152 - 159

Chapter 152 – Along with the Dragon (5)

Splash!

The moment Superbia sensed that this was an opponent it couldn't face, it chose to run away without any hesitation.

As part of the Seven Sins, Pride aimed to be the culmination of all living things. For someone who pursued the peak of life, 'survival' was an absolute necessity. Due to that, it could throw away its pride.

As someone said, one's will to survive was always strong.

While Superbia flew through the water, it muttered in order to soothe its wounded pride. –Don't think that this is enough to win over me, Gluttony's monkey! Your ability means you won't be able to summon it for a long time. As soon as the dragon disappears, I will kill you!

Surprisingly, Superbia's prediction was reasonable. Superbia's intuition couldn't be overlooked after existing for tens of thousands of years and experiencing countless battles with other grimoires, knights, and magicians.

It was like Superbia said. Without the special offering of 'Charlotte's Necklace,' Theodore wouldn't be able to summon Fafnir for even one second. The necklace, which contained the souls of a kingdom, allowed that primordial monster to be summoned for seven seconds at most.

Now, the time remaining for Fafnir was four seconds.

–Kuhuhu, let's see if you can catch me with that huge body!

Superbia's speed was staggeringly fast after shifting into many marine traits, as it managed to move hundreds of meters in a few seconds. Fafnir looked down at the surface of the water and chuckled in a mocking tone.

Speed and strategy, everything was meaningless before it.

『Obliterate.』

The fire dragon took a deep breath.

It took one second for the endless heat to converge. Then it took another second to process the converged heat into the form of a ray. Lastly, it took one second to check the position of the target and aim.

In the Age of Mythology, this was the breath which burned the original world trees, and even transcendents were reluctant to face it. The light, which was like a 'laser,' seemed to erase the world. Fafnir, Muspelheim's incarnation, used the strongest means of attack available to it.

―――――――――――――!

It wasn't a flame but a small supernova. The small supernova penetrated through the air resistance and pierced the surface of the sea faster than lightning. The seawater evaporated before the ray reached, and the water exploded from the heat, stirring up a small tsunami. This was merely the aftermath of the disaster…

And it only targeted one being.

–N-No…! This attack…!

As it split into hundreds—no, thousands of pieces in one second, Superbia's senses warned it of absolute death.

It had stockpiled countless lives and amounts of energy, but this ray was outside of the norm. The destruction rate overwhelmed its regeneration speed, and the destructive power surpassed its accumulated energy.

Pride realized that it couldn't survive and screamed.

–I, how can a monkey do this to me-!

It cried out before being erased by the ray.

-Kua…a…ahh…hhhhhh…!

After one or two seconds, Superbia's terrible regenerative power soon reached its limit. All of the energy stored in its cells was exhausted. Once this function was stopped, there would be nothing left.

Kukukukukung…!

However, the flash which burned Pride didn't stop there. The intense light ray pierced through the water pressure toward the bottom of the sea. The sleeping undersea volcano woke up, and seismic waves spread out, upsetting the ecosystem of the distant ocean. When comparing it to chess, it was like shattering the chessboard with a hammer.

The monstrous dragon ended the situation with one attack and declared in a languid voice, 『Extermination complete, returning.』

It disappeared just as quickly as it appeared. After the seven-second summoning of Fafnir was finished, the darkness which had fled over the horizon returned to its original position. The outside air pushed into the vacuum, and the hot atmosphere calmed down.

"You did it, Senior."

As his ragged clothes flapped, Theodore stared up at the sky with a weary look. There was no voice to reply to him as Satomer's soul had become part of him and would travel forward with Theodore. He felt a small sense of comfort if he thought like that.

As soon as he realized that everything was over, Theodore's consciousness cut out like a broken rope.

Huuk-

There was no magic power left to keep the magic spell going, so the young man fell from the sky. The winner of the great battle was caught in a rare gentle touch by the sea dragon, Aquilo.

"…Huh, you have done something ridiculous," she murmured in an astonished and weak voice.

Aquilo cooled down the area using the power of a sea dragon, but it would take a few more days for it to return to the normal temperature. Additionally, the water which had become too salty due to the rapid evaporation had to be restored, as well as the ocean currents which had become messy due to the seismic waves.

Aquilo started sweating as she looked down at Theodore and thought inwardly, 'Boy, did you prepare this magic to fight me?'

There was no way he could have prepared this disposable battle magic so quickly. Aquilo thought for a moment about snapping Theodore's neck, before sighing to herself.

Regardless of the circumstances, these two people had saved her, and she owed them a life debt. A dragon's pride was high, so she couldn't tolerate doing such a cowardly act. In the end, Aquilo laughed as she looked at the brightening horizon.

"Doesn't this mean I almost died twice in a day? It was an interesting day. More so than my 1,000 years of boredom."

This struggle had involved a being from the Age of Mythology, which had ended before she was born. Today's fight was memorable even for the dragon who had lived close to 1,000 years. Aquilo, who ruled the sea, laughed pleasantly and turned away from the sun.

Three shadows were cast under the light of the rising sun.

* * *

Theodore felt relieved the moment he woke up from a deep sleep.

A magician could threaten a dragon, so he had considered the possibility of being killed by the vigilant Aquilo. Fortunately, she had decided to leave him alive.

'…This place?'

The bed was so comfortable and luxurious that he couldn't help feeling sleepy as he touched it. He still hadn't recovered completely, so he wanted to fall asleep. However, Theodore had to check something beforehand.

"Gluttony."

–You woke up, User. As always, a blunt voice welcomed him.

"You don't need to give a greeting. Rather, what happened with Pride?"

Theo had been able to see its annihilation due to sharing Fafnir's senses, but he didn't know Pride's fate. A Seven Sins grimoire had extraordinary and bizarre abilities, so there was a possibility it could survive after being hit by Fafnir's laser.

However, Gluttony dispelled Theodore's worries.

–Totally destroyed.

"Are you sure?"

–Not even one cell remains as it was all melted. At the very least, it will take 1,000 years for Pride to reappear in this world.

Theodore was puzzled by the words.

"This world? No, if Pride was completed destroyed, how can it appear again?"

–Hrmm, a lock has been released. I will explain within the allowable limits. Gluttony made a dubious sound before explaining, –First, the grimoires don't exist in this world. Both me and Pride, our bodies don't exist in this lower dimension. In order to enter this lower dimension, we need a control unit that minimizes our function and size.

"So… there is a separate body?"

-That's right.

Occasionally, there were vague terms, but Theodore concentrated on the main facts that he understood from the explanation.

According to Gluttony, the bodies of the Seven Sins lived outside this dimension in a place where no life lived. They dispatched separate bodies to a number of dimensional systems. This world's Gluttony was just one of the many separate bodies which were scattered.

Then a question suddenly popped into Theodore's head.

"Why will it take 1,000 years to come back? It can just send another separate body."

–It is simple. There is a finite number of separate bodies. The number of dimensions contemplated by the Seven Sins is indefinite, and the number of bodies sent was also close to limitless. In the rare case that a separate body is destroyed like it is now, it will take around 1,000 years to restore it.

Theodore asked again with a cold face, "Then is it impossible to completely block it from this dimension?"

–It is impossible, Gluttony replied immediately, without any hesitation. –The body that lives in the outer dimension is a 7th stage divine entity which draws information and power from the inexhaustible dimensional system. You will only become part of the mountain of dead bodies.

"So, it isn't an area that I can touch."

–That's right. User did well as a resident of this world. As of now, focus on your own work.

Theodore shook his head at the strange method of praising him, but he sensed someone was approaching. Unlike Randolph's sharp presence, she stood in front of the door with the magnificent presence of tsunami.

Aquilo didn't knock on the door as she spoke in a loud voice, "Boy, you're awake?"

"Lady Aquilo." Theodore's nervous reaction was funny.

Aquilo couldn't help smiling and pointing that out. "What, last time you called me by my name, but now… Why are you saying 'Lady'?"

"…Aquilo."

"Yes, doesn't this feel friendlier?"

Theodore felt tense leaving off the honorific, but Aquilo was pleased. She sucked on the pipe as always, then after taking a breath, she continued speaking.

"By the way, Boy, how is your stomach?"

"Stomach? Why all of a sudde-"

"You know, you were sleeping for three days."

Grrr, Theodore's stomach confirmed it. The sound was loud enough to be heard beyond the door. Theodore blushed and dropped his gaze. "..."

"Ahaha! Don't be shy. Isn't this natural for humans?" Aquilo laughed and turned around. Before leaving through the doorway, she said a few more words, "Your companion has woken up as well. Bring him down to the dining room. Tell him to dress appropriately."

"…I understand."

"Kilkil."

As the sound of Aquilo's laughter faded into the distance, Theodore sighed with relief. Randolph was also safe, and Aquilo had no hostility toward him. Theodore's knees weakened, and he sank onto the bed as he realized he had escaped from a major crisis.

He had won against Pride.

"I paid back your enemy, Seniors."

Reminded of the members of the Magic Tower convoy who had sacrificed themselves so that he and Ellenoa could escape, Theodore closed his eyes in a moment of silence for them. The scars left behind on his body and the throbbing of his circles were part of his mourning.

Then Theodore finished the moment of silence and got up.

'Let's go.'

It was time to directly experience the return of the dragon's grace, which had been heard about in many legends and from heroes.

Chapter 153 – Tell me your wish (1)

Kkiiik.

Theodore discovered a familiar face when he opened the door. Both of them had sensed each other, so they weren't greatly surprised. Bandages covered half his skin, but Randolph talked as cheerfully as always, "Oh, did the naughty and oversleeping Young Master finally wake up?"

"Meanwhile, Randolph can easily run around," Theodore spoke with in admiring voice as he examined Randolph's body.

It was as he said. After receiving Lee Yoonsung's knowledge of the human body, Theodore's diagnosis was more accurate than that of a normal healer. The noticeable injuries would take at least one month to heal. When including the injuries which weren't visible, it would take at least three months of recovery. The evidence of the survival for life and death was inscribed on Randolph's entire body.

However, Randolph nodded with a satisfied expression. "Of course. I've gained some profit from this battle, so how can I lie down and forget it?"

"Profit, surely not…?" Theodore asked with a surprised face, while Randolph laughed like he had been waiting for it.

"Well, it has only been half a day since I caught sight of it," Randolph spoke casually, but the meaning of his words was never light.

There was only one thing which would count as profit. It was the prerequisite to being a sword master—awakening the Aura Ability!

Randolph, who had been relying on his powerful aura and physical abilities, had finally stepped into the realm of transcendence. The fight with Superbia had acted as a catalyst, and another master had emerged into this world.

Theodore admired Randolph's achievement, "Congratulations. Now you are a complete sword master."

"It is complete, but if I want to use it perfectly, I'll need to train for a few years. Well, it is nothing compared to when I was wandering around aimlessly."

However, Randolph couldn't hide his joy as he chuckled and knocked against Theodore's shoulder.

If he had been practicing alone, it might've taken him five or maybe 10 years. Even though he might've gone through several dangerous situations, this achievement was the result of his relationship with Theodore. The last fight with Superbia had made it possible for him to accumulate dozens of years of experience.

After a short moment of chatting, the two people went down the stairs together.

"By the way, where is this place? No matter how I look, it doesn't seem like a dragon lair," Theodore asked.

"Ah, she said that this is a villa. It is on an island on the outskirts of the Pirate Archipelago. It is an area that the pirates can't enter."

"Villa…"

Well, a dragon didn't have to sleep in a cave. Theodore understood the explanation and looked around the interior. It wasn't comparable to the Sea God Festival, but the paintings and decorations seemed expensive. Rather, it was similar to Earl Bergen's mansion which he had visited in the past.

However, the crucial difference was the owner's presence. As soon as they stepped into a long corridor off the stairs, a clear voice rang in their heads, [This way.]

It was a voice which surpassed 'space.' It was very different from the words which were transmitted in the form of a 'voice.' Theo couldn't understand the principles, but as soon as they heard her, the structure of the mansion was fully engraved in their minds.

'Surely this… Is it Dragon Words?'

The dragon's language was the power to shorten dozens of pages of information into a few syllables. Numerous magicians in the past had tried to recreate this system, but there had never been a single successful case. Theodore's curiosity as a magician was boiling, but now wasn't the time.

The duo soon faced Aquilo at the terrace of the villa.

"Welcome. Is this your first time in a villa?"

They were lost for words as they saw her smiling faintly under the afternoon sun. Unlike before, she hid her two horns and tail, so she just looked like a beautiful woman. If there was a title of 'country's top beauty,' she would be one of the most powerful candidates on the continent.

Aquilo raised a finger toward the two people.

"Don't just stand there, sit down. I've prepared things in my own way, so let's start the story."

As Theodore and Randolph sat in the chairs, people emerged from the villa while carrying something.

'This…?'

They were steaming hot dishes with delicious scents. Theodore hadn't eaten in three days, so his mouth naturally started salivating. It was a type of dinner he had only seen when eating with Kurt III. The servants finished setting out the lavish meal, and Aquilo smiled while raising her glass.

"Cheers!"

Thus, the infamous dragon's luncheon began.

* * *

Some people might've been suspicious about this luncheon, but Theodore didn't think so.

Anyway, she had plenty of time to kill him in the last three days. So, there was no reason to use an unsightly method like poison. That's why Theodore reached out toward the prepared dishes without any hesitation. He carefully ate a bit of the meat, and…

'…Uh, isn't this really delicious?!'

It was comparable to a dish made with the skill of the Meltor royal chef, and it wasn't simply due to good ingredients. This was a dish that a first-class chef had to cook with the finest ingredients. It was gourmet cuisine which a person needed to pay dozens of gold coins for one table of food. Theodore looked at Aquilo with a surprised expression and was amazed again.

She had the most perfect table manners out of anyone he had seen so far. The location of the tableware was perfect, and no sound was made as she expertly used the knife. Her mouth had no dirty stains nor drops of sauce, leaving the napkin untouched. A dragon was faithful to their basic needs, and food was one of those.

Theodore marveled at her elegant appearance and continued to eat. Sometimes, the sound of tableware banging could be heard, and the three people's meals ended after an hour.

Clang.

As the owner of this place, Aquilo was the first to put her utensils down. "Hrmm, it was pretty good. Does it suit your taste?"

Theodore nodded without any hesitation. "It was really good. This is the level of a royal palace."

Randolph said, "I haven't experienced that, but the food was really impressive."

Their reaction was satisfactory, which caused Aquilo to smile and clap her hands several times. Shortly afterward, the people from inside the villa removed the empty plates and placed fragrant tea before the three people.

Then Aquilo turned towards the two men. "Then let's settle the debt I owe the both of you."

It was now starting for real. Theodore couldn't help holding his breath as he waited for her to speak.

"The dragon clans have different inclinations. It is emotions for the red clan, wisdom for the gold clan, life for the green clan, purity for the silver clan… and like me, the blue clan puts emphasis on interest."

It didn't mean that she liked to obtain benefits. If she was gracious, she had to receive something in return. If she owed someone, she should pay them back. Repaying back any debts was the nature of the blue dragon.

This was the reason why Aquilo took a tribute from the Pirate Archipelago in return for her protection.

"The two of you saved my life. My own strength helped me overcome the crisis, but the debt I owe is still heavy. I can't pay back my life with half the gold on this archipelago."

Then she raised three fingers.

"One for the swordsman, and two for the boy." Aquilo looked rather regal as she made the pronouncement, "I will give you three favors for your grace toward me. If you want, I can even pass over sovereignty of this island."

The two men looked at each other and came to a silent agreement, causing Randolph to open his mouth first.

"I don't care about this island. Rather, I need a sword."

"Sword?"

"My swords were completely broken in the fight against the monster. If you have any good swords, can I receive two? That is what I want to ask of you."

He looked at his two falchions with a bitter expression. There were large cracks like spiders webs in the center of both swords, and they looked like they were going to collapse at any moment. Randolph had barely regained the heirlooms from the Miller Barony along with the techniques inside it, but his inexperience had caused them to break. If he had fought with the integrity of a master, his swords wouldn't have broken.

However, Aquila had an absurd expression on her face. "Two swords? Are you serious?"

"You can't?"

"A dragon owes you a life debt, and you ask for two swords?"

She looked outraged at Randolph's words but soon exerted her power.

[пространство (Space).]

Simultaneously, dozens of swords suddenly poured out. These were all famous swords. They had value as antiques but were also in an excellent state for practical use. A few masterpieces from the dwarves hidden deep in the mountains were included. Looking at the happily jumping Randolph, Aquilo sighed with a sad expression on her face.

"Take everything that is there. Wouldn't it be annoying if the value of my life is only worth two pieces of scrap metal?"

"R-Really?"

"No, I'll give you armor as well since yours broke. Pick your favorite one."

Aquilo snapped her fingers and shiny armor poured out. Randolph's head was hit by the heavy rain of metal, but he didn't feel any pain as he hugged the pile of armor. Theodore and Aquilo couldn't help laughing at the sight before they looked at each other.

The two remaining favors belonged to Theodore. 'Don't disappoint me this time' was expressed in Aquilo's eyes as Theodore took a deep breath and opened his mouth.

He said, "First of all, I want you to dismantle this Pirate Archipelago."

"Hrmm?" Aquilo made a strange noise as she stared at Theodore. Sensing the strange atmosphere, Randolph looked up from his armor. Theodore's request meant destroying the vast supply of goods Aquilo was receiving. The pirates' tribute equaled to hundreds of thousands of gold every year, so wasn't this huge damage?

However, Aquilo was surprisingly calm.

"I'm sorry, but that isn't my responsibility."

"Why?"

"I organized the Pirate Archipelago into this structure, but the pirates have been living here since then. I don't have the right to do that unless you ask me to kill everyone or to destroy this island."

Indeed, Theodore was convinced by the explanation. Aquilo emphasized that her 'right' and her 'power' were of two different regions. It was possible to destroy the Pirate Archipelago, but the ownership of the island and the residents' rights couldn't be handed over by her.

However, Theodore was able to figure out another way to dismantle the Pirate Archipelago.

"If so, I want you to take back your blessing. Is that possible?"

Aquilo smiled as she confirmed it. "Of course. That won't be hard."

In some ways, this favor was crueler. Theodore chose it despite knowing this fact. Until now, the Pirate Archipelago had been able to move freely in the sea due to the blessing of the sea dragon, Aquilo.

The pirate ships which lost their power could now be defeated by the military. It was natural for them to lose their lives once the blessing was gone. After all, criminals should be judged by the law. The fate of the pirates was decided.

"Now, what is your last wish, Boy?" Aquilo whispered as she cupped his chin. The blue hair hanging over her white skin naturally attracted attention, but Theodore was too busy thinking. The last wish was for real. It was his last chance to receive something from her.

The magician, who held this opportunity in his hand, spoke carefully, "The last thing that I want…"

Chapter 154 – Tell me your wish (2)

In a short period of time, many choices crossed Theodore's mind as he closed his eyes.

'What is the best thing to ask from Aquilo?'

Original books? …Dismissed. He didn't know if she had any rare original books, and Aquilo didn't seem like someone interested in magic books. After making such a request, he might cause a disaster such as all the libraries on the continent being plundered by a dragon.

Smashing the Orcus Company… dismissed. The identity and structure of the organization behind it were still unclear. Not everyone who belonged to the Orcus Company would be warlocks, so innocent people might be crushed along with the company.

Should he demand a large amount of assets? …On hold. Getting gold coins for a dragon's grace was a bit sad.

Then Theodore came up with a good idea. It was difficult for him to make the decision, so he should leave it to the opponent. At the very least, the dragon wouldn't cheat or deceive him when paying back the favor. Their pride didn't tolerate such acts.

"-Give me what you think is most valuable among what you own."

It was an ambiguous favor. What was Aquilo's most valuable thing? It might be a rare ornament or perhaps beautiful jewelry. In a sense, it was a gamble for Theodore. Aquilo's eyes widened with amazement, before her expression changed into that of an unknown emotion.

"Boy, are you serious?"

Theodore was curious about her reaction and asked, "Is it okay?"

"Hrmm… No, well, if that is what you want." Aquilo bit her lips and shook her head. Then she rose from her seat and used her long finger to beckon toward Theodore.

"Okay, come closer. I'll give you what you want."

Why did her voice sound bewitching, like a devil's voice? However, he was the one who brought this up. Theodore rose from his seat and stood carefully in front of Aquilo. He was only a few steps closer than before, but his body was tense now.

At that moment, Aquilo's hands wrapped around his shoulders.

'What…?!'

It seemed like a light hold, but the force was so strong that he couldn't resist! However, he didn't feel any risk toward his life. So, Theodore didn't struggle as Aquilo looked into his eyes. As her breath reached his nose, Theodore unconsciously stopped breathing.

Her stunning eyes and aroma caused him to feel dizzy. It couldn't be helped since she looked like she was going to lick his face. Theodore had never seen a basilisk, but he felt like being petrified by it would feel like this. Theodore's body stiffened as Aquilo's lips neared.

She whispered in a low voice, "Don't be nervous. There might be pain at first…"

Shortly after that, Theodore felt a painful sensation at his neck.

"Ack?!"

She had bit his neck. Before Theodore could accept the situation, Randolph yelled agitatedly at the muffled groan, "-What are you doing, Dragon?"

Blood flowed from the bitten area, but Theodore wasn't just surprised at the pain. Randolph pulled out a sword one beat later, but a voice stopped him.

"S-Stop!" The urgent voice was coming from the bite victim, Theodore.

"What? Young Master, aren't you being attacked right now?"

"No. This isn't an attack." Theodore tried to explain but couldn't help falling silent in the end. It was because cold energy was coming from the area where Aquilo was biting. No, the feeling was like some type of magic power liquid.

The beautiful woman continued biting the young man's neck, and the bizarre confrontation soon came to an end.

Smack. Aquilo's wet lips made a sound as she let go.

She licked her lips which were red with Theodore's blood and nodded with a satisfied look.

"It went well. There was no rejection, so this might be surprisingly good."

"…What did you pour in?"

"Huh? It is my blood, of course."

"What-" In contrast to Aquilo's calm reply, Theodore looked down at his body with surprised eyes. Aquilo's blood, a dragon's blood, had been injected into his neck. Whether it was true or not, he was able to discover something around his collarbone. It was a tattoo which shone blue like Aquilo.

"This?"

"Blood mark." Aquilo explained in a drowsy voice, "Among everything I possess, this is the most valuable thing. It is the only thing that fits the criteria, apart from myself."

Theodore might've saved her life once, but it wasn't enough to make Aquilo his possession. So, Aquilo adjusted the reward according to the conditions proposed by Theodore.

"Boy, can you use summoning magic?" Without waiting for Theodore to reply, Aquilo continued, "If you think you need my help, you can call through the blood mark. I'll help you unconditionally once. I will leave it to your discretion, okay?"

"…Do I have any other choice?"

"Ahaha! Well, you don't have to use it. There are a few other effects, but you can look at those yourself."

She playfully concealed the abilities, but unfortunately, Theodore had Gluttony's Appraisal ability. When Aquilo glanced away, the tongue emerged from Theodore's left hand and brushed against his neck. Simultaneously, the familiar information window appeared.

[+14 Aquilo's Blood Mark (Imprint)]

[This is an imprint using the blood of the sea dragon, Aquilo. As the number of clan members declined, the dragons attempted to make more kin with their blood. This blood mark is the result of that attempt. The attempt to create more family members failed, but the act of granting a blood mark created a linked relationship. If the relationship with the partner of the blood mark becomes hostile, it will naturally be destroyed.

* The rating of this imprint is 'Treasure.'

* The user's water affinity will significantly increase.

* The user will be given the 'Sea Dragon's Blessing.'

* It is possible to summon the sea dragon, Aquilo.

* The conditions of use for 'Dragon Words' isn't met. (1/2)

-Own a certain amount of dragon's blood. (O)

-Understand the system and principles of Dragon Words. (X)

-Once all of the above conditions are met, it is possible to use Dragon Words three times a day.]

At first, he read the information window with calm eyes, but he soon started shaking. Affinity with water was a natural effect because she was a sea dragon, but the aspect of 'Dragon Words' was an entirely different matter.

If he could learn how to use 'Dragon Words,' the value of this blood mark just skyrocketed. He was also given the right to call an adult dragon, a being equivalent to two masters. Theodore's eyes were stunned at such a huge jackpot.

All of a sudden, Aquilo extended her hand outside the terrace, toward the horizon where the fog created by her power was located.

[отменен (Vanish).]

With one word, the fog in the horizon started to return to Aquilo.

It was the end of the barrier which had protected the Pirate Archipelago for decades. As requested by Theodore, she took back all the privileges she had given to the Pirate Archipelago. The same was true of the ships docked at the harbor. The pirate ships would now have to go through the water with their own skills.

After finishing a series of things in a few minutes, Aquilo shrugged and looked at the two men.

"It is finished. Now, this is no longer my island. So, I'm going to move my lair."

"…The Pirate Archipelago is completely over."

"I guess so."

An attachment might form when one stayed somewhere for decades, but Aquilo showed no signs of that. Rather, she was a notorious dragon and felt good about abandoning the pirates. For her, the pirates were just ants who gave her tribute. She could discard them at any time and collect more.

Aquilo agreed before rummaging through her space.

"Here, some change." She threw out a pouch. Theodore grabbed it reflexively.

Then she smiled and turned away. "All three requests have been granted."

The two men watched on as Aquilo climbed onto the terrace. Then she said goodbye in a playful manner, "Then bye!"

Aquilo jumped in a parabola toward the distant sea. The duo watched with absurd expressions as she changed into a dragon in midair and then moved away at a rapid pace which they couldn't follow.

After that, Aquilo never returned to the Pirate Archipelago.

"Hah…" Theodore watched with a bemused expression before opening the pouch. Randolph approached and looked over his shoulder, before crying out, "Heok!"

They were forced to swallow their breaths.

* * *

The next day, the passenger ship arrived, and Theodore's group departed for the Soldun Kingdom. Thanks to Theodore's 'Sea Dragon's Blessing', the speed was well above normal, and the two people were able to reach a coastal city in the Soldun Kingdom in less than a week.

Ah, what happened to the Pirate Archipelago after that?

It understandably collapsed.

The four rulers panicked as they learned that their blessings had been removed. Soon, those with ambitious eyes tried to take control of the island, and the peacefully coexisting Pirate Archipelago became filled with blood and death.

The pirates split into four factions according to the four rulers, each seeking their own way to live. Some returned to their usual work of raiding. Others returned to land and hid in the shadows.

However, either path didn't make much difference in the end. The pirates couldn't show the glory of the past and were killed by the army. Meanwhile, those who returned to land couldn't hide their nature and were caught as criminals.

It was the end of the Pirate Archipelago, once called the paradise of criminals and the land of pleasure.

One year had passed by since then.

Chapter 155 – One Year Later (1)

The representative port city in the Soldun Kingdom, Piris…

It was the only international port on the continent which had ships traveling directly to the east continent, and it was the lifeline of the coastal kingdom. Therefore, the power of Marquis Pirus was unique, since he was in charge of this crucial port. There were jokes told about how the birds would tremble and fly away from him.

However, even Marquis Piris had to be polite today. It was because the guest who visited the mansion was the crown prince, the next king of the Soldun Kingdom, Elsid.

"Glory to the descendants of the Great Wave King! Marquis Piris, David El Piris, greets the crown prince."

"It has been a while, Marquis. I'm sorry to come so abruptly."

The crown prince had the lemon colored hair and sea-like eyes which were passed through the Soldun royal family. He had the same color scheme as that of a prince from fairy tales, making many young females unable to sleep at night. Although he was only 26 this year, he was destined to be the next wave king of the Soldun Kingdom.

Marquis Piris advised him with a difficult expression, "Forgive me, Your Highness. But didn't I tell you to come here stealthily?"

"It can't be helped," Elsid sighed and shook his head a few times. "As soon as I left the royal palace, Duke Cornwall's men chased me. If the escort knights hadn't blocked them, I wouldn't have been able to hide my tracks."

Marquis Piris gritted his teeth, and his eyebrows twitched. Then his brown eyes filled with uncontrollable anger. "Cornwall… That traitor will surely…!"

Since ancient times, the Sodun Kingdom had been subservient to the other kingdoms due to its unique geographical nature. It was difficult to grow crops along the coast, and the population of the Sodun Kingdom wasn't enough to keep troops at the borders of the other countries.

It had only been half a century ago when trade with the east continent first opened up, but the nobles with interests in other kingdoms were busy keeping the Soldun Kingdom's prosperity in check.

Duke Cornwall, who had relatives in the Kargas Kingdom, was the most prominent among them. He even dared to track Prince Elsid's actions.

"Well, let's stop with the unpleasant story. There is nothing we can do right now. Don't we just have to do what we can?"

"…Hoo, Your Highness' words are correct. I was too excited."

Despite the prince's words, Marquis Piris' face was still flushed. Duke Cornwall's actions always made the loyalists angry. Prince Elsid knew this and was thankful, but the story they had to discuss right now wasn't about the traitor.

"Rather, Marquis, what about 'that'?" Elsid whispered in a low voice.

"Please be delighted, Your Highness. There was a big profit," Marquis Piris replied with a small smile.

Some of the loyalists, including the crown prince, had been pushing this plan for 10 years. Now, they had finally achieved something.

It was impossible for the people of the Soldun Kingdom to overcome these adverse conditions with their own strength. The bordering states of the Kargas Kingdom and Lairon Country were busy suppressing them, and the only area with no obstacles was the south, where there were swamps as a barrier.

Therefore, the people of the Soldun Kingdom turned their eyes to the continent beyond the sea.

"I have received a promise from a famous family of the Western Xia region in the east that they will move to Piris."

"Finally!" At the welcome news, Elsid's face brightened like a rising sun.

If he couldn't grow seeds, then he would import them. Fortunately, the Soldun Kingdom had tremendous financial power to make up for its lack of military power. They promised a noble title, fertile land, gold, and valuables.

"They are the Baek Family, and they were a prestigious military power in the Western Xia region." (Baek= Bai in Chinese spelling. They seem to be a Chinese family, but since the rest of the family members' names are in Korean, I chose the Korean spelling of the surname).

"Hoh, a prestigious family is migrating?"

"Yes, I investigated it." Marquis Piris recounted the contents of the report, "30 years ago, there was a battle with the central regions. The family took responsibility for the defeat and resigned from the military. The place the Baek Family occupied was taken by other families, and now they are economically and politically isolated."

"Indeed, our offer would seem quite attractive."

"That's right. It is said that head of the Baek Family is bringing all his family members and belongings to Piris. They will probably arrive today or tomorrow."

Elsid couldn't help forming tight fists. Due to the kingdom's weak military power, they had been forced to rely on foreign ships.

However, the humiliation ended here. On the eastern continent, the power of martial arts had evolved as the level of magic declined. If two warriors were at the same level, the one from the east would be stronger. If there were two people from the country, one would be a sword master.

It was the same for the Baek Family migrating here.

"In the east, a sword master is called an expert."

The master of the Baek Family, Baek Jongmyung, was an expert. It was unknown as to why he had been punished in the Western Xia region, but he was literally worth an army of thousands.

The Baek Family had 100 skills aura users, including a sword master. This was enough power to change the balance toward the crown prince's favor, even if the troops of Cornwall and his allies were to combine.

"…You did a really great job, Marquis. I will never forget your hard work."

"It is only natural, considering my role in the kingdom, Your Highness. Your words are enough. The important thing is what will happen from now on."

Elsid nodded at his loyal subject. "Of course. It is my duty to embrace them as my own people and to forge them into the Soldun Kingdom's sword."

The young prince once again vowed that the kingdom wouldn't remain weak in his generation. For that goal, he would spend as much as was needed. He gazed at the sunlight coming through the window, before looking at the marquis again.

"That reminds me, what about giving them that mansion?"

"Huh?

"That one. It is a bit expensive, but it is a decent chateau. It can build up their pride, as well as fit everyone that will come." Elsid made the suggestion after looking back through his old memories.

The mansion that he'd seen in the past was perfect for this purpose. It was a well-built mansion, but the location wasn't very good. There was the drawback of it having been built on a hill, and the surrounding areas were all mansions, making the price jump exponentially. This was enough to make the interested people sigh and back off.

However, it was a different story if it were given as a gift to someone. It couldn't be sold anyway, so it was better to use the mansion to make a good impression. Since they were warriors, living on a hill wouldn't really be a disadvantage.

However, Marquis Piris showed a strange reaction. "Hrmm, well, that is…"

"Huh? What's the problem?"

Marquis Piris was silent for a moment before explaining with a grim expression, "The mansion Your Highness is talking about has already been sold."

"Huh?" Elsid failed to hide his disbelief. "Wasn't the price 1,000 gold? Who was insane enough to buy the mansion at that price? According to kingdom law, even if the price was lowered, wouldn't it have been at least 800 gold?"

"It wasn't lowered. The person paid 1,000 gold on the spot."

Therefore, Marquis Piris had sold it without any hesitation. He shrugged with a bitter smile. Indeed, from his position, an unused mansion was a wasteful expense. So, it was natural to want to quickly dispose of it.

Elsid didn't know how he felt about this as he clicked his tongue. "Tsk, they are a big spender. A noble?"

"Yes, perhaps. He didn't say it with his mouth, but his actions show it."

"Actions?"

Marquis Piris nodded and explained, "He is escorted by a person who seems to be a bodyguard. Even though I am not an expert with swords, the bodyguard seems unusual. The buyer seems to be a person hiding his identity."

"Hmm… It happened around one year ago. How has he been living?"

"There are occasional visitors, but he rarely leaves the mansion. Ah! He is famous for purchasing original magic books at an expensive price, around three or four times the normal price? So, sometimes people come from foreign countries."

As the prince worried about it, the marquis remembered the names of the two people.

"The young man who bought the mansion is Ted, and his bodyguard is called Adolf. Those are their names."

"Ted and Adolf…"

It was common to find three or four people with the same names from the villages in the north and central parts of the continent. If so, these names were likely pseudonyms. As Elsid stared at the hill where the mansion was located, he decided it was necessary to visit it at least once.

A variable had appeared out of nowhere, and it was unknown if it was good or not. It was something he couldn't fathom at all.

* * *

Kkiruruk- kiruk kiruk-

As always, the seagulls cried out from the sky as the wind carried the scent of the sea.

"The weather is good today," Theodore muttered as he looked at the thick book on his desk and then patted Mitra, who was crouched in a flowerpot.

A year had passed since he'd left the Pirate Archipelago, and he was more mature than before. Theo's face had matured early due to undergoing various hardships, and a mysterious depth was found in the magician's clear eyes.

Mitra was snoring while sleeping. [Horororong…hororong…]

Theodore smiled at the cute snoring and thought back to his days in the Soldun Kingdom.

Since Theodore and Randolph left the Pirate Archipelago, there had been no one pursuing them. So, in the past year, Theodore and Randolph had focused on improving their skills. Randolph trained in his awakened Aura Ability while Theodore researched on how to reach the next level.

'My progress isn't bad, but…' Theodore looked out the window with a dissatisfied expression.

There were many things he'd gained during this time, but it would still take more time to reach the target area. Gluttony had said half a year would be enough in the future, but it was inevitable that he would feel nervous with the deadline approaching.

Right now, Theodore was facing the wall of the 7th Circle, the master's wall. He only needed one more step to escape from the confines of a mortal. It was a transcendent area which couldn't be easily overcome, even with Gluttony's power.

"I have one and a half years."

Almost half of the three-year deadline, which Myrdal had given him at the world tree, had passed.

Of course, there was a lot of room left due to all the original books he ate. However, the fundamental solution was for Theodore to become a master. A master went beyond the limits of the 'natural vessel,' so there would be no need to worry about his vessel overfilling.

"Hah…"

However, if it was as easy as it sounded, the continent would be covered in masters.

Theodore sighed and closed his eyes, falling into his inner self. He focused on the circles inside his body. A magician could diagnose their body, just like a warrior could do so with aura. The circles soon appeared before Theodore.

Like sophisticated machinery, the six circles turned together. The seventh circle only had the outline formed and was sitting idly. Theodore just couldn't figure out what was lacking.

'An opportunity is needed.'

Ultimately, he needed a decisive opportunity to overcome this stagnation.

Chapter 156 – One Year Later (2)

Of course, it wasn't that Theodore hadn't done anything this year. He'd written down pieces of wisdom, and the amount of information he'd received from Gluttony's 'question and answer' was really huge. Additionally, he'd gained a lot of knowledge about inefficient magic and Dragon Words.

However, this wasn't much help in breaking through the wall of the 7th Circle, the master wall.

At the time, Gluttony had given this advice, –User might've already realized this, but 'master' isn't an area that can be reached by steadily climbing stairs. You must redefine your world views and destroy your own limitations.

A magician who lived a long time ago said this: If the process of advancing from the 1st to 4th Circle was like climbing a staircase, then the journey from the 4th to 6th Circle was like climbing a sheer cliff.

In that case, what did the wall of the 7th Circle and the master level look like? Theodore still remembered the explanation. It was from a book placed in an unpopular corner of the library.

It was common sense that no matter how far away a destination was, one could eventually get there by walking or running. If a person kept climbing up a mountain, they would eventually reach the peak surrounded by clouds.

However, it was meaningless for a magician to use hard work to reach the master level. A master could fly without wings and breathe underwater without gills. They were transcendent beings who could do impossible things.

An 'official' way to reach such an area didn't exist. Theodore was looking back through his memories when he was interrupted by a knock on the door.

"Theodore, are you inside?"

"…You already know, so just come in."

Wasn't Randolph a master swordsman with a perceptual ability which stretched out over kilometers?

As soon as Theodore's permission was given, Randolph opened the door and shrugged. "I thought you might be doing something important. Don't magicians hate people entering their space without notice?"

"It isn't just magicians who hate it, though…? Anyway, what is it? I thought you would be training in the backyard at this time."

"Ah, someone came looking for you."

Theodore recalled sensing someone approach his wards. There weren't any hostile emotions, so he had forgotten about it… Randolph must've helped them directly. As Theo looked over with questioning eyes, Randolph took out a letter covered with ornate decorations.

"He asked me to deliver a letter to the owner."

"…Marquis Piris," Theodore murmured as he looked at the seal on the envelope. He was in a strange relationship with the ruler of this territory, Marquis Piris. They were neighbors who didn't have a close relationship with each other.

'In addition, my identity hasn't been revealed.'

Marquis Piris didn't know the identities and histories of Theodore and Randolph. The reason for this strange relationship was that Theodore had bought the mansion at a high price.

After seeing them spend 1,000 gold without hesitation, the marquis couldn't deal with the two people without caution. A hidden noble from another country might bring disadvantages to the whole Soldun Kingdom.

Theodore had easily provided the 1,000 gold. It was something which wouldn't have been possible without the pouch Aquilo had given him.

"I didn't think he would come this year…"

Maybe there was an unknown variable. Theodore was filled with such speculations as he opened the seal of the letter that Randolph gave him. He slowly read the excellent handwriting and raised his eyebrows. "…He will visit tomorrow afternoon? And he will bring guests?"

Marquis Piris' polite words showed caution. Theodore knew there were still some of the marquis' men patrolled around here, so what was this visit for? Maybe somebody else was behind it. Many speculations crossed his mind, leaving a few possibilities behind.

This was impossible to refuse. What justification did he have for refusing Marquis Piris' visit?

Theodore put down the letter with a small sigh. "I should prepare to meet the guests."

He felt some discordant notes in the previously peaceful Piris.

* * *

The next day, Marquis Piris arrived at noon, which was the time written in the letter sent.

Prince Elsid, who was interested in the people with unknown identities, accompanied the Baek Family who had arrived last night. It was possible to rely on their skills with the sword, and Baek Jongmyung was fluent in the language of the continent.

Baek Jongmyung wanted to look directly at the place where they would be staying. As the chateau came into view, Baek Jongmyung's mouth dropped open with admiration. "Oh…! Indeed, it is magnificent enough to be our home, just like Lord Piris promised."

"Do you like it, Master Baek?"

"Yes. The mansion is luxurious, and it is surrounded by spacious gardens and hills. Moreover, the feng shui is very good."

The marquis and Elsid didn't know what feng shui was, but they sighed with relief.

A martial artist in the east was similar to a nobleman in the west, and a sword master of a family was equivalent to a marquis or a duke. Baek Jongmyung had to move due to difficult circumstances, but it had been a long time since he had been treated as an ordinary person.

Elsid spoke to him in an informal manner, "That is a relief. I will take back the mansion and give it to you, so let me finish the preparations."

"Yes. Thank you for Your Highness' generosity."

Inwardly, Elsid felt bitter as Baek Jongmyung maintained a polite and formal attitude. If Elsid had one or two more military retainers like this sword master, the kingdom wouldn't be in this state.

The current Soldun Kingdom was a battlefield between the loyalists who struggled to defend the kingdom and those who were loyal to the neighboring kingdoms, trying to suck everything out of the Soldun Kingdom. The determination to give this house to Baek Jongmyung was firmly established in Elsid.

Suddenly, Baek Jongmyung stopped moving.

"Master Baek, what is it?"

"…Hoh."

As the marquis' question entered one of his ears, Baek Jongmyung looked at the outskirts of the mansion with an admiring expression.

Then he started to explain the reason for his reaction to the confused people around him. "Well, there is an excellent mage in there. I have seen a considerable number of mages, but I've never seen one capable of making such wards. This is truly the western continent."

"Mage… Are you talking about a magician?"

"Yes. I don't know who it is, but I'm impressed."

Elsid and the marquis looked at each other with perplexed expressions. A sword master was praising the magician staying in the mansion?

According to the report, there were only two people staying here. A young man called Ted and his bodyguard. According to the laws of elimination, the young man called Ted must be the magician…

However, the two people in question appeared before they could come to a conclusion. The main gate was opened, and a young man with black hair walked out. "Welcome, Marquis Piris."

Behind the young man was a blond swordsman, who stood in a prepared stance. It was proof that the swordsman hadn't taken the job just because of money. Just as the marquis was about to greet them…

"Hah! This is literally a sleeping dragon!" Baek Jongmyung's sudden cry attracted everyone's attention. Baek Jongmyung looked at the two people with truly admiring expressions. In contrast, Theodore's face stiffened slightly.

The strong always recognized each other, and the three powerhouses perceived each other's strengths the moment they faced each other. Baek Jongmyung observed Theodore and opened his mouth first to say, "One is an incredibly strong mage at such a young age."

Then he looked at Randolph and cried out, "The other person is an expert! My views of the world has broadened today."

At that moment, a heavy silence fell over the seven people. The two people who had come with Baek Jongmyung were amazed at his praise, while Marquis Piris and Elsid needed time to grasp what he was saying.

Only Theodore, Randolph, and Baek Jongmyung could perceive each other's skills and anticipated how the situation would flow.

"…Wait!" After a short moment, Elsid regained his spirit before anyone else, as befitting of a prince. His eyes were still shaking with confusion as he asked Baek Jongmyung to confirm again, "Master Baek, are the words you just spoke… the truth?"

Elsid's eyes were begging to hear that it was a lie. However, Baek Jongmyung heartlessly told him the truth, "Yes, that's right. You should be friends with them, rather than enemies. They are strong people, so you shouldn't face them as enemies."

"…This is nonsense." Prince Elsid, who finally embraced the ridiculous situation, shouted as he looked at the two men, "Why is a sword master hiding like this!?"

His reaction was natural. A sword master wasn't just a strong and strategic weapon treated as the pillar of a nation. They were also assassins who could cut off a king's head.

For this reason, Meltor always had Veronica or Blundell stay by the king's side. The presence of a sword master in Soldun, which had no such precautions, was no different from a grim reaper's visit. So, it wasn't unreasonable for Elsid to reply like this.

However, Theodore and Randolph stood with calm faces as always. They were prepared to fight, but the easterner didn't show any hostility towards them. The young man, who seemed like royalty, was flustered, but he didn't show any signs of wanting to fight either.

'It is better to settle it with a conversation than a groundless fight.'

Royalty and a sword master… The two guests were more than he'd anticipated, but Theodore calmed his mind. This wasn't much compared to the turmoil which had occurred a year ago.

"I'm sorry, but I don't think this is the place for this conversation." Theodore casually suggested, "As Marquis Piris said earlier, how about we relax and talk in the mansion?"

Chapter 157 – One Year Later (3)

Elsid's group also wanted to sort out the confusing situation, so they accepted Theodore's proposal without raising any objections. However, unlike Baek Jongmyung and his two children who were looking at the mansion, Elsid and Marquis Piris were busy thinking about the unexpected situation.

This was because the plan they had thought of in advance would no longer work.

'What should I do in this situation?'

The awkward atmosphere continued as the group walked through the front door and into the mansion's reception room.

Following Theodore's direction, Elsid sat down and worried about what to say. He had planned to question the two people whose identities were unclear and then buy back this mansion. However, the opponents were much bigger than he had imagined. One was a senior magician praised by a sword master, while the other was a sword master who could be a marquis in any country.

However, Marquis Piris managed to calm his mind.

'…No, it makes no difference even if they are bigger than I thought. Piris is our territory. No matter what status they have, they need to bend down in the presence of the crown prince!'

He didn't know why these people were hiding here, but it didn't have anything to do with his task. After that, he spoke to the two people on behalf of the crown prince, whose status had yet to be disclosed.

"First of all, I would like to apologize for the sudden visit, Sir Ted."

"No, Marquis Piris. This territory is Marquis Piris'. As guests, we shouldn't disrespect the owner."

"I appreciate your understanding." Marquis Piris' eyes shone. "However, before I get to the point, I would like you to identify yourself. If I am the master of this land as you said, shouldn't I have a right to know the secret?"

"They are fair words," Theodore said, nodding politely, "If this was a year ago."

"C-Cough!"

It was a sharp admonishment. Theodore had previously spoken such golden words, and now he was saying this? It was a truly sarcastic remark.

Marquis Piris coughed a few times with a red face before continuing, "Please understand that many things have changed since that time. I wouldn't have accepted the deal if I had known your companion was a sword master."

"Umm."

"Today's topic isn't for me to say. This person here…"The marquis paused. Then Elsid nodded, giving him permission, and so the marquis continued, "He is the next king of the Soldun Kingdom, Prince Elsid."

If Marquis Piris thought that his disclosure would make the duo panic, he was mistaken. Theodore's and Randolph's expressions remained calm.

"It is great to meet Your Highness."

"…It is good to meet you, unknown guests."

Elsid's greeting showed he wanted them to give up their identities, but the duo stayed silent. It meant they wouldn't speak up even if the opponent was a crown prince instead of a marquis.

Elsid understood the meaning of their silence and frowned, but it was difficult to pursue it at this stage. They weren't opponents he couldn't overpower through force. However, his national power was divided in half due to infighting. The crown prince couldn't afford to increase the number of enemies.

Theodore grasped his feelings and changed the subject, "Then Crown Prince, why are you visiting this humble place?"

Then the marquis replied on behalf of Elsid, "There is a story behind it, but I want to buy back this mansion."

"This mansion?"

"That's right. It is hard to find a suitable residence for Master Baek here, with this mansion being the only candidate."

To be honest, he didn't want to pay the price, but he had to take a big loss now. While the marquis vowed to reduce the damage somehow, Theodore made a strange expression and said, "How much were you thinking?"

"The same amount of gold that you originally paid?"

"Then I see no benefit in this."

Theodore still had a lot of gold left, so he intended to profit from something other than gold. In order to achieve that purpose, the marquis and crown prince had to owe him something. They would be deeply indebted to him if they refused his request.

However, Marquis Piris' mind wasn't as good as Theodore had thought.

"…There is no benefit… Can you really say so?" The marquis asked.

"What do you mean?"

"I don't know your identity yet, but haven't you spent a year in Piris?"

The marquis was advising Theodore to be satisfied with a little gold in exchange for having hidden him and Randolph for a year. In the first place, it was a loss for the marquis to buy it at 1,000 gold. Marquis Piris might've retreated because he couldn't use coercive means, but he couldn't tolerate more damage to his funds. The marquis was determined not to give way any further.

Despite reading these signs, Theodore laughed slightly. He didn't intend to get anything from Prince Elsid and Marquis Piris from the very beginning.

"Well, Lord Piris' words make sense," Theo remarked.

"Then…"

"However, I have a few conditions."

Before the marquis could protest, Theodore turned to Baek Jongmyung and said, "These conditions are for the one who will become the owner of the mansion, not the prince and the marquis."

"Hrmm? Me?"

��Yes, I would like to ask for three simple things."

Simultaneously, Theodore raised his fingers as he began to explain the conditions. The flow of the story naturally switched to Theodore and Baek Jongmyung, with the marquis and prince becoming spectators. In fact, Theodore had no interest in them at all.

"First of all, we are going to leave here quite soon. I hope you will let us stay until that time."

"That isn't a problem. Rather, I am excited at the chance to develop a relationship with natives of foreign countries."

"I am thankful for your words."

Theodore was afraid there would be opposition from the prince or marquis, but they didn't move as expected. The best thing was for Theodore to leave this kingdom quickly, but the next best thing was for them to be able to keep an eye on Theodore.

If Theodore and Randolph stayed at the mansion with Baek Jongmyung, a sword master who was equal to them, then it would be less likely for the prince and the marquis to miss Theodore's trail. If Theodore couldn't be controlled, keep him in a visible place and monitor him.

Theodore had accurately perceived that choice. Then Baek Jongmyung, who calmly accepted the first condition, prompted Theodore to say what was next. "Now, Sir Ted! Please tell us the second condition."

"The second thing that I want to ask…"

As soon as the condition flowed from Theodore's mouth, everyone in the room looked at him with a surprised expression. Only Randolph, who had been with Theodore for a year, laughed with an understanding expression.

Baek Jongmyung also accepted the strange second condition.

* * *

"-Hoh, you were hiding such a good place!"

Baek Jongmyung looked around the area with admiration. There was a vacant lot with a 100-meter radius on a flat area under the hill.

Additionally, around the boundaries of the empty space, there was magic to alleviate any impact and block off noise, as well as hallucination magic which tricked one's gaze. This was why Marquis Piris hadn't discovered their skills despite keeping surveillance of them.

Rather than being pleased by the explanation, Baek Jongmyung just stood in the empty lot. The sword at his waist and his clothing which didn't obstruct movements were preparations for the second condition.

Prepared to fight at any time, Baek Jongmyung stared at Theodore and asked, "Umm… By the way, are we really going to do it in this vacant lot?"

Theodore replied without any hesitation, "That's right."

"But this place… It is advantageous to me, no matter how I think about it. I don't mean to demean your skills, but isn't it hard for a mage to deal with a warrior in such a narrow space?"

The second condition proposed by Theodore was a spar with Baek Jongmyung. Everyone had been confused by Theo's words as it wasn't a knight but a magician who was challenging a sword master. As far as they knew, a magician who hadn't reached the 7th Circle couldn't fight against a sword master.

��That was if he was a typical magician.

"Master Baek," Theodore replied with an expressionless face to Baek Jongmyung's concerns, "You know mages, but you still aren't aware of what a 'magician' is yet. I appreciate your concern, but you shouldn't treat me so lightly."

Over the past year, Theodore had tried many ways to break his limits. In order to develop new magic and master existing ones, he had frequently sparred with Randolph, who was a sword master. Theodore hadn't been able to come to terms with aura's mobility, but he had figured out other things.

At first, it had been hard to last for 10 minutes while using all his skills, including Umbra. However, that duration gradually increased. 10 minutes increased to 20 minutes, 20 minutes became 30, and so on, as he gradually increased the number of conditions.

These conditions ranged from fighting without using Umbra's powers, sealing the magic of a particular attribute on that day, or not using the features of Gluttony. In this harsh year, Theodore's odds of defeating a sword master had increased to nearly 45%. This meant that if the Aura Ability was sealed, even a sword master couldn't be sure of winning.

"Both of you, please greet each other!" Elsid, who had become the referee due to his status, looked between the two of them and confirmed the rules again.

"Master Baek, you can't use your Aura Ability."

"Yes, I'm aware of that."

"Sir Ted, you can't use wide-area magic that is over half the size of this space."

"Yes, I'm aware."

The magician from the west and the warrior from the east looked at each other. Of course, wide-area magic could overcome aura's mobility. However, a special concession was given since this was just a friendly spar.

Despite Theodore's warning, Baek Jongmyung wasn't vigilant.

'Sir Ted can't do anything at this distance… It is best to subdue him moderately.'

The stereotypes which existed on the continent couldn't be removed with just a few words of warning. If mages could only attack from a distance, that meant a warrior had a lot of room if they didn't give the mage time to chant a spell.

As Baek Jongmyung's hand reached for his sword, Elsid's clear voice rang through the air, "Then I will start!"

However, at that moment…

It started! As the last syllable was heard, Theodore's fingers moved.

"Um?!"

It was a blue flash. Baek Jongmyung's eyebrows raised as he saw the flash of light heading toward his forehead. His senses, which were beyond human standards, instinctively recognized that Theodore's flash was extremely dangerous.

The flash wasn't just fast. If it hit Baek Jongmyung's body while it was in a defenseless state, the flash would have the power to wreak havoc on his body!

Kakiing!

Of course, Baek Jongmyung was a sword master and managed to cleave the magic bullet into two pieces. The shine of his blade was beautiful as it split the flash of light apart. However, the person who produced the scene was stiff. It was because the repulsive force transmitted through his palm was quite strong, despite the good amount of aura he used.

That said, that wasn't the only problem.

'Kuk, I was caught!'

Despite the unpredictable nature of this attack, Theodore fired off another Magic Bullet straight away. The blue flash of light emerged continuously like a comet, giving Baek Jongmyung no room to breathe. He worried about what the result of the attacks would be.

"-It is up to here!"

However, Baek Jongmyung wouldn't be qualified as a master if he was caught by an attack like this. Baek Jongmyung's sword moved at a terrifying speed, creating a storm which aimed for the Magic Bullets approaching him.

Kakiing! King! Kiiing- Kakiing!

The Magic Bullets were deflected into the ground and trees, creating deep holes. Five times a second—no, ten times… or maybe a little more than that. It was a sight which would cause anyone to shudder, but Theodore continued casting, ��Memorize. All Slots Open. Sixfold Thunderbolt. Spell Fusion: Keraunos.'

Lightning emerged from his right arm.

Kwarururung!

It exploded from the sky without a loud roar, hitting Baek Jongmyung who was concentrating on defending against the Magic Bullets. The lightning bolt could turn a huge tree into charcoal instantly, and it was twice as strong as what he had used to surprise 'Pride' in the battle one year ago.

The ground melted from the blow, and the people watching couldn't help gulping.

Then a voice rang out, "…Indeed, Sir Ted's words were right."

Baek Jongmyung walked out from the epicenter of the attack. He was a mess, but he didn't have any wounds. Theodore had expected this. He had used it several times against Randolph, but he never had this much fun.

"Maybe I am out of touch with what a 'magician' is. I just received a great lesson." Baek Jongmyung laughed with a bitter expression and raised his sword. The unsmiling face was proof that he recognized Theodore as an 'opponent,' not a 'sparring partner.'

"Then, this time I will teach you what a 'warrior' is."

Chapter 158 – One Year Later (4)

As he spoke, the aura around Baek Jongmyung burned even further. However, Theodore didn't move.

Unlike his opponent who was only accepting it now, Theodore had anticipated this situation from the beginning. Catching Baek Jongmyung's feet with Magic Bullet… and launching a surprise attack using Memorize… Theodore had done these things, but he had never thought they would work.

'Surprise attacks don't mean much to a sword master.'

It was true that he had sparred many times with Randolph, but a sword master was literally a grim reaper.

Their response speed was different that of from normal aura users. Just like how one's body would shrink back when it touched something hot or cold, a sword master's aura had already reached the area of spinal reflexes. They could prevent ambushes even while in a deep sleep, and a lightning strike would be prevented with minimal damage.

A sword master's aura was for offense and defense.

Setting aside their Aura Ability, their combat power with pure aura was extremely threatening. High attack power and defense, excellent mobility, and overwhelming endurance… there were no weaknesses.

Kakiing…

At that moment, Baek Jongmyung's blade moved like a wave. Seeing it, Theodore muttered unconsciously, "…Soft sword?"

"Oh, so you know it. I heard that it isn't often used in the west, so you have great knowledge," Baek Jongmyung replied with an admiring expression.

However, Theodore would've thought it was just a strange swordsmanship if it wasn't for Lee Yoonsung's memories. With a strong and resilient metal, the sword was capable of creating trajectories with a unique flexibility. A master could use it to deal fatal blows from any angle.

Regrettably, Lee Yoonsung had no experience fighting against it.

"Then let's get started," Baek Jongmyung spoke as he rushed forward first.

The sword in his right hand moved like a whip several times, with the sword's acceleration creating afterimages. Theodore had only experienced Randolph's straightforward sophistication, but this was fundamentally different.

Pit! Blood splattered out.

Even with the help of his sensory perception, Theodore got injured. Baek Jongmyung had swung from a distance which the sword couldn't reach Theodore, but a line of blood was still drawn on Theodore's cheek.

Once a whip struck, it would become as hard as a mace. Similarly, the power of the curved sword was launched at Theodore's face!

'Indeed, this technique…!' Theodore stopped breathing while inwardly admiring it.

At a close distance, it was faster and more powerful than Magic Bullet. The snake-like orbit was difficult to read, and it wasn't a technique he could cope with, even with his senses. Above all, it wasn't a technique which ended with one or two hits. Instead, the attacks poured out like rain.

No, it was like a snake with hundreds of heads.

Ping!

The protective magic he used as a shield was pierced like it was a piece of cloth. Defense magic which shielded his whole body wasn't good against a single-point attack. However, if he reduced the defense area, a mistake of a few millimeters would lead to a fatal injury.

'I can't block it. I should avoid it.' Theodore was out of breath as he activated, 'Battle Song. Sonata of Speed. Vivace.'

Battle Song strengthened his overall physical abilities while the others enhanced his mobility. His speed had temporarily increased by 50%, so he was determined to find a breakthrough. Unsurprisingly, the light in Theodore's eyes soon started to see some of the orbit.

'…This much is enough!' Simultaneously, Theodore took a step forward.

"Hmm?" The advance was surprising, and Baek Jongmyung looked at Theodore with a confused expression.

The magician's robes were filled with holes, and blood flowed from his wounds. So, why was he advancing? It was an action beyond bold recklessness. However, unlike his thoughts, Baek Jongmyung didn't slow down his momentum. He had already paid a price once for carelessness. He wouldn't be taken by the same thing twice.

The storm of swords swallowed Theodore.

Kwakakakak!

The gravel was scraped away, and a few weeds scattered like dust.

Even a knight with full plate armor would be torn to rags by the whirlwind, let alone Theodore who was wearing robes. It was a terrible sight which caused the spectators to not want to see the results.

"T-This…!"

"Sir Ted…!?"

However, the two sword masters didn't panic. Randolph was familiar with Theodore's skills. Meanwhile, Baek Jongmyung cried out unknowingly, "Good!"

It was an evasion that even the attacker admired! Theodore and the swords had danced gloriously at a speed which couldn't be followed by ordinary human eyesight. He had avoided the attack, but it wasn't simply because he was fast. It was because he had used Lee Yoonsung's foot movements. Theodore danced between the vortex of blades.

Shortly after that, Theodore's turn finally came.

'An eye exists in any storm.'

Unlike the violent outskirts, the center of the turbulent force was calm.

Of course, swordsmanship and a natural phenomenon couldn't be seen in the same context, but there were similar aspects. It was necessary to maintain the torque at certain intervals in order to generate the acceleration. This meant the power of the torque wouldn't be exerted if Theodore approached close to Baek Jongmyung.

It was certainly true in theory, but who would want to try it against a sword master?

"-Spell Fusion."

A person insane enough to do so was right here.

'Memorize. All Slots Open. Triple Blaze Burst. Triple Fire Strike. Spell Fusion: Strike Flare.'

At that moment, Theodore's fist became hot enough to melt iron.

Kwaaaaang!

There was a massive explosion. The fire spread quickly as Theodore flashed over to the other side. Baek Jongmyung's clothing was almost destroyed, and despite defending with aura, there were shallow burns on his skin.

Without paying any attention to the pain from his wounds, Baek Jongmyung spoke, "…Truly amazing skills, Sir Ted."

In this limited battlefield of a vacant lot, a magician could go against a sword master…? It was a situation where his Aura Ability was sealed, but that wasn't an excuse. If they competed with equal abilities, he might've become a chunk of charcoal sooner. Additionally, the opponent who had driven him to this state was in the early-20s, mid-20s at most.

Baek Jongmyung spoke to Theodore who emerged from the fire, "More than anything else, that footwork is from a famous martial arts family. If you don't mind, can you tell me where you learned it?"

Theodore thought for a moment before answering, "I happened to run into a kinsmen of the Lee Family and was taught, but he is deceased now."

"Lee Family… that isn't a family from Western Xia."

Baek Jongmyung wanted to converse this more on this subject, but Theodore refused to open his mouth. Although Baek Jongmyung was sad for a moment, he quickly found what Theodore was lacking.

"Sir Ted is comfortable with the martial arts taught to you, but you haven't yet mastered it."

"Yes, it is still immature."

"Huh, that isn't the right word. There are many juniors in my hometown, but I've never seen someone like Ted. I once again realized that the world is really wide."

Baek Jongmyung squeezed the sword in his hand and released his stance like he thought it was over.

However, Theodore wasn't satisfied yet. He was in front of a strong man who could refine his nerves to the limit, giving Theodore a stimulus which wasn't possible while sparring with Randolph. This experience with a master was worth more than 1,000 gold.

So, Theodore made a reasonable compromise. "As Master Baek said, I haven't mastered this technique yet. But I do have one skill I haven't tried before."

"…Uhh, that is regrettable." As expected from a warrior, Baek Jongmyung knew the meaning of Theodore's words and placed strength into the hand holding his sword again. It was a request to renew the fight. Baek Jongmyung wouldn't decline. No, in fact, he wanted to see more of Theodore's skills.

As expected, Baek Jongmyung nodded readily.

"Then shall we end this by competing with one last skill?"

"It is a good idea."

The two men exchanged a promise and retreated at a reasonable interval.

'Good, this is enough.'

It was still unusable in practice, but it was possible in a situation like this. As it was mentioned several times, a magician was strongest when they had secured a safe distance and time. If this were a normal battle against a warrior, for a magician, the probability of winning would be less than half.

However, what if the magician was Theodore Miller? The odds of the opponent winning would fall to half, or less than half.

Theodore did one last check and closed his eyes silently. It was a technique that couldn't be used without concentrating.

'Answer, door to Muspelheim.'

There was no need to open his mouth as the red tattoo on his left hand started to move under his glove. A dimension of fire where the density of mana was different from the normal world opened up, and the flames of Muspelheim filled his entire left arm.

Then he moved his consciousness from his left hand to another place.

'…This is still a little tough.'

The Blood Mark of Aquilo, the dragon who used to rule the Pirate Archipelago, wriggled in response.

It was a beautifully moist and cool aura. The dense energy which came from the dragon was so enormous it was like something sticky was stuck to Theodore's skin. His concentration was shaken by this feeling, and Theodore grumbled before continuing to focus.

His left hand contained Muspelheim's flames, while his right hand contained Aquilo's cold mana from the dragon blood. The yin energy and yang energies, two contrasting energies, formed in his hands.

Aquilo's cool mana and Muspelheim's flames struggled against each other. Even Theodore, who constantly trained his mind, couldn't hold it for long. In this state, even opening his mouth was grueling.

"-I'm going!"

"Yes!"

As Theodore barely managed to speak, Baek Jongmyung raised his aura.

Baek Jongmyung sensed that this power was unusual. The hairs on his body rose whenever he felt a threat to this life. He was being warned by his decades of training that this skill couldn't be stopped entirely with aura defense.

"Huhaha! My blood is boiling for the first time in a long time!"

The jubilation of a warrior… The power coming from Theo was enough to threaten Baek Jongmyung. As Baek Jongmyung's mouth formed a smile, both of Theodore's hands moved forward.

'Focus, focus, focus, focus, focusssss-…'

Blood flowed from Theodore's nose while his hands moved in a semicircle. A year had passed after defeating Superbia, and during that time, he had developed this method of protecting his life. This time, instead of draining away, the power was pulled inward.

The red and blue mana tangled together, creating an attack which could never have been seen before.

――――――――――!

A flash burst out.

* * *

Kurururung!

There was an earthquake, and the spectators standing in the distance stumbled. The two children, whom Baek Jongmyung had brought, were able to straighten their bodies, but Elsid and Marquis Piris could only regain their balance after holding onto a nearby tree.

"W-What the hell is this…!"

With confused eyes, Elsid looked at the vacant lot covered in dust. Despite having retreated to a considerable distance as so not to get caught by the collision, the shock wave had spread out a few hundred meters and made them dizzy. He was inexperienced with masters and had never seen their skills directly.

Their bodies shivered from the struggle. Five pairs of eyes filled with contradictory feelings of surprise, fear, admiration, and interest as they looked at where the duo had collided. Was it perhaps in response to their gazes…? The dust was washed away by the wind, revealing the scene inside.

"Um."

"Oh, the winner…"

"Indeed…"

As the five people watched, the two opponents faced each other with conflicting expressions. Theodore's exhausted body was barely standing, while Baek Jongmyung's sword was at Theodore's neck.

It was a scene where the winner and loser were clearly revealed.

The swordsman Baek Jongmyung, who had beat Theodore in the last attack, gave a long sigh and lowered his sword.

Then he declared, "This game, I have lost it."

Chapter 159 – One Year Later (5)

Baek Jongmyung admitted his defeat with a feeling in his heart which he hadn't felt for a long time. He had been able to penetrate through Theodore's puzzling magic, but the means of producing the result was the problem.

His sword master's instincts, which penetrated through the unknown technique and the power hidden in it, meant he'd crossed the line without hesitation. Baek Jongmyung apologized to Theodore with a red and ashamed face, "I am ashamed, Sir Ted. I used a strong ability that was against the rules… I shouldn't have done it."

That's right. The fearsome blow which stabbed through Theodore's magic was 'Aura Ability.' This was the most powerful ability of a sword master, who fell behind a magician in terms of firepower. It was an unreasonable ability that went beyond tactical magic and the power of a god.

Magicians who faced it for the first time usually panicked or became traumatized by the sword master. However, Theodore didn't enter the standards of 'normal.'

'Master Baek's ability… Is it [Penetration]or [Breakthrough]? No, I can't be sure when only seeing it once…' Theodore was busy analyzing the abnormalities in the auras, rather than being angry at Baek Jongmyung's foul.

The audience watching them from afar might not know, but Theodore, who had faced Baek Jongmyung's sword, had been able to see it clearly. The fusion of two magic powers had created an explosion, while a silver aura had broken through the center.

Despite the fact that both Randolph and Baek Jongmyung were sword masters, Randolph's power was completely different from this. However, for a magician, unknown facts about aura were exciting.

Thus, Theodore's answer to Baek Jongmyung was delayed by one beat.

"…No. Thanks to that, the spar could finish without a big injury, so I am thankful."

"However…"

"-Besides," Theodore said with a bitter smile, rejecting the objection, "Look around. If Master Baek broke the rules, I did as well."

Baek Jongmyung looked around with a bewildered expression before realizing what Theodore meant.

According to the rules which the two men had agreed upon in advance, Baek Jongmyung hadn't been allowed to use his Aura Ability while Theodore hadn't been allowed to use wide-area magic which affected more than half of the empty lot.

However, what had happened to the landscape after the last clash? The center where the two people were standing was relatively intact, but the shock wave had destroyed the ground, reached the forest outside the open space, and even a few trees were torn down.

Baek Jongmyung might have erased most of the magic with his Aura Ability, but the power was enough to affect the spectators standing far away from them.

As Theodore gazed down at his hands, he admired the power of the magic.

'Is it still too dangerous to be used in practice…?'

This hadn't been a proper magic spell but a blast caused by the repelling force of two high-density magic powers. It was a primitive application of magic power. The explosion wouldn't have occurred if it had been at the level he'd thought about.

Yet this incomplete magic power was enough to threaten a sword master. If he could complete it properly, he had one more weapon against the master class. Theoretically, he could defeat the 5th stage Pride using this.

His right arm had become Blizzard by using Aquilo's power, while his left arm had become Inferno by using Muspelheim's power.

It circulated according to the concept of 'Yin Yang,' an eastern philosophy which referred to the combining of two opposing forces, amplifying the unique magic. Unlike the Fusion Magic which had already existed in the past, this was a new spell that Theodore invented.

Theodore was convinced that the completion of this unique magic was closely related to reaching the master level.

"Hahaha! Indeed, Sir Ted's words are right!" Baek Jongmyung spoke with a much lighter expression. "Today's confrontation is a draw! I am blessed to be able to face a mage of the west."

"I am also honored by my confrontation with an expert," Theodore agreed. Sometimes it was better to compete once than a hundred times. The two men acknowledged each other's power and finished up with dignity.

Theodore covered his bare upper body with a cloak while Baek Jongmyung asked him, "With this, the second condition is over. Then can I hear what the third condition is?"

"Umm… The third condition…" Theodore fell silent instead of answering.

It was because Elsid and his companions were approaching them after discovering that the spar was over. There was no need to conceal it, but it was best not to get caught.

Theodore swallowed his words and said something else, "Master Baek, I'll tell you after we return to the mansion. Today, there are other guests."

"Hmm, I understand. It hasn't even been three weeks, but I shouldn't let my liege wait for me. Sir Ted, thank you for your deep consideration."

Theodore blinked as he had suddenly become a thoughtful man, but there was no chance to clarify the misunderstanding.

Soon after that, he couldn't talk to Baek Jongmyung due to the arrival of the crown prince's group. It wasn't bad to be remembered as a good person, but he couldn't help feeling ashamed due to Baek Jongmyung's humility.

The story with the crown prince ended more smoothly than he'd thought it would, and there wasn't any friction.

'…Perhaps watching the spar with Master Baek is the cause of that.'

It was an unintentional display of force, but Theo didn't need to buy any favors from the prince. After the guests left, Randolph and Theodore had a heated debated about what had happened during the spar with Baek Jongmyung.

Then exactly three days afterward, the rest of the Baek Family arrived at the harbor and knocked on the door of the mansion. Theodore, who had gone to Baek Jongmyung to present the third condition, was faced with an unexpected person.

* * *

It was as expected from a warrior family. They had great strength, so the members of the Baek Family moved in quickly. The empty rooms which Theodore and Randolph neglected were quickly filled with exotic furniture, accompanied by bustling noises ringing out all over the interior.

Theodore listened to the noise and tilted his teacup. The tea that Baek Jongmyung gave Theodore was an impressive emerald green, and it emitted off an intoxicating scent. Theodore took a slow sip and was impressed by the tea. "…This is a good fragrance."

"It is called Longjing Tea. We only have a little bit, but it is worth giving to Sir Ted."

"Thank you."

Theodore had no knowledge of tea and thought it was simply expensive, but his thoughts were wrong.

Longjing Tea, one of the so-called four seasons, was divided into seven classes, with each one famous for the price gap. It had been different during the Baek Family's prime, but now it was hard for them to obtain. The cup of tea which Theodore had just drunk was worth dozens of gold coins. It showed just how much Baek Jongmyung appreciated him.

As the air in the room softened and relaxed…

Knock knock knock!

A hard knock on the door strained the relaxed atmosphere. Baek Jongmyung sensed who it was and called out with a frown, "{Stop! Didn't I say to not show up when I am talking with a precious guest?!}"

Just like there were official languages of the west continent, there were official languages which the east continent used. The language called Chinese was now emerging from Baek Jongmyung's mouth.

It was a language which the central regions had created and spread, and it had permeated the entire east. Theodore felt uncomfortable at the strange pronunciation. However, at the next moment, the door opened without Theodore finding out the source of the discomfort.

"{Father!}" Beyond the door was a man. No, his face was young enough for him to be called a boy.

It was one of the two children who had come to the mansion with Baek Jongmyung a few days ago. The third son of the Baek Family, his name was—

"{No, Baek Dongil! You are too rebellious!}"

'That's right, Baek Dongil!' Theodore was surprised to notice that he understood Chinese.

He had gained knowledge and experience with Chinese from Lee Yoonsung, but he had never actually used it. Perhaps he had digested some of the rich knowledge due to the Baeks. It was a knowledge he hadn't needed until now. He used it while watching the scene in front of him.

'Maybe there is more knowledge that is buried…'

Meanwhile, as he was analyzing this, the two people's quarrel was becoming more violent.

"{Father, please listen to my request just once!}"

"{This guy!}" Baek Jongmyung's incensed cry was enough to horrify a tiger.

However, Baek Dongil just shook his head. "{Don't you know my humiliation at living like this! If you won't allow it, just throw me away right now!}"

"{T-This…! You really are crazy! What will Sir Ted think of this situation?!}

"{I will apologize directly to him!}"

Theodore didn't know what the situation was, but he could hear the urgency in Baek Dongil's voice. Baek Jongmyung was no longer angry as he let out a deep sigh and touched his beard. As soon as the argument stopped, Baek Dongil looked in Theodore's direction.

'Huh?' Was Theodore imagining it? He could find a trace of his past self in the boy's hair and eye color. The boy had blazing eyes which were filled with a desire and willingness not to lose. It was the face of those who tried many times not to fall into despair.

After looking at Theodore for a moment, Baek Dongil fell to his knees and bowed to Baek Jongmyung. It was a kowtow. In the east, this was regarded as something shameful to do and was only used when people saw the emperor.

Baek Jongmyung's anger soared at the sight of Baek Dongil.

"{Stand up!}"

"{Father! Please pass on my words!}"

"{Foolish guy! I never taught you to be like this!}"

"{That's right! You didn't teach me anything!}"

The squabble had started again. Theodore was worried he might see a sword emerge. So, he opened his mouth and said, "{Both of you, that is enough.}"

The Baeks stopped with shock at his one sentence.

"{Sir Ted, this is our family's… Huh?}"

"{I won't give up until Father accepts… Eh?}"

Unable to accept the situation, the two people stared at Theodore.

"{Master Baek, I will listen to the story.}"

"{Uh, umm, I understand.}"

Baek Jongmyung was so amazed by the fluent Chinese that he nodded, unable to refuse. Theodore asked for Baek Jongmyung's understanding first, before turning to Baek Dongil. Theodore looked at the frozen Baek Dongil and said, "{And Young Master Baek.}"

"{Y-Yes!}" A nervous answer emerged.

"{I don't know what it is, but if you have something to say to me, tell me directly.}"

"{…Yes, I understand.}" Baek Dongil seemed to regain his composure as he stood up with a calmer expression. He turned away from his father toward Theodore and breathed for a while.

Kung!

Then he kneeled again and bowed. "{Please forgive my rudeness! I hope you will give me, Baek Dongil, your teachings!}"

"{Huh, this guy!}" Baek Jongmyung tried to stop Baek Dongil, but he was blocked. Theodore shook his head with a subtle expression. No, he was just calm on the outside. Inwardly, he was smiling with satisfaction.

'Okay, things might be better this way.'

This could save him the third request, and in some ways, he might be able to get more.

Besides, he didn't know if it was a coincidence or inevitable, but Baek Dongil's request was similar to the third condition that Theodore had thought of in advance. An energy different from that of a 'warrior' was flowing from Baek Dongil. It was a third power which was similar to magic but not exactly the same.

This was an opportunity for Theodore to investigate that power.

"{…Raise your head, Young Master Baek.}"

"{S-Sir.}"

"{Let me hear your story.}"

Theodore controlled his expression, while a strange expression formed on Baek Dongil's face. This was Theodore's first encounter with a shaman!