Chapter 256
The VIP room in the lord's castle.
Damian sat facing the Overgeared members and opened his mouth. He talked about how he met Grid and the circumstances behind his arrival in Reidan. Damian explained all the facts as much as possible. There was no reason to hide it from the Overgeared members.
The silently listening Vantner started tearing up.
“Struggling to save a beloved woman…! It's truly a beautiful story!"
It wasn't good seeing a big bald man crying. If Pon was here, he would definitely tease Vantner. But Pon was still on the mission with Regas. They had already disappeared for two days. It was estimated that they discovered an instance dungeon and were cut off from the outside world.
Lauel ignored Vantner's runny nose and asked Damian.
“I understand that you have to meet Grid in order to save Rebecca's Daughters. But why were you working in the fields? Someone like you would've been treated very well if you visited the administrator, and then we could've been contacted quickly."
There were dozens of large and small religions in Satisfy, but the Rebecca Church was unequaled. The number of members was estimated to exceed 80 million. Damian was a pope candidate, so he would be given VIP treatment wherever he went. So why was he farming?
"That…"
Damian wanted to throw up as the Overgeared members looked at him with confusion.
'Why didn't he meet the administrator of the city?' This was all due to Piaro. But he was too embarrassed to tell them the truth. In addition, his grudge against Piaro disappeared after receiving the hidden quest. Rather, they were friends now.
He covered up the truth. "I originally liked doing farming work."
“I see."
People always had a variety of hobbies. There was no reason to lie, so the Overgeared members didn't doubt Damian's words.
That's right. The Overgeared members didn't know about the atrocities Piaro was committing outside. They couldn't imagine that Piaro would fight people passing them, then make them become farmers. Damian felt sorry for the second and third victims who would appear in the future.
“Who was the other person with you?"
"An outsider. I don't know who he is either. He never revealed his identity until the end."
"I see…"
'Perhaps I should put the Eyes of Surveillance on him.'
Lauel wasn't too wary. Piaro would've filtered out anyone who wanted to harm Reidan. Lauel trusted Piaro. Now Lauel's concern was focused solely on Damian.
'If Grid is the benefactor of the pope…'
The relationship between Reidan and the Rebecca Church would become closer, and there would be an active exchange. If they could build a Rebecca Temple in Reidan, all residents would get the buff effect and there would be priests present. The number of people would also naturally increase.
Lauel grabbed Damian's dirty hands.
"Damian, the Overgeared Guild is wholeheartedly committed to helping you. I will help you win the pope election, as well as persuade Grid to save Rebecca's Daughters. Just tell me if you have anything you need."
This was a pumpkin vine that rolled over. Lauel absolutely wouldn't miss it. Lauel smiled as kindly as possible. It was the smile of hospitality workers. However, Damian wasn't familiar with Lauel and was genuinely thrilled.
“So kind…! Thank you! Thank you so much! I will give you a pillow printed with an image of my beautiful Isabel-chan as a present!"
"Huhuhut… I'm glad to be able to help you. The alter ego that I sealed in the past is dancing."
'What are they saying?'
'I don't know.'
The Overgeared members couldn't properly interpret the conversation between Lauel and Damian. It was hard to crack.
***
Rabbit was aware of Piaro's abilities, even before the Overgeared members knew Piaro's identity. It wasn't difficult to grasp the reality of a person with his discerning eyes. Even so, there was only one reason why he left Piaro as a farmer.
Reidan's finances. If he acknowledged Piaro's skills and gave him the right position, Rabbit would have to pay him a high salary. This would increase Reidan's financial burdens. Rabbit pretended not to know Piaro's true abilities and kept him as a farmer.
As as result, Rabbit got the maximum efficiency for a minimum wage. In addition, the wheat fields were a farmer's domain. The farmer Piaro, who received a salary of 73 silver, defended Reidan by defeating the enemies who invaded his territory.
The result was more than expected. It was truly amazing. But at the same time, it was frustrating.
'I need to reward him for his performance…'
If Rabbit converted the value of Piaro's work to money, it would be at least several hundred million gold. Of course, Reidan didn't have those type of funds.
'I have to give him something.'
A granting of a prize was the domain of the lord, not the administrator. Grid was currently away, so it was impossible to give the right compensation to Piaro.
'Then…'
Rabbit showed the utmost sincerity to Piaro within the scope of his current authority.
[I, Administrator Rabbit, appoint the farmer Piaro to become the wheat fields manager.]
It was the moment when Piaro's salary was raised to 2 gold and 30 silver. It was a wage increase of more than three times. This was the amount of money that Rabbit's conscience allowed.
***
[One of the continent's 10 great magicians fighting for Duke Grid!]
The provocative title heated up the Internet all over the world.
The real-time search queries were taken up by 'Grid,' 'Earl Ashur,' '10 great magicians of the continent,' 'seven guilds,' 'Reidan's invasion,' and so on. The news about the emergence of a legendary farmer was buried under all of this.
Bunny Bunny, the one who spread this incident, received a huge jackpot.
'The seven guilds except for the Giant Guild conspired to invade Reidan. In the process, the Yak Guild and Zeraph Guild were ruthlessly trampled on by Earl Ashur.’
The contents and images meant that Bunny Bunny's live internet broadcast reached 300,000, and the cumulative viewers rose to 600,000 in one day. Bunny Bunny not only accumulated an enormous wealth, he also recovered his reputation.
The world's best gaming BJ succeeded in a splendid recovery.
–Grid is amazing. He has Earl Ashur as a subordinate. ㄷㄷ
–Isn't Earl Ashur the strongest person in the Eternal Kingdom…? Wow, really? He really is God Grid.
–I'm living in the US and Grid appears on TV every day. ㅋㅋㅋ I don't think there is anyone in the US who doesn't know about Grid. ㅋㅋㅋ
–I'm going to school in Japan. After the National Competition, all my Japanese friends ask me about Grid. I am proud to be Korean thanks to Grid-nim.ㅎ
-But what about the four guilds apart from the Yak Guild and Zeraph Guild?
–My friend's cousin's wife's friend is part of the Golden Guild and according to him, the seven guilds were wiped out by the farmers of Reidan.
–Sigh… ㅉ ㅉ There is a fantasy novelist everywhere. If you are writing a novel, it should at least make sense.
The Korean netizens were particularly excited. They were proud to be Korean every time Grid did something that caught the attention of the world.
But in fact, Grid himself didn't know about Reidan's invasion. The Overgeared members didn't report anything to him because they were afraid it would interfere with his quest. Thanks to that, Grid was able to solely concentrate on his quest.
***
The capital of the Saharan Empire, Titan.
Grid arrived in front of Asmophel's mansion after a three week journey and opened his status window.
Name: Grid
Level: 291
Class: Pagma's Descendant
…
Strength: 2,770(+140) Stamina: 1,246(+120)
Agility: 1,626(+110) Intelligence: 711(+310)
Dexterity: 1,634(+660) Persistence: 958(+110)
Composure: 658(+110) Indomitable: 913(+220)
Dignity: 1,566(+110) Insight: 1,406(+110)
Courage: 602(+110) Demonic Magic Power: 31
…
The stats were beyond overwhelming. Due to the penalty that happened when producing his fifth legendary item, his stats growth rate was several times slower than it was in the past, but he wasn't disappointed.
He still grew when making items and the titles he acquired after much hardships also significantly increased his stats. He had items, skills, and now control. Grid could confidently assert, 'I am the best.'
He had reached his peak after living 28 years. His confidence and motivation boiled over.
"Asmophel." The person who framed Piaro as a traitor. “Now it's time for you to lose."
The red light of the Slaughterer's Eye Patch shone as he put on the white Hooded Zip Up.
***
Asmophel was a noble and sincere man. He was born as the eldest son of Earl Pedro, one of the three fingers of the emperor and loyal to his role while suffering from severe pressure. He didn't neglect training in the sword according to the laws of his family. As a result, he joined the Red Knights at a young age and raised his reputation.
This was a life of fragility. He built new achievements almost every day and expanded his social network. Amosphel was praised as a pillar of the empire along with his closest friend, Piaro. But he lost everything the moment he fell for Empress Marie's trick.
He stabbed the dagger in the hearts of his friends and colleagues. Every day was a nightmare.
"Damn bitch!"
Ku tang tang tang!
Amosphel knocked over the table filled with alcohol.
Empress Marie. He borrowed the power of alcohol to forget about that damn woman, but he couldn't forget. Her intense beauty couldn't be erased from his mind.
"Piaro…! My friend!"
He was sorry. Really sorry. He had shouted it over a hundred times already. But he was well aware that his heart couldn't be passed onto Piaro. That made his heart more pained.
"What's going on?"
The knights heard the fuss and came running. They wore red armor. They were knights loyal to Marie, who watched over Asmophel under the name of protection. Due to them, Asmophel was trapped in this mansion for years.
“Dog scum…”
Asmophel didn't hide his hatred and anger. He looked around to find a weapon. But there were no weapons. The knights whispered to each other before bringing over a magician. It was a black magician. Asmophel trembled as soon as he saw the black magician.
“S-Stop!"
He tried to resist, but it was useless. He suffered a serious injury from Piaro and his body and mind had been compromised by drugs and black magic for years. Therefore, he now had a weak iron will.
Teong!
A powerful brainwashing magic was used and Asmophel's angry and fearful face became expressionless.
"Who is Piaro?"
“A traitor of the empire and your enemy."
Asmophel's eyes became wet as he answered the questions without hesitation. It was the remnant of the tears he shed before being brainwashed.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 257
The task of the Yatan Church was to create chaos in the world.
It was to create an environment where dark magic was activated by drawing out the pain and despair in people's hearts, then bringing the 33 great demons to the earth.
It was the will of God Yatan.
***
Three years ago.
Emperor Juander recruited top healers and priests from all over the continent. It was to save Empress Aria, who was on her deathbed. But nobody could heal Aria. The healers and priests said it was impossible unless the legendary Saintess appeared.
The gold piled up like a mountain and the imperial treasures didn't help. Aria, the mother of the imperial princes and princesses. Juander had to watch as his dear wife died.
After Aria died.
Juander truly loved her, so he fell into a deep sorrow. He neglected the affairs of the empire, drank every night, and became ill. It was his 2nd Empress, Marie, who comforted him. She was the mother of the 4th Imperial Prince and had an intense beauty.
Thanks to her devotion, Juander managed to overcome his grief. From then on, Marie's world opened. Juander overcame his sense of loss thanks to Marie. Therefore, he favored Marie and her power skyrocketed into the sky.
It was the prelude to a common story. Marie did all types of things in order to make her son the next in line. Using her beauty, power, and the black magicians under her, she did all types of wicked things, including dissolving the Red Knights and nobles who supported the 1st Imperial Prince.
Now three years had passed. Marie had an incomparably strong support base compared to the past. Numerous nobles supported her and the 4th Prince, while the reorganized Red Knights were loyal to her.
Marie was satisfied. She had no doubt that her son would be the next emperor. However, the one who laughed at her was her closest black magician, Dive.
Dive. A black magician who served Marie's family before she became an empress. In fact, he had died in the past. It was at the hand of the 7th Servant, Dark Bus. That's right. Dark Bus was currently pretending to be Dive. He was the best at curses in the Yatan Church, and his mission was to confuse the Saharan Empire.
"It won't be long now."
Once the 4th Prince, who lacked adaptability, became their heir, the forces supporting the 1st Prince wouldn't be able to endure it and a bloody battle would take place in the empire. What would happen if the empire fell into chaos?
Many people would feel despair or die, and the black magic would come to life. It would be enough magic power to call up a great demon!
“I will soon be compensated for my hard work over the last three years."
It was a really hard three years. The empire's magicians and sages were powerful, so he had to pay extra attention to avoid being noticed. He could never relax. But now the hardships were over.
"Kulkulkul…"
It was the moment when the old man's laughter echoed in the dark room…
"Heok?"
The extensive ward that he installed around Asmophel's mansion was destroyed. Dark Bus perceived this and panicked.
"Intruder?"
Asmophel was a useful tool. He was once praised for being a pillar of the empire, and his emotional despair was very strong after setting up Piaro as a traitor. Dark Bus was obliged to maintain Asmophel's brainwashing. Therefore, he stayed in Asmophel's mansion to watch and protect him.
For the past several years, he had been careful to prevent any outsider from stepping foot into Asmophel's mansion. But at this moment, his amulet was destroyed and an intruder was allowed.
'My wards were broken so easily?'
It was rare for someone to have this power on the continent. The person would certainly be a great force. But his magic power detected only one intruder. He didn't have to be too nervous. Dark Bus recovered his composure. He went to the living room and found the knights.
The Red Knights had finished their shift and had swapped with the Black Knights.
"Great!"
It was a crisis so Dark Bus needed those he could trust. Dark Bus found it hard to direct the Red Knights. They were too proud. Dark Bus was accompanied by only the Black Knights and left the mansion.
“Attention!"
The soldiers standing on the edge of the gardens found Dark Bus' group and saluted. The soldiers weren't yet aware of the presence of an intruder.
‘It's a covert intrusion…'
But it was useless in front of Dark Bus. He could detect the enemy's position with his magic power.
Ssik.
Dark Bus smiled and shouted to the Black Knights.
“Intruder! Gather your power and take a defensive posture!"
Once the command was received, the soldiers rushed to the entrance of the mansion. There were 120 elite soldiers, two Black Knights and Dark Bus; it was a truly spectacular sight.
Paruru.
Dark Bus used his powerful magic power to detect the intruder. 200 meters ahead.
"Reveal yourself!"
Dark Bus shouted and released his magic power, causing the intruder to be revealed. It was a man wearing a bizarre type of robe and a mask covered his face.
'Who?'
Black hair and red eyes shining in the darkness. A person he had never seen before.
"Who are you?"
The intruder, Grid, answered Dark Bus' question. "What else? An enemy."
Grid didn't speak for long. It took him three weeks to get here, so he didn't want to waste time when he had reached the quest's end point.
Tadat!
Grid gradually narrowed the 200m distance to the soldiers. The elite soldiers of the empire were calm. They pulled out their swords and took the posture of the Imperial Swordsmanship. The soldiers in the rear of the mansion shot fire arrows.
'Fairly good.' Grid admired. The soldiers seemed to have a very high level compared to those he had previously seen. 'But so what?'
Chaeeeeeng!
He used the Divine Shield to defend against the arrows, then he swapped the shield with Failure.
Jjeejeeeong!
“Ku…heok!"
Five soldiers groaned and were thrown into the air as the blue-white Failure moved. Grid's strength transcended an ogre, and was at a level that the soldiers couldn't afford to go against.
"Wahhhh!"
The other soldiers moved forward, trampling on their colleagues. Then Grid used a skill.
"Blacksmith’s Rage."
Blacksmith's Rage Lv. 4 increased Grid's attack power by 25% and his attack speed by 40%. There was also Failure's option that 'increased attack power by 20% in the dark.'
Seokeok! Kwajijik!
Under the moonlight, the sword sliced through the armour and shields, damaging the bodies of the soldiers. It was an overwhelming dance. The fatalities would keep increasing if they attacked in ones or twos. There was no chance of victory. The soldiers surrounded Grid and exchanged signals to attack from all sides. Grid laughed as the soldiers prepared a circular formation to isolate him.
'I can break through with power.'
The concept of tactics was different in the face of a clear difference in power. He could kill more than half of them if he used Transcended Link. However, Grid knew it was a foolish thing to waste skills against these minor opponents. But he also didn't want to waste stamina fighting them one by one.
'Let's take it easy.'
During the past three weeks, Grid's experience had increased from constant hunting and levelling.
Grid's vision expanded and he now looked at the entire battlefield. There were flower beds, trees and fountains all over the garden. Grid moved towards the most complex terrain, in order to make it difficult for the opponent to pass.
The formation of the soldiers following him slowly collapsed. The two or three soldiers chasing after him? They died from the greatsword before they could approach Grid.
"Ugh!"
"Kyaak!"
The soldiers were unable to take advantage of their superior numbers as Grid ran through the garden. The soldiers shrank back as the flesh and blood of their colleagues scattered. They no longer tried to chase Grid. The Black Knights determined the flow and asked Dark Bus.
“Sir Dive, please use curse magic."
"Yes."
Dark Bus replied and quickly drew a red magic circle. It was the appearance of a magic circle that dramatically increased black magic casting speed. Dark Bus completed the magic circle and started successively casting curses.
"Amplify Damage! Lower Resist! Lower Blessing!"
It was the moment when curse magic that had tremendous power, such as increasing the damage received, reducing resistance and reducing stats all hit Grid.
"Let's go."
The Black Knights moved. They were confident that they could destroy the weakened intruder in 10 seconds. Dark Bus hurriedly exclaimed.
"W-Wait a minute…!"
The curse magic didn't work! However, he had no time to say this. The Black Knights who transcended human physical abilities were already close to Grid. Grid faced them and sent them a disturbing smile.
"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Restraint."
An unknown fear dominated the Black Knights.
"Kuk…?"
"What is this?"
The Black Knights were confused and backed away. Grid stepped away from the fountain and narrowed the distance to them using the footwork of Kill.
Puok!
"…!"
The Black Knight pierced by the blue greatsword couldn't even scream. A large amount of blood spilled out as the black knight flopped down.
"Crazy!"
The other Black Knight cried out as he saw his colleague hit. He barely escaped from the influence of Restraint.
"You! What type of black magic did you use?"
“Black magic?"
Grid contemplated the Black Knights. The Vital Spot Detection of the Slaughterer's Eye Patch was activated, and the red light became darker.
“This is a technique, not black magic."
Seven golden blades appeared behind Grid.
Puuoooook!
It was a perfect accuracy and speed that was hard to respond to. The golden blades persistently aimed at the seams of the Black Knight's armor. The movements of the Black Knight slowed down as blades were inserted in the joints, then Grid used Link.
Chaaeng! Chaaeng!
The Black Knight tried his best. He swung the sword in his hand. Resistance was hopeless. Link was currently level 5. The ability of the level 255 Black Knight couldn't resist it.
10, 15, 20, 25, 30 times. Dozens of energy blades sliced apart the body of the Black Knight in an instant.
"Cough…!"
Plop!
The ragged Black Knight stumbled and fell into the fountain. The soldiers were at a loss for words as they saw the blood spreading. Two of the Black Knights that represented the empire had died in the blink of an eye? Was it an impossible dream?
The soldiers thought they were having a nightmare. Dark Bus had been baffled that his curse magic didn't work. Now he belatedly noticed Grid's identity.
‘Resisting curses, that blue greatsword and the golden blades…! Yes! He's the one Balak told me about!'
The Fifth Servant of the Yatan Church, Balak. He invaded Bairan along with the Fourth Servant, Neberius, and was defeated. At that time, Balak had said. In Bairan, there is a monster that users a blue greatsword and golden artifact. He killed Malacus and Neberius. He called himself…
"Templar…"
No.
“Overgeared!"
Why was this person here? He should be in the Eternal Kingdom, so why did he come to the empire to interfere with Dark Bus?
"Do you intend to waste my three years of hard work?"
Dark Bus was frustrated. He wondered if God Yatan had abandoned him.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 258
'He's evidently from the Rebecca Church!'
Why did the person with the power to kill two of the Yatan's Servants appear in front of him now? It was to kill Dark Bus. Grid was the secret weapon of the Rebecca Church. He existed in order to obstruct the tasks of our church.
Dark Bus misunderstood. It was a reasonable misunderstanding.
'I must kill him here. If we allow him to run free anymore, our church will be in a quandary.'
Dark Bus continued to cast magic on Grid, who was focusing on fighting with the soldiers. But it wasn't easy to hit him. It was difficult to find a gap due to Grid's proper use of the terrain, and the golden blades responded quickly to repeatedly block the magic.
'Shit… He's someone who defeated Neberius, and I can't raise my attack power.'
Dark Bus specialized in curse magic, but his attack magic was weak. He was the best at making a plot and directing the stage, but his combat power was the weakest among the Yatan Servants.
'Why curse magic…!?'
The fundamental problem was that Grid was fully resistant to curses. Dark Bus couldn't exert any power against him. It was really the worst situation. Dark Bus wondered about what to do and quickly recalled something.
'Asmophel!'
Asmophel was the next greatest swordsman after Piaro. He lost his skills over the past years, but he was still stronger than a regular knight.
'He has recently recovered from the wound given by Piaro… In the past few years, he has been constantly taking God Yatan's essence.'
If Dark Bus strengthened him with magic power, the strongest monster would be born.
'Overgeared! This place will be your grave today!'
Dark Bus shouted with a smile.
"Come out! Asmophel!"
Dark Bus was the friendly courier bringing Grid's quest target to him. He was the popular type.
***
Two soldiers crossed the garden and stabbed at Grid. A notification window popped up in front of Grid while he avoided the attacks.
[Your demonic power has increased by two.]
Demonic power. It was unfortunate stat that allowed him entry to hell if the number increased enough. Every time he killed a user or NPC, this stat increased by one.
Hell, the name was ominous, so he didn't want to go there.
'The useless stat keeps on rising.'
Grid examined the battlefield. There were 61 soldiers remaining. There was also the black magician that was as annoying as a fly. If he killed all of them, his demonic power would rise to 154.
'There is the possibility that reinforcements will arrive.'
Should he borrow his pet's hands? Would his demonic power soar if he killed a person with his pet? Randy hadn't killed anyone when he fought the White Wolf Guild. Randy played a supporting role while Grid massacred them. Therefore, there was no basis for this premise.
It was worth experimenting. Grid pulled Noe out of the inventory. There was no need to summon Randy to experiment. He didn't want to distribute his experience between two pets.
"Jjang! The best demonic beast of hell has emerged! Nyang!"
Noe wanted to appear nicely and stretched out his limbs. But his limbs were so short that it looked funny rather than nice.
'How come he's getting cuter?'
Grid wanted to say. Along with the sound effect… How was this guy a demonic beast from hell? Grid laughed and confirmed Noe's status window.
Name: Noe
Species: Memphis
Level: 151
Status: Happy
(Ohhhh! This gorgeous appearance has emerged! Nyahahat!)
…
-Current Skills List-
[Fluidization] [Soul Ingestion] [Scratch] [Bewitchment]
…
Noe acquired the Bewitchment skill when he reached level 150. It was a useful skill that caused the enemy to lose their will to fight. The imperial soldiers might have excellent skills, but they weren't a match for Noe. Noe could hunt much higher level monsters if he used his skills well. Unless Noe wasn't alert and allowed attacks, it was a fraudulent existence.
Grid defended against the magic coming from the black magician with the pavranium, while ordering Noe at the same time.
"Go on a rampage."
"Nyang!"
Noe flapped his small wings and flew to a soldier. The soldier tried to shake Noe off, but he was very slippery. He lightly moved to the side and stretched out his short legs. The moment the soldier was struck with the soft pink soles, the soldier witnessed stars revolving around his head.
'It hurts?'
To the soldier's astonishment, blood poured down from the wound. The cat followed up with the sharp claws.
"Nya nya nya nya nyang!"
Noe wielded his paws at a speed that wasn't visible. The soldier's face quickly became bloody.
"This crazy cat!"
The soldier struggled to shake Noe off. He waved his sword around. But Noe didn't stop attacking while evading. Relentless and cruel. He truly was a demonic beast of hell.
“Ugh.”
Grid's face distorted the moment the soldier collapsed.
[125,600 experience has been acquired. Some experience has been distributed to your pet 'Noe.']
[Your demonic power has increased by one.]
'Shit!'
It seemed that his demonic power rose even when it was his pet doing the murdering. Therefore, Grid didn't hesitate. He recalled Noe in order to monopolize the experience, and started the slaughter.
Grid constantly used the Hooded Zip Up and started wielding two greatswords. The soldiers were unable to cling to Grid's body due to the moving barrier of golden blades. They died in vain.
'Just a little bit more.'
Grid's eyes fixed on the entrance of the mansion after killing three soldiers with the Doppelganger's Greatsword.
There. Asmophel was in that mansion. This long journey ended with killing him. The quest reward would increase Piaro's affinity to the maximum, then…
'Piaro, be my sword.'
Grid was thrilled with excitement at the thought of gaining a great swordsman as a subordinate.
Peeng!
The warlock guarding the entrance of the mansion fired magic again. Grid frowned.
'This bug is annoying.'
A black magician was very weak. Based on the level of attack magic used, it seemed like he was only around level 200. But he was a little annoying to Grid. Grid took care of the remaining soldiers and then rushed to the mansion. He was ready to quickly get rid of this black magician and fight against Asmophel.
'Did he hear the disturbance and already run away?'
The moment Grid was worrying about this…
"Come out! Asmophel!"
The sloppy looking black magician shouted and a slender man appeared. The name above his head was clearly Asmophel.
“…What?"
His target was coming to him? Grid was surprised by the unexpected development and the black magician shouted.
“Your rampage ends here! You will receive divine punishment…!"
Dark Bus couldn't finish his cry. It was because Grid's Failure had already hit his neck.
"…!"
Dark Bus fell with a moaning sound that was similar to the wind blowing. The Doppelganger's Greatsword was embedded deep into his heart.
"You…!"
The incensed Dark Bus jumped up. He had the weakest combat power of the Yatan Servants. However, he was a named boss so his health was in the millions. He wouldn't die from these two strikes.
Grid questioned.
'Why hasn't he died yet?'
Grid didn't know Dark Bus' identity. He just thought the opponent was a simple black magician. He assumed that one or two blows would kill Dark Bus. However, he had unexpectedly high health. Therefore, Grid used his insight and confirmed Dark Bus' attack power.
'20,000.'
It was the combat power of a field boss. Then why was he so weak?
'Anyway, I think he is the mid-boss of this quest.'
Grid determined and pulled out Failure and the Doppelganger's Greatsword. Blood sprang out from both of Dark Bus' injuries. Failure and the Doppelganger's Greatsword rose above his head before once again descending.
Pagma's Swordsmanship, Pinnacle. It exerted tremendous power.
“Kuaaaaak!”
Deep wounds were carved on both of Dark Bus' shoulders. Dark Bus couldn't understand it at all.
'Mana Shield is useless!'
The opponent was stronger than imagined. If this continued, he would die. It wasn't good to face Grid from the front. Dark Bus hid behind Asmophel. Then he tried to command the brainwashed Asmosphel who was standing around like a doll. But Grid's actions were faster.
"Wave."
The shockwaves aimed at Dark Bus. He was filled with pain as his neck was struck.
Puok!
[Critical!]
[Failure's option effect is activated, causing the skill 'Bisect' to be generated.]
[Failure's option effect is activated, causing the skill '5 Joint Attacks' to be generated.]
Flop.
Dark Bus lost his head and collapsed. It was truly the last attack.
"Why is a magician so durable… Huh?"
Grid clicked his tongue at the persistent health. Then notification windows flashed in front of Grid.
[You have defeated the Seventh Servant Dark Bus, who spread chaos through the world!]
[You have saved the Saharan Empire from a crisis by interfering with the conspiracy of the Yatan Church.]
[Reputation throughout the continent will rise by +3.000.]
[You currently have 28,110 reputation throughout the continent. You can use the Reputation Store when your reputation reaches over 30,000.]
[The title 'Secret Hero' has been obtained.]
[The title ‘Yatan Servant's Slaughterer' has been obtained.]
[Three Blessed Weapon Enhancement Stones have been acquired.]
[Seven Blessed Armour Enhancement Stones have been acquired.]
[Three deluxe magic stones has been acquired.]
[Dark Bus' Earrings have been acquired.]
[Dark Bus' Ring has been acquired.]
[88,052,440 experience has been acquired.]
[Your level has risen.]
"…?"
Grid was stunned. A Yatan Servant? This weak guy?
Asmophel was liberated from the brainwashing and approached Grid, who was staring blankly at Dark Bus' corpse.
“The hero who punished the wicked Yatan Servant. My savior… Can you listen to my unfair story?"
['The True Traitor of the Red Knights (SS)' quest has been changed to the 'Hidden Story (Hidden)' quest.]
What was this situation?
“???”
The question marks in Grid's head didn't disappear. Asmosphel spoke as Grid made a stupid expression.
“One day, Empress Marie came to me."
It was a long story. Asmophel explained in detail how Marie approached him and sowed discord with Piaro. The Yatan Essence. A single drop of it could extremely weaken the human mind and cause the body's mana to become chaotic.
He talked about the process of being brainwashed by Dark Bus and becoming a perfect puppet. Asmophel was trembling and crying when talking about being used, and eventually ruining Piaro and his colleagues.
"Someday… If the day comes when you meet a man called Piaro, please tell him this. I'm sorry. I'm really sorry."
Asmophel pulled out his sword and pointed it at his own neck. He moved the sword without any hesitation. Asmophel's sword touched his neck. He intended to atone for his atrocities with death.
But he couldn’t die. Grid stopped him before the sword could deeply pierce his neck. Grid reached out to him.
"Don't leave it to others and apologize directly."
The first condition of the hidden quest that Grid obtained was the reunion of Piaro and Asmophel. The people who were praised as the pillars of the empire in the past were about to be reborn as Reidan's pillars.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 256
The VIP room in the lord's castle.
Damian sat facing the Overgeared members and opened his mouth. He talked about how he met Grid and the circumstances behind his arrival in Reidan. Damian explained all the facts as much as possible. There was no reason to hide it from the Overgeared members.
The silently listening Vantner started tearing up.
“Struggling to save a beloved woman…! It's truly a beautiful story!"
It wasn't good seeing a big bald man crying. If Pon was here, he would definitely tease Vantner. But Pon was still on the mission with Regas. They had already disappeared for two days. It was estimated that they discovered an instance dungeon and were cut off from the outside world.
Lauel ignored Vantner's runny nose and asked Damian.
“I understand that you have to meet Grid in order to save Rebecca's Daughters. But why were you working in the fields? Someone like you would've been treated very well if you visited the administrator, and then we could've been contacted quickly."
There were dozens of large and small religions in Satisfy, but the Rebecca Church was unequaled. The number of members was estimated to exceed 80 million. Damian was a pope candidate, so he would be given VIP treatment wherever he went. So why was he farming?
"That…"
Damian wanted to throw up as the Overgeared members looked at him with confusion.
'Why didn't he meet the administrator of the city?' This was all due to Piaro. But he was too embarrassed to tell them the truth. In addition, his grudge against Piaro disappeared after receiving the hidden quest. Rather, they were friends now.
He covered up the truth. "I originally liked doing farming work."
“I see."
People always had a variety of hobbies. There was no reason to lie, so the Overgeared members didn't doubt Damian's words.
That's right. The Overgeared members didn't know about the atrocities Piaro was committing outside. They couldn't imagine that Piaro would fight people passing them, then make them become farmers. Damian felt sorry for the second and third victims who would appear in the future.
“Who was the other person with you?"
"An outsider. I don't know who he is either. He never revealed his identity until the end."
"I see…"
'Perhaps I should put the Eyes of Surveillance on him.'
Lauel wasn't too wary. Piaro would've filtered out anyone who wanted to harm Reidan. Lauel trusted Piaro. Now Lauel's concern was focused solely on Damian.
'If Grid is the benefactor of the pope…'
The relationship between Reidan and the Rebecca Church would become closer, and there would be an active exchange. If they could build a Rebecca Temple in Reidan, all residents would get the buff effect and there would be priests present. The number of people would also naturally increase.
Lauel grabbed Damian's dirty hands.
"Damian, the Overgeared Guild is wholeheartedly committed to helping you. I will help you win the pope election, as well as persuade Grid to save Rebecca's Daughters. Just tell me if you have anything you need."
This was a pumpkin vine that rolled over. Lauel absolutely wouldn't miss it. Lauel smiled as kindly as possible. It was the smile of hospitality workers. However, Damian wasn't familiar with Lauel and was genuinely thrilled.
“So kind…! Thank you! Thank you so much! I will give you a pillow printed with an image of my beautiful Isabel-chan as a present!"
"Huhuhut… I'm glad to be able to help you. The alter ego that I sealed in the past is dancing."
'What are they saying?'
'I don't know.'
The Overgeared members couldn't properly interpret the conversation between Lauel and Damian. It was hard to crack.
***
Rabbit was aware of Piaro's abilities, even before the Overgeared members knew Piaro's identity. It wasn't difficult to grasp the reality of a person with his discerning eyes. Even so, there was only one reason why he left Piaro as a farmer.
Reidan's finances. If he acknowledged Piaro's skills and gave him the right position, Rabbit would have to pay him a high salary. This would increase Reidan's financial burdens. Rabbit pretended not to know Piaro's true abilities and kept him as a farmer.
As as result, Rabbit got the maximum efficiency for a minimum wage. In addition, the wheat fields were a farmer's domain. The farmer Piaro, who received a salary of 73 silver, defended Reidan by defeating the enemies who invaded his territory.
The result was more than expected. It was truly amazing. But at the same time, it was frustrating.
'I need to reward him for his performance…'
If Rabbit converted the value of Piaro's work to money, it would be at least several hundred million gold. Of course, Reidan didn't have those type of funds.
'I have to give him something.'
A granting of a prize was the domain of the lord, not the administrator. Grid was currently away, so it was impossible to give the right compensation to Piaro.
'Then…'
Rabbit showed the utmost sincerity to Piaro within the scope of his current authority.
[I, Administrator Rabbit, appoint the farmer Piaro to become the wheat fields manager.]
It was the moment when Piaro's salary was raised to 2 gold and 30 silver. It was a wage increase of more than three times. This was the amount of money that Rabbit's conscience allowed.
***
[One of the continent's 10 great magicians fighting for Duke Grid!]
The provocative title heated up the Internet all over the world.
The real-time search queries were taken up by 'Grid,' 'Earl Ashur,' '10 great magicians of the continent,' 'seven guilds,' 'Reidan's invasion,' and so on. The news about the emergence of a legendary farmer was buried under all of this.
Bunny Bunny, the one who spread this incident, received a huge jackpot.
'The seven guilds except for the Giant Guild conspired to invade Reidan. In the process, the Yak Guild and Zeraph Guild were ruthlessly trampled on by Earl Ashur.’
The contents and images meant that Bunny Bunny's live internet broadcast reached 300,000, and the cumulative viewers rose to 600,000 in one day. Bunny Bunny not only accumulated an enormous wealth, he also recovered his reputation.
The world's best gaming BJ succeeded in a splendid recovery.
–Grid is amazing. He has Earl Ashur as a subordinate. ㄷㄷ
–Isn't Earl Ashur the strongest person in the Eternal Kingdom…? Wow, really? He really is God Grid.
–I'm living in the US and Grid appears on TV every day. ㅋㅋㅋ I don't think there is anyone in the US who doesn't know about Grid. ㅋㅋㅋ
–I'm going to school in Japan. After the National Competition, all my Japanese friends ask me about Grid. I am proud to be Korean thanks to Grid-nim.ㅎ
-But what about the four guilds apart from the Yak Guild and Zeraph Guild?
–My friend's cousin's wife's friend is part of the Golden Guild and according to him, the seven guilds were wiped out by the farmers of Reidan.
–Sigh… ㅉ ㅉ There is a fantasy novelist everywhere. If you are writing a novel, it should at least make sense.
The Korean netizens were particularly excited. They were proud to be Korean every time Grid did something that caught the attention of the world.
But in fact, Grid himself didn't know about Reidan's invasion. The Overgeared members didn't report anything to him because they were afraid it would interfere with his quest. Thanks to that, Grid was able to solely concentrate on his quest.
***
The capital of the Saharan Empire, Titan.
Grid arrived in front of Asmophel's mansion after a three week journey and opened his status window.
Name: Grid
Level: 291
Class: Pagma's Descendant
…
Strength: 2,770(+140) Stamina: 1,246(+120)
Agility: 1,626(+110) Intelligence: 711(+310)
Dexterity: 1,634(+660) Persistence: 958(+110)
Composure: 658(+110) Indomitable: 913(+220)
Dignity: 1,566(+110) Insight: 1,406(+110)
Courage: 602(+110) Demonic Magic Power: 31
…
The stats were beyond overwhelming. Due to the penalty that happened when producing his fifth legendary item, his stats growth rate was several times slower than it was in the past, but he wasn't disappointed.
He still grew when making items and the titles he acquired after much hardships also significantly increased his stats. He had items, skills, and now control. Grid could confidently assert, 'I am the best.'
He had reached his peak after living 28 years. His confidence and motivation boiled over.
"Asmophel." The person who framed Piaro as a traitor. “Now it's time for you to lose."
The red light of the Slaughterer's Eye Patch shone as he put on the white Hooded Zip Up.
***
Asmophel was a noble and sincere man. He was born as the eldest son of Earl Pedro, one of the three fingers of the emperor and loyal to his role while suffering from severe pressure. He didn't neglect training in the sword according to the laws of his family. As a result, he joined the Red Knights at a young age and raised his reputation.
This was a life of fragility. He built new achievements almost every day and expanded his social network. Amosphel was praised as a pillar of the empire along with his closest friend, Piaro. But he lost everything the moment he fell for Empress Marie's trick.
He stabbed the dagger in the hearts of his friends and colleagues. Every day was a nightmare.
"Damn bitch!"
Ku tang tang tang!
Amosphel knocked over the table filled with alcohol.
Empress Marie. He borrowed the power of alcohol to forget about that damn woman, but he couldn't forget. Her intense beauty couldn't be erased from his mind.
"Piaro…! My friend!"
He was sorry. Really sorry. He had shouted it over a hundred times already. But he was well aware that his heart couldn't be passed onto Piaro. That made his heart more pained.
"What's going on?"
The knights heard the fuss and came running. They wore red armor. They were knights loyal to Marie, who watched over Asmophel under the name of protection. Due to them, Asmophel was trapped in this mansion for years.
“Dog scum…”
Asmophel didn't hide his hatred and anger. He looked around to find a weapon. But there were no weapons. The knights whispered to each other before bringing over a magician. It was a black magician. Asmophel trembled as soon as he saw the black magician.
“S-Stop!"
He tried to resist, but it was useless. He suffered a serious injury from Piaro and his body and mind had been compromised by drugs and black magic for years. Therefore, he now had a weak iron will.
Teong!
A powerful brainwashing magic was used and Asmophel's angry and fearful face became expressionless.
"Who is Piaro?"
“A traitor of the empire and your enemy."
Asmophel's eyes became wet as he answered the questions without hesitation. It was the remnant of the tears he shed before being brainwashed.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 257
The task of the Yatan Church was to create chaos in the world.
It was to create an environment where dark magic was activated by drawing out the pain and despair in people's hearts, then bringing the 33 great demons to the earth.
It was the will of God Yatan.
***
Three years ago.
Emperor Juander recruited top healers and priests from all over the continent. It was to save Empress Aria, who was on her deathbed. But nobody could heal Aria. The healers and priests said it was impossible unless the legendary Saintess appeared.
The gold piled up like a mountain and the imperial treasures didn't help. Aria, the mother of the imperial princes and princesses. Juander had to watch as his dear wife died.
After Aria died.
Juander truly loved her, so he fell into a deep sorrow. He neglected the affairs of the empire, drank every night, and became ill. It was his 2nd Empress, Marie, who comforted him. She was the mother of the 4th Imperial Prince and had an intense beauty.
Thanks to her devotion, Juander managed to overcome his grief. From then on, Marie's world opened. Juander overcame his sense of loss thanks to Marie. Therefore, he favored Marie and her power skyrocketed into the sky.
It was the prelude to a common story. Marie did all types of things in order to make her son the next in line. Using her beauty, power, and the black magicians under her, she did all types of wicked things, including dissolving the Red Knights and nobles who supported the 1st Imperial Prince.
Now three years had passed. Marie had an incomparably strong support base compared to the past. Numerous nobles supported her and the 4th Prince, while the reorganized Red Knights were loyal to her.
Marie was satisfied. She had no doubt that her son would be the next emperor. However, the one who laughed at her was her closest black magician, Dive.
Dive. A black magician who served Marie's family before she became an empress. In fact, he had died in the past. It was at the hand of the 7th Servant, Dark Bus. That's right. Dark Bus was currently pretending to be Dive. He was the best at curses in the Yatan Church, and his mission was to confuse the Saharan Empire.
"It won't be long now."
Once the 4th Prince, who lacked adaptability, became their heir, the forces supporting the 1st Prince wouldn't be able to endure it and a bloody battle would take place in the empire. What would happen if the empire fell into chaos?
Many people would feel despair or die, and the black magic would come to life. It would be enough magic power to call up a great demon!
“I will soon be compensated for my hard work over the last three years."
It was a really hard three years. The empire's magicians and sages were powerful, so he had to pay extra attention to avoid being noticed. He could never relax. But now the hardships were over.
"Kulkulkul…"
It was the moment when the old man's laughter echoed in the dark room…
"Heok?"
The extensive ward that he installed around Asmophel's mansion was destroyed. Dark Bus perceived this and panicked.
"Intruder?"
Asmophel was a useful tool. He was once praised for being a pillar of the empire, and his emotional despair was very strong after setting up Piaro as a traitor. Dark Bus was obliged to maintain Asmophel's brainwashing. Therefore, he stayed in Asmophel's mansion to watch and protect him.
For the past several years, he had been careful to prevent any outsider from stepping foot into Asmophel's mansion. But at this moment, his amulet was destroyed and an intruder was allowed.
'My wards were broken so easily?'
It was rare for someone to have this power on the continent. The person would certainly be a great force. But his magic power detected only one intruder. He didn't have to be too nervous. Dark Bus recovered his composure. He went to the living room and found the knights.
The Red Knights had finished their shift and had swapped with the Black Knights.
"Great!"
It was a crisis so Dark Bus needed those he could trust. Dark Bus found it hard to direct the Red Knights. They were too proud. Dark Bus was accompanied by only the Black Knights and left the mansion.
“Attention!"
The soldiers standing on the edge of the gardens found Dark Bus' group and saluted. The soldiers weren't yet aware of the presence of an intruder.
‘It's a covert intrusion…'
But it was useless in front of Dark Bus. He could detect the enemy's position with his magic power.
Ssik.
Dark Bus smiled and shouted to the Black Knights.
“Intruder! Gather your power and take a defensive posture!"
Once the command was received, the soldiers rushed to the entrance of the mansion. There were 120 elite soldiers, two Black Knights and Dark Bus; it was a truly spectacular sight.
Paruru.
Dark Bus used his powerful magic power to detect the intruder. 200 meters ahead.
"Reveal yourself!"
Dark Bus shouted and released his magic power, causing the intruder to be revealed. It was a man wearing a bizarre type of robe and a mask covered his face.
'Who?'
Black hair and red eyes shining in the darkness. A person he had never seen before.
"Who are you?"
The intruder, Grid, answered Dark Bus' question. "What else? An enemy."
Grid didn't speak for long. It took him three weeks to get here, so he didn't want to waste time when he had reached the quest's end point.
Tadat!
Grid gradually narrowed the 200m distance to the soldiers. The elite soldiers of the empire were calm. They pulled out their swords and took the posture of the Imperial Swordsmanship. The soldiers in the rear of the mansion shot fire arrows.
'Fairly good.' Grid admired. The soldiers seemed to have a very high level compared to those he had previously seen. 'But so what?'
Chaeeeeeng!
He used the Divine Shield to defend against the arrows, then he swapped the shield with Failure.
Jjeejeeeong!
“Ku…heok!"
Five soldiers groaned and were thrown into the air as the blue-white Failure moved. Grid's strength transcended an ogre, and was at a level that the soldiers couldn't afford to go against.
"Wahhhh!"
The other soldiers moved forward, trampling on their colleagues. Then Grid used a skill.
"Blacksmith’s Rage."
Blacksmith's Rage Lv. 4 increased Grid's attack power by 25% and his attack speed by 40%. There was also Failure's option that 'increased attack power by 20% in the dark.'
Seokeok! Kwajijik!
Under the moonlight, the sword sliced through the armour and shields, damaging the bodies of the soldiers. It was an overwhelming dance. The fatalities would keep increasing if they attacked in ones or twos. There was no chance of victory. The soldiers surrounded Grid and exchanged signals to attack from all sides. Grid laughed as the soldiers prepared a circular formation to isolate him.
'I can break through with power.'
The concept of tactics was different in the face of a clear difference in power. He could kill more than half of them if he used Transcended Link. However, Grid knew it was a foolish thing to waste skills against these minor opponents. But he also didn't want to waste stamina fighting them one by one.
'Let's take it easy.'
During the past three weeks, Grid's experience had increased from constant hunting and levelling.
Grid's vision expanded and he now looked at the entire battlefield. There were flower beds, trees and fountains all over the garden. Grid moved towards the most complex terrain, in order to make it difficult for the opponent to pass.
The formation of the soldiers following him slowly collapsed. The two or three soldiers chasing after him? They died from the greatsword before they could approach Grid.
"Ugh!"
"Kyaak!"
The soldiers were unable to take advantage of their superior numbers as Grid ran through the garden. The soldiers shrank back as the flesh and blood of their colleagues scattered. They no longer tried to chase Grid. The Black Knights determined the flow and asked Dark Bus.
“Sir Dive, please use curse magic."
"Yes."
Dark Bus replied and quickly drew a red magic circle. It was the appearance of a magic circle that dramatically increased black magic casting speed. Dark Bus completed the magic circle and started successively casting curses.
"Amplify Damage! Lower Resist! Lower Blessing!"
It was the moment when curse magic that had tremendous power, such as increasing the damage received, reducing resistance and reducing stats all hit Grid.
"Let's go."
The Black Knights moved. They were confident that they could destroy the weakened intruder in 10 seconds. Dark Bus hurriedly exclaimed.
"W-Wait a minute…!"
The curse magic didn't work! However, he had no time to say this. The Black Knights who transcended human physical abilities were already close to Grid. Grid faced them and sent them a disturbing smile.
"Pagma's Swordsmanship, Restraint."
An unknown fear dominated the Black Knights.
"Kuk…?"
"What is this?"
The Black Knights were confused and backed away. Grid stepped away from the fountain and narrowed the distance to them using the footwork of Kill.
Puok!
"…!"
The Black Knight pierced by the blue greatsword couldn't even scream. A large amount of blood spilled out as the black knight flopped down.
"Crazy!"
The other Black Knight cried out as he saw his colleague hit. He barely escaped from the influence of Restraint.
"You! What type of black magic did you use?"
“Black magic?"
Grid contemplated the Black Knights. The Vital Spot Detection of the Slaughterer's Eye Patch was activated, and the red light became darker.
“This is a technique, not black magic."
Seven golden blades appeared behind Grid.
Puuoooook!
It was a perfect accuracy and speed that was hard to respond to. The golden blades persistently aimed at the seams of the Black Knight's armor. The movements of the Black Knight slowed down as blades were inserted in the joints, then Grid used Link.
Chaaeng! Chaaeng!
The Black Knight tried his best. He swung the sword in his hand. Resistance was hopeless. Link was currently level 5. The ability of the level 255 Black Knight couldn't resist it.
10, 15, 20, 25, 30 times. Dozens of energy blades sliced apart the body of the Black Knight in an instant.
"Cough…!"
Plop!
The ragged Black Knight stumbled and fell into the fountain. The soldiers were at a loss for words as they saw the blood spreading. Two of the Black Knights that represented the empire had died in the blink of an eye? Was it an impossible dream?
The soldiers thought they were having a nightmare. Dark Bus had been baffled that his curse magic didn't work. Now he belatedly noticed Grid's identity.
‘Resisting curses, that blue greatsword and the golden blades…! Yes! He's the one Balak told me about!'
The Fifth Servant of the Yatan Church, Balak. He invaded Bairan along with the Fourth Servant, Neberius, and was defeated. At that time, Balak had said. In Bairan, there is a monster that users a blue greatsword and golden artifact. He killed Malacus and Neberius. He called himself…
"Templar…"
No.
“Overgeared!"
Why was this person here? He should be in the Eternal Kingdom, so why did he come to the empire to interfere with Dark Bus?
"Do you intend to waste my three years of hard work?"
Dark Bus was frustrated. He wondered if God Yatan had abandoned him.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
Chapter 258
'He's evidently from the Rebecca Church!'
Why did the person with the power to kill two of the Yatan's Servants appear in front of him now? It was to kill Dark Bus. Grid was the secret weapon of the Rebecca Church. He existed in order to obstruct the tasks of our church.
Dark Bus misunderstood. It was a reasonable misunderstanding.
'I must kill him here. If we allow him to run free anymore, our church will be in a quandary.'
Dark Bus continued to cast magic on Grid, who was focusing on fighting with the soldiers. But it wasn't easy to hit him. It was difficult to find a gap due to Grid's proper use of the terrain, and the golden blades responded quickly to repeatedly block the magic.
'Shit… He's someone who defeated Neberius, and I can't raise my attack power.'
Dark Bus specialized in curse magic, but his attack magic was weak. He was the best at making a plot and directing the stage, but his combat power was the weakest among the Yatan Servants.
'Why curse magic…!?'
The fundamental problem was that Grid was fully resistant to curses. Dark Bus couldn't exert any power against him. It was really the worst situation. Dark Bus wondered about what to do and quickly recalled something.
'Asmophel!'
Asmophel was the next greatest swordsman after Piaro. He lost his skills over the past years, but he was still stronger than a regular knight.
'He has recently recovered from the wound given by Piaro… In the past few years, he has been constantly taking God Yatan's essence.'
If Dark Bus strengthened him with magic power, the strongest monster would be born.
'Overgeared! This place will be your grave today!'
Dark Bus shouted with a smile.
"Come out! Asmophel!"
Dark Bus was the friendly courier bringing Grid's quest target to him. He was the popular type.
***
Two soldiers crossed the garden and stabbed at Grid. A notification window popped up in front of Grid while he avoided the attacks.
[Your demonic power has increased by two.]
Demonic power. It was unfortunate stat that allowed him entry to hell if the number increased enough. Every time he killed a user or NPC, this stat increased by one.
Hell, the name was ominous, so he didn't want to go there.
'The useless stat keeps on rising.'
Grid examined the battlefield. There were 61 soldiers remaining. There was also the black magician that was as annoying as a fly. If he killed all of them, his demonic power would rise to 154.
'There is the possibility that reinforcements will arrive.'
Should he borrow his pet's hands? Would his demonic power soar if he killed a person with his pet? Randy hadn't killed anyone when he fought the White Wolf Guild. Randy played a supporting role while Grid massacred them. Therefore, there was no basis for this premise.
It was worth experimenting. Grid pulled Noe out of the inventory. There was no need to summon Randy to experiment. He didn't want to distribute his experience between two pets.
"Jjang! The best demonic beast of hell has emerged! Nyang!"
Noe wanted to appear nicely and stretched out his limbs. But his limbs were so short that it looked funny rather than nice.
'How come he's getting cuter?'
Grid wanted to say. Along with the sound effect… How was this guy a demonic beast from hell? Grid laughed and confirmed Noe's status window.
Name: Noe
Species: Memphis
Level: 151
Status: Happy
(Ohhhh! This gorgeous appearance has emerged! Nyahahat!)
…
-Current Skills List-
[Fluidization] [Soul Ingestion] [Scratch] [Bewitchment]
…
Noe acquired the Bewitchment skill when he reached level 150. It was a useful skill that caused the enemy to lose their will to fight. The imperial soldiers might have excellent skills, but they weren't a match for Noe. Noe could hunt much higher level monsters if he used his skills well. Unless Noe wasn't alert and allowed attacks, it was a fraudulent existence.
Grid defended against the magic coming from the black magician with the pavranium, while ordering Noe at the same time.
"Go on a rampage."
"Nyang!"
Noe flapped his small wings and flew to a soldier. The soldier tried to shake Noe off, but he was very slippery. He lightly moved to the side and stretched out his short legs. The moment the soldier was struck with the soft pink soles, the soldier witnessed stars revolving around his head.
'It hurts?'
To the soldier's astonishment, blood poured down from the wound. The cat followed up with the sharp claws.
"Nya nya nya nya nyang!"
Noe wielded his paws at a speed that wasn't visible. The soldier's face quickly became bloody.
"This crazy cat!"
The soldier struggled to shake Noe off. He waved his sword around. But Noe didn't stop attacking while evading. Relentless and cruel. He truly was a demonic beast of hell.
“Ugh.”
Grid's face distorted the moment the soldier collapsed.
[125,600 experience has been acquired. Some experience has been distributed to your pet 'Noe.']
[Your demonic power has increased by one.]
'Shit!'
It seemed that his demonic power rose even when it was his pet doing the murdering. Therefore, Grid didn't hesitate. He recalled Noe in order to monopolize the experience, and started the slaughter.
Grid constantly used the Hooded Zip Up and started wielding two greatswords. The soldiers were unable to cling to Grid's body due to the moving barrier of golden blades. They died in vain.
'Just a little bit more.'
Grid's eyes fixed on the entrance of the mansion after killing three soldiers with the Doppelganger's Greatsword.
There. Asmophel was in that mansion. This long journey ended with killing him. The quest reward would increase Piaro's affinity to the maximum, then…
'Piaro, be my sword.'
Grid was thrilled with excitement at the thought of gaining a great swordsman as a subordinate.
Peeng!
The warlock guarding the entrance of the mansion fired magic again. Grid frowned.
'This bug is annoying.'
A black magician was very weak. Based on the level of attack magic used, it seemed like he was only around level 200. But he was a little annoying to Grid. Grid took care of the remaining soldiers and then rushed to the mansion. He was ready to quickly get rid of this black magician and fight against Asmophel.
'Did he hear the disturbance and already run away?'
The moment Grid was worrying about this…
"Come out! Asmophel!"
The sloppy looking black magician shouted and a slender man appeared. The name above his head was clearly Asmophel.
“…What?"
His target was coming to him? Grid was surprised by the unexpected development and the black magician shouted.
“Your rampage ends here! You will receive divine punishment…!"
Dark Bus couldn't finish his cry. It was because Grid's Failure had already hit his neck.
"…!"
Dark Bus fell with a moaning sound that was similar to the wind blowing. The Doppelganger's Greatsword was embedded deep into his heart.
"You…!"
The incensed Dark Bus jumped up. He had the weakest combat power of the Yatan Servants. However, he was a named boss so his health was in the millions. He wouldn't die from these two strikes.
Grid questioned.
'Why hasn't he died yet?'
Grid didn't know Dark Bus' identity. He just thought the opponent was a simple black magician. He assumed that one or two blows would kill Dark Bus. However, he had unexpectedly high health. Therefore, Grid used his insight and confirmed Dark Bus' attack power.
'20,000.'
It was the combat power of a field boss. Then why was he so weak?
'Anyway, I think he is the mid-boss of this quest.'
Grid determined and pulled out Failure and the Doppelganger's Greatsword. Blood sprang out from both of Dark Bus' injuries. Failure and the Doppelganger's Greatsword rose above his head before once again descending.
Pagma's Swordsmanship, Pinnacle. It exerted tremendous power.
“Kuaaaaak!”
Deep wounds were carved on both of Dark Bus' shoulders. Dark Bus couldn't understand it at all.
'Mana Shield is useless!'
The opponent was stronger than imagined. If this continued, he would die. It wasn't good to face Grid from the front. Dark Bus hid behind Asmophel. Then he tried to command the brainwashed Asmosphel who was standing around like a doll. But Grid's actions were faster.
"Wave."
The shockwaves aimed at Dark Bus. He was filled with pain as his neck was struck.
Puok!
[Critical!]
[Failure's option effect is activated, causing the skill 'Bisect' to be generated.]
[Failure's option effect is activated, causing the skill '5 Joint Attacks' to be generated.]
Flop.
Dark Bus lost his head and collapsed. It was truly the last attack.
"Why is a magician so durable… Huh?"
Grid clicked his tongue at the persistent health. Then notification windows flashed in front of Grid.
[You have defeated the Seventh Servant Dark Bus, who spread chaos through the world!]
[You have saved the Saharan Empire from a crisis by interfering with the conspiracy of the Yatan Church.]
[Reputation throughout the continent will rise by +3.000.]
[You currently have 28,110 reputation throughout the continent. You can use the Reputation Store when your reputation reaches over 30,000.]
[The title 'Secret Hero' has been obtained.]
[The title ‘Yatan Servant's Slaughterer' has been obtained.]
[Three Blessed Weapon Enhancement Stones have been acquired.]
[Seven Blessed Armour Enhancement Stones have been acquired.]
[Three deluxe magic stones has been acquired.]
[Dark Bus' Earrings have been acquired.]
[Dark Bus' Ring has been acquired.]
[88,052,440 experience has been acquired.]
[Your level has risen.]
"…?"
Grid was stunned. A Yatan Servant? This weak guy?
Asmophel was liberated from the brainwashing and approached Grid, who was staring blankly at Dark Bus' corpse.
“The hero who punished the wicked Yatan Servant. My savior… Can you listen to my unfair story?"
['The True Traitor of the Red Knights (SS)' quest has been changed to the 'Hidden Story (Hidden)' quest.]
What was this situation?
“???”
The question marks in Grid's head didn't disappear. Asmosphel spoke as Grid made a stupid expression.
“One day, Empress Marie came to me."
It was a long story. Asmophel explained in detail how Marie approached him and sowed discord with Piaro. The Yatan Essence. A single drop of it could extremely weaken the human mind and cause the body's mana to become chaotic.
He talked about the process of being brainwashed by Dark Bus and becoming a perfect puppet. Asmophel was trembling and crying when talking about being used, and eventually ruining Piaro and his colleagues.
"Someday… If the day comes when you meet a man called Piaro, please tell him this. I'm sorry. I'm really sorry."
Asmophel pulled out his sword and pointed it at his own neck. He moved the sword without any hesitation. Asmophel's sword touched his neck. He intended to atone for his atrocities with death.
But he couldn’t die. Grid stopped him before the sword could deeply pierce his neck. Grid reached out to him.
"Don't leave it to others and apologize directly."
The first condition of the hidden quest that Grid obtained was the reunion of Piaro and Asmophel. The people who were praised as the pillars of the empire in the past were about to be reborn as Reidan's pillars.
OG:
Current schedule: 20 chapters a week.
