Chapter 220: The First Metal Magic

Chapter 220: The First Metal Magic



The morning of the next day, Ren and Knighton Lemann were already in the training chamber, practicing the newly learned Blood Rage Bow Technique. Ren held a large bow in his hands, the very same one used by the Bloody Archer, Phil. The bow measured about one meter in length and was crafted entirely from a rare metal called Magic Steel Ingots. Ren had seen this special metal once before in the blacksmith's shop within the Habsburg Castle, so he quickly identified it. This unique metal possessed excellent resilience.

To some extent, it was an excellent choice for a bow body, but it demanded an extraordinary level of strength from the archer. The elasticity of a bow primarily came from the bow body rather than the bowstring. Ordinary bows used by commoners were often made from oak or pine wood, whose fibrous structure provided decent elasticity and stability. However, for formal knights, these ordinary wooden bows fell short in terms of power.

Ren pondered for a moment and shook his head slightly. It wouldn't be appropriate to have both brothers as his sparring partners, considering the administrative tasks in Harbor Town like daily patrols that required someone's attention.

"Lamar, do you have any suggestions?" Ren asked.

With the Sea God Cult and most of the pirates in the Maister County's waters eliminated, Harbor Town had gradually resumed its fishing and merchant activities over the past few days, and administrative tasks had begun to pile up.

Before that, if the enemy noticed something amiss, all their efforts would be in vain.

In the letter, Ren asked her to help acquire some Magic Steel Ingots. He planned to wait for a while and then return to Maister County, where he would add the Magic Steel Ingots and recast the bow to suit his strength level.

Upon hearing this, Ren couldn't help but smile in satisfaction. He hadn't expected the Imperial Navy to act so swiftly.

"That's one way, but the problem is, how can we lure Ren into the ceremony?"

The three of them made their way to Ren's office and sat down.

In the underground hall of a mansion in Maister County,

This was the advantage of having connections.

The other letter was addressed to Count Habsburg, informing him that the situation in Harbor Town had stabilized, with the threat of the Sea God Cult and pirates eliminated. Ren kept his word and recommended the Lemann brothers as his replacements.

Major Maryka paused for a moment and replied, "It should be sufficient if he's only exchanging the spell 'Sharpened Shot.' Ren's contributions should be enough for that. However, the success of this matter ultimately depends on the attitude of the fleet."

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

If every mission involved dealing with someone as troublesome as Nehru, the squad's strength would be overkill, and Leviathan Squad wouldn't stand a chance against them.

For a moment, Ren couldn't think of a better solution.

While Ren could go easy on Knighton and let him practice more, it would significantly reduce the experience points gained for the Blood Rage Bow Technique, diminishing the value of the training.

"Thank you, Major Maryka," Ren smiled and bowed slightly.

Knighton, despite his exhaustion, maintained his focus, his muscles tensed as he held the great shield with both hands, veins popping out on his forearms.

Within five minutes, Knighton was already gasping for breath and showing signs of fatigue.

Suddenly, Knighton's muscles bulged, his upper body leaning forward, and he raised the thick tower shield to protect himself.

After arriving at Ren's office,

"So, the plan to have the Sea God Cult eliminate the target has failed again?" the archpriest muttered.

"Baron Ren, this time I'm here on an official mission to teach you the spell 'Sharpened Shot.'"

"Vexman, only you can ensure the success of this mission. I don't trust anyone else in the squad," Nehru smiled and lightly flattered Vexman.

It wasn't that Ren didn't want to go easy on Knighton, but if he did, the experience points for the Blood Rage Bow Technique would be pitifully low. So, Knighton had to endure the challenge.

Knighton, caught off guard, tensed his muscles, his arms shaking as he held the tower shield, veins popping out. "Clang!"

Although it was a bit painful, Vexman's assurance meant there was no need to worry.

"What? You mean to say that not only did they come out unscathed from Harbor Town, but they also gained more merit for eliminating the Sea God Cult and pirates?" The archpriest's eyes narrowed, and his face twitched slightly.

Ren took the bank draft, which emitted a faint energy fluctuation, and examined it closely. The draft was made from a special material, seemingly imbued with traces of a unique spell. At the top, it read, 'Dragon Empire Central Bank Draft.'

Hearing Ren's question, Maryka paused and turned, saying, "Baron Ren, I inquired about this yesterday. As of now, the intelligence department hasn't provided any details about them. It's likely that they're similar to the Leviathan Squad, belonging to the Falcon Federation's Special Division."

Ren considered whether to call upon Cuthbert as well, thinking that having the brothers together might be better.

This difference became more pronounced as knights progressed from formal to senior and then to peak knights.

The practice arrows were metal-tipped but not sharp, with blunt heads and birchwood shafts. Although they weren't heavy, Ren's exceptional physical condition made it challenging for Knighton to block the arrows with his tower shield.

Lamar waved his hand, signaling for the visitor to enter.

Of course, when the time comes that General Silva requires his assistance, Ren will naturally return the favor.

He quickly glanced at the letter, his face showing a moment of hesitation as he struggled to find the right words.

"Oh, and there's one more thing," Trevor said, looking around, but didn't continue.

After all, for an assassination, it's best to leave it to a professional. Vexman, a shadow assassin, was the best candidate among those Ren knew. —Meanwhile.

Ren immediately understood and turned to Knighton, "Knighton, let's call it a day today."

Nehru was talking to a man, and to his right was the gigantic Spineback Sea Serpent.

Since the Leman brothers specialized in sword and shield combat techniques, and were excellent archery training partners, Ren had arranged for Knighton Leman, the younger brother, to accompany him in practicing archery in the morning.

As he was not part of the Imperial Navy and the rescue mission was not a designated task, the Navy's rewards would only be Merit Points and gold coins, nothing more.

Because of the aforementioned methods, there was no guarantee that Ren could be killed.

"I wonder if my contribution can be exchanged for this spell. Of course, I will sign a confidentiality agreement as required and will not broadcast the spell rewarded by the Imperial Navy in any form."

"Archpriest, according to the latest intelligence, it is said that because Ren captured the vice-leader of the Black Sail Pirate Fleet and a special envoy of the Sea God Cult, the Southern Sea Fleet was able to locate the secret bases of various pirate fleets and the Sea God Cult."

"Of course, Major Marika, we can talk over here," Ren smiled and gestured for Major Marika to come to the nearby office.

Ren nodded, "If that's the case, then that would be the best." —In the coastal waters of Maister County, near the outer edge of a remote island.

If it wasn't for the 'Bloodthirsty Archer' encounter, the 'special training' from Lord Ren would have prevented him and his brother from being injured by the archer's arrows.

"Their squad consists of about 5-7 people, each with an unspecified number of followers. So their squad is more like a combination of four to five of our squads." Nathaniel added.

"From the current situation, the Empire and the Federation are mutually wary, although there are small-scale frictions, but they will not engage in large-scale harm to civilians, in this regard, the harm caused by those cults is relatively greater."

Knighton continued to hold the tower shield, dodging and advancing quickly.

"Archpriest, the latest news is that the Southern Sea Fleet has defeated the Sea God Cult and most of the pirate fleets in the waters near Maister County." The Flame Shadow Adept, Lamar, respectfully reported to the corpulent figure seated in the room.

Therefore, most senior knights would use metal bows made from special ore. As long as their physical qualities were strong enough, issues like the weight and pulling force of the metal bow were not a problem.

"One box of shadow steel ingots is not enough. I have to pass through their heavily guarded waters on the land of the Dragon Empire, and the risks are not small." After some haggling, Nehru's expression remained slightly displeased, but he felt somewhat relieved inside.

Finally, Ren mentioned in the letter that he would soon be participating in the 'Swordsman' organization's assessment.

"You are the most suitable person to deal with this young man." Nehru said with a gloomy expression.

At this moment, Ren suddenly thought of something and said, "Major Marika, there's something I'd like to ask. If the previous enemy was affiliated with the Falcon Federation, what would be the Empire's attitude towards their intrusion into the coastal territories?"

Last night, Ren had already written two letters, one of which was addressed to Baroness Crowley.

"As you command, Baron," Knighton was also feeling a bit exhausted.

He finally understood why Lord Ren's improvement was so astonishing. From the beginning when he could still fight back, to now, where he had become a living target. In just three days, Ren's Blood Rage Bow Technique had rapidly improved, and this morning, he smoothly reached level 4, forming a certain long-range combat power.

At this moment, two unexpected people appeared at the door of the training room.

After all, if he spoke too highly of himself, it would give the impression of boasting, and if he downplayed it, it would be a loss for himself.

Because the hunting god's aura would only descend once the ritual officially began.

However, for Ren, this metal bow was only passable. After all, his grand knight's physical qualities were far superior to those of the 'Bloodthirsty Archer' Phil Krantz.

"Lord Ren, according to the latest news, the identity of the Federation Trickster Wizard we encountered that day has been confirmed by the intelligence department. Nehru, a formal member of the Falcon Federation Navy's Leviathan Squad, has a stubborn personality," Trevor explained in detail.

The sound of metal clashing rang out, and the impact of the dull arrowhead caused Knighton, who was holding the tower shield, to halt his forward momentum, and his speed slowed down involuntarily.

Nehru listened to the other party's words without concern and even smiled, saying, "Vexman, if you can take care of Ren, I'll give you the box of shadow steel ingots I obtained last time."

Ren wasn't interested in these matters, so he asked the relatively calm Cuthbert Leman to help with these tasks.

A bank draft?

However, Ren glanced at Major Marika beside him and quickly thought of something. He smiled and said, "Major Marika, if possible, I'm more interested in the metal magic 'Sharpened Shot' you displayed."

The specific amount written was: Ten Thousand Empire Gold Coins.

On the walls were the words 'Redeemable on Presentation of Ticket'.

"Sir Ren, I heard from the guards that you've been practicing here for two hours. So, I'm afraid I have to interrupt," said the guard.

This secret letter must contain the latest news.

It seems that General Silva played a significant role in this.

"According to intelligence, multiple official members of Leviathan Squad have arrived in the coastal waters of Minster Province. It appears they're here to carry out a special mission," said the guard.

"Alright, Major Marika, I'll make the exchange as soon as possible," Ren replied with a smile.

Could things get any more absurd? I was hoping the Sea God Cult would take out Ren, but it seems Ren has used the Imperial Navy to flip the tables on the Cult!

Trevon and Nathaniel from Leviathan Squad appeared at the door, both with smiles on their faces.

"This... We didn't see this in the battle report sent from Maister," Lamar said cautiously.

"Also, I'd like to ask for your opinion, Sir Ren. The Empire Navy will surely commend you and Veronica for rescuing Leviathan Squad. Do you have any special requests?"

"Additionally, based on divination and Nehru's psychological profile, the enemy might take this opportunity to retaliate against you, Sir Ren. So, Captain Balon sent us here first," said Nathaniel.

Trevon was surprised to learn that Ren was still a Wizard Apprentice.

"We can't let Ren continue to grow like this. After a certain point, they'll undoubtedly come after us," the Archpriest said, unable to contain his impatience. He left his large chair and began pacing in the underground hall.

At that moment, a Flame Shadow Adept appeared at the hall's entrance, holding a letter in both hands.

Lamar's head hung even lower, unsure of what to say to the Archpriest.

"Vexman, according to the information I received from the Federation Navy, that young Grand Knight with the Steel Will talent is named Ren, the Governor of Maister Fishing Town in the Dragon Empire," said the Archpriest.

"Just say what's on your mind, no need to beat around the bush," said the Archpriest, noticing Lamar's unease.

However, without a reference point, Ren wasn't sure how much his contribution to rescuing Leviathan Squad was worth.

Harbor Town Administrative Hall Training Ground.

"Archpriest, I suggest we let Baron Alonso hold a grand Noble Ball above the ritual site," said Lamar, three days later.

Ren knew that Major Marika must have something important to discuss.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the training room door.

This gave Ren the opportunity to shoot another arrow at Knighton.

"This is a guaranteed method to take down the enemy."

As for the bowstring, he had found a better replacement—a spine from a Spineback Sea Serpent, slightly elastic and extremely tough, capable of withstanding more tension than the original bowstring.

Major Marika, in her navy uniform, stood at the door, smiling at Ren.

"Not exactly. Captain Balon's injuries will take about ten days to fully heal, so our squad is temporarily on standby," explained Nathaniel.

"What about Ren, the Governor of Maister Fishing Town? Did the Sea God Cult take advantage of the chaos to eliminate him?" asked the Archpriest.

Ren's current mastery over Blood Rage Bow Technique wasn't high, but it was sufficient for use.

"If you exceed the time limit, you'll need to resubmit the paperwork to the Navy, which will be more complicated," said Lamar.

According to the training guidelines, if Knighton could reach within ten meters in front of Ren within five arrows, Knighton would be declared the winner. Otherwise, Ren would have achieved his training goal.

The sound of a bell rang out! The blunt training arrow shattered instantly, and the wooden shaft splintered under the immense force, causing Knighton, who was holding the great shield, to lurch forward before stiffening in place for a moment.

Ren turned his head and was taken aback.

"Haha, don't try that. You know, my services don't come cheap. Even though we're teammates, I'll only give you a 20% discount," said Vexman, unmoved, continuing to flip the daggers.

"Dong, dong, dong!"

Knighton held a massive metal tower shield in both hands, dodging left and right in front of Ren while steadily advancing towards him.

"Sir Ren, regarding yesterday's situation, I've drafted a letter that I'll submit to the fleet immediately," said Marika.

In that instant, several methods flashed through Lamar's mind, but he quickly dismissed them all.

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

At this level of mastery, using the bow against Knight-level enemies was no issue, but there was still a gap when facing Grand Knight-level foes.

Additionally, while the two worked well together, they could only help Ren train up to level 5 in Blood Rage Bow Technique; any further was unlikely.

Of course, it was also possible that Captain Balon's influence played a role, as the captain of a special department squad, his power couldn't be underestimated.

"Furthermore, if the enemy discovers something is amiss and causes a disturbance before the ritual, there's a risk of interrupting the ceremony," said the Archpriest, his eyes flickering indecisively.

"This is the first Emperor of the Empire, and Sir Ren, you have this bank draft from the Imperial Central Bank, which can be exchanged at any bank within the Empire's territory within one year," said Major Marika.

"By the way, Sir Ren, regarding Waldor's bounty, the reward has been issued. Here's a bank draft for 10,000 imperial gold coins. Please keep it safe."

"Major Marika reached into her bosom and took out a palm-sized special paper, which she handed to Ren with a smile.

Knighton looked at Ren, his eyes filled with astonishment!

Although the Empire would also inform Count Habs through official channels soon, Ren thought for a moment and decided to proactively mention it, which might be even better.

'Knock, knock, knock!'

'Of course, it's also because we both requested to come and carry out this mission,'

Adding a brilliant touch to their resumes! The underground hall fell silent for a short time.

After just fifteen minutes, Knighton was drenched in sweat, his entire body as if pulled from the water.

'Hmm? Weren't they fighting back and forth with the Dragon Empire Navy? Why were they suddenly crushed this time?' The Archpriest's tone was obviously a bit surprised.

It seemed that she was worried that Ren might not understand her meaning, so Major Marika explained in detail.

'This... The specific situation is still unknown. Currently, we are still waiting for the latest updates.'

'Bang!'

However, although Knighton was exhausted, his eyes were bright and alert.

As for his brother, Knighton Lemann, he had to help Ren with the administrative affairs of Harbor Town and couldn't get away.

'Welcome, I thought the Dragon Empire Navy would send someone else. It seems that the fleet's operation is over?'

'Of course, even if it's not successful, Your Excellency Ren will not suffer any losses. The promised Merit Points and Imperial Gold Coins will be guaranteed,' Marika added.

The two looked at each other and smiled even brighter, saying, 'Consider it a mission.'

While he practiced the newly learned Blood Rage Bow Technique with Knighton's accompaniment, it was just a tough time for Knighton.

Furthermore, from another perspective, these became advantages. Additionally, the metal bow could also serve as a defensive weapon during sudden close-quarters combat.

'No, you don't understand. As a wizard, I feel that if he's alive, one day in the near future, I will encounter him again,' Nehru waved his hand and said in a low voice.

Ren nodded, understanding. Otherwise, it would be too unreasonable to assign this task to two combat squad members. Without these two, the Leviathan Squad's combat strength would be greatly affected.

'Your Excellency Ren, I'll take my leave now and contact the higher-ups,' Major Marika stood up, preparing to leave, leaving behind a graceful figure.

For him, it was an honor and a rare opportunity to have a Grand Knight like Your Excellency Ren invite him for practice.

The short dagger danced like a butterfly in a flower garden, quickly jumping between the opponent's slender yet exceptionally agile fingers.

'Nehru, don't flatter me. Besides, since he's not a Dragon Empire Navy personnel, why bother? It's very likely you won't encounter him again in the future,' said the man named Vexman, dismissively.

No mistakes in this version, read it at 69 Book Bar! 6=9+Book_Bar

Ren nodded, understanding Major Marika's intention.

Flame Shadow Adept Lamar thought for a moment and cautiously suggested, 'Well, Archpriest, the only surefire method I can think of is to attract him to the next Flame Shadow Ritual and use the ritual's power to eliminate him.'

'Alright, I really don't understand this set of tricks you Trickster Wizards use.'

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

Immediately, Ren quickly shot another arrow, one after another, leaving Knighton almost helpless.

But during the ritual, with the pressure from Luen, the God of Hunting, it was certain that the opponent would be defeated.

'Please follow me, we'll talk in the office.'

However, at this moment, his training partner, Knighton, could no longer keep up with his progress.

Ren drew the silver-gray metal longbow to its full extent, and a training arrow shot straight at Knighton.

Ren drew the silver-gray metal longbow, and a training arrow flew like lightning, straight at Knighton.

'But... Why didn't you ask someone else to do this?' Vexman thought for a moment. Although in his eyes, Trickster Wizards' combat strength was average, they were not just making up prophecies and divinations.

Ren nodded, understanding.

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

'Your Excellency Ren, I didn't expect that besides being a talented Grand Knight, you're also a Wizard Apprentice. I feel like the goddess's favor is concentrated on you alone,' Trevor said with a hint of jealousy.

'By the way, the Falcon Federation's squad and our Empire's squad are set up a little differently.'

Of course, this could also be because Ren had foiled their assassination attempts too many times, making them wary.

'Of course, I'll write a separate letter to General Silva, asking him to help coordinate. According to custom, since Your Excellency Ren is not affiliated with the Navy, the substantial rewards will be converted into Merit Points and Imperial Gold Coins for distribution.'

Hearing this, Ren understood why the two had come to Harbor Town together. Besides teaching the spell 'Sharpened Shot,' there was also the intention to guard against the other party's revenge.

'Thank you, and please convey my gratitude to Captain Balon as well.'

'Your Excellency Ren, you're too kind. By the way, if you're available, I can teach you Sharpened Shot right now,' Trevor bowed slightly.

'In that case, I'll trouble you, Your Excellency Trevor,' Ren couldn't help but laugh.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end