Chapter 108 – Ego (3)

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Translated by Heavenly Cat

Read it only at Novelbyu.com & Utoon.net

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Guild Ranking 2nd, World Unification.

Guild Master Liu Ojun Chun got a goal.

“We will surpass Shining through this opportunity.”

The opportunity was naturally the newly generated rifts from the new update.

Overthrowing Shining was an unchanging goal.

But this time, he had no choice but to face it more seriously.

Because currently, Shining was wavering unprecedentedly.

‘Rocks, you must have suffered great damage to your combat power.’

Jesse Heinness, who was called the number two of Shining following Rocks.

──────

[Breaking News] Jesse Heinness officially withdraws from Shining……!

──────

Because she jumped out of the fence called Shining.

Although the reason is unknown, he could at least know that the announcement wasn’t a dream.

The plummeting stock price of Shining. The evidence was their own soaring stock price in contrast.

‘There is no time to waste in Muon.’

The Holy Land of the Goddess Order, Muon.

At first, he weighed its utility value.

If they formed an amicable relationship with the Goddess Order, there were many elements that would be helpful to the guild in various ways.

However, now that he found out Muon harbored hostile feelings toward humanity.

There was no reason to cling only to Muon anymore.

[Mantra Mine – Mining Sector 2]

[Recommended Level : Lv.550]

[Collapse Progress : 0.8%]

“Everyone, enter the rift!”

A golden opportunity to stand above Shining.

In front of it, Liu Ojunchun did not hesitate.

He led the elite combat power of World Unification and entered the rift.

“Do not step back!”

“Clench your teeth and hold out!!”

“What are you guys doing, pour down magic!”

The clear was not easy.

Above all, the fact that all monsters appearing in the rift were Ghost attribute played a big role.

Even if they consumed potions that imbued attributes into their weapons to allow them to attack ghosts in preparation for that.

“They are too fast, those things!”

“Damn it. To hide in the walls.”

“It’s hard to swing a sword because they are flying over our heads……!”

Ssssssss

The bastards were moving as if toying with the large army.

However, Liu Ojunchun had numerous experiences.

From the days when Arcana was merely a game until now.

The experience that made World Unification stand tall as a top-tier guild.

“Do not chase. Maintain the formation.”

A fastidious pattern.

However, he had seen many monsters with much more fastidious patterns than this.

Moreover, since it was a golden opportunity, he made thorough preparations.

“We will not move the way they want.”

Liu Ojunchun was also confident in a prolonged battle.

Following his command, World Unification calmly progressed the clear of the rift.

And the time was now.

“All forces standby.”

To grasp the topography of the mine.

Dozens of explorers scattered to various places.

Soon, they returned to the main unit holding something.

“We have completed the map.”

No matter how complex the structure of the mine is, there is no match against sheer numbers.

Liu Ojunchun examined the map created by the explorers activating their skills.

He found a passage that particularly drew his gaze among dozens of maps.

“There are exceptionally many weeds growing.”

Of course, Liu Ojunchun didn’t agonize for long.

Because he had overflowing hands and feet to suffer in his stead.

As he gestured, a few groups moved swiftly.

“We will return with information.”

They disappeared beyond the mine holding the explorers’ maps.

Soon, good news was heard by Liu Ojunchun.

That they discovered the [Iron Noble], who could be called the boss monster of the rift.

“All forces advance!”

[Iron Noble].

If they just defeat that bastard, the rift is cleared. If they can clear a new rift perfectly in a short time, it wouldn’t be a vain expectation for the guild rankings to be overturned.

“There is an unnecessary abundance of trash.”

A giant clad in iron armor.

Both that volume and voice.

Were emitting considerable intimidation.

“All forces charge!”

Liu Ojunchun.

The players of World Unification including him did not step back.

It was thanks to the special effect of Liu Ojunchun’s class, [Monarch].

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Leader : After the battle begins, the skill ‘Boost Morale’ is activated on the players serving the Monarch until the Monarch receives the first damage. The effect of ‘Boost Morale’ is proportional to the Monarch’s level.

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Super massive guild.

The reason World Unification could unite centering around Liu Ojunchun.

That was precisely thanks to Liu Ojunchun’s class called [Monarch].

Liu Ojunchun looked at the guild members rushing at the giant.

‘They are my swords and shields.’

It wasn’t just words.

The experience points they earned.

Were actually coming in to him as well at a certain ratio.

Right, this is exactly the power of the rare class [Monarch]!

That was the exact reason Liu Ojunchun received the full support of China. Of course, Liu Ojunchun also knew the weight of it. Therefore, he judged cool-headedly.

“Kraaaak!!”

Guild members falling down.

Liu Ojunchun didn’t blink an eye.

Swords and shields can be replaced as much as one wants.

However, there is only one [Monarch].

‘There is no one who can replace me anywhere.’

Liu Ojunchun swung his sword and shield.

“Never step back!”

Thanks to the effect of the [Leader] skill.

Following his command, the guild members moved in perfect order.

The Iron Noble opened its mouth.

“You guys are the race I hate.”

What is a mere monster babbling about?

Even at the bitter remarks, there was no wavering in Liu Ojunchun’s eyes.

Being agitated with the enemy in front of him?

Because it was something that could not exist for someone who became a Monarch.

“Even if I destroy myself. I will not kneel to you bastards.”

Just what he wanted.

Liu Ojunchun relentlessly pressured the Iron Noble.

That durability of standing back up again even if it fell was amazing but.

As emphasized several times, there is no match against sheer numbers.

Crack!

Soon, a sound was heard.

At the same time, the wall of the mine emitting light.

Liu Ojunchun only realized it then.

“So that lump of stone was your main body?”

If he had destroyed the main body from the start.

Does it mean he could have defeated the bastard faster?

However, it didn’t matter.

“Anything is fine.”

Because swords and shields are overflowing anyway.

Because the fact that [Mantra Mine – Mining Sector 2] was cleared solely with the power of World Unification remained unchanged.

Messages popping up.

[Leveled up.]

[Leveled up.]

[You have cleared the Mantra Mine – Mining Sector 2 rift.]

Liu Ojunchun let out a superbly satisfied smile.

“It is time to enjoy the air at the summit.”

*

……It’s dizzying. Really.

Let’s consider if I didn’t have the [Pentagram of Pure Knowledge].

Naturally, I wouldn’t have known what Ghost Iron was, right? Then I would have suffered like a dog just to defeat the Iron Noble.

‘Let’s say I got lucky and found out Ghost Iron was the main body.’

So I attack the Ghost Iron directly.

Destroy the Ghost Iron.

And defeat the Iron Noble.

It’s a terrible thing to the point where a groan leaks out……! That was tantamount to smashing the Ghost Iron, which can be used to craft Ego Equipment including an Ego Sword, with my own hands.

‘Just imagining it…….’

Gives me goosebumps. For real.

Ignorance is bliss, they say.

If I didn’t know until the end, maybe.

But if I were to find out later on by any chance.

‘Insomnia starts from that day.’

Of course, I couldn’t guess the monetary value of Ghost Iron.

Similar to the Ego Sword, that information wasn’t known.

However, I could guess.

[Ghost Iron]

[Grade : Epic]

[Restriction : None]

[Effect : Upon crafting, bestows an ‘Ego’ upon the crafted item.]

[Description : A mineral containing a soul. Its rarity is worthy of being treated as a legend, and its value also cannot be dare evaluated.]

That was right.

Because that amazing Ghost Iron came into my hands.

Right, everything was thanks to the sword energy.

As said before.

There are two ways to acquire Ghost Iron.

Subjugate the Ghost Iron.

Or if not, be acknowledged by the Ghost Iron.

I was the latter, being acknowledged by the Ghost Iron.

“Even right now, your sword energy is superbly noble……. Yet, you still have endless potential for development.”

That was the Ghost Iron’s evaluation towards me.

I thought it sounded somewhat familiar while listening but.

Thinking back, isn’t this similar to what Harkon said?

-“I’ve been sure of it from before, but today I can finally say it with confidence. Sir Ho-yeol! You must walk the path of the sword. What’s five fingers? At least within three fingers on the continent……!”

The Ghost Iron continued its words like that.

“I have been waiting for someone like you here. Could you please take me to the realm of the sword you will advance towards? I will also burn my body so that you can reach the realm!”

Just as there is a realm in magic.

There must be a realm in the sword too.

Naturally, why wouldn’t it work.

‘Because I have no intention of letting Granfel’s talent rot.’

Moreover.

Even if it’s just out of regret for the wells I’ve dug steadily in my own way.

I must struggle as much as I can.

I obtained the Ghost Iron like that.

‘Well, I didn’t gain experience points, but.’

Destroying Ghost Iron just for experience points?

What crazy bastard in the world could do such a thing.

Of course, the result that the [Iron Noble] disappeared from the rift remained unchanged.

[You have cleared the Mantra Mine – Mining Sector 1 rift.]

Soon, a message popped up before my eyes.

The scenery of the rift collapsing immediately.

Is it because it’s not the first time that she’s gotten used to it.

The Nymph bowed her head to me with formality.

“Then, I hope you are at peace until our next meeting.”

……Somehow her way of speaking seems to be getting more elegant by the day.

It’s not like I can find fault with her way of speaking.

I unsummoned the Nymph and looked for Cle.

“Ah, is it over, Chief Lee Ho-yeol……?”

As expected, just as I guessed.

Cle was agitated by the collapsing rift.

No matter how much of a Skilled Mage of the Mage Tower she is, she has no choice but to be surprised seeing it for the first time. I spoke to Cle nonchalantly.

“There is nothing to be afraid of.”

Right, if you close your eyes and open them.

We’ll be back in reality.

Why, just like now.

Between the forest of buildings.

Players were seen as we opened our eyes.

Looking at the atmosphere roughly, everyone had bewildered expressions.

“……What, it’s already cleared?”

It is understandable to be surprised.

Because even I was startled.

Well, even putting aside finding the shortcut leading to where the Ghost Iron was buried thanks to the Nymph. The process of acquiring the Ghost Iron was shortened much more than expected.

“Wait, silver-haired with that outfit……. Isn’t that Lee Ho-yeol?!”

“Damn, no wonder.”

“Lee Ho-yeol? Since when did he enter the rift again?”

Murmuring players.

As for me, it’s not like it’s been a day or two.

There was no need to pay attention to those gazes but.

“……But who is the one bowing her head next to him?”

Cle was different.

No, not only Cle, but if the fact that the Mage Tower has begun to move in earnest becomes known to the world. It was as obvious as seeing a fire that the mages of the Mage Tower would receive massive attention.

Right, therefore.

“Is it Mr. Lee Ho-yeol’s party?”

“……I don’t really know, but should we try to get an interview?”

“Wait, let’s gauge the mood first then…….”

Didn’t I accompany the tower exit?

Clack

I headed straight to the portal.

“Let us go.”

As my words fell, Cle finally followed behind.

That alone was enough. The players and reporters who were showing interest in Cle immediately turned their steps around while swallowing their saliva in regret.

-“Silence.”

-“Observe formality and manners.”

-“I will not answer your rude questions.”

It’s probably thanks to the consistent attitude I’ve shown all this time.

Of course, since Cle couldn’t know the story behind it.

Cle seemed bewildered even after arriving at the Mage Tower through the portal.

However, I am the Chief, and Cle is a Skilled Mage. It means there is no need for me to explain the specific reasons.

‘Isn’t society all like that.’

Even if you don’t know, doing as you are told is a hierarchical society.

I opened my mouth shamelessly as I climbed the stairs.

“All schedules have ended within the time.”

“……Ah, yes!”

“I hope this tower exit has been helpful to your research.”

No, I earnestly hope so.

Not to mention the realm of magic, now even the realm of the sword.

As the goal has become grand, the effect of medicine is essential for me…….

*

Tower Exit.

Questions poured onto Cle, who returned after completing her schedule.

The Skilled Mages surrounding Cle.

Their eyes sparkled with curiosity.

“How was the outside world, Cle?”

“The rift? How was the rift?!”

“No, everyone. Wait. Everyone quiet down.”

……Hush

The one who quelled the commotion was Jibril, who had her hair braided into twin tails.

Born of a prestigious family of the Empire.

Jibril also normally had a large presence among the Skilled Mages.

She cleared her throat and opened her mouth.

“Ahem, no matter how curious you are, you must follow the order.”

She continued affectionately.

“Nothing particular happened, right, Miss Cle?”

As Cle nodded her head, the voice continued.

“And there were no particular problems with Chief Lee Ho-yeol either?”

……Ah, right!

At that, exclamations burst out from everywhere.

They had completely forgotten, focusing only on the tower exit itself.

The fact that Cle went on the tower exit alone with Chief Lee Ho-yeol.

“Eccentric……. No, because he’s so prickly. The Chief.”

“Right? He speaks very directly as well.”

“Honestly, should I say he’s a little scary……?”

The conversation pouring out like rapid-fire.

Shake shake

Cle, who had been staying quiet, shook her head without realizing it.

“……Miss Cle?”

Vigorously enough for the gathered people to flinch.

Everyone was severely misunderstanding.

‘Chief Lee Ho-yeol is not someone like that!’

Cle recalled this tower exit.

From kindly teaching her knowledge about elixir herbs.

To warning her about the vengeful spirits’ attack.

Just how many times did she directly receive help from the Chief?

‘As if that wasn’t enough, my research…….’

Excluding Lord Bellier.

Regarding the ‘Elixir Herb Cultivation Method’ that no one paid attention to.

He was pondering over it more seriously than herself.

Jibril felt an unusual vibe.

“What is that reaction, Miss Cle? Did something happen as expected?”

“Tell us quickly. What is it. What happened between you two~”

“Cle! Are you really going to keep your mouth shut like that?”

However, Cle pressed her lips tightly together.

Because she hadn’t forgotten the words Ho-yeol said.

-“You merely have to act in accordance with formality.”

In accordance with formality.

‘I will not talk about anything related to the Chief even a little.’

However, for Ho-yeol to receive a misunderstanding is also.

Something she couldn’t just stand by and watch.

Cle, having made a resolution, opened her mouth.

“……Chief Lee Ho-yeol.”

Right, let’s only state facts.

This wasn’t an illusion or something.

Because Cle had watched clearly.

The moment they escaped from the rift.

Why was it.

The tremendous interest and gazes directed at her.

The voice heard amidst the confusion.

-“Let us go.”

That was right.

At Ho-yeol’s single word, the massive crowd parted.

That was a sight she hadn’t even seen in the Arcana continent.

An emperor’s command, an imperial command might be different but…….

At least Cle had never seen the Emperor directly.

Cle seriously pondered.

Could it be that Chief Lee Ho-yeol is a noble of this world.

No, not just a noble.

Isn’t he an extremely high-ranking noble……?

Thinking like that…….

Ho-yeol’s personality valuing formality also started to be understood.

Cle spoke meaningfully.

“Perhaps, outside the Mage Tower, he might be an even more amazing person than inside the Mage Tower……!”