find out your weakness.]

Grid had reproduced Mumud's Orb for Euphemina, allowing him to be watched. The day would come when Grid would eventually move according to Braham's will.

***

Deep in the forest.

"You're finally here."

A man with matted hair was waiting when Grid logged in. It was Great Swordsman Piaro. He was seated in front of a campfire and Grid greeted him. 

“Good morning. Have you eaten?"

Grid's attitude towards Piaro was very friendly. It was much more favorable than when he dealt with beautiful people like Yura and Jishuka. But Piaro was unfriendly.

"I ate. Let's go."

"Yes."

Grid's smile didn't go away. He was happy at the thought of having the strongest swordsman as his colleague.

'If Piaro becomes a sword saint…'

He would have unsurpassed power. He didn't need to be afraid of demons like Hell Gao anymore. Maybe he could try raiding a dragon.

'It is enough for now.'

Strength, stamina, agility. If these three combat related stats were combined, Piaro had higher stats than Grid. Piaro also had the strongest skills as well.  It was very reassuring to Grid. But there was one drawback.

'His appearance is deplorable.'

It might be due to his sickness of the heart. Piaro looked so old that it was hard to believe he was 29 years old. It was more believable if he was 50 years old.

'It's a matter of style.'

His shabby attire and shaggy hair made him look like a homeless person. He had a scruffy beard and he stank.

'Appearance is important.'

Grid once had the worst appearance, so he knew the importance of appearance better than anyone else. Wasn't he despised by other people just because he was ugly or because of his clothes? Grid determined that it wasn't good to leave Piaro as he was and pulled clothes out of his inventory. It was noble clothing that he received from Irene. Grid was hesitant because it was an item worth 50 gold, but he closed his eyes and handed it to Piaro.

"Put this on. And why don't you cut or tie your hair up?"

Piaro refused. “I don’t care about my appearance."

“I’m embarrassed to go around with you."

It was something his sister often said to him. Grid felt a flash of understanding.

'This is how Sehee felt.'

Grid smiled bitterly as Piaro responded bluntly.

"You have to endure it if you want me to come with you."

“Ah…"

Piaro's nerves were sharp. Anger was the only thing that could be seen in both eyes. It was because he was obsessed with revenge. As stated in the status window, Piaro was currently suffering from a sickness of the heart and lost his original nature.

Grid felt the need to take care of him. Rather than forcing or persuading him, Grid would let him do as he wanted. It was the best and smartest choice for Grid, who had little experience with building up relationships with people.

Grrr.

A pair of twin ogres appeared in front of the two people who had been walking for half a day.  They were powerful level 260 monsters, but they were nothing more than puppies in front of the legendary Grid and Great Swordsman Piaro.

Seokeok!

It only took Piaro a matter of seconds.

Peeeeok!

Grid took around one minute to destroy his twin ogre.

Piaro asked him.

“I felt it when we fought the other day, but your basics are terrible. You can implement Pagma's wonderful techniques, but you haven't mastered the sword.”

Grid had been using a greatsword as a weapon since Satisfy began. He might not be the best, but he was confident that he knew the basics. However, considering his experience and level, it was true that he lacked skill.

Grid became aware of it because of Piaro and gave an excuse. “I don’t care about swordsmanship. Anyway, I am armed with excellent weapons and armor. If I rely on my equipment, I can overpower my opponent."

"That is wrong for warriors. Moreover, it's bad to just rely on equipment if your equipment isn't suitable." Piaro pointed to Braham's Boots. "If you really want to rely on equipment, you should change those shoes first."

“Why?"

The defense of Braham's Boots were outstanding considering they had a level 240 limit. Moreover, it was light and comfortable to wear, speeding up movement speed. It was nothing compared to Failure or the Holy Light set, but it was a worthy item because Fly was attached to it.

Grid sent him a glance stating 'you don't know anything,' so Piaro explained.

"The greatsword emphasizes power over swiftness. In order to put as much weight as possible behind your strikes, you should wear sturdy shoes that can withstand the weight.

'What is this?'

Grid wasn't smart. If he heard an explanation when he wasn't prepared in advance, he was slow to understand. Piaro gave him a more direct explanation.

“If you wear heavy boots, it is easier to concentrate your weight and you can gain more power behind your strikes. So I recommend heavy boots."

'So… Wearing heavy boots will increase the attack power of the greatsword?' Grid was delighted after successfully interpreting it. 'I found a hidden system!'

Grid  was thrilled about finding a hidden system that most people didn't know about. Named NPCs could give all sorts of specific advice. His liking towards Piaro increased.

'I will be able to get ahead of others.'

Grid didn't know.

If a heavy weapon user was armed with heavy boots, the system would given additional attack power. This was already common sense to most users. It showed that Grid was still ignorant when it came to overall game knowledge. 

***

“Is this Patrian?"

"Yes."

After a three day journey, Grid and Piaro arrived at Patrian. The fortified city, Patrian. It was a strategic point at the border of the Gauss Kingdom, while also establishing the boundary that separated the western and northern parts of the Eternal Kingdom.

In addition, it was Grid's starting city.

'I lived here for nearly a year…'

Grid not only hunted countless orcs and goblins around Patrian, he also cleared all types of quests. Thanks to that, he was able to maximize his affinity with all the residents of Patrian, and received Earl Ashur's quest, where he eventually became Pagma's Descendant.

"That **** Ashur…"

Grid gritted his teeth as he once again recalled Earl Ashur. He was forced to become Pagma's Descendant due to Earl Ashur, and he trembled as he recalled his days as a minus level.

'…I vowed that I would get revenge once I became stronger.'

Grid had been filled with fury towards Earl Ashur for a while. But that was the past. Due to his relationship with Earl Ashur, he ended up benefiting.

"We will stay here today and leave tomorrow."

At this speed, they could arrive in Reidan in four days. The relaxed Grid entered Patrian with Piaro. At that moment, Earl Ashur's magic detected Grid's presence. He checked Grid's identity through the magic spheres he installed throughout Patrian and rose to his feet.

"He isn't afraid of this place…!"

Earl Ashur had dreamt about getting revenge on Grid, after losing Pagma's Rare Book in front of his eyes. He immediately summoned his knights.

"We're going hunting."

It was a great opportunity to repay the grudge. Earl Ashur was overcome with joy, despite being aware of Grid's importance. He knew that Grid had become a duke, but he didn't care.

***

"This meal tastes terrible."

Patrian was a fortified city, not a tourist one. Therefore, it didn't have a system designed to care for outsiders. The accommodations they found didn't have proper facilities. Piaro looked at Grid, who was complaining about the cheap inn's poor meal, and asked.

“Why are you hiding your identity?"

Grid said he was a duke of the kingdom. If this was true, he should be treated with great hospitality by the owner of the city. Yet Grid hid his identity with a hat before entering the city. It was like he was a wanted person, rather than a duke. 

Grid explained to the suspicious Piaro. “We are only staying overnight, and I don't want to be bothered."

"Hrmm…"

Well, Grid's actions didn't matter. Piaro only cared about his revenge. Piaro thought so and tilted his glass. It was cheap alcohol, but this was the first time he could drink in two years. On the other hand, the users were looking at Grid and Piaro with strange expressions.

"It's a strange combination."

“Why are those two together?"

Grid was dressed in his beginners clothing to conceal his identity, while Piaro seemed like a beggar. People recognized Grid as a beginner, and Piaro as a beggar NPC. They were puzzled about why an NPC would be with a beginner.

“No matter how cheap the food here is, it would be somewhat burdensome for a beginner to afford… How can he buy drinks as well?"

"The smell is too much."

"Really annoying. What is that?"

The female users found the odor coming from Piaro annoying. The male users saw the female users' reactions and came forward.

"Hey, Beggar. I don't know why a poor person is trying to get drunk, but can you stop disturbing the other guests with your rancid smell?"

"The ladies have lost their appetite because of you. Get lost."

In the first place, users didn't care about NPCs. It was natural for the treatment to be worse when the NPC was a beggar. Piaro ignored them. Grid didn't care. The two men weren't worth dealing with, so he just enjoyed his food and drink.

"The steamed lizardmen tails are good to eat. They're similar to pig trotters."

"What are pig trotters? I've tasted all types of delicacies in the empire, but I've never heard of such a dish.

“It is delicious pig's feet."

"Hah~ the beggar is ignoring us."

The level 109 Coke became angry at being ignored by the beggar and eventually committed a mistake. His hand moved like he was about to do something. Piaro didn't allow it. He spat out the bone of the lizardman tail that he was eating.

"Eek."

[You have suffered 3,190 damage.]

Coke's eyes widened as he screamed. It was because he was hit in the forehead by a bone and lost more than a third of his health.

OG: 

Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.

Chapter 211

Coke was confused.

'What is this?'

He lost more than a third of his health when hit by a bone thrown by a beggar?

'A bug?'

It was a reasonable guess. A bug made more sense than a high level user like him being so damaged by a bone.

Who was he?

Less than half a year after starting Satisfy, he reached level 109 and was one of the best known players in Patrian. He also had a chance to hunt one of the most notorious monsters near Patrian, the orc captain, alone.

'I will be a **** in the future, so I can't be hurt by a bone…!'

Coke's goal was Grid. It was his desire to be called God Coke on the world stage, just like Grid. He had such a lofty goal that today's experience was even more humiliating.

“You hit me so, I'll hit you back!"

Coke rolled up his sleeves. Then he swung his hand at Piaro's head.

"Keok."

[You have suffered 3,140 damage.]

This time, it was a bean. It wasn't even a big kidney bean, but a small pea. He was shocked as a pea flew out and hit him.

'Unbelievable! It wasn't a bug?'

Jeurereuk.

Blood poured from Coke's mouth as he finally figured out the situation. He was able to realize that Piaro wasn't a beggar, but a tremendously high level NPC.

'I didn't understand the subject!'

Satisfy was famous for never having a bug since it opened. It was rumored that the creator, Lim Cheolho, was a god. Coke belatedly tried to change his attitude. He attempted to avoid a situation by apologizing to Piaro. But it was still a crisis because the other users didn't understand the atmosphere.

"That guy is throwing food! Coke! Smash him!"

“Teach that beginner and NPC a lesson!"

The users didn't know that Coke was already half dead! 

"Coke! Coke! Coke!"

"Get rid of that beggar!"

Coke was upset because of their cheers and fighting atmosphere.

'Please figure out the atmosphere!'

He didn't want to be killed by bones and peas in front of Patrian's users, who looked up to him. Coke nervously looked at Piaro, but Piaro had no interest in him. He dismissed Coke at the level of a flying insect.

Grid felt admiration.

"What did you just do? It looks like you dealt big damage with the bone and pea?"

The user with the ID of Coke, based on the items he wore, he had a minimum level of 100. In addition, his armor had at least a rare rating. It was amazing that Coke coughed up blood after being hit by a bean.

Piaro explained to Grid. "I used qi. I can maximize my power by injecting qi into an object. In my hands, even a feather can become a sharp sword."

"It is like a wuxia master."

“Wuxia? What is that?"

"Strong people like you who transform the world."

Grid and Piaro didn't care about the other people making a fuss. The users became increasingly furious.

“That beggar is ignoring us until the end…!"

Coke didn't take action, so the level 78th monk called Pitu and the level 85 berserker Dais rose from their seats. As they were approaching Piaro, the door of the inn suddenly opened.

“Sir Dio is coming!"

Dozens of soldiers rushed into the narrow inn. They stood and saluted as a white armored knight entered. The young man had particularly noticeable blonde eyelashes. He looked around the inn with narrowed eyes. 

“It stinks. Are people eating worse than pigs? It's incredibly stinky." Dio held a blue rose in one hand and raised it to his nose. He smelled it and asked. "Has anyone here seen Duke Grid?"

"Duke Grid?"

"Is he talking about God Grid?"

There were no high level monsters near Patrian. It was because the knights and soldiers of Patrian used the monsters to train. 

"Why would they be looking for a high level user in Patrian?"

“No. Why would God Grid come to this type of place?"

“You really don't know." In the end, Dio started to examine the users' faces for Grid. "You're not it. You also aren't it. You as well. Um…?"

Dio's gaze went to a corner. There was a beginner adventurer sitting next to a beggar.

“Take your hat off. Heok?"

Dio approached Grid and commanded, only to become terrified. It was because of an enormous stench that spread.

"Dirty guy…!"

Dio was a noble and a knight, so he had an unusually obsessive temperament about being clean. He became furious at Piaro, who hadn't taken a bath for at least a month.

“How dare you go around in such a disgusting manner! What a shameless bastard! My nose will become paralyzed because of you! Don't make me nauseous and go away!"

"Ohh!"

The users annoyed by Piaro thought this was a cool remark.

“Let's go."

Grid rose from his seat. He judged that it would be better to leave because Earl Ashur seemed to have noticed him.

'I don't want to delay the time.'

The big city Reidan. He had tremendous expectations about his city. He wanted to arrive quickly and check how much taxes he would get. Dio caught up with Grid who was trying to leave.

“Didn't I tell you to take off your hat?"

“…The boat might've already sailed." Grid grinned at Dio and asked. "Do you really think that I am Duke Grid?"

Dio bluntly replied.

"That's right. I received a tip that Duke Grid was here."

Grid's face distorted. "Then why are you speaking like that?"

"Uh…?"

An enormous pressure was released. Dio, the soldiers and the users in the inn were overwhelmed by the pressure and hesitated. It was because Grid's dignity stat was comparable to the king of a nation. He threw off his hat.

"G-Grid…!"

"God Grid!"

Dio was astonished, while the other users cried out. Grid pressed his finger to Dio's forehead. "If you knew I was Duke Grid, why did you speak without using honorifics? Eh? What did you originally say? Did you call me a bastard? Eh? Are we friends?"

Grid had bad feelings towards Earl Ashur's knights as well. The one who killed Grid when he acquired Pagma's Rare Book wasn't Earl Ashur, but Earl Ashur's knights. And Dio was one of them.

"I tried to endure it, but this **** is too arrogant."

Grid couldn't suppress his rage and slapped Dio. It was a terrible experience for Dio, who had never even been scolded by his parents.

“Y-You hit me…!"

He bit his lips as Grid hit Dio's cheeks again.

"You didn't even apologize for not bowing! This rude bastard!"

Grid had matured after several incidents, but the roots of a human didn't easily change. Grid's natural tendencies weren't good. Grid slapped Dio in front of all these people, without considering Dio's position at all.

Slap! Slap! Slap!

Dio's handsome face quickly swelled up like a toad. In the end, Dio's string of reason snapped. He grabbed his sword, forgetting Earl Ashur's order to 'graciously' bring Grid to him.

“Such humiliation…!"

“What? Do you dare to show disrespect to a duke? You want to be like this until the end?" Grid's eyes shone. It was the same as when he was called the Psychopath Butcher. “You are sentenced to death.”

Jeeeong!

He swung Failure. Dio couldn't cope with a single strike and was thrown back into the wall.

“Cough! Cough!"

The soldiers panicked as they watched Dio coughing up blood. Should they protect their leader? But wasn't that considered a rebellion against the duke? As the soldiers were troubled, the cool blade was held to Dio's jaw.

“Do you remember that day?”

"That day…?"

"The day that I found Pagma's Rare Book."

"I clearly remember."

Dio couldn't forget, since it was the day that Earl Ashur's anger pierced the sky. Grid gritted his teeth, “On that day, I was killed by your swords. I will give you a chance to experience the same pain."

Unlike a user who would resurrect if they died, the life of a NPC was finite.  In Satisfy, killing an NPC was equivalent to murder in reality. Grid was unwilling to harm an NPC. It was even more so after forming a relationship with Khan. Due to that, he didn't intend to kill Dio and was just planning to terrify him.

However, Dio became honestly scared and **** himself. He started foaming at the mouth and lost consciousness. It was an event that would become a lifelong trauma for Dio, who had been an elite since childhood.

***

"It seems strange if you're the duke of the kingdom." Piaro remarked.

Grid shrugged. “This was a dirty case. I have a bad chemistry with this place."

“So that's why you hid your identity."

The two people left the inn and were moving to exit Patrian. Coke rushed after them.

"Grid! Grid!"

Grid frowned. “Can't you see that I am moving in secret? Why are you calling out the name of a person without thinking?"

"I-I'm really sorry. I was so excited that I wasn't thinking…" Coke took out a piece of paper and asked Grid. "Please sign this!"

“…Sign?" Grid's distorted expression disappeared. "Are you my fan?”

“You're my idol! I want to be just like you!"

“Hmm hmm."

He was an idol. Grid had been ignored by others for his whole life, so he had to be thrilled. He signed Coke's piece of paper.

"Thank you."

It was the moment when Coke, who would be included in the next 10 Rookies, became Grid's real fan.

Meanwhile, Earl Ashur received the news about Dio.

“I can't leave this alone."

The embarrassment of his subordinate was the embarrassment of the owner! Earl Ashur became more furious at Grid and grasped his exact position with the magic spheres. Then he used Mass Teleport on him and his knights. 

Grid stopped as he was leaving Patrian. He saw the light from the sky and Ashur appeared in front of him.

“In the end, you came here. Do you really want to die? Are you crazy?" Earl Ashur angrily asked Grid. 

"I'm not like I was in the past. I'm no longer to be trifled with. Can you afford to go against me?" Grid asked arrogantly, and Earl Ashur scoffed.

“I'm the only great magician in the Eternal Kingdom, and one of the 10 great magicians on the continent."

It wasn't an exaggeration. Earl Ashur was the strongest man in the kingdom. That's why he was appointed to the strategic point of Patrian.

“I'm not afraid of Pagma's power. You aren't Pagma. I have enough skills to get rid of you… Heok?"

Earl Ashur suddenly became shocked. It was because an overwhelming amount of energy was being emitted.

“I would like to compete with one of the 10 great magicians of the continent."

It was the moment when Piaro's competitive spirit was triggered.

“W-Who are you?”

Earl Ashur could no longer worry about Grid due to the unexpected emergence of a monster. It was putting the cart before the horse.

OG: 

Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.

Chapter 212

The Eternal Kingdom and Gauss Kingdom didn't have a good relationship. Over the past decades, there had been countless disputes and frequent bloodshed. The Eternal Kingdom used the guide of being a neutral kingdom to monopolize some of the Gauss Kingdom's products. 

But the Gauss Kingdom wasn't able to induce conflict with the Eternal Kingdom. It was because the great magician Ashur was present at the border. Earl Ashur's power was like a nuclear warhead in modern society, so it was enough to suppress any conflicts.

But Piaro was more than that.

“W-Who are you?”

In the beginning, Earl Ashur had no interest in the beggar. No, he hadn't even noticed. He only paid attention to Grid. Now the beggar was emitting an energy that could reverse the situation. At this moment, Earl Ashur's five senses were only concentrated on the beggar. His original purpose of taking care of Grid disappeared.

‘Is this fear I'm feeling?' Goosebumps covered his entire body. 'There was a monster like this hiding in the kingdom?'

Earl Ashur gulped as Piaro asked for a duel.

"I want to experience the skills of one of the continent's 10 great magicians."

"I refuse. I have no reason to fight you, nor do I want to fight.”

Earl Ashur was adamant. But Piaro just pulled out his sword.

He was still obsessed with revenge, but he was also thirsty to fight against the strong. He was filled with a desire to become a sword saint. In particular, he was obsessed with Earl Ashur, because he had no experience fighting great magicians.

"You have no choice."

'Crazy bastard!'

This was his only chance to get revenge on Grid, who stole Pagma's Rare Book, as well as his son's crush. Once Grid arrived at Reidan and solidified his position as a duke, Earl Ashur would no longer be able to act against him. Later, he would be forced to bow before Duke Grid.

But at this critical junction, someone interfered. Earl Ashur's anger soared.

“Who the **** are you?"

Earl Ashur knew about the group with the strange name of Overgeared who were working with Grid. But there was no information about this beggar being part of Overgeared.

Where did this guy suddenly pop out from?

“Why are you with Grid? Are you his protector?"

“Protector? You're mistaken. I don't have anything to do with Duke Grid. This is my personal interest."

In the first place, did Grid need his protection? It was clear that this person called Ashur didn't know much about Grid.

“Anyway, you aren't Duke Grid's opponent. It is better for you to compete against me. Right now, I am in an incomplete condition."

"This person!"

Earl Ashur sounded resentful towards Piaro, but his head was calm.

‘I must be calm. I shouldn't turn him into my enemy.'

The rumors might be exaggerated, but Grid's strength that he showed in Reinhardt wasn't negligible. Grid was praised as the kingdom's hero, so Earl Ashur had to fight seriously. After fighting with a much stronger opponent, could he take care of Grid? 

'It is impossible.'

The wisest choice was to let Grid go. But.

'I can't miss the chance for revenge that will never come again.' Earl Ashur made a decision. 'Create a space where Grid and I can fight.'

In other words, create a three dimensional space. Space magic was different from other magic, so the consumption of magic power was very extreme. Even Earl Ashur had to consume half of his magic power to create a space ward. But he was willing to do this to handle Grid.

"Buy me some time."

An earl was only supposed to have five knights, but Earl Ashur had dozens of knights as a commander of a fortified city. He not only had great individual power, but his forces surpassed that of his title.

The elite knights got into formation at once.  In that gap, Earl Ashur chanted a spell.

“Shake hands."

Elite knights? They were nothing compared to the knights of the Saharan Empire, the strongest nation on the continent. Furthermore, Piaro was the captain of the Red Knights.

“It's a waste of manpower.”

Piaro's missing sword shot straight ahead. A knight defended by raising his shield, but Piaro predicted this.

“Supreme Swordsmanship 3rd style."

Kwa kwa kwa kwang!

It was comparable with the skill of a martial artist. Piaro's sword collided with the shield. The owner of the shield became a rag, while the other knights standing behind him spurted blood. It was the moment when the knights that Earl Ashur was proud of were knocked down by a single blow.

"Heok?"

“Defense is useless?”

The knights freaked out as it felt like they were hit by a tornado. Piaro leapt lightly. He didn't give the knights time to reform their formation.

“Kuaaaaak!”

He really was like a god. Piaro defied the laws of gravity as he stood in the air and wielded his sword. The vulnerable knights were unable to respond as the sword techniques fell from the sky. They couldn't use the advantage of numbers to threaten Piaro, so they could only defend.

However, Piaro's sword accelerated so quickly that it was difficult to chase with the eyes, making it virtually impossible to defend.

"Ugh!"

Jacks, the leader of the knights, swung his halberd and tried to counterattack in the gap when his men were being attacked. But it was difficult to hit, because Piaro rotated his body in the air at a dizzying speed.

"This monster!"

It was unbelievable. He completely avoided the large and wide attack of the halberd in the air? Was this old man a rumored assassin? Jacks continuously wielded his halberd. The opponent avoided it until the end. Then there was an unforgettable experience.

“What?”

The halberd started to be sucked into the rotating Piaro, as if it was attracted by a magnet. Jacks tried to withstand it with all his strength, but it was useless. He let go of the halberd.

Jjejejeok!

The halberd lost its master and shattered in the air.

"Keok."

The falling fragments of the halberd aimed precisely at the knights on the ground. They were wearing expensive armor, but whether it was coincidence of Piaro's intentions, the fragments only aimed at the gaps on the armor. The armor was useless and the knights instantly collapsed.

"M-Monster…!"

Jacks couldn't close his mouth. Earl Ashur was even more surprised.

'They couldn't last?'

One minute. That was the amount of time required to generate the ward. The 23 knights couldn't withstand that short amount of time.

Cheok.

At last, Piaro landed on the ground and stepped forward, ignoring Jacks. He neared Earl Ashur.

“In the end, we have to fight?" Earl Ashur screamed at Piaro. "That's right! Okay! Let's try it once!"

It seemed he couldn't avoid the fight. Earl Ashur pulled out a staff that was 50 cm in length. Most magicians used orbs due to the versatility of the orb that could store magic. However, Earl Ashur was fast in magic casting, so he used a staff that amplified magic.

"Haste!"

One of the most important elements in a magic battle was speed. The opponent must hit before the magician finished casting a spell, and the magician must finish casting a spell before allowing an attack. Earl Ashur quickly increased his movement speed with Haste and widened the distance with Piaro.

He already finished casting the next spell.

“Orion's Illusion!”

It was an illusion technique. Earl Ashur created five clones of himself and once again opened up the distance while Piaro was searching for the real body. Next was debuff magic.

"Soul Weakness!"

Piaro's body became as sticky as oil and unpleasant magic power suppressed him.

“Disgusting.”

Piaro's body lost its swiftness, but he bent like a bow and shot forward like a thunderbolt. He maximized his body's ability to increase speed, offsetting the effect of the debuff.

‘Did he resist? My magic? No, it's impossible.'

Earl Ashur's eyes widened as he faced Piaro. But he tried to remain calm and finished casting the magic spell.

"Ice Tornado!"

It was a mixture of two A-grade spells with different attributes, and exerted more power than an A-grade spell. It was still significantly less powerful than S-grade magic, so why did he use it?

Even a great magician couldn't cast S-grade spells in an instant. Using S-grade magic without precautionary measures against a person like Piaro was close to suicide.

Jjejejejeok!

Piaro's body froze as he approached Earl Ashur. Earl Ashur's magic power exceeded common sense, so there was no one who wouldn't be frozen.

'This guy won't die like this.'

Earl Ashur believed that Piaro would recover within five seconds and started to chant a S-grade spell in that gap. However, he underestimated Piaro.

Chaaeng!

"…!"

Earl Ashur was shocked. An intangible energy was felt from the frost and it shattered before even a few words could be chanted?

"You've already recovered?"

It was too fast to use S-grade magic. He had to quickly accumulate more damage using A-grade spells. He belatedly responded to Piaro's sword that was flying.

“Shield!”

It was the manifestation of basic defensive magic that even beginners could use.

“Great magic power."

Piaro admired Ashur, who absorbed most of the damage with his shield. However, he continued to wield his sword. Earl Ashur stood firm. He tried to avoid as much damage as possible by relying on the previously activated Haste, while minimizing the actual damage using Shield.

Despite the continuous wounds he kept receiving, he used Shield while chanting S-grade magic in his head. Earl Ashur's concentration was truly worthy of respect.

"Yes!"

Piaro was swinging his sword when he suddenly felt alarmed. He detected a strong magic power and used the Supreme Swordsmanship 5th style, a defense technique.

Kwa kwa kwa kwang!

Something intangible shot out of Earl Ashur the moment the spell was completed.

"Fluid Escape."

Fluid Escape was a spell that separated the soul and body of the caster for three seconds. The caster could control the soul that emerged from the body, while the body became immune to all damage.

Jeeeong!

Earl Ashur's body wasn't damaged at all despite being hit.

'This is the power of Fluid Escape!'

Earl Ashur's soul passed through Piaro's body and dealt damage in proportion to his magic power.

"Kuk!"

Blood poured from Piaro.

"I can't tangle with this monster forever."

Earl Ashur's soul headed towards Grid, who was watching the battle with folded arms. He didn't give up on his original goal of aiming for Grid.

“Die!”

Kwaaaang!

Earl Ashur's soul went through the grid. 

[You have suffered 40,985 damage.]

[You have received catastrophic damage all at once, and your spirit can't endure it.]

[You have resisted.]

Grid was unprepared for the damage and suffered. The soul's movement speed was so remarkable that the pavranium responded late. It was virtually impossible for a human to perceive it. Ashur's soul returned to his body.

“You deceived me!"

Piaro suffered great damage to his pride and wielded his sword, but there was a powerful shockwave as soon as the soul returned to the body. Piaro knew this fact, but he was confident that he could neutralize it with his blade.

However, Earl Ashur's magic power couldn't be pierced by the sword.

Peeng!

"This…!"

Piaro was pushed back by the shockwave. While he was upset, Earl Ashur aimed at Grid.

“This is the end!”

Finally, his grudge would be repaid. Earl Ashur was determined to kill Grid while Grid was suffering from great damage and not in the right mindset. But what was this? Grid moved smoothly and Earl Ashur's vision was covered with blue-white light.

“Kuaaaaak!”

Earl Ashur screamed at the unexpected attack. He suffered cumulative damage when reciting the S-grade magic, so he easily fell down.

Grid pointed Failure at him and said, “Beg me, Duke Grid, for your life."

"W-What…!"

Grid's sword damage was as powerful as Piaro's. No, maybe even more than that. Earl Ashur thought it was ridiculous.

OG: 

Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.