Moonlight Sculptor Volume 06
Moonlight Sculptor Volume 06
Moonlight Sculptor Volume 06
- Volume 6 -
Delight
- Novice has no idea how to post. Looking at the Hall of Fame, he must
just be glad to be on it.
- Kuwaahah!
Following the Orc’s monologue, the Orc army roared!
The fog lifted completely.
The Yuroki Mountain revealed itself with nearly 400,000 Orcs and the
siege of the Dark Elves began.
Against their high spirits, the Dark Elves were using elements and magic.
The Orcs pushed with overwhelming numbers.
"This is like watching a movie."
"A battle of this scale..."
The majority of users have seen people do siege warfare. Magic can be
dazzling when cast, but only that. That is only partly impressive.
But in this case, wave after wave of Orcs attacked as the Dark Elves
desperately deflected them. Black fumes rose from the burning oil
splashed down from the walls on to the Orcs. Some of the Orcs that were
hit by the oil itself burned to death.
Orcs climbing the walls.
Dark Elves launching arrows covering the sky.
"Awesome."
"This is the best....!"
The people who saw the video were very much content.
Like out of a fantasy film, you can be a spectator of a desperate battle
between different races.
The incredible power of that glaive left others in awe!
Powerful enough to defeat many Dark Elves in combat!
The mighty Orc that wielded the glaive in his recklessness.
Based on its overwhelming power, the entire force moved together. The
explosive energy can be felt; occasionally the glaive was swung in
mysterious ways leading to amazing results. Ever since the creation of
virtual reality, all martial arts enjoyed its greatest prosperity. Users can
move about in virtual reality without being winded and garnered more
interest in the use of weapons and combat.
"How could he move like that?"
"You can see that the whole battle is drawn around him."
"I guess this is where that Orc subtly changed the flow of the battle."
The calibre of the battle completely engrossed the minds of those who
watched. Even if the movie ended at that point, people were very
satisfied. But the video was far from the end. Priests and soldiers also
joined those brutal looking Orcs.
"No way!"
"So that was a user?"
The people were astonished.
The war of Orcs and Dark Elves.
However, all of this was due to the will of a user. A single man was at the
centre of this.
Murderous Orcs, soldiers, and priests were entering the temple,
marching toward the necromancer. There was no way to know the
background of the war, but the mood made it clear that the place was
very important. Then the heinous Orc turned into the shape of a man.
The viewers did not know it, but the reason for this was the cancellation
of the sculpture shapeshifting skill. The interior of the temple was very
dark and the angle of the video showed the back, so they could not
examine the face.
Then they viewed the conversation with the necromancer.
- I do not place my trust in the providence of a God for the sake of my live.
However, if this is how it will be, I am prepared to comply. Kill me.
He looked to his knees.
Then so the necromancer knelt down.
People expected that the necromancer will finally be killed.
"Kill him!"
"I am curious about this quest. Really."
"With the rewards of a quest of this scale, what is it that you want?"
People were totally immersed as they watched the video. Unlike other
videos, they really felt a different experience. Hall of Fame videos were
generally monster hunts. Only those that are highly acclaimed can be
qualified to enter the Hall of Fame; but they also knew that their own
quests can be made public to which they were not willing.
The video Weed made was a big breather of fresh air. A movie where the
main character came out, and when the conflict occurred, he didn’t swing
the sword.
- Say, my dear necromancer. You might think of this as divine providence,
but you hit the wrong key.
- You won’t kill me, slave of Freya.
- I am not a tool. I would like you to talk. Will you tell me your side of the
story?
- We... are not! You will not believe my story. Get out, you servants of
Freya! Go to hell, I curse you.
- ......
The video's protagonist fell silent for a moment and then he spoke.
- I will give you the opportunity. A chance to receive faith and trust. I will
also believe what you say to be truthful.
- Really? Can you promise?
- Yes. But just that I will listen to your story. Not a promise that I won’t
kill you.
They saw him hesitate for a moment, and then he began his long story.
- As you told me, I will speak. What the world knows of Balkan is wrong.
You see, Balkan had been researching the skill of immortality, he was a
true wizard. Yet.....
He said with an indignant look.
- Balkan's subordinate Shire used wicked tactics and the forces of
darkness. Yet, the research was utilized in the wrong direction to create
an immortal, undead army. When they die, the undead army quickly
comes back to life! Balkan fell to the forces of darkness and lost his mind;
the undead legion will destroy the world. Shire is in league with the
forces of darkness and he leads the immortal legion. We necromancers
were brought into this by Balkan, but fear being part of it, we are not free
from our teacher's sin. The fact is, we went to this temple and got these
old manuscripts to study blood and death as necromancers to reverse all
of this. To return Balkan back to normal by removing the dark aura, and
punish Shire, the source of all this evil.
The truth is revealed and the quest is completed. A new beginning.
Difficulty A quest has been opened.
If it has not already been unlocked, the quest is associated with the
unknown profession: Necromancer.
"Necromancer!"
"If this person succeeds in this quest, we will be able to choose
necromancer as a profession?"
"An upper profession quest for wizards has appeared!"
Finally, as the Dark Elf Citadel's repair operation is shown the video ends.
***
For Lee Hyun's position, all of this took place earlier today.
Though he only slept for five hours, the world had changed considerably.
The Royal Road website had an exactly different atmosphere.
It was no longer no-one paying attention to the lower half of the Hall of
Fame; the movie shook everything up.
"That Orc quest!"
"The Dark Elves, first time I've ever seen such a battle in my life."
"That Orc transformation.... might that be a quaternary poly-morph
wizard spell?"
"No way, if that is it, I would probably be able to use that skill."
"At the very least, I guess it could be a unique item that allows you to
change the body."
People were making speculations.
The sculpture shape-shifting was entirely unknown to them and their
common sense. In addition, Lee Hyun conducted this quest itself in a
place that was entirely new to them. With the stretches of mountains and
valleys with no limit, and the open area with clouds underneath them.
"Where is this space land!?"
"It's not the central continent..."
"Many people live in the great cities and the surrounding terrain, and
they do not look like that!"
People wanted to know where Lee Hyun conducted this quest and they
couldn't wait. Royal Road was modestly mobilized here. Those that
excelled in various fields among them were revealed.
- First, look at the trees in the land. The weather is very cold, not hot.
- Consider the alpine region, for the breeds of trees like that....
- I do not know too much about Orcs, however, the level is over 350. I've
hunted many monsters. The Orcs that came out there, I've never seen
guys that strong. To fight hordes of Orcs like that has got to be dreadful.
Charm: 20 Charisma: 60
Leadership: 30 Luck: 5
Defense: 195
Magic Resistance:
Initially, Lee Hyun was going to go home with his sister. As per usual, the
decision was to go home and do a few things at the house and get to
Royal Road. The time for the quest was just around the corner, but the
lack of time for preparation made it worse. However, this was not what
came to mind.
'The University of Korea interview! An incline over an incline. It is not
credible to spend such an important day in this way.'
Lee Hyun took heart and looked into his wallet. (perhaps closer to
withheld breath, or preparing himself)
Stiff blue bills.
If only they knew what happens to cash after the generous cash
withdrawals. (might be he's contemplating the waste of overspending)
“Hayan.”
“Huh?”
“Let's see a movie.”
Until now, there has never been a time Lee Hyun went to a movie theatre.
But there is a first time for everything.
“Really?”
To Hayan, this was unfathomable.
Her brother of all people! A stingy person who would never waste money
or even use it to ride a bus. A guy who wouldn't buy junk or even
essential school supplies at the very least. And to go to a movie theatre.
“Yeah. Seeing a movie would be fun.”
With Lee Hyun's strong determination, the two headed to the movie
theatre.
A multiplex theatre with many movies.
Associated with a large shopping mall, a place where visitors were
unending.
As he entered the theatre, he was continuously amazed.
“Amazing.”
How could such a place be there that will gather so many people. This
just seemed to be something from a different world.
“Look brother, this movie looks really interesting.”
“Sure. Come, let's go and take a look.”
In truth, this was the first time for Lee Hayan to see a movie as well. Even
though she got a fairly considerate allowance, and would earn her own
money, she would never spend it carelessly. It was a first time for her to
go to a high standard theatre to see a film.
“So many films.”
“Which are the more recent in popularity?”
“ Thereare posters all over.” (would prefer 'A good man's end'. But this is
direct...)
“Let's go, it sounds like fun.”
Lee Hyun and Lee Hayan bought tickets after waiting for some time in
line. Initially, he only knew that you had to pay money before entering
the theatre; however, he also had to purchase a ticket specifically at the
box office.
“So this is how it works. I knew this would happen. This is normal.”
Lee Hyun had a sudden overwhelming smile. A confident smile. Yet he
handed 10,000 WonWon grandly for these two tickets.
“Two tickets for ”
Pride from coming to a movie theatre!
Satisfaction of being a cultured man!
Having begun this moment, it was worth every bit. Though it is precious,
spending the money is still worthwhile.
Smiling sweetly, the employee said.
“3:30 show for 2 Adult tickets. Correct?”
“Yes.”
“Do you have a discount card or a credit card?” (discount might mean
debit)
“Huh?”
Lee Hyun was baffled.
Credit card and discount card!
A quite significant sounding name, the mention of those words.
“What is that supposed to mean?”
“Oh. Yes. MK capital, or carrier card, credit cards, or choose a discount.”
“Then, if that's the case, how much of a discount...”
Lee Hyun asked hesitatingly.
The staff member laughed heartily. It was a smile bright enough to pick
up your spirits.
“2,000 Won per person.”
“.......”
At that time, Lee Hyun exposed his rotten smile!
7,000 Won movie tickets for 2,000 Won; a discount that cannot be
ignored.
For 2,000 Won per person, a total discount of 4,000 Won!
But there was no card for Lee Hyun.
Credit cards were mainly used for the wholesale market, and he was
without one since he did not fit the requirements to be issued with a
credit card.
The debt was paid off, but his record remained, and no credit means no
card issued.
Not even a cell phone.
“Hayan.”
He looked to his sister for help, but her head was shaking; it was the
same for her.
A highschooler without a cell phone, or a card.
Eventually, Lee Hayan grabbed Lee Hyun's arm to get his attention.
“Brother. It's just a movie, we don't have to watch.”
At that moment, Lee Hyun was certain that he wanted to see the movie.
Looking back, he did not remember his family ever watching a movie
together.
'As the older brother, I live for the sake of my younger sibling, Lee
Hayan.'
Feeling remorse, he handed over 20,000 Won without hesitation to the
staff.
A grand move!
“ without discount or credit, I want 2 tickets.”
“Hope you find a good spot, sir.”
The theatre staff found it interesting as the two siblings went to find good
seats during the time remaining. For a 3:30 pm showing, there was still 1
hour and 20 minutes left. Lee Hyun attended his sister as they went
inside the movie theatre. There is a comprehensive game room and a
place where you can buy popcorn and squid.
'That squid is almost half the price of the film. Popcorn is so expensive.'
This place, there is no sense to it.
The selling price of popcorn and coke in the movie theatre is more
expensive than the price of the ticket!
Lee Hyun looked around and noticing the game room, led his sister to it.
“Until it is time for the entertainment, let's wander around.”
“Yeah, yeah.”
The two went inside the game room.
Again Lee Hyun was amazed.
'It exceeds 1,000 Won per round for each game....'
Royal Road is the ideal of the mainstream world.
In virtual reality, you can achieve anything. For the simple entertainment
from an old machine, a simple screen will appear with hand controls that
costs 1,000 Won for each use. You pay cash and also calculate the amount
taken since it gives none back. This is an environment to waste your
money in just moments.
'These crooks!'
Lee Hyun gave out a sad sigh.
The world of entertainment was not able to give a peace of mind.
This over-inflation of prices!
Money earned from blood and sweat spilled by blowing on a few
moments of entertainment was good for nothing.
“Older brother, which game would do?”
“Well, let's have a go at it.”
The best entertainment at this point for Lee Hyun would be the one that
looks the cheapest. Some kind of tennis game for two people to compete
against each other to win. At the game, Lee Hyun's hand trembled.
Playing by putting money into it.
This was absolute fear.
Pain, terrible pain, as money leaf his pocket!
Probably at seeing the most terrifyingly thriller movie ever, he still would
not have been afraid. Lee Hyun and his younger sibling paying for a game.
The cheapest one was 500 Won. Will have to be strong to hang in there
for 1 hour in a game that normally takes 2 minutes. If against the other
sibling, two more wins, then it's all gone! Money going down the drain.
Lee Hyun went rigid in the face as he smiled.
“This is boring, let's look at a different game.”
“Yes, brother.”
Lee Hyun now found a game that was not a competition type.
'This game is preferable; as long as you can contribute something....
everything is free!'
He found an airplane game.
The objective of the game is to fly a plane and shoot down enemy aircraft
by firing missiles. This was popular in the 20th century, and even now
people are still enjoying classic games with simple operation.
“Let's try doing this.”
Lee Hyun was delighted as he sat in front of the game.
Two people can play this game together by inserting 1,000 Won.
'Can withstand 1 hour with this!'
The first mission was to attack the enemy's aircraft character. Flying
proudly and shooting down enemy planes while timely not attacking
friendly bombers. Victory was not difficult. But the astronauts that came
from the second mission were unknown. An extremely fast UFO ride in a
ship emitting laser beams covering the full screen! Missile, surface-to-air-
missile; but regardless, the inexpensive loss is behind me.
“Keoheok!”
“Haha! This is fun!”
Lee Hyun endured as his younger sibling was enjoying herself.
'Since my sister likes this.'
They played the airplane game once then went off in search of a different
game.
[Find what is wrong with this picture!]
A game that could last a really long time. First of all, it is necessary to
have to pay for two people. Two people can simultaneously watch and
search the screen till one of them finds it. When you succeed past 10
stages, you can win a teddy bear. His eyes were getting bloodshot from
seriously looking for what was wrong in the picture, yet Lee Hyun was
feeling severely betrayed. It is like finding a pearl from the ocean!
Lee Hyun took this as a very demanding challenge. For the money spent,
get that doll! But then this stage was even trickier. Find the missing piece
of puzzle in the sand! Find different leaves in a forest pattern! What
island is not on the world map! Find an ant with 4 legs!
It appeared that the mission was only to make him completely frustrated.
If you cannot find it in the time limit, then the money is lost; it was like
his life was dying off bit by bit. Whenever the two failed, the amount
increased. The picture searching game was set to eat money at a horrible
speed.
But Lee Hyun carried on in patience.
To use up money is the poison of youth.
'I will find you no matter what.'
At this point, the money far exceeded the value of the doll. Nevertheless,
one more hurdle was passed. So now to the final stage. Lee Hyun stared
unblinkingly and waited. Finally, what appeared from the next scene...
Find a specific Star within the Milky Way!
'Crap!'
Lee Hyun was forced to abandon. Even with this, it's too much. At least
tens of thousands of stars, how will you know If some are missing
somewhere in the middle.
'What hardship!'
He felt naive, to believe that he could get a teddy bear from [finding what
was wrong with the picture], he must have been a fool. There was a time
when doing the work was fun in itself.
'I guess Royal Road is the only proper one to go with.'
From then on, Lee Hyun decided to just find a game that was simple
enough. But there weren’t many games. If 2 players determined victory,
then the game wouldn't last for long.
'I can't spend more money, is there not a single game that can last a little
longer?'
Then Lee Hyun saw a Tokyo dancing game and felt that was the one. You
first go into a small room in order to play. You take actions according to
the instructions listed and all related behaviors are shown on the centre
of the screen. It was a dance competition; you compete by scores after
the game.
'This will be difficult.'
Lee Hyun saw that the instructions appearing before the eyes and the
flow is so fast that the movements are miraculous. Move your hands
vaguely and move your feet on the ground as you ride the rhythm of the
beat, the body even more superbly, the flamboyant dance moves were
displayed on the screen.
A Dance showdown!
High school girls were surrounding them and middle school girls were
gathering as they were all admiring it.
“Oh, you should try it, older brother.”
“Are you sure?”
Lee Hyun was a completely noob in dancing! Well, might as well push
forward. The little sister was glad to see his reaction and privately
wanted to see it.
'There's a line, with that many people, it will be a 15 minute wait.'
Beyond this, he would rather save time. Then Lee Hyun stood at the end
of the line to dance. It seemed that most of those standing in line were
men. The boys had necklaces, earring and all the latest hairstyles.
'Look at this hick.'
'What's with him?'
'Just ignore him.'
'No. He will be embarrassing.'
The boys privately glanced and mutually winked at each other. Even so,
they already had their attention focused on Lee Hyun and Lee Hayan.
Everyone was thrilled the moment the beautiful Lee Hayan entered the
game room. An attractive and cute high school girl. Then they saw her
with Lee Hyun and watched her play cheap sucker games as she smiled
brightly. Everyone was in a bad mood.
'This is a good way to fully embarrass him.'
Boys who stood in line intentionally excused themselves. Thanks to that,
Lee Hyun turn came quickly.
“Brother, Good luck!”
“Yeah, I'll do my best.”
Lee Hyun went into the small room and his hairs stood on end. At that
place, he had no idea of where to start or even choose the kind of dance.
Varieties of dances according to region and time, but he lacked the
fundamental knowledge. Finally Lee Hyun just selected one.
Freestyle.
Extreme Dance.
Coincidentally, this boasts the highest level difficulty for dance. Having
started, he now must press the arrows corresponding to the symbol fast
and precisely to dance. The selected dance that only people of the highest
level are able to do.
“Oh man, what a novice.”
“A guy with no tact chose Extreme Dance.”
“This will be totally embarrassing.”
Lee Hyun's choice was reported through the screen outside, and they
openly laughed at him. They were thinking that as soon as the real game
starts, Lee Hyun will panic and move around wildly. People were
normally overly conscious of those in line outside of the game.
'As it is, depending on this you will not get embarrassed.'
His body went full force following the unfamiliar dance moves, but as the
hand and feet instructions approached, he sometimes had trouble.
Various arrows of different distance caused Lee Hyun to struggle as it
went even faster. Pressing to the exact moments, it was not an easy task.
He executed complicated actions as his mind registered them as they
occurred. The hp of Lee Hyun's character was in a rapid decline. In the
background a crowd was filling the dance floor of the club. Lee Hyun's
opponent was overwhelming, showing dazzling dancing skills. Then in
one moment, Lee Hyun changed slightly.
'Dancing. I don't know how to dance.'
The fact is, it is not possible to suddenly do something you don't know
how to. What it feels like to ride the rhythm, feel the music, he had no
idea. He thought that only a highly cultured man would be able to dance
this. But if this is about moving one's own body.
'I wield a sword, though this is fine as I do not need one in my hand. As an
opponent makes a step near to me, I walk a step contrary to them.
Fighting the enemy with my hands. My foe jabs first as I strike with the
palm of my own hand.'
All of a sudden, Lee Hyun's actions have changed.
You can state that his body was excessively tense. His hands and feet had
no place to go. Of the arrows that came out, he had been forced to follow
the actions of the opponent, rather than precisely direct attacks. He
considered the goal of moving his hands and legs and he unleashed. He
was now kicking and twisting at the waste, rotating his body. His arms
moved very quickly. He used his fists and elbows at very precise timing
against those arrows.
Soon, Lee Hyun's movement projected through the screen.
“What the heck is going on?”
“This is amazing.”
The actions were associated with dance. And this was related to music.
He followed the instructions with his eyes, heard with his eyes, and he
watched. From his previous actions, the tide had turned. Even though Lee
Hyun's character had only 1 square of vitality left, he rebounded and
overwhelmed the opponent. Exactly like in Royal Road, he was
victorious; the patience in order to make sense of the situation and to
counter it.
“What is that guy!”
The faces of the guys in the line were completely ridiculous from shock. A
complete novice that had no idea just a bit ago was making such
movements and quickly become proficient.
To dance similarly and press those arrows. Extreme Dance moved too
quickly, because it was impossible to resonate with the dance, and that to
by swaying properly. But Lee Hyun's movements showed that he can
make a new dance in response. The body flowed at an astonishing speed,
while making endlessly beautiful moves.
“Wow, you are amazing!”
“A real man.”
The high school and middle school girls cheered. Soon other challengers
appeared. To try to end Lee Hyun's popularity! But Lee Hyun had been
accustomed to such battles. He learned a little bit about how each action
should be made. A lithe body must go with the flow of the music and
position itself to the arrows simultaneously.
Lee Hyun had a whopping 10 game winning streak. In truth, it would
have been even more than that, but it was almost time for the movie. As
he left the room, the other entrant freak out on him. They spoke critically
to him. What do you mean? You just entered. Invariably, he took no
action. As he moved, the look in his eyes caused them to step gasp and
step back. Like in moving the body to where the arrow appeared, Lee
Hyun found his sister and spoke.
“Let's go to the movie.”
“Yeah.”
It was time for the movie to begin.
Lee Hyun and Lee Hayan sat down on the padded seats to watch the
movie. In fact, the movie was not that entertaining. The Korean film had a
simple story and followed a typical pattern. Men from the backstreets.
Importance in their friendships, and their love to fight. However, the two
found themselves attached to different organizations and grew apart in
opposing interests. However, then a pretty heroine appeared and a love
triangle created for the two. The childhood friends suffered.
Friendship and power. At the end, the hero was betrayed by the friend he
trusted the most. In order to gain power and money, the woman did a
final betrayal with a knife in the back. At that time, the male protagonist
was an ambassador.
- I resonated with him as well. But as much as I loved him, it could not be
so.
The tragic beauty spoke as the ambassador was bleeding on the floor. In
the midst of all, the detective intervened and both of them fell; it was an
unbearable story. Somehow it finished like that.
“What the hell is the story!”
“Don't you think this was far over hyped?”
“The author must have written it with his feet.”
“But such a simple story took 2 hours?”
“It wasn't really that good.”
The audience hurled extreme critical comments as one. Most of the rave
reviews reported by movie sites caused this reaction, damping the good
reputation of the movie studio that produced it. But for Lee Hyun and Lee
Hayan, who wanted to see a movie with her brother, it was just simply
okay. Saving money is important, but they also created memories that
they never had before. Their life hard pressed every month and there was
no time to play. Thus coming to the theatre to watch a movie was
enjoyable in itself. It would not be advisable to resent it and lose this joy
just because they were fed up with the content of the movie.
“Brother, what do you think? The movie was a little weird, right?”
As Lee Hayan looked at the seat beside her, she was startled. Lee Hyun
was crying!
Friendship and betrayal. Such a manly story. As the screen was filled with
battle, Lee Hyun's body shook in response. He was completely immersed
in the movie for its entire 2 hours. Even as the credits started to roll at
the end of the movie, Lee Hyun still hadn't recovered.
“The male protagonist of this movie was too cool. Such a story. This
movie was really interesting.”
“.......”
After watching the movie, once Lee Hyun and Lee Hayan came out onto
the street outside, it was almost 6pm.
“Brother, I'm starving, let's just go home.”
As Lee Hayan spoke, Lee Hyun shook his head.
“No. You're not going to eat rice.”
More than that, eating out!
Normally, they would go home and after getting hungry from
swordsmanship or painting, they would eat rice rubbed with Gochujang
(red pepper sauce). Today was not a busy work day, nor was there any
plan to practice fencing or painting over there. In fact, at home, you can
solve it with a free meal! However the stingy Lee Hyun just mentioned
eating out. This was highly unusual. Lee Hayan's interview at the
University of Korea was regarded so significantly.
“So, where do we eat?”
Lee Hayan was delighted. In fact, she was shocked just from being able to
see a simple movie. Not just watching a movie, but to actually enjoy a
meal outside, she was truly looking forward to it.
“But where do we eat?”
Lee Hyun and Lee Hayan started walking down the street. Usually they
would never have eaten outside, so they did not know a place to go. As
they walked around, Lee Hayan pointed at a building.
“The seasoned rice cakes there are good. All of my friends tell me that
place is delicious. They say that the kimbap, tempura and even the oden
are good.”
“Really?”
Lee Hayan was pointing at a small group of stores. That seemed too
normal for Lee Hyun. After all, he wanted to treat her something special
today. So he gathered his courage. They were in the middle of the city,
and respectively, they should go to the city's centre.
“The only place to go, let's eat at a restaurant.”
Lee Hyun pointed to where the hotel was.
'A restaurant in a hotel is really different.'
Looking at the quality of the expensive looking interior, the smiling faces
of the staff overflowing with kindness, the impression of hospitality and
the people eating delicious looking dishes, the luxurious atmosphere in
the restaurant was overwhelming.. The guest chair was comfortable as he
waited to be called. In addition, all the surrounding décor seemed to be
expensive.
'I wouldn't go here twice, but every once in a while, it's nice to eat in a
place like this, especially on a day like today.'
Lee Hyun checked his wallet.
'Had 200,000 Won, used a taxi, went to watch a movie and play some
games. Still have 130,000 Won remaining.'
At most, rice would do for a meal.
Nevertheless, Lee Hyun went about thinking hopefully. A table stood out,
where a lobster course was being served. At that moment, Lee Hyun
instantly thought of the cost it would end up as.
'I suppose the cost for the materials would be 40,000 Won. Though, with
this hotel, considering cost of labor and profit, 70,000 Won?'
With many ways to look at it, considering 70,000 Won for one meal is a
bit overboard, something that older brother would not buy or could
afford. Lee Hyun thought a little harder about Royal Road and spoke to
appease his nervous sister.
“It's okay, let's eat a lot today. At least, just once in a place like this.”
“Still, it looks expensive here... Brother, let’s just go out and eat kimbap.”
In truth, being at an upscale restaurant like this for the first time was so
formidable, but he came here to relax and he eased the tension in his
mind.
'Look at the expensive artwork, even the royalty in Rosenheim Kingdom
could not afford it.'
The waitress came over a few moments later and unfolded a menu for
them.
“What would you like today?” The chef's special today is Omar prawns
with Oyster sauce...”
“Give me a moment to decide.”
“Yes. I understand, sir.”
Lee Hyun relaxed as he looked at the menu.
Then he checked the price!
A lobster course is 120,000 Won.
For only about 40,000 Won for the cost, when you look at the
tremendous cost, they are robbing you.
'Why is it so expensive!'
The price left Lee Hyun breathless. The A course was relatively
inexpensive. Beyond that, it was packed with expensive dishes. A meal
was 200,000 Won, with wine it was 300,000; then if you include foreign
wine it exceeds past 500,000 Won. With his money, Lee Hyun could
afford neither the bottle of wine, nor the food.
The price of the hotel's restaurant is murder!
The use of various services and the finest ingredients, the chef is also of
the highest level. Including the expense of the interior and atmosphere
with the price of the meal, this was bound to make it expensive. However,
this far exceeded Lee Hyun's range of the expected price.
'I absolutely cannot afford to eat this.'
The precious remaining money was too little to have it work out, he was
frowning increasingly. Instinctively, Lee Hyun and his sister looked at
each other at the same moment. Their eyes locked. She was extremely
nervous.
'No, I brought us here; even though it is expensive, leaving is not going to
happen.'
No matter how little money he has, he did not want to point out that flaw
and look impoverished. With an impressionable high school student with
him, Lee Hyun judged that he did not want to be thrown out while in the
middle of the dining room. Fortunately, the A-course meal is 120,000
Won, leaving 10,000 Won of his money remaining.
“Hayan, is lobster okay?”
“Yes but, are you sure....”
“We will take the A-course.”
“Will it be for the both of you?”
“Yes.”
“Enjoy.”
What Lee Hyun did not know.
The price not stamped on the hotel restaurant menu is the government
tax and service charge of 10% respectively. The price was substantially
more than 130,000. But that was a small point. Though it is expensive,
they could share it; but naturally the order was for two. An A-course
meal's cost was 120,000 Won per. Therefore, the price of the meal was
well above 250,000 Won.
“The food will be delicious. Eat your fill.”
“Older brother. Are you sure you not overdoing it?”
“It's fine. I have enough money.”
Lee Hyun tapped his pocket.
The food soon arrived. Cooking made by a head chef of the highest caliber
with fresh ingredients.
“Wow! This is really good.”
“Yeah, the taste is great.”
Lee Hyun was enjoying the flavor of the food. Like Royal Road, things can
make a big difference in the taste of the cooking itself. He understood the
skill required, particularly with seafood. It is easily damaged and needs
to be stored. Also the cost is expensive and not eaten frequently. The
effect of cooking and eating well has a huge effect when conducting a
battle.
***
In the same restaurant, 2 high school girls wearing their school uniforms
were eating a meal at a nearby table.
“Woah! This meat is very delicious!”
“The sauce is not that bad either.”
“The head chef came from France; he comes out frequently in cooking
magazines.”
“So that's how it is.”
“We'll come again next week.”
These girls were from a rich house, and they were also gourmets,
occasionally they would raise money to eat a meal at a restaurant like the
one here.
Happiness is best when you can eat delicious food!
This motto was shared by the two girls. They would come by when the
school day ended early and placed this as one of their hobbies. But then
her eyes looked out to a different table and noticed a joyful Lee Hayan,
who was eating.
“Ah? That's Hayan, isn't it?”
“I know.”
“Oh! That would be her brother.”
Lee Hayan was the girls' closest friend.
The fact was, in school nobody disliked Lee Hayan. Strong willed, well-
studied, and excellent athletic skills. With her innate leadership, the
other high school girls would always coalesce with her in the centre.
She's also a cheapskate, thus this was absolutely amazing, as she did not
participate in shopping or eating out. She then thought.
'Bloody hell. Yet she would only spend the little quality time with her
brother, that's just not fair.'
Isane had a mischievous glint in her eyes. (Yi-san-eh, would be closest
pronunciation... Isane, Yisaneh, or Yisanye. Which one to use is up to
debate.)
Lee Hayan was always proud of this guy, yet they did not know why.
These friends surely, surely didn't.
This perfect looking girl had the toxic infatuation of severely following
her brother. But it was the brother on that festival. Her friends didn't see
how she could be so boastful of this guy that looked so ordinary; they
thought it had to be a joke.
They later learned that he dropped out of high school due to money. At
the high school festival, he immediately set off for the princess and made
it look like a breeze, making him a top celebrity. He walked lightly on the
slippery and narrow wooden bridge, kicked at water balloons that were
flying at him in mid-air. At the end, he sprang up like a kite over the wall,
breaking through to the princess with the shortest time. When the
brother opened the bars and saved her, how handsome he was, he looked
such a man! Since that happened, the high school girls were more
interested in Lee Hyun's body. Now when Lee Hayan is with her brother,
not even a devil would dare to approach and interrupt her.
At this distance, Isane whispered.
“Let's join them.”
“Knowing Hayan's temper.... is it still gonna be okay?”
“It's okay. With her brother in front of her, she will act ideally.”
Isane arose and walked with confidence to Lee Hayan's spot and
suddenly hugged her.
“To think we would meet in a place like this! Can we sit?”
“......”
Suddenly, friends of Lee Hayan emerged and left her with surprise.
“You guys!”
Not even in the slightest did Lee Hayan expect this unpleasantly fierce
appearance.
Isane hurried to greet Lee Hyun.
“Hi, we are Hayan's classmates. Would you mind if we join you?”
“Welcome. Feel free to do so.”
Having his sister's friends sit at the same table, it wouldn't matter much.
Rather, in many ways it might be a good thing.
“The genuine me!”
Lee Hayan was frowning as she glared across the table at Isane, who was
laughing.
“Now I can't keep a straight face. Hayan. Still, are you okay?”
“Sheesh!”
It was inevitable; Lee Hayan could do nothing to stop this. She did not
like uninvited guests barging into midst of her happiest moments with
family. However, she had to quickly correct her expression. She did not
notice that she was still sitting in front of her brother. Getting angry can
be saved for later.
'I'll see you at school! You guys are so dead!'
Whatever the circumstances, Lee Hyun was delighted seeing his sister's
friends. With a variety of courses coming for dinner, the four people
enjoyed a relaxing meal.
'Nevertheless, still doing well at school.'
It appeared to Lee Hyun that his sister's smooth school life was not that
bad. Daily, he had been busy hunting in Royal Road, and now he was
giving his weary soul a rest.
“Oh! That's pretty.”
During the meal, they saw from the side of the table, ice sculptures being
transported near the window.
“Now take a look at this.”
Lee Hyun turned his head and glanced at the statue. It was of a Korean
woman who wore elegant clothes with a pigtail ribbon finely braided into
her hair. (A pigtail ribbon is a wedding ornament)
'That's not bad.'
As Lee Hyun had a little bit of experience with ice sculptures, he could
see that the statue was made with very excellent workmanship.
'It gives a vibrant feel, yet also quite gentle. From the hand of a master.'
As Lee Hyun and his younger sibling thought about the statue, the
waitress came over.
“Guests, I'm sorry but it will become slightly noisy since we are in the
middle of preparing a wedding anniversary for an esteemed elder. I hope
you will understand.”
“We are fine.”
In the background was a little bit of mending and repairs, but soon Lee
Hyun and his sister finished eating. At last, the last dessert of fruit and ice
cream came and the four ate it in a flash.
“Ah, I'm full.”
“That was really yummy.”
The four went to the counter to pay. First went Isane and Song Miyong.
Then Lee Hyun went to pull out his wallet to pay.
RUMBLE!CRASH!
The Restaurant of Hotel V.
From the early day, the restaurant was always bustling as the managers
and employees prepared to fit in VIP customer. The wealthiest person in
the Republic of Korea. An accomplished man who made his own fortune
from starting with nothing; he was Chairman Kang who had made this
dinner reservation. There is always some dish that you will criticize, but
the head chefs and the managers knew that this one was in fact special.
It is said that Chairman Kang, a devoted husband, was rumored to be
having his 40th marriage anniversary commemoration meal with his
wife. The hotel was making preparation for this.
According to the interests of Chairman Kang's wife, objects of art must
first be hung on every wall, and new carpet must be spread on the floor.
A band famous in the country, and even worldwide, must hold a concert;
then a commemoration cake is to be made, and decorated with the light
of 1,000 candles.
In regards to cooking, the preparation must promise perfection. Each
ingredient, in order to maintain a level of freshness, must be transported
by air from the mountainous region of a foreign nation. They go out from
the kitchen and catch the airplane's flight. But the most important thing
was the event that commemorates the marriage.
In order to mark the beautiful features of when Chairman Khan's wife
was young, a foreign sculptor that was famous world-wide created an ice
sculpture especially for this.
It was a beautiful woman in ice!
At the North Pole, this ice statue was made from arctic ice. The surface
shone like a white gem. It took far longer than 20 days to mold the face
into the ice. Not even a single rough spot on the ice surface could be
found. Under the ornate chandeliers, the light reflected and refracted in
sweet rolling waves.
“So pretty.”
“It was rumored that a guy like Chairman Kang would prepare such an
event for his beloved wife.”
The hotel employees were quite enviable as they prepared for the event.
Chairman Kang was to have his meal on the table in front of the beautiful
ice woman. However, as they were loading it and placing it near the table,
the glass of the window broke and it fell on to the floor. As it fell, it
shattered.
The manager was in disbelief.
“How did you let this happen!”
“I'm sorry.”
“Sorry, is that all you got to say?”
The incident of the ice statue breaking called for even the General
Manager of the hotel. The Manager of the hotel, who could be held
responsible for the restaurant, appeared in front of the people in order to
directly hear of this matter. The General Manager collapsed to the ground
as she saw the broken lumps of ice on the ground; it was hopeless.
The neck of the statue was broken. The damage to the nose, mouth and
eyes was so severe that it was impossible to repair. In addition, several
parts of it were broken; it was barely possible to recognize the shape of
the beautiful ice woman.
“How are we going to afford the wrath of Chairman Kang.... Chairman
Kang is an express VIP. He Wont be satisfied with our services. Based on
rumors alone, the hotel's revenue will decrease dramatically and it will
be the end of us.”
“Even now, no matter how we try to repair it...”
“Repairs? What good will this ice do? The event is canceled. Have all the
chefs prepare the best dishes they can. Hopefully, we can satisfy
Chairman Kang through our quality of service and try to be victorious
over this setback.”
The General Manager somehow did everything she could to sort out the
situation. But the staff could do nothing but be nervous.
“We are preparing this event for Chairman Kang. We have decorated our
hotel as he requested, be calm.”
“How did we do that, even in the least?”
“Really, You have no right to cancel the event yourself. Chairman Kang
must acknowledge that beforehand, General Manager.”
“Ugh.”
The General Manager breathed in a deep sigh. The manager provided
courteous services to hoteliers and impressed clients; now she's
currently in her late 30s. She's gone through many challenges for the
sake of the hotel, but this was a first time for a setback like this. And that
too with Chairman Kang, no less.
To someone who was called a representative of Aechoga, if he knew that
his 40th wedding anniversary event was ruined, he will not stand for it
silently, more like a scorching fire. The general manager considered,
‘There must be a way to rectify this. Can't possibly get much worse than
this, the only thing you can do is try.’
“Get a sculptor! Fix the ice as much as possible somehow before
Chairman Kang arrives within the hour. Anyway, these broken parts.
Polish and attach it back to the ice.”
“But we only have 30 minutes left.”
Lee Hyun and Lee Hayan were watching the turmoil. At first, when the ice
came he thought it was a very pretty sculpture. Then that sculpture
cracked and the series of events that occurred due to it turned the
restaurant into a frantic mess. Walking around the manager, they jumped
back and forth as all the pieces of ice on the floor were rolling around.
The employee that caused the problem did not know what to do; his face
was pale. Tears started dripping down.
Then as she watched them and felt pity, she carelessly commented.
“Ah brother, brother's profession is a sculptor. Would you not help these
people?”
The Legend of the Moonlight Sculptor.
That was in Royal Road, and Lee Hyun had barely mentioned it to her.
Lee Hayan never forgets. The employees at the front counter did not miss
the chance to hear it.
“Guests. Huh, our guest is a sculptor? Then please help us, even if only a
little.”
“.....”
Lee Hyun did not say anything. But, the staff heard the comment and the
General Manager came running up. As she first saw Lee Hyun, she was
suspicious as he was too young. Yet, in a situation like this, you can afford
to take liberties. A sculptor is not a job that can be easily found in real
life. It was not possible to obtain one in 30 minutes, but with one readily
brought to you?
The general manager begged.
“Please help us. Please.”
“I ask that you repair the ice carving.”
The employees.
It was inevitably; Lee Hyun couldn't possibly deny this request from
these men and women. An accident that someone else caused, how could
he become responsible? But now his sister was watching. At the very
least, he did not want to be inhumane in front of his sister.
***
Mr. and Mrs. Kang arrived exactly 30 minutes later, along with their
secretary and attendants. You could feel that Chairman Kang was a
stubborn, old man. He and his wife came finely dressed in traditional
Korean clothing. The food was set out according to the reservation, and
the manager greeted them with a smiling face.
“Have a good time.”
Over 100 candles were lit in the place.
“I'm grateful. Hmm, are you set as per the order?”
“Yes. They will arrive shortly.”
Today of all days, Chairman Kang was in an unusually good mood. This
was because his wife was pleased. During their 40 years of married life,
there had been a lot of twists and turns. This place today was where they
wished to commemorate all the time they've been together.
Chairman Kang sat in his place and commented.
“Quickly give out as I planned. We will take our meal now; I want to
surprise my wife.”
“Yes. We will do so.”
As they ate and drink, the manager did not lose her friendly smile, even
though she was sweating. The food itself, the staff was bright and
cheerful, and the band was playing. About the time the meal started,
Chairman Kang had a slightly ambiguous smile as he asked his wife.
“Is this not fun?”
“Yes. I'm glad. This restaurant has quite a good atmosphere.”
The Chairman unseemly scratched his head at his wife's answer. No
matter how big his business got, he was still no different to his wife since
the time of their youth. For 40 years, believing in his happy marriage, he
was able to spend all of his driving force and concentration on his
business. The pale face of Chairman Kang's wife was slightly blushing. A
smile surfaced on his face full of wrinkles.
“However, it is a bit awkward coming to a place like this at our age.”
“You're still young. Let's go out more frequently.”
Gradually, the mood was ripening.
'But that event I prepared, when will it start? I wanted that to surprise
my wife...'
Chairman Kang signaled to the secretary with a quick glance. He had
already instructed them to leave the statue in front of the table before
mealtime. However, no statue was there.
'What is taking them so long?'
Gradually, time had passed. The hors d'oeuveres included a simple soup
and authentic food.
Only at that time did the statue come out. But, it was just a big fat lump of
ice as tall as a person!
They had to angle the sculpture on its side to get it past the door. The
staff carried the ice and positioned it directly in front of the table
Chairman Kang was eating at.
'What is this!!'
Chairman Kang was displeased as a frown covered his face. He had
ordered the work of a world-renowned sculptor. Something about this
felt wrong.
'Such a mistake would not happen now.'
His eye then noticed the carpet below the table. What was quickly
cleaned, the carpet was wet.
'It's not possible... the ice broke?'
In his anger, Chairman Kang was about to get up.
Then there came Lee Hyun. Carrying carving tools, including a hammer
and a chisel, he at first tried to repair the ice sculpture. Yet, the shock
made cracks which traversed throughout its entirety. The statue was not
able to stand upright. With the damage to the neck and face from the fall,
it was already impossible to regain the original appearance through
repairs. Eventually, the restaurant spent their effort in preparing more
ice within the 30 minutes, and it worked.
This is not a sculpture, but a complete mass of ice.
Lee Hyun was holding the carving tools in front of the ice. A cold chill
puffed out from the lump of ice. For a sculptor to make a more than
precious work, what is fundamental is the materials used.
Lee Hyun touched the ice with a glove-less hand. It was said it would be
cold. A proud and unbroken rough chunk of it!
'It's not that much different.'
It was not that different from the natural ice he used from the Mora
province.
'Then I can do it.'
It was his first time making a statue in real life.
It was a tense moment. He initiated work that he had never done, but at
least he will try his best.
Caen! Caen! Caen!*
Lee Hyun carefully defined it as he carved the block of ice. He could not
know how beautiful Chairman Kang's wife was in the past. He had no
photo of that time to go by, nor was he able to remember the delicate face
of the original statue.
According to the height, the eyes and the shape of the nose, the
impression was rapidly being changed; it had now the face of a woman.
As he had nothing to go by through memory, he started to delicately
carve the features of Chairman Kang's wife, as she appeared currently. A
sculptor must have some understanding of the target. Would Chairman
Kang's wife be embarrassed about her wrinkled face? Time will pass, and
the features age; some would cry out or become shy about it. When you
are young, being beautiful, everyone wants it to be eternal, but that
cannot be and the result is sadness. She lived with her husband, who
loved her so for 40 years. She was far past fitting such a description of
crying about such a thing as lost youth.
She would not be ashamed of a wrinkled face that was gained, through
the flow of time. She spent 40 years living together with her husband, in
faith and affection. Things were not always good. Having suffered
hardships. Raising children and preparing them for the future is difficult,
she had a tough life.
Though she had her troubles, it was also rewarding. These last 40 years
were the happiest of her life, not the days before it. Their meal together,
at this time and place, you can see the gentle smile of this grandmother,
so he carved it safely, little by little to perfection.
Lee Hyun's delicate touch at carving the ice sculpture attracted the
attention of many people. The hotel and restaurant staff watched
nervously. In their minds, they urged and entrusted the sculptor.
However, they were still not relieved. Around the table he could see that
Lee Hayan and her friends were watching.
***
Initially, Chairman Kang was furious and was about to get up from his
seat. To criticize the inadequate preparation made by the hotel; however,
the instant Lee Hyun began to cut away at the statue, he endured instead.
Though his anger was not reduced, his wife was watching curiously.
Already his 40th wedding anniversary was ruined; along with what he
wanted his wife to see. He just wanted to leave.
'Well, let's see how you do. However, you better be prepared when it
turns out horrible.'
Chairman Kang was very uncomfortable, but as the statue was gradually
being made, this unpleasant feeling was gently being relieved.
The statue was of his wife, as she’s currently.
It showed the happiness of her heart.
Admiring such work was unavoidable.
“Sweetheart.”
Chairman Kang took hold of his wife's hand. Although wrinkled in age,
these old hands were familiar, ones he has always held.
'If it was not for these hands I hold, my life would be meaningless.'
Chairman Kang shook his head. I would not be as happy as I am now, with
any other woman.
Her hair was lighter colored in age, and it all paled in comparison to her
former beauty. Such a long time had passed, and looking at her, it shows;
but, that meant nothing now.
Rather, he felt that she was more lovely now than ever before.
***
Kang and his wife persistently waited for the completion of the statue.
Even after their own dinner, some guests returned to see the finishing of
the statue.
“Here is some lemon juice.”
“I brought you some fruit, hope you are comfortable.”
The staff handed out snacks to the guests. In their spare time, they threw
their gazes on the statue.
“Oh, that is some sculpture.”
“It just seems so beautifully carved, and can't believe it is just some
decoration...”
They could see from the sculpture that he was no amateur. Sweat soaked
Lee Hyun's forehead as he sculpted. The cold ice he carved was also
perspiring. He was sweating even though they lowered the temperature
in order to stop the dry ice from melting. The fascination of making such
a sculpture. When he carried a sword, he was entirely immersed. In order
to create a piece of art, he had to be entirely devoted to his work.
According to the mood he felt, he moved his hands across the sculpture.
The time to utilize the techniques and conceptions in his head had
already passed. He shaved the statue as the flow of emotions moved his
heart.
“It's amazing.”
“I think I entrusted this job to a better sculptor.”
The hotel staff noted that the broken statue from before was of a much
higher level than the one Lee Hyun was making. Lee Hyun was certainly
insufficient in the delicate hand sculpting techniques. However, the
differences in level were only a few steps away. It could not compare
with the previous sculpture. In fact, the sculpture was a little rougher and
did not feel as complete. However, Lee Hyun poured his heart into it and
it began to emerge.
It is said that a good sculpture gives out its own feeling. This reminds you
of a young sculptor smiling brightly just as he made his best work. Of
course, he did his best to live up to it. Creating a statue that embodied her
charm. However, the statue he made did not hold these special feelings.
He did not know how to properly create a sculpture of a person; it was
still too far away, his skill was lacking.
On the other hand, with their long time love of 40 years with his wife,
Chairman Kang looked into the grandmotherly eyes of the sculpture that
Lee Hyun was making. He had taken these emotions and the sculpture
was possessed with them. Pouring their hearts to the sculpture.
The artistic profession of a sculptor. Even if this was not a top-level piece
of art from the best sculptor.
And finally, the moment the sculpture was complete, thunderous
applause rang out within the restaurant. The admiration from the guests,
the staff, and even the singers were clapping in unison.
For the stubborn Chairman Kang, tears flowed freely from his eyes. The
woman, who fell in love with him for a lifetime, living together for 40
years, was watching him.
In front of this sculpture of ice, she was currently at her happiest.
***
Lee Hyun was soaking wet from sweating all over, he was exhausted.
Chairman Kang suddenly caught Lee Hyun's hand.
“Thank you, this is really wonderful, the most beautiful sculpture I've
seen in my life. And more so in the future, I will not be able to see a more
grand sculpture.”
Chairman Kang was smiling widely. He was truly sincere in what he said.
However Lee Hyun shook his head.
“Isn't the person at your side far more beautiful than the sculpture I
made?”
Suitable flattery!
Lee Hyun's instinct started back up.
The moment he completed the statue, his mind returned.
'What else can I do right now?'
He suffered for a few hours by making a sculpture. His hand almost felt
numb after handling cold ice. At least in Royal Road, the work you make
might become a masterpiece.
Stats and fame!
This was his first time in making a sculpture in real life and he missed
that opportunity of earning skill points.
'No, this is not yet the end.'
It was then that Lee Hyun took notice.
If you take a look, Chairman Kang was in every aspect, a business tycoon.
He is accompanied by his secretary and if you take notice, it is evident
that the manager of this large hotel is catering to him. Might I be on
Chairman Kang's good side due to his mood from the sculpture? There is
absolutely no chance Lee Hyun would ever let chance escape!
Chairman Kang's comments to Lee Hyun, and even his wife's mirth. If you
would ever speak of a truly good-humored couple, they would indeed be
it. A touch of flattery in this mood after Lee Hyun's hard work in making a
sculpture, everything sounded good.
Chairman Kang was in good mood. To compliment his wife more than his
own compliment made him even more exhilarated. Lee Hyun firmly
clasped Chairman Kang's hand.
“Thank you very much. All the work you did for my wedding anniversary
is a big deal for me.”
Chairman Kang was very grateful for what Lee Hyun did. In times like
this, it is imperative that Lee Hyun say something with humility.
“No, I would have to deny that I'm just a sculptor who sculpted for such
an esteemed elder's wife. I did nothing special. Rather, for the hotel
giving me an opportunity such as this, and for you Mister Chairman, I
give you my appreciation.”
Humility is the highest virtue that can be expressed. Not being modest
would even stir up problems, the key is true humility! As the remarks
were exchanged, he led the counterpart into a suitably amicable
atmosphere.
It was then that the General Manager of the hotel came forward.
“Chairman, this work was not originally planned and he had no relation
to this incident. The truth is that this man is one our restaurant's guests.”
“General Manager, what do you mean? I thought this man came to
celebrate our wedding anniversary.”
“Well... the thing is, there was a little accident as we were preparing the
sculpture.”
The General Manager frankly gave the story of how the ice sculpture
shattered on the floor during the preparation of the event.
“I'm ever so grateful.....”
Chairman Kang was speechless.
The wedding anniversary that was almost ruined left him with very
important memories. Then Lee Hyun opened his mouth. The timing was
exquisite.
“If you have finished your mean, could you take the sculpture, sir?”
“What do you mean?”
“It may be just a statue for you, but for me it is a powerful work of art
that I finished. This is also a piece that I am very satisfied in. If the hidden
intention is to throw the artwork away into the garbage, then it would be
meaningless. I could not possibly endure the fact that it will disappear, I
would like you to take it.”
“That's....”
It is highly unknown how people ascertain the aesthetic value of a
sculpture and their way of thinking. Their decision is not necessarily
clear. However, after this priceless remark, it became apparent to the
Kang couple that this also became a treasure that could not be discarded.
Chairman Kang's wife sharply jabbed him in the side. Usually she had a
quiet nature; but it was not the case this time. The wife of chairman Kang
was unfathomable.
'If I asked this improperly, I will incur a very harsh punishment.'
If he left the statue and did not bring it home, it would be tactless.
Chairman Kang shook his head.
“It would be a mistake. This sculpture is now very valuable to us, and it
would be so for a long time, I would like to keep it. It seems, I'll buy this
carved ice sculpture.”
The president took out his wallet and pulled out a bill.
Certainly, Lee Hyun declined.
“I did not do this for the money; it is fine as it is, just seeing that it caused
you two to be so happy. Just to see you look so affectionately towards
each other. To be honest, I am enviable of you, honored elders. For it to
decorate elder's home, it is truly a dream come true.”
Proper humility straight from the mouth.
All the way till the end, such marvelous ability of flattery!
The mood created from flattery is what the most important to getting
what you want. (literal trans. was scam/fraud, lol).
Building up such dignity in front of his wife was highly impressive.
Chairman Kang pulled out another bill.
“At very least, take this as my gift of sincerity.”
“I am still very reluctant.... I insist, the statue is a gift, but I'm happy for
these last two minutes I've had with you both. To consider such a piece as
valuable in your time of celebration.”
A second refusal.
This is beyond being civilized to save face.
“I can not be so shameless. In exchange for money, make sure you are
well paid. If this is not acceptable, how will this old man express his
gratitude? I cannot accept a debt not being cleared.”
Chairman Kang repeatedly handed out the bills to Lee Hyun, in such a
way that he could not help but take it from the man. He instantly
determined the number of circles written on each bill. Verifying the
amount and managing money at the same time.
Two cheques worth 5,000,000 Won each.
'As usual, the smell of money is gentle on my mind....'
The Chairman casually pulled out large sums of cash, as much as ₩ 10
million.
Then Chairman Kang left with his wife. It seemed that the couple
probably had a wonderful time at their wedding anniversary dinner.
Having finished his work, Lee Hyun headed to his sister, who had been
waiting for a long time.
“I'm sorry. Did I take too long?”
“No, brother. What I saw was really good.”
Both of Lee Hayan's friends had sparkling eyes beaming at him. It was a
mixture of admiration and amazement, eyes of respect.
Lee Hyun turned to take his sister back to the house. The managers
gathered at the entrance. Just as Lee Hyun was about to take out his
money, the General Manager waved his hand.
“That won’t be needed. Why would we take money from a benefactor to
our hotel? Your sculpting was great, and sincerely it was a very big deal
for us. Although, if you would like to come back and look in at any time,
you can use the hotel or restaurant at no charge. Also it is complimentary
for the person who accompanies you as well.”
“But....”
“This is from our sincerity. Please just accept.”
With the mogul, Chairman Kang, he did not miss out on even the smallest
reward; it was worth every penny. If Chairman Kang had gone out of the
hotel angrily, all the people in his business would no longer visit the
hotel. The fact is that the damage to the hotel would not have been
tolerable.
***
“One, two.”
“The sword is weak in force. Conduct 100 lower body workouts!”
Chung II Hoon was at work, teaching swordsmanship in the dojo.
'This outcome of Royal Road, not bad.'
In modern times, the opportunity to fight with a sword is rare.
Particularly, it is even more difficult for practitioners in a dojo. Certainly,
ordinary people would not even brandish a wooden sword in any kind of
incident.
Such an unfair position, where inferior occupations are more proper.
Just to have the power to endure is very difficult.
For trainees of the sword that was stuck in the middle of this, those that
normally thought in such a way are the ones that join such an
organization as theirs.
'Royal Road is our very own outlet.'
Fighting monsters and growing stronger, this was what was enjoyable
most of all to a simple practitioner. Satisfaction on a daily bases, but not
only that is evident, there is a noticeable change that shows in their
swordsmanship. The shift in becoming accustomed to sparring against
people and battling various monsters with the sword. The opportunity to
thoroughly become good in the basics, I would never have expected that
such a break for us would have ever existed.
For a long time, sparring in a fight between people did not occur do the
risk involved. Yet in Royal Road, a group of practitioners could fight to
their heart's content and in the best conditions without worry.
RING!
Then the phone rang.
Chung II Hoon quietly picked up the receiver, and spoke in a low voice.
“This is instructor Chung II Hoon.”
Chung II Hoon's dream was to go and meet a beautiful but good woman
to marry. The instructor's favorite thought was to demonstrate his
strength and dependability in front of a lot of girls.
The voice he heard that came from the other end of the speaker was the
one he knew well.
“Brother, this is Lee Hyun.”
“Oh hey! How are things?”
“I was thinking of going out for food.”
Chung II Hoon was surprised.
The miserly Lee Hyun buying a meal outside, he couldn't even imagine
such a thought.
“You're asking about us at the dojo? Getting some take out from a Chinese
restaurant? A fried dumpling would be nice, even if only one I would be
grateful.”
“No, we're going out to eat.”
“Really? Where shall it be.”
“Do you know the location of Hotel V?”
“H--hotel?”
Chung II Hoon was stuttering.
“I know the location, but why do want to go there?”
“Come to Hotel V, I'll take you out to eat.”
“Y, Yes. I understand!”
Before Lee Hyun could possibly change his mind, Chung II Hoon prepared
to go in haste.
Nevertheless, he had trust in Lee Hyun's words.
“Also take the whole dojo family. For this is truly a rare opportunity.
Huhuhu.”
Chung II Hoon called all of the practitioners and instructors and ordered
them to head for the hotel. As he silently played Baduk, Director An
Hyun-do decided to join them. Since it seemed they were doing
something unusual, like going out to eat, An Hyun-do decided to cut in
like a ghost and join them.
“So its a hotel....”
“Yes to go to a hotel.”
“I Wonder, will it be delicious? If it is a place very frequented, it must be
very good.”
“Oh, Master is also here with us.”
“......”
An Hyun-do, the instructors and the practitioners walked to the grand
hotel. Of course, this was not a leisurely walking pace that was graceful
and relaxing.
It was quick and lively!
The practitioners practically ran the entire way.
They reached the hotel without a single straggler.
“This, this is....”
The guards tried to restrain them, but they ran like the wind. Before long,
they arrived in front of the elevator. But the elevator was filled with
people.
The eyes of the practitioners were severe. An Hyun-do spoke effortlessly.
“Guys, on a day like this, there is still the stairs, moreover let's use them.”
“Such a reasonable point.”
An Hyun-do led his disciples on foot and arrived at the restaurant, which
was on the 20th floor.
Lee Hyun was waiting for them.
“Welcome, Master.”
“Yeah, I'm hungry. Where is the food?”
“Go, it is served within.”
“We can eat freely?”
“Yes, it is all free.”
“You truly are my favorite.”
The Manager of the restaurant already told the staff that he readily
consented to Lee Hyun and a large group of acquaintances. Commit the
best service for them, the chef should be ready to cook the best they can,
and the employees were to be ready waiting.
However, once the door was open and they helped An Hyun-do, the
instructors and saw the practitioners come inside, the faces of the staff
went grey.
There were more than 500 people!
They gladly occupied all of the tables and made their orders.
“H--here is your wine. Burgandy, Vintage '99.”
CLINKCLINK!
As they drunk all the rice wine, the horrified staff had to comply with
refilling of all the glasses.
“This is delicious, another cup!”
“.....”
“Stir-fried meat, 50 more servings here!”
“The food is delicious, but it's taking too long!”
“Let's try to get so full that we almost faint. Everything is on the house.
It's all free!”
The practitioners and instructors were at their peak in hunger after
swordsmanship training; they released their waistbands and ate and
drank without hesitation.
Then An Hyun-do rose up from his seat.
“Everybody listen. For a person training in martial arts like us, it is not a
good thing to overeat.”
The Manager and his staff watched An Hyun-do with hope in their young
eyes. Near the end however, they could not help but be more frustrated.
“Per person, eat 10 servings each.”
“Old Master!”
500 people, 10 servings each!
For each person, a single serving came out to 7,000 Won. They ate to
their heart's content. The food was like a meat buffet, thanks to all of this,
the restaurant ran out of ingredients.
“BURP! Now, I'm full.”
“Tasty, I ate well.”
The employees completed serving the dishes and were to the point of
collapsing. Their only wish was for the them to quickly leave.
However, they were all still sitting, every single person.
'What the hell?'
Choi Jong-bum asked with embarrassment on his face.
“When does desert come out?”
Alongside him, Masang Bum-do spoke.
“If I could eat it every day, it would be nice.”
“.......”
***
Lee Hyun and Lee Hayan came home after watching a movie and having a
meal at a restaurant; it was nearly the first outing they ever had outside.
Both were practically exhausted.
'Rather have been wielding a sword for 5 hours straight.'
Lee Hyun shook his head from side to side.
Well, other people do hang out and walk around yet it was so difficult for
me.
He found watching a movie to be a difficult thing, and just from
wandering around town he was quickly fatigued. In addition, carving at
the restaurant. It was really a difficult thing to create a statue carved
from ice. Also for the moment, just from a glance his work was unsalable.
However, the day's work Was complete and now he had returned home.
“Goodnight, brother.”
“Yeah, you too. Have a good rest.”
His younger sister went to bed and Lee Hyun changed again into his
outside clothing. Normally, after washing up he would access Royal Road.
But today he had another place to be.
Lee Hyun went toward the night-time bus to take it to the hospital,
sought the nurse in charge of night shift and asked.
“How is grandmother?”
“She is asleep. Because of the cancer cells, she is taking medicine to
relieve pain. You can go in now, but it will difficult as it will take some
time for her to wake up.”
“Regardless, I will go.”
Lee Hyun opened the door to the room and went inside.
The hospital room was small. Grandmother was lying down on the bed,
soundly asleep. Various medical equipment were attached to her body.
Lee Hyun sat down on the chair next to her and took her hand.
“I came with good news.”
“.....”
From grandmother, only pale breathing came out, she was asleep.
The devices checked her heart rate, and it stayed in a consistent pattern.
She will probably not wake up for 7 hours due to the effects of the drug.
“Hayan had her interview for the University of Korea today. To be honest,
there was a bit of an accident so I don't know if it is a pass, but it's still a
good thing, right?”
“......”
“She is already 19 years old now. It has been 14 years since that day. The
girl who kept asking where our parents were, while riding piggy back,
she's now a real lady.”
Lee Hyun continued speaking to his grandmother as she slept.
“Indeed, a lot of things have happened since that time, and my only wish
is that she live her life in happiness. A lot of it was tough back then. At a
time there was no food to eat, grandma, you once said that to reduce the
mouth of person, you had to give up Hayan. You tried to send her to an
orphanage.”
It had been a long time ago, but his sister was about to be sent to the
orphanage. In protest, Lee Hyun went three days without eating in order
to oppose his sister going to an orphanage.
“Grandma, you told me that I was going to regret it. We actually had to go
through difficult meals, and there were indeed many times where I
skipped meals. Grandmother, only during that time, I concede that I
hated Hayan. Because of Hayan, we hardly could even afford my
schooling. I had said abusive things to her, like I would have been happier
without her.”
Grandmother had hated the younger sister. Because of the younger sister,
Lee Hyun suffered and was often scolded. They severely complained
about trivial things. This was another reason why his little sister once
went astray.
“I have no regrets. If we return to that time, my choice would have been
the same. Because, we are family.”
As she slept, there was no answer, but it eased Lee Hyun's heart. He had
kept it all inside for more than 10 years, and now it had ended.
Lee Hyun returned home and went inside the capsule. And he accessed
Royal Road.
***
The Yurokey Mountains and the Castle of the Dark Elves!
(note: the choice of name is Yulokina, Eurokey, Eurokina; it is not
possible for it to be Europa)
The ruined walls were repaired and the Orcs' supplies had been moved.
They were preparing for war with the Undead Legion led by the Liche
Shire. Weed was just like he was when he terminated the connection; he
appeared in human form in the Dark Elf city. Construction was going on
everywhere.
“Chwiit profits!”
“Chwichwit. We Orcs worked hard, we good Orcs.”
“Stack that stone even higher!”
“How high you want it stacked? Chwi!”
“Higher, higher! Chwichichichit have it reach the sky!”
An Orc was carrying an overly large rock. Many rocks were gathered
together and stacked in a bunch to make a tower.
CRASH!
“Chwieeg!”
“Kkwaeeg. Orcs save me!”
This over accumulation of rocks for the tower groaned and crumbled at a
touch, crushing the Orcs beneath it. The Dark Elves were a little bit
different from the Orcs. With them owning more intellect, all they did
was roll their eyes.
“Those Orcs are hard at work.”
“More like having too much fun.”
“We are elves. No equal in power.”
“Naturally, that is so.”
The Dark Elves were eagerly goofing off and smoking.
Weed was away just temporarily, and in just 5 minutes of his absence
everything became a mess and now he had the task of repairing it all
once again.
Piles of rocks were scattered without order all over the place and it was a
battle to collect all the neglected materials that accumulated throughout
the area. Part of the castle was destroyed from Orcs smashing and
burning. The Dark Elves were sprinkling salt on the grilled dishes.
Generally, elves detest killing life and do not eat meat; however, Dark
Elves did not have such qualms. Given that Dark Elves are initially fallen
elves with blackened skin, other elves consider them as quite a savage
race.
“This is the power of salt. You savage Orcs.”
“Indeed.... We also found that out. Eating with a sprinkle of salt, it's
delicious.”
In the name of fighting against the undead, Orcs and Dark Elves made a
dramatic reconciliation. They drank alcohol and ate roasted meat
together. So, many Orcs and Dark Elves were gathered in the castle's
marketplace, indifferent to the plan.
To take these ignorant and lazy people and fight the legion of undead
with them....
With his head constantly throbbing, Weed felt seriously ill.
“Captain! We have accomplished our tasks.”
At that time Buren appeared, Becker, Hosram and Dale as well! The Royal
Knights and priest.
'But these guys are so few, is there any hope? Even if the quest fails, if I
could only send these guys safely back to Rosenheim Kingdom, the
contribution from the royal family can be obtained. Items obtained from
such a contribution!'
Contribution of money and connections.
To Weed, these soldiers were more important than anything.
But the lieutenant spoke.
“As you asked, all of our supplies near the town were moved here.”
“Well done.”
When he looks at Buren, he sees reliability.
The first time he met with Becker and the rest was in the hellish lair of
Litvart, where they undertook a dangerous mission together.
Faith and trust in Buren!
But the point that Buren made of where the supplies were was negligible.
No, they are there nonetheless. The weapons of war: arrows, daggers, the
mace that soldiers wear and other kind of weapons. That was already a
loss, but what was important was the wine bottles he had for wholesale.
Ever since Weed arrived at the Yurokey Mountains on the Plains of
Despair, he wandered to his heart's content. He collected various acidic
berries! Serpents and precious medicinal herbs!
High-quality materials utilized only when immersed in a solution of
alcohol; if you were to consume even more than one you would only
notice the sweet taste before you die. No, perhaps consuming more might
not kill a person.
He collected clear dew at dawn to distill various liquors. Weed had then
made bottles of wine which now was all gone.
“My wine bottles, where did they go? Maybe they haven't been
transferred yet. Maybe that's it, right?”
“Well...”
Buren hesitantly pointed at the orcs.
“They are drinking all of it; I tried to stop them but....”
Weed then had a thought pass through his mind.
There could not have been alcohol on the Plains of Despair. For Orcs to be
able to brew liquor, it would be impossible. Therefore those damned Orcs
must have been drinking Weed's liquor.
“Delicious. Chwiik!”
“SNIFF! What's that smell?”
Lucid and crystal clear wine was flowing into the scratchy snouts of the
Orcs.
“Keoheok!”
Weed wanted to puke blood, intense suffering as if his flesh was being
torn.
The alcohol that he brewed.
Every time he made a bottle, weed had hoped.
'Please, give me success in earning a lot of money.'
Through fermenting, you can earn a considerable amount of money
selling alcohol.
It took several months for it to fully mature in taste and effects; without
even a second thought he had done it all. (originally it was a Korean
idiom, kind of like saying 'Absolutely, yes' or 'you bet your life on it')
In his spur of moments of making it, it reached hundreds of bottles of
liquor. Precious items obtained and he had to put the alcohol aside as he
hunted, but he had no place to hold them so he instructed its
management to the soldiers.
This was the result.
“I don't believe this...”
Weed was devastated.
In the meantime, the Orcs were drinking quickly. The dark blue wine
sloshed at the bottom of the bottle. Empty wine bottles were rolling
haphazardly around. His wholesale liquor disappeared. The money flew
out.
“Ahhh!”
Weed groaned in sadness!
Even the beef jerky, the Orcs and Dark Elves were chewing on it.
Weed had made that jerky.
Almost no wine bottles remained, and already the drying baskets that
were full of jerky was empty.
'To make again the liquor or food.'
Still, Weed had his hopes.
After all, these were his soldiers.
Though the liquor or the supplies for battle may be lost, he did not lose
his loyal soldiers.
“I'm at fault, I'm sorry. The Orcs were so forceful... *hic*!”
As Buren explained the situation, he had a case of severe hiccups. That
was when Weed properly examined the soldiers. Being held up on
staggering legs, red in the face. A phenomenon caused by excessive
drinking.
“This....!”
Then, all of it became apparent to him.
Buren and Becker, while following his command to carry his supplies,
found the liquor bottles.
“It's alcohol.”
“What are we going to do?”
“To do what, I'm the captain right now.”
“GULP! This looks tasty.”
“You think a sip will be fine?”
“You lot, how could you....”
“Come on, let's do it.”
Like trying to entrust a fresh fish to a cat, it would be similar to saying to
trust a soldier not to have a bit alcohol before a fight.
At first, the soldiers really only took a sip, but then they got to drinking.
“It goes down so smoothly.”
“Wow! It's so delicious.”
That single sip of the bottle was like an addiction.
Weed's soldiers then committed themselves to their work but couldn't
keep it out of their minds, but even then, their fear of him remained.
“This will do, have the Orcs drink it.”
“Let's give it to the Orcs.” (Pretty much they wanted to hide their guilt by
blaming it on the Orcs)
So they revealed his little nest egg, his prized position the fermented
wine!
“And have to fight against the Undead Legions with things going like
this...”
Weed sighed.
***
There was uproar on the internet.
People were driven to connect to the Royal Road website during the
morning and daytime.
They always liked to access the reports from Hall of Fame, they were
always fascinated.
- Let's reveal that Orc's true identity.
- An alternative magic item that allows you to polymorph or something?
- A type of wizard perhaps. One that can change to a necromancer later
on?
- Does this mean people who already switched jobs can become a
necromancer?
Wizards were desperate about this.
When a new profession opens up, it means that you can learn new magic
soon.
Magic was very precious for wizards, so they wished for more by any
means.
Wizards were making a myriad of inquiries to Unicorn, who operated
Royal Road.
- Please, can't you tell us about the quest's progress? How can we receive
the commission for this profession in any way?
- Disclose the characteristics of the Necromancer profession.
Unicorn's answer was simple.
- This is from headquarters; the quest is still on-going and it would be
careless to the user. We are unable to disclose more. You will know of the
characteristics of a necromancer when the profession is opened. If the
quest fails, the profession will not be shown to the public.
On the pretext of privacy, Unicorn did not reveal any of the current
progress.
Then the more anxious users stormed various game sites.
KMC Media, CTS Media, On-stations, Digital Media, LK game.
The viewer feedback form on such broadcasting companies of games was
deteriorating, both domestic and international.
***
The producers of KMC media held a meeting.
Usually this was for the young facilitators on the front line or PD, to
participate and express their opinions freely, or to recant about the
stories or broadcasts, or for the sake of planning.
However, today something unique occurred.
The heads of other broadcasting stations participated in the meeting.
“The forums are in an uproar. Director Kang, what is happening?”
The Director of KMC Media accessed the website to oversee the reaction
of the viewers. What he saw was tens of thousands of posts. The feedback
was all about a request to broadcast one quest.
“There is a new movie in the Hall of Fame.”
“Well? What the hell is on that one video to cause this chaos?”
At this period of time, his broadcasting station was first in audience
ratings; in his division, this was never the case.
Director Kang embarrassingly rubbed at his bald head as he replied.
“A quest, it seems.”
“What quest? So many people becoming so excited only for a quest is
outrageous.”
The Director tilted his head to the side when a young producer stood up
from his seat.
“Right now we will begin our attempt to cover the contents. Show the
prepared video for the Director.”
“Why not?”
In the conference room, state-of-the-art equipment to view various
videos was installed. With omni-directional surround sound system the
entire video appears on the front wall. Granted, this conference room's
facilities were natural for a broadcasting station.
During the movie stream, the director, the young producers, nor the
organizers could not open their mouths. After a long while, the director
spoke.
“This, we will be sure to catch it.”
“Of course, Director.”
Director Kang and all the organizers agreed.
Not only considering the battle of Orcs in front of them. A mystical quest
where someone transformed into an Orc. An adventure in uncharted
regions. Considering all these things, it is just not enough broadcasting it.
Director Kang then spoke cautiously.
“Yet the other stations will not likely let us stay in this. Perhaps various
other stations will contract their offers out.”
“You mean it would be difficult?”
“Not entirely. It is just that when other stations compete, the contracting
terms will also increase further.”
The problem was always money.
“It is not so possible to spend a large amount of money.”
From the words of the Director, the group was left in a heavy silence.
From the beginning, the company KMC Media did not have a substantial
amount of capital.
They had high viewership, but as a fledgling station, they did not have
surplus funds as they actively invested their income when many did not.
Director Kang carefully let fly their fortune.
“Gentlemen, our financial situation this year from broadcasting so far is
not that bad, I know.... but I thought of making a steady surplus.”
“Even so, we don't have enough money to overwhelm the contract offers
of other broadcasters, and this brings me to building up an
unconventional deposit.”
At the end of the Director's words, the organizers soon became
depressed.
Even if you endeavour to work hard, you will see that reality will catch
you by the ankle. As there are many other places here and there for
money entering into a small broadcasting company, they are always tied
to their budget.
KMC Media's motto.
It is only fun if you spend less money!
They were desperate for survival.
The organizers sighed.
'But in order to grow further, you need to invest more....'
'This was always a big issue, like with the downfall of CTS Media who
deceived themselves.'
However, the Director was smiling.
“Regardless of the agreement, we will do it.”
“Really?”
“A contract with an incentive. Even if the deposit is exceptional, we will
not fail; a smash success due to the performance and advertising can and
will distribute proceeds.”
Currently, the rating from Royal Road is continuously at its peak on a
daily basis. In increments, the viewership of broadcasting stations for
Royal Road rose in succession. The price in advertising sales is also in the
midst of growth.
“The audience ratings will rise more than 5%, to share in the proceeds a
certain percentage of an advertisement will be given to the broadcasting
station in accordance to the contract, and who can say how much money
will be given when people download the quest video from the home
page?”
KMC was still a small station, but this was a possible method.
Department Director Kang wiped the sweat from his brow.
“Let us form a contract, Gentlemen.”
***
When a video in the Hall of Fame gets an increased number of views by
many people, the company Unicorn provides a nominal payment to the
original poster. Such a way to earn money was unfamiliar as until now he
was used to selling items.
“I will be given money for people to watch it, but there won’t be a
difference if I do nothing to make it.... If I can edit it a bit, I can raise the
amount I get.”
It was a bit late but Lee Hyun hesitated about purchasing an editing
program, even now when the Public Relations Department of Unicorn
headquarters was in an uproar.
“Surely he would let other users onto the quest.”
“Oh, that would be great.”
Chang Yun-Su, chief figure in the Public Relations Department was in the
operating room and was coming up with strategies with other people
who saw the movie. It was essential to familiarize yourself with the game
in order to seamlessly promote Royal Road.
Strategies are not a straightforward task when in the operating room.
Studying and understanding the whole background story for each quest.
Histories of each of the Kingdoms! Helping in the development of cities as
well as background of important figures, the growth of users. These types
of things forecast the future direction of the continent of Versailles and
this is how strategy in the operation room flows.
“The progress of the quest is already so far, the speed is faster than we
believed.”
“What is the problem then?”
“The emergence of the Bar Khan quest is fine if it barely hit to the second
quest chain. If you look at the overall picture, yet because of him, this is
just not....”
“Yet?”
“The situation seems to have made little difference to the game for now,
but if the forces of undead run rampant, the axis of power with the
existing forces in the kingdom will gradually effect the users in time.”
The NPC occupation and the rights of ownership for famous castles and
fortresses, as well mines, villages and places of business will be changed.
Users in guilds join forces to contribute for a siege, and to take ownership
from increasing their occupation. A city may or may not be near the
capital of a Kingdom, but they still fall into the hands of users; in fact
much of the central continent is already operating with users.
“But what does the Bar Khan quest has got to do with all that?”
A team leader who was very curious asked Chang Yun-Su because he was
very familiar about the game's backstory. He clasped his hands as if he
was at home and gave a wide smile to the rest of the operators in the
room as he listed the possibilities.
“It will be interesting. Bar Khan's complete resurrection with his undead
forces and power, in this aspect it will be very different with the hatred of
the undead.”
“Well, yeah.”
“Villages and castles under attack from the undead. The undead can even
wage a siege with all of the corpses. Their hatred can work both in attack
and defense and find more participants. Not only that, keep in mind that
in that case the undead can completely dominate an enemy
counterattack.”
“On the other hand, the undead can occupy a town or castle?”
“Enough talk on the possibilities. The undead are just one of many types
of monster on the Versailles continent. The kingdoms that become
occupied by the infestation of undead will fade away. If the users can
purify them, it would become a very big opportunity for such
contributions.”
“So this will bring about crisis and opportunity at the same time.”
“Yes, the rewards of this storyline is unexploited, the kingdom in the
northern part of the continent lies in the hands of the undead, but....
Regardless, the overall difficulty will rise in the future and we might
frequently see the undead.”
Karichwi Running!
The paladins and senior priests gathered around the High Priest’s alter as
Weed went down on one knee in front of them.
“I have come to report on the mission.”
“Is it possible that the precious duty we gave you about the Exiled people
on the Plains of Despair, have you ended that thorn in our side?”
The High Priest asked him a few questions.
Weed gave them the story about the necromancers in the city of the Dark
Elves.
“Oh! So that was what happened. The actions that you have taken are
proper; I would have choosen the same.”
The High Priest though did not understand why Weed did nothing to
Necromancers.
“You have taken our request and to such a distant place and suffered for
our sake, I'm unable so express all the gratitude we owe you. May the
grace of the Goddess Freya be bestowed upon you.”
The High Priest touched Weed lightly on the head.
You have completed:
public value has been raised from the fulfilment of the related
quest.
Durability 150/150.
Defense 85.
Armor made from the mithril of the Rahoman Mine. The dwarven
blacksmith Tallock, who was renowned throughout the continent,
made this armor to repay a favor to the church of Freya. It boasts
amazing defensive capabilities and is light in weight. It gives the
wearer a fighting spirit that will not waver and a noble tenacity.
The gift of the High Priest.
This is the only one of its kind.
Restrictions:
Level 350.
Strength 600.
Attributes:
Faith +100.
Fame +300.
Strength +40.
Agility +30.
Charm +25.
Due to the properties of the mithril that came from Rahoman Mine,
it turns to a black sheen when underground.
Immediately, Weed's jaw dropped the moment he viewed the
information of the item. For some time his mouth stayed in that state.
A unique class of item!
With a variety of attributes, the defense was almost of the highest class.
If using the blacksmith skill to polish armor, with a 20% additional effect
to defense, it would be more than 100.
'Jackpot!'
The item was very good, except that his level was still too low to wear it.
Weed rapidly packed away Tallock's armor and spoke. His business at the
Church of Freya's altar was not complete.
“High Priest! The Liche Shire and his Immortal Legion, they are powerful
and my force and Dark Elves are still lacking despite my efforts to
strengthen them. So, for that reason I formally request that you send a
contingent of the order's knights and priests.”
A request for reinforcements!
Even the Church of Freya would not have any expectations that those that
were borrowed would necessarily return to Rosenheim Kingdom.
Looking at the necromancer Shire's forces, it is indeed powerful. Even if
weakened, Bar Khan can still draw the power of over 5000 Doom Knights
over level 300. Doom Scouts, Doom Servants, Doom Wizards!
Archers of the living dead, ghouls, zombies, remnants, and all kinds of
undead skeletons, grouped together and lead by various stronger
monsters.
The priest spoke with a sad face.
“For something like that you will require a lot of strength. However, in
our Church's order, we have no such force. We devoted all of our strength
to the province of Mora in order to stabilize the region. No matter how
critical it is to go against the Immortal Legion at this moment, we will not
be able to discard the choice we already made.”
In this matter, the request of reinforcements he made has been refused. It
was inevitable, paladins and priest would not have been enough. But the
High Priest did not send Weed away just yet.
“At all costs, can you stop the Immortal Legions on the Plains of Despair?”
“I will do my best.”
“In order to help, the church will lend you our sacred item, Helaine's
cup.”
The cup of Helaine.
The treasure that Weed gave at the beginning which created; this bond
with the Church of Freya. When water is placed into the cup, the relic will
change it into holy water.
“Originally, it is only reserved for the clergy as only they are able to
handle Helaine's cup. By the grace of the Goddess Freya, our benefactor
may make use of it. With this you should go on to do very great things. As
you are currently busy with the mission, at any time you are finished, you
know where you can find us.”
Weed accepted the cup of Helaine and headed to the teleportation gate
into the Plains of Despair.
***
Someuren Liberty city, people were still lining up to receive the blessings
of the Church of Freya.
“Just a little while back, just who was that person that the guards took
with them?”
“For the lowly guards at the entrance to escort him, must be some kind of
big figure with influence or made a great contribution.”
“Donate big bucks to the church and you might be one.”
“Ah, that can't be the case. When I looked, he was wearing some shabby
clothes, close to a beggar.”
“Yeah.”
The bored people that were standing in the line stood and chatted.
Suddenly the guards stepped up to them and the people were tense. It
was very rare for the guards to come out like this, especially so
frequently. Not just that, the guards also spoke to them.
- You people, do you know of the adventurer called Weed? Now, this is
probably something you should know. This time he departed for the
Nercomancers on Plains of Despair, with no guide to tell him the proper
path.
- Passing through the greedy and dirty Orcs and the selfish Dark Elves, he
met with the Necromancers.
- He did something that no one else would do, with his benevolent heart,
he listened to the Necromancers and spared their lives, and thus he
learned of a more important affair.
- Now, Weed is the great benefactor of our Church.
The people were surprised as they quietly listened to the dialogue of the
guards. As they heard the guards speak, something emerged for them.
“The Hall of Fame. The quest seen in the Hall of Fame has just been
reported of, right now!”
“It was a quest from the Church of Freya.”
“Then, that man who was just in front of us all, the one who went
through.....”
“It was him, the man who progressed through the quest.”
“But his name was Weed.”
“No way, is it just a similar name?”
“Surely no. War with the Immortal Legion. Following the defeat of the
True Blood Vampire clan, it must be a serial quest!”
“Weed! From The Continent of Magic, it is that Weed!”
The people started a fuss.
Others knew the name of Weed; even in this game he was legendary.
People remembered the incident of Weed combating the True Blood
Vampires for the Church of Freya.
“But did anyone memorize the face of that person?”
“I don't know.”
“Did no one see that guy's face?”
“He was gone so fast....”
“It was because his attire was so mediocre.”
“Wait. We will camp out here and wait until he comes out!”
In Someuren Liberty city, all the residents, the soldiers and the priests,
the word went out of Weed's story. As the rumors spread, an immense
crowd stood in the line in front of the Church of Freya.
However, Weed had already taken the teleportation gate and was away
into the Plains of Despair.
***
Holy water seems to have a lethal effect to the undead.
Helaine's cup can produce an infinite amount of holy water; it had been
lent to him, but he was unsure if this alone could stop the legions of
undead.
“It can weaken the enemy, but this won’t win it for us.”
Weed concluded that in sober judgment.
The best class to kill an undead would be a Paladin. He was short on
priests too, just barely having 100 of them. They lacked the mana to give
blessings to all of the Orcs; it would be difficult to just walk to them.
When they get close, it will be almost impossible to defeat the undead
without priests or paladins.
“I need weapons. The Orcs and Dark Elves will need to be armed with
weapons.”
A quest of ‘A’ class difficulty would not be so easy.
Orcs holding their glaives, and Dark Elves and their arrows would not be
very effective with the undead.
Nevertheless, what he could do is prohibited and is no different than a
mistake. He knew that this job was too difficult to continue if he didn't
use an absurd amount of money in answer.
“Silver! Nonetheless, we need weapons made of silver!”
Silver defeats evil!
If the Orcs and Dark Elves were armed with weapons made of silver, their
allied power will practically increase more than two times. But if he
bought the weapons and still fail the quest, Weed will end up broke.
“This is why I wanted to abandon the quest.....”
Weed decided with tears in his eyes.
“An investment. Must take a risk or I won’t obtain a greater return.”
Weed sent a whisper to Mapan.
- Mapan. Are you currently available?
A merchant has access at any time!
As soon as he sent a whisper to Mapan, an answer is returned.
- Yes. Choose! Choose! Buy goods cheaply. If you want affordable items,
we can purchase on your behalf. We also buy japtem! Could you please
leave your contact information? Thank you for visiting Mapan's firm. We
will serve you kindly.
- …....
***
The tearfully ascetic road of a merchant!
He still purchased japtem, and Mapan was intent on selling goods. In fact,
until a certain point when you reach the top of the scale you still crave for
money. Most traders would fall off such a path. But Mapan was
persistently dedicated to his merchant skills. He followed Weed and the
Geomchis while using flattery as he walked the merchant's path.
'Even though my funds may leave me, my skills will never betray me!'
Mastering his skills, Mapan had the belief that the effort of improving the
merchant skill will let him live a comfortable life. Yet in the meantime, it
seemed that there was a lot Mapan had to develop. To the extent of his
intonation while he speaks to, even his way of humming.
- Oh! Is that you Weed?
Mapan sent a whisper straight back.
The guy knew Weed was the sender but he was surprised as he belatedly
spoke back.
- Yes. It's me, Weed.
- You're still alive. *sob*
- …...
Tears poured out from Mapan unexpectedly.
This time Weed's colleague assumed that he was dead.
So far no one had ever known of a person return from the Plains of
Despair alive. In addition, the quest was of B-class difficulty and leaving
for that alone should have left him to his death.
Mapan had bet 200 gold that Weed would die. Pale and his other
companions had all bet money that he would survive. They had a solid
belief that with Weed's vitality he would somehow live. Mapan thus lost
money but he quickly smiled and whispered back.
- Anyways, I'm glad that you're alive. Pale was also very worried. Zephyr,
Hwaryeong, Irene, Surka and Romune have all been talking about you,
Weed.
- Where is everyone gathering at right now?
- Ah yeah. Besides myself, they are hunting at the Lake of Elementals
which is conveniently lucrative and gives quite a bit of experience.
Weed's party was hunting without him.
- How are the Geomchis doing?
- Oh! Each of them left Rosenheim Kingdom talking about training as
warriors. For the sake of becoming great adventurers in the end they
were instructed to break up individually.
- Training as a warrior... that would be fun.
Traveling troublemakers!
The Geomchis traveling all over, you can't imagine what they will do, for
Weed it was not difficult to make a guess.
Mapan could not help but laugh as he told him.
- You seem to be getting along well on the Plains of Despair, anyway I'm
glad. The quest, are you still doing it, have you resolved it yet?
- As you can expect, I'm managing. By the way, I'd like to make a little
purchase of weapons for the progression of the quest. Sterling silver, I
will need a lot of it smelted.
- Oh, if I go to the blacksmith's shop, I should be able to buy silver and
other materials. Silver by itself will not be that difficult.
A large kingdom being in the frontier, like Rosenheim, would normally
stockpile weapons and materials.
- Then find and purchase some please.
- Sure. Although you need all that silver for those zombies, will you pay
me through Pale-nim or directly, will it be during the shape of the battle
with those undead monsters? How many would you like? Weed, as with
the original preparations for a hunt, will you need 5,000 maybe even to
the extent of 10,000?
It depended on the quality of materials, but that made little difference,
one arrow would usually use 2 silver coins.
It was hard to imagine Weed needing a large amount, so the ignorant
Mapan heavily assumed that it was for hunting. From his calculations he
considered that the total would be a generous 200 gold. However, what
Weed told him next was beyond anything he imagined.
- Two Million arrows. First purchase as much of the ingredients for
smelting as cheap as you can. So that at least 50,000 weapons could be
cast.
- ….....
For a moment, there was no answer from Mapan.
He was eagerly hard at work on the calculations.
Gather 100 silver for 1 gold. If it is 2 silver per arrow and he bought 2
Million, that's 40,000 gold!
No matter how cheap he bought the materials, to cast one weapon would
cost at least 60 silver. First off, using the cheapest, even if only doing the
lightest covering of silver on 50,000 weapons, it would be an
unbelievable 30,000 gold.
- T, that's so much....
- Can you get it?
- 2,000,000 arrows. Enough sterling silver to cast 50,000 weapons. What
the hell is happening over there... All right. I'll get started on this right
now!
After entrusting Mapan to the purchasing of weapon materials on his
behalf, Weed did not have to worry about a thing.
There is a limit to the amount of material that is sold from a shop, but up
to this moment, Mapan had learned important lessons from advice given
by Weed.
From the beginning, there is nothing that can't be done.
If there is no way, then make one.
Think on how to strive. Money never just comes to you.
Get up earlier than anyone else to earn a copper more.
In the future, earn more money than can be done now.
To fill the sheer amount, he would have to purchase from many
blacksmith shops in the Kingdom of Rosenheim every morning and buy
from users that obtained silver through hunting. Sterling silver as in
silver arrows exert a lethal effect on undead; but for those who do not
hunt or look for undead, they turn over such items that they do not need
much of. There are not a lot of people in the Central continent, let alone
the rare few in Rosenheim Kingdom that would bother to scour
cemeteries. To purchase such extraordinary amounts that would be
normal for an industrious reason is strange but not impossible.
'My entire fortune is gone, decreased by 75,000 gold.'
This money wasted, never to be seen again, Weed wanted to lament in his
pain.
Ordering these weapon materials, he had to pay more than 70,000 gold at
the very least.
Truly the saddest moment!
Weed had to quickly recover his motivation.
“Yes, money! When you start off, there is no money, but this is not how it
has to end!”
He never spent money so casually and suffered so badly. Rather, this was
too big a shock. Shedding tears profusely, he made an effort to try to
forget about the money. At a time when a friend fell and broke his knee,
he shed no tears. But when he bought land, his tears gushed out with
such force.
“But even with this, it will not be enough!”
It was still lacking for Weed. His throat was dry.
In the Plains of Despair, there was still another force that can follow him.
The Village of the Exiled. Scattered throughout the Plains of Despair, but
the Dark Elves and Orcs alone are not sufficient. Humans, should they
join, the battle ahead will be eased by quite a bit.
“I will obtain the silver weapons from Rosenheim Kingdom, but I have to
go there and back.”
Weed pulled out Zahab's carving knife.
Soon after, Weed picked out a rock of good quality without any cracks
and sat in front of it for a moment to think.
“Perhaps running, a Cheetah would be a great choice for that right?”
A sleek cheetah!
If disguised as a cheetah, he should be able to pass through the Plains of
Despair by running. Also, he already had the map.
*Syasyasak!* (sound effect for carving)
With his skill, he very nimbly carved through the rock and carved a
cheetah. He elongated the torso, and most importantly, lengthened the
four legs like that of a horse.
“Should be able to run faster with longer legs.”
It should run well, just like the fact that a child will not run as well as a
tall adult can!
T'tiring!
A fine piece! A reward for completing a quadruped animal!
- Endurance increased by 2.
An abstract!
In accordance to the development of the arts!
A created work that really meant that Weed's beast statue was tacky. In
fact, it actually had the long legs of a horse and a long torso, but he was
trying to create a cheetah. The reward was for an unknown beast. The
cheetah's body hair was closer to that of a camel. It had the posture of a
cow stepping backward and crushing a frog.
It was rough, but intentionally trying to create a masterpiece does not
come so easily. Because of this, his sculpting skill rose by 12% and he
reached level 9 and was at 43%.
“Anyways, it's a masterpiece so that's alright.”
Weed was greatly satisfied.
An outstanding sculptor would be confident of himselfand might obsess
over his work. However, Weed was more interested in what the work
lead up to.
Traditional art will be like this. You wouldn't know what the history was
like if you didn't live in that time. As with the abstract art of Picasso, how
would you know what he wanted from his paintings?
A great musician might make a mistake and that music may become the
masterpiece of the century. Depending on your own point of view, the
interpretation of art is different.
“Although it may be like this now, how it may be considered 100 years
from now, it is possible that the work of a beggar can become recognized
as superior art. If not in 100 years, maybe 300, no perhaps about 10,000
from now.”
Roughly Weed ended his self-justification of the skill he used when he
looked at the beast.
“Sculpture shapeshift!”
You have used Sculpture Shapeshifting.
The boundless affection for the sculptor and his engraving, the sculpture
and him are changed to resemble one another! Weed's body became
covered with hair and his arms and legs became thin and long. A human
with two arms and legs soon finished transforming into an animal similar
to a camel running on all fours.
- Many of the changes in the body shape have caused the worn
equipment to become unusable. Leather clothes can be especially
made to be worn. Depending on the species or form, obtaining
new equipment may be required.
- The impact of Sculpture Shapeshifting has increased your agility
and endurance. Charisma and Leadership has fallen to the lowest
level. The Art stat is reduced by half. Endurance will rise
dramatically. This will remain valid until Sculpture Shapeshift skill
is released.
The endurance of a quadruped is also greatly
increased.
“Okay, I'll run to the Village of the Exiled”
Weed dropped to the ground and started going at a sprint
“Quadrupedal run!”
Quadrupedal run: a moving skill.
Using stamina and mana, you can run at a speed nearly 60% more than
that of being on two legs.
In addition, when running against the wind, stamina consumption is
increased by 30%. When running downwind, speed is increased by a rate
of 20%. Skill cannot be used in hilly and mountainous terrains, plus when
in grassland or plains, you gain an additional movement speed of 80%.
In the past he had to act for another sculpting skill, where he had to
understand what he sculpted. At first the skill seemed useless.
Weed's paw moved forward. Then the hind foot soon came up.
Tatatatak!
Weed's running speed utilized the Quadrupedal run!
Each step went by quickly as he stepped forward on the plains landscape.
This type of running was not at all familiar to an ordinary human. The
paw and hind legs move forward and back simultaneously to the point
that you forget the fact that you moved the paw itself.
Left front paw, right hind foot, paws and hind legs. Furthermore, his
forelimbs and hind limbs made ridiculous wobbly clicks. Walking as a
four-legged beast is surprisingly complicated. First stride, the left paw
and right hind foot went, and then right front paw and left hind foot
moved. Unless with the appropriate intervals, balance and strength
otherwise the action will not be sleek and break apart.
It was hard but weed followed these actions from deers and horses with
his own body and acquired the Quadrupedal running skill.
Tatatak.
Weed processed his speed into a gallop. At first everything seemed to be
going well; but soon a big problem came up.
“Unbelievable....”
He did not take into account that this was trial and error. Weed was a big
human. To learn how to run as a quadruped, he was like a toddler! To run
at a fast pace, but when you think of running for several days when in an
infant stage, it can't be done.
“It can't be; this is such hard work!”
At first, he thought he could do what he saw. It was vicious, he could not
run!
His throat was aching. The scenery was going too fast for him to see in
front of him as well as what he was running over. Running for a long
time, his soles were hurting.
- You have hit a sharp boulder health decreased by 3.
- You have stepped on a piece of metal health
decreased by 10.
He had managed to tolerate the side effects thus far. With blacksmith
skills, a little bit of the shock can be reduced because of horseshoes. The
problem was stamina.
For animals like a cheetah or a horse, the endurance was not so
outstanding. The top speed may be very fast but the time maintaining
that speed was very short. The remainder of the time was being idle and
drinking water or standing about.
- Your stamina has fallen, you can run no further.
It had only been 10 minutes!
The time taken to go at full speed. He had to move slowly on all fours
while wandering to rest. Every time he walked, his hips swayed and he
had shortness in breath. Hardly nothing else to do, Weed finally stopped
in place.
“HufHuf! This is not what I expected.”
Running across the Plains of Despair was tricky and frustrating. Although
you can be quick at times, when your stamina drops, this is the answer.
“Sculpture shapeshifting off!”
Weed made another sculpture he can Sculpture shapeshift into again.
An animal that runs on two legs, like the ostrich!
He did not even attempt such a thing. This was the time to create a
modest choice, like the form of an Orc.
Karrchwi's body consists of a plain Orc with enlarged musculature, and
using the same existing form, he made a leaner version of an Orc into a
sculpture. He did not bother spoiling it with looks and focused on
keeping it skinny to keep only the necessary muscles. It was reasonable
to reduce the weight as much as possible.
The end piece looked like a little red pepper. Undoubtedly it was only the
impression of Orc Karichwi. Just from looking at his face you could see
that it is upset every time of the day, and when its eyes encounter
something in the world it had the look that it wanted to break it.
Weed had the talent to make the ugliest Orcs around.
T'tiring!
A masterpiece! You have been rewarded for completing a little Orc
monster.
Those with a low nerve that view the sculpture will become
severely weakened.
Overlap with other sculptures does not apply.
Special attributes:
Those with a low nerve that view the sculpture will become
severely weakened.
Weed immediately cast the skill once the sculpture was completed.
“Sculpture Shapeshift!”
His height and face shrunk as changed to a small Orc Karichwi. His hair
grew longer and his body became scrawnier and drier than before.
- Many of the changes in the body shape have caused the worn
be required.
King Zet, the third king in Belsos La Deus dynasty, has disappeared from
all books of Bersa continent.
But then, by a stroke of luck, members of Crimson Wings found a short
reference to him in one of the private libraries.
“Looks like there might be some secret associated with him.”
“Maybe. Let’s find out more.”
And since then the guild members started to investigate it. They were
asking aware of history NPCs and looking for any mentions of that king or
the times he lived in.
Though they didn’t have high expectations, everything was pointing at
some high-level quest.
During his searches, one of the guild members reached the distant Mersel
kingdom, where he got an audience with Count Kresse, a stingy and very
intelligent scheemer, which entrusted his guest with a mission:
“King Belsos had many treasures. And the most valuable among them was
Black Flute, created from a horn. If you find it and bring it to me, I’ll
reward you handsomely. But make sure, that only trustworthy people
know about this deal.”
Ding!
New quest:
Since Weed and Seoyoon entered the Yunopu Gorge together, they
haven’t said a single word to each other.
But at every stop they were sharing food. And of course Weed was the
one cooking, though that wasn’t bothering him much, as he didn’t have to
run this time, but instead walked calmly while hunting Yetis along the
way.
At first they were moving about 100 meters apart from each other. But
that distance was gradually reducing. After another hard fight Weed was
the first to shorten the distance to 50 meters, as he was worried about
being attacked by another group of Yetis. And after a few shared dinners
the distance shrunk to 30 meters.
Usually Seoyoon just approached him, taking her share silently and
returning back to her place. Each of them ate alone, carefully watching
the surroundings.
After another day they were already 20 meters apart. And they fought at
the same distance from each other, which gave Weed a chance to observe
the girl from up close.
“...”
After one of the battles Seoyoon stopped and took off her half-plate
armor. She was fully equipped in heavy armor. Weed had a lot of
opportunities to appreciate their expensive shine. But what he didn’t
know was that she was wearing chainmail underneath them.
‘That’s the melee profession for you.’ -he thought enviously.
Knights and other melee fighters had the ability to wear all the different
kinds of armor at the same time. By equipping 3 kinds of armor: iron,
leather and cloth armors - at the same time, one could get the best
possible protection.
The only problem was that the combined weight required high strength,
endurance and agility attributes. If they were not high enough, one would
quickly tire out and lose the ability to move.
After getting an Intermediate level of Blacksmith Weed also gained that
ability, but as he lacked the attributes, he didn’t dare to equip all 3 kinds
of armor like a knight.
Absorbed by those thoughts, Weed almost crashed into Seoyoon, who
was carefully examining her unequipped armor.
‘Is it time for repairs?’
Almost all of the surface of armor was covered in cracks, some places
even had pieces missing.
“Chwiik!”
Weed quickly approached Seoyoon and snatched the armor out of her
hands. He did it unconsciously, as he was always repairing armor for
people around him.
And then he noticed Seoyoon’s murderous glance.
“Chwi, chwiik...”
Reflected in her eyes was a small green thief! So he took the instruments
out of his bag, repaired the armor, and returned it to her as quickly as
possible.
Seoyoon took her armor back like nothing happened and started to
examine it carefully. Its durability increased, and formerly damaged parts
looked completely fine.
Then Seoyoon took off her chainmail and handed it to Weed by herself
this time. He silently took it and repaired, and then did the same with her
leather armor.
When the girl took off her last set of armor, she was left almost naked. As
any proper man, Weed couldn’t help but try to oogle her, but at the last
moment he thought otherwise.
He valued his life more.
And since that day he was responsible not only for food, but for
equipment repairs too.
Actually, skills like cooking and repairing were very rare among
unintelligent Orcs. Some Elves, Hobbits or Dwarfs did have Intermediate
Cooking or Blacksmithing, but Orcs - never.
But Seoyoon didn’t seem concerned about it at all. Maybe she thought
that the Orc she happened to meet wasn’t ordinary, or maybe she just
wasn’t interested in surrounding creatures.
Whatever it was, Weed wasn’t eager to explain himself, so he just silently
walked ahead. However when Seoyoon was logged out of the game, he
didn’t have anything to do, as he didn’t dare to continue his way alone.
Seoyoon left Royal Road every 4 hours. Maybe she needed to eat, or rest.
After leaving, she always appearing exactly 2 hours later.
Weed himself ate very quickly. Besides, for the sake of the quest he was
spending all of his free time inside the game, and as a result he barely
slept 2 hours a day for the past several days.
‘Since she’s logging out so often, I should do something useful in the
meantime.’
And Weed started to make sculptures.
If one was to sum up all the time the girl was absent, there would have
been enough for Weed to pass through the rest of his path alone and
reach the fortress.
However the risk was far too great. Sometimes Yeti’s appeared in groups
of 3 or more, and it was extremely hard to deal with all of them alone.
And if he died, he wouldn’t be able to login into royal Road for 24 hours!
Which would be 4 days in Royal Road time...
Under such conditions the safest way was also the shortest and the best.
Sometimes even Weed was able to silence his inner unreasonable greed.
“Yeah, sculpturing is always the best way to spend free time.”
Lately, his Sculpture mastery has grown significantly and his art became
more diverse. Which actually wasn’t surprising, since he had cut many
different monsters, castles, people, a dragon and even a tomb with a
sphynx.
However Weed decided to make more sculptures of Seoyoon.
“I should cut what I have seen so far while I have time.”
The first sculpture was full of motion. The cold side of Seoyoon, fighting
with monsters. He had cut the female warrior with a sword.
Ding!
Fine Piece!
You have completed a statue of ‘Beauty with a sword’!
The master, whose hands create only great sculptures, left a statue
of a beautiful woman in desolate plains! Her cold face is full of fury
towards her enemies.
Artistic value: 260.
Effects:
- Everyone who looks on the sculpture has his health and mana
- Everyone who looks at this statue has their Health and mana
person.
- In the previous case, the effects for others are decreased by 60%.
Credits
Author : Nam-Hi-Sung
Illustrator :
Translators & Editors: An76685, IcedLance