Chapter 220: The First Metal Element Magic (Part 2)

Chapter 220: The First Metal Element Magic (Part 2)



The next morning, Rain had arrived early at the training room with Knighton Leman to practice the newly learned Blood Fury Archery.

In his hands was a large bow, originally belonging to the 'Bloody Archer' Phil Kraze. The bow measured about one meter and sixty centimeters in length and was crafted entirely from rare Mithril Ore, a special metal known for its exceptional resilience.

Rain had seen this material once before at the blacksmith's shop in Habsburg Castle, and he quickly recognized its unique properties. While it was an excellent choice for a bow's body, it demanded a significant amount of strength from the archer.

The bow's elasticity primarily came from the bow body rather than the bowstring, and most ordinary bows were made from oak or pine wood, which provided decent elasticity and stability due to their strong fibers. However, for formal knights, these common wooden bows were somewhat lacking in power.

This difference became more pronounced as one progressed from a formal knight to a senior knight and then to the pinnacle of the grand knight.

As a result, most senior knights opted for metal bows crafted from special ores, which, when combined with their superior physical qualities, negated issues like weight and draw strength.

Moreover, these metal bows could also serve as defensive weapons in close-quarters combat.

For Rain, this metal bow was merely passable, as his great knight's physical prowess far surpassed that of the 'Bloody Archer' Phil Kraze.

Rain's control over the Blood Fury Archery was still developing, but it was sufficient for his current needs.

The previous night, Rain had written two letters. One was addressed to Lady Crowley, requesting her assistance in acquiring some Mithril Ore. He planned to add this ore to his bow once he returned to Meyster County, tailoring it to his strength level.

He had also discovered a superior replacement for the bowstring—a sturdy and resilient back muscle from a spineback sea serpent, capable of withstanding greater tension than the current bowstring.

The other letter was addressed to Count Habs, informing him that the situation in Fishing Port Town had stabilized, with the threat of the God of Sea Church and pirates eliminated. Rain requested to be relieved of his duties, recommending the Ramon brothers as his successors.

Additionally, Rain mentioned in the letter that he would soon be participating in the 'Sword Bearers' organization's assessment.

Although the Empire would officially notify Count Habs through formal channels, Rain felt it prudent to mention it proactively.

Since the Ramon brothers specialized in sword and shield combat, they made excellent archery training partners. Rain had invited Knighton Leman, the younger brother, to join him in the morning for archery practice.

As for the older brother, Kobert Leman, he was tasked with assisting Rain in managing the town's affairs, keeping him occupied.

With the God of Sea Church and most pirates in Meyster County's waters eliminated, Fishing Port Town had gradually resumed its fishing and merchant activities over the past few days. Administrative tasks were also increasing.

Rain had little interest in these matters, so he entrusted the more composed Kobert Leman with handling them.

After the two arrived at Rain's office, Major Marika spoke up, "Your Excellency Rain, regarding yesterday's situation, I have drafted a letter and will report to the fleet immediately."

"Also, I'd like to seek your opinion, Your Excellency Rain. Regarding your rescue of the Fish Dragon Squad with Vynona, the Empire Navy will undoubtedly bestow rewards. Do you have any special requests regarding this?"

"Of course, I'll write a separate letter to General Silva, asking him to coordinate. As per custom, since Your Excellency Rain is not affiliated with the Navy, substantial rewards are usually issued in the form of merit points and Empire Gold Coins."

Major Marika explained in detail, seemingly concerned that Rain might not understand her intentions.

Rain nodded, indicating he understood Major Marika's meaning.

Since he wasn't affiliated with the Empire Navy and the rescue mission wasn't a designated task, the Navy's reward would consist only of merit points and gold coins, without any additional benefits.

If he wanted something special, he would need General Silva to speak on his behalf.

This was the advantage of having connections in high places.

Of course, in the future, if General Silva ever needed a favor, Rain would have to reciprocate.

The issue, however, was that without a reference point, Rain didn't know how much his contribution in rescuing the Fish Dragon Squad would be valued.

After all, asking for too much might give the impression of boasting, while asking for too little would be a disservice to himself.

Rain glanced at Major Marika beside him and quickly thought of something. He smiled and said, "Major Marika, if possible, I'm quite interested in the metal elemental magic 'Sharpening Spell' that Trevor used the other day."

"I'm not sure if my contribution is enough to exchange for this magic. Of course, I will sign a confidentiality agreement and won't broadcast or share this reward from the Empire Navy in any form."

Major Marika pondered for a moment and replied, "It should be sufficient if it's just the magic 'Sharpening Spell' you're interested in, Your Excellency Rain. However, whether this can be successfully exchanged still depends on the fleet's attitude."

"Of course, even if it doesn't work out, Your Excellency Rain won't suffer any losses. The merit points and Empire Gold Coins are guaranteed." Major Marika added.

"Then I thank you, Major Marika," Rain smiled and bowed slightly.

"By the way, Your Excellency Rain, regarding Vorod's bounty, the Empire has issued a draft for it. Here's a bank draft worth ten thousand Empire Gold Coins." Major Marika took out a palm-sized special paper emitting a faint energy fluctuation and nineteenth films in the Empire Navy Special Department.

A bank draft?

Rain carefully examined the bank draft, which was made from a special material and seemed to bear traces of a unique magic. At the top, it read 'Dragon Empire Central Bank Draft'.

The specific amount was written as ten thousand Empire Gold Coins, along with phrases like 'Redeemable upon presentation'.

On the back of the draft was an image of a dignified old man.

Major Marika explained, "This is the Empire's first Emperor. Your Excellency Rain, the bank draft you hold can be redeemed at any bank within the Empire's territory, and it's valid for one year."

"If it expires, you'll need to resubmit it through the Navy for processing, which can be quite cumbersome."

"Alright, Major Marika," Rain nodded.

"Oh, and Your Excellency Rain, regarding Vorod's bounty, the Empire has already issued it. Here's a bank draft worth ten thousand Empire Gold Coins. Please keep it safe." Major Marika took out a palm-sized special paper emitting a faint energy fluctuation and handed it to Rain with a smile.

Rain carefully examined the bank draft, which was made from a special material and seemed to bear traces of a unique magic. At the top, it read 'Dragon Empire Central Bank Draft'.

The specific amount was written as ten thousand Empire Gold Coins, along with phrases like 'Redeemable upon presentation'.

On the back of the draft was an image of the Empire's first Emperor.

Major Marika explained, "This is the Empire's first Emperor, Your Excellency Rain. The bank draft you hold can be redeemed at any bank within the Empire's territory, and it's valid for one year."

"If it expires, you'll need to resubmit it through the Navy for processing, which can be quite cumbersome."

"Alright, Major Marika," Rain nodded.

"By the way, Your Excellency Rain, regarding the situation with that intruder the other day. If he's indeed from the Eagle Federation's special department, what's the Empire's attitude towards this?"

Upon hearing Rain's question, Major Marika stopped and encouraged. Her delicate face turned serious as she turned, "Your Excellency Rain, I inquired about this yesterday with the Intelligence Department. Regarding the specific details, there's no response yet. It's likely that the intruder is also part of the Eagle Federation's special department, similar to the Fish Dragon Squad."

"But for these small-scale infiltrations, neither the Empire nor the Federation has a good solution."

"From the current situation, both the Empire and the Federation are cautious of each other. While there are small-scale frictions, they won't engage in large-scale actions that harm civilians. In this regard, those cults are more harmful."

Rain nodded, "If that's the case, it's for the best."

---

In the outskirts of the Meyster County's offshore area, near an isolated island on the periphery.

Nehru was discussing something with a man, while on his right, the giant spineback sea serpent coiled.

"Wexman, according to the message the Empire Navy sent me, the young Great Knight and Sheriff of Meyster County's Fishing Port Town, is named Rain."

"Nehru, don't give me such high praise. If he's not Empire Navy personnel and might never cross paths with us again, why bother?" The man named Wexman casually spoke, not buying into it.

Wexman was slender, his hands playing with two short daggers emitting a bloody light.

The daggers danced like butterflies in a flower garden, swiftly moving between his long yet flexible fingers.

"No, you don't understand. As a wizard, I have a hunch that if he's still alive, we'll cross paths again one day." Nehru waved his hand and spoke in a deep voice.

"Fine, I don't understand this kind of stuff you deceivers do."

"But why not ask someone else for this matter?" Wexman thought for a moment. Although in his eyes, deceivers' combat abilities were average, but when it came to prophecies and divination, they were not to be taken lightly.

"Wexman, only you can ensure the success of this mission. I don't trust anyone else in the squad." Nehru smiled and lightly patted the other man's horse.

"Hmph, don't try to fool me. You know my price is high. Even as teammates, I'll only give you a 20% discount." Wexman was unmoved by Nehru's words and continued to twirl his dagger.

Nehru didn't mind his words and, sensing his willingness to agree, smiled and said, "Wexman, if you can take out Rain, I'll give you that box of shadow steel ore I acquired last time."

"One box of shadow steel ore is not enough. To travel through the Dragoon Empire's land and cross their heavily guarded waters is a huge risk."

After some haggling, Nehru's expression remained slightly displeased, but he felt relieved inside.

Although it was a bit painful, if Wexman agreed to take on the mission, then there would be no problem.

After all, for an assassination like this, it was best to leave it to a professional like Wexman, the best choice among the people he knew.

---

Meanwhile, in a mansion's underground hall in Myester County City.

"High Priest, the latest news is that the Empire's Southern Fleet has crushed the God of Sea Church and most of the pirate fleets near Myester County." The black flame adept Lamar respectfully reported to the obese figure seated above.

"Hmm? Weren't they fighting back and forth with the Empire Navy before? How did they get crushed this time?" The High Priest's tone was filled with surprise.

"The specific situation is still unknown. We are currently awaiting further intelligence."

"What about the Fishing Port Town's Governor, Rain? Did the God of Sea Church take advantage of the chaos to kill him?" The obese High Priest suddenly asked.

"From the battle reports sent to Myester, we haven't seen any such information." Lamar replied tactfully.

"In other words, the plan to have the God of Sea Church kill Rain has failed again?" The High Priest couldn't help but mutter.

Lamar's head lowered even further, unsure of how to respond to the High Priest's words.

At this moment, a black flame adept appeared at the hall's entrance, holding a letter in both hands.

Lamar waved his hand, signaling for the letter to be brought in.

This secret letter should contain the latest news.

As he opened the letter and quickly glanced at its contents, Lamar's expression changed, his lips trembled, and he seemed unsure of how to convey the information.

"Just say what's on your mind, don't beat around the bush." The obese High Priest sitting above noticed Lamar's hesitation and spoke.

"High Priest, according to the latest intelligence, it is said that Rain captured the vice-commander of the Black Sails Pirate Fleet and an envoy of the God of Sea Church, which allowed the Empire's Southern Fleet to locate the secret bases of various pirate fleets and the God of Sea Church."

"What? So, you're saying Rain captured the vice-commander and an envoy, which led to the Empire's Southern Fleet crushing the God of Sea Church and the pirates, adding to his list of accomplishments?" The High Priest's eyes narrowed, and his eyes twitched slightly.

Could things get any more absurd? They had hoped that the God of Sea Church would kill Rain, but now it seemed that Rain had used the Empire Navy to crush the God of Sea Church!

This added another impressive feat to Rain's resume.

The underground hall fell silent for a moment.

"I can't hold back any longer. We must stop his growth before he becomes a threat to us." The High Priest couldn't contain his impatience, with his obese body, left the large chair and began to pace in the hall.

"Lamar, the only foolproof method I can think of is to lure him to the next Black Flame Ceremony and use the power of the ceremony to kill him."

"This is a foolproof method with a 100% success rate."

Several ideas flashed through Lamar's mind, but he quickly dismissed them all.

The methods mentioned couldn't guarantee Rain's death.

Perhaps it was because Rain had evaded their previous assassination attempts, making Lamar hesitant.

But by using the power of the ceremony and the pressure from the hunting god, Run, they could ensure Rain's demise.

"This is one way, but how can we lure Rain to the ceremony?"

"Additionally, if he discovers something is amiss and causes a disturbance before the ceremony begins, there's a risk of interrupting the ceremony." The High Priest's small eyes flashed for a moment.

Only when the ceremony officially begins will the hunting god's pressure descend.

If Rain notices something is off beforehand, all efforts will be in vain.

"High Priest, I suggest having Baron Alonso hold a grand noble banquet above the ceremony site."

---

Three days later.

Fishing Port Town Hall Training Ground.

Knighton continued to hold his tower shield, dodging and advancing swiftly.

Rain pulled the silver-gray metal bow to its full draw, and a training arrow shot out like lightning, aiming straight at Knighton.

In an instant, Knighton's muscles tensed, his upper body leaned forward, and he held the thick tower shield in front of him.

"Bang!"

The sound of a bell rang out, and the blunt training arrow shattered the wooden shaft in an instant. The powerful impact caused Koberd, who was holding a tower shield, to stiffen up and freeze in place for a moment.

Immediately, Rain fired another arrow, one after the other, leaving Koberd with almost no chance to retaliate.

In just five minutes, Koberd was panting and exhausted.

Koberd looked at Rain, his eyes filled with shock.

He finally understood the astonishing speed of Rain's progress, no, it was terrifying! From the beginning, he could still fight back, but now, he had become a mere target. And this was just after three days!

In these three days, Rain's Blood Fury Archery had rapidly improved, and this morning, he had successfully reached level 4, forming a certain level of ranged combat power.

At this level of archery mastery, dealing with enemies at the Knight level would not be a problem, but there was still a gap when facing enemies at the Great Knight level.

However, right now, his training partner, Koberd, could no longer keep up with his progress.

If Rain went easy on him, he could let Koberd continue as his sparring partner, but the experience points gained from Blood Fury Archery would decrease significantly, making the training less meaningful.

Rain considered whether to ask Kobert to join them, as it might be better for the two brothers to train together.

But after a moment's thought, Rain shook his head slightly. Administrative tasks in Fishing Harbor Town, such as daily patrols, required someone to be in charge, so it was not appropriate for both brothers to be training partners.

Additionally, although the two had excellent teamwork, they could only accompany him in training up to level 4 of Blood Fury Archery. Beyond that, it would be less effective.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

At this moment, two unexpected individuals appeared at the entrance of the training room.

Rain turned to look, and was taken aback.

It was Trevor and Nathaniel from the Leviathan Squad, standing at the entrance with smiles on their faces.

"Baron Rain, we meet again," Trevor said with a smile.

"Oh, what brings you two back to Fishing Harbor Town? Is there a new mission?" Rain asked with a hint of confusion.

The two exchanged glances, their smiles widening, and said, "It's a new mission, but also to teach you the Sharpening Spell."

"Baron Rain, we never expected you to be an Apprentice Wizard as well."

When Trevor heard that Rain was also an Apprentice Wizard, he was truly surprised.

Rain's expression brightened upon hearing this. He hadn't expected the Empire Navy to be this quick.

It seemed that General Silva had played a significant role in this.

Of course, it could also be due to Captain Balon's influence, as the leader of a Special Department squad, his impact was not to be underestimated.

"Welcome, I thought the Empire Navy would send others. It seems you two are here for this task."

"Of course, we volunteered for this mission as well."

"By the way, there's another matter," Trevor said, looking around and not continuing.

Rain understood and turned to Koberd, "Koberd, let's call it a day."

"Yes, Baron Rain."

"Come with me, let's discuss this in the office."

The three of them headed to Rain's office and sat down.

"Baron Rain, according to the latest intelligence, the Eagle Federation Deceiver we encountered that day has been identified by the intelligence department. Nehru, a formal member of the Eagle Federation Navy's Leviathan Squad, with a personality leaning towards revenge. Therefore, Captain Balon asked us to come first."

Rain nodded, understanding the reason for their joint visit. Besides teaching the Sharpening Spell, there was also the intention to guard against Nehru's revenge.

"Thank you both, and please convey my gratitude to Captain Balon."

"Baron Rain, if you're available, I can teach you the Sharpening Spell right now." Trevor said, inclining his head slightly.

"Then, let's begin." Rain smiled.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end