Chapter 240: Not Enough Merit Points

Chapter 240: Not Enough Merit Points



As Rayn was about to follow Instructor Kurman, the others nearby perked up their ears, eager to hear what the instructor had to say.

When they heard that Instructor Kurman wanted to spar with Rayn, they couldn't contain their excitement!

Just then, as Rayn was about to leave with Kurman, he heard a voice from the side, seemingly another instructor evaluating Evelyn. Holding a set of documents, the instructor quietly recited:

"Evelyn Norman, below average in strength, moderate in speed, above average in fire-affinity magic, moderate in knight combat techniques, moderate in battle reaction, and above average in combat decision-making."

"Well, the examiner's evaluation and suggestion for you is that you possess a certain degree of independent combat capability. It is recommended that you serve as the attacker in a Swordbearer squad, with a moderate potential assessment."

"Of course, this is just an assessment based on your performance during the preliminary exam. The organization fully respects everyone's wishes."

"The recommended training content and instructor (mentor) are as follows..."

In the end, Marcus implied that Rayn could decide whether or not to participate in this special training.

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"For example, the Rapid Current Chamber, Sandy Floor Hall, Marsh Room, and other places where you can undergo physical quality enhancement training. I suggest starting with the Rapid Current Chamber and gradually progressing."

Instructor Kurman shook his head immediately, but soon he seemed to realize something. He looked at Rayn with a gleam in his eyes and said, "Hmm? You cultivate the Great Bear Breath Technique? No wonder I felt a vague familiarity just now."

"If you want to further improve your hammer technique, you'll need to work on your own understanding and also seek guidance from masters who specialize in hammers. It's hard to imagine that someone of your age has mastered the hammer technique to this extent."

Has he already used an advanced technique? Is this new recruit really that strong? It seemed like Instructor Kurman had met his match this time!

However, Kurman didn't keep him guessing for long. He quickly explained, "You must have cultivated the Great Bear Breath Technique for many years, from beginner to mastery. Changing to an advanced breathing technique would mean starting from scratch, allowing your body to adapt to the new changes."

Moreover, Kurman's power and speed with each strike of the hammer were indeed increasing, just as he had claimed.

With this in mind, Rayn decided to visit the Special Item Exchange Hall to inquire about the requirements for exchanging advanced breathing techniques.

That's right!

Additionally, the double-handed war hammer on his back was about one and a half meters long, silver-gray, and didn't appear to be made of a single metal. Instead, it seemed to be a composite of various metals, indicating its considerable weight.

"Oh, I forgot to mention this to you. Starting tomorrow, the general knowledge courses will also cover this topic."

When the two returned to the hall, Instructor Kurman said, "Rayn, I've understood your situation, and now I'll offer my suggestions."

This made Rayn feel a sudden surge of pressure!

"Limit Break!"

"You can try to sense it for yourself first, Rayn. However, these training locations all require merit points for entry," Kurman said with a smile.

"After all, just the name 'Metal Transformation Spell' suggests that it's not a defensive spell."

"When it comes to developing your physical potential, it's still not as effective as some of the excellent-tier breathing techniques. What a pity for your exceptional talent!" Kurman shook his head slightly.

"The internal tasks for Swordbearers start at the Bronze rank."

Meanwhile, the other instructors had keenly noticed that Kurman, who had been standing with his hands behind his back, now had his hands slightly trembling.

But after some thought, Rayn decided it was worth listening to what Kurman had to say.

"Gigapower!"

"According to your strength talent, you could be even stronger. This is likely due to your breathing technique not being very advanced and the short duration of your cultivation," Kurman explained.

Suddenly, Rayn remembered something even more important.

"Clang! Clang!"

Was it not possible to exchange for a higher-level item?

After all, he was skilled with numerous weapons, and he quickly thought of a topic to divert the instructor's attention.

Instructor Kurman had only mentioned the potions and not the second point about physical quality enhancement training.

As the two heavy hammers clashed for the first time, a loud clanging sound reverberated through the small training room, causing Rayn's arms to go numb.

This made Rayn feel like his 2736 merit points wouldn't last long. After the afternoon classes ended, Rayn decided to visit the exchange hall again the next day.

However, after observing Rayn closely once more, Instructor Kurman said, "No, it seems to have been modified!"

But the thought of having to exchange so many items made Rayn furrow his brows.

"And a defensive Level 1 spell model, preferably fire-affinity."

"I'll have to visit the exchange hall again tomorrow to check the prices for potions like the Potent Strength Potion, as Marcus mentioned."

A buzzing sound, like the hum of bees, filled the small training room, followed by a thunderous blast that startled the instructors.

Rayn recalled the list of potions he had seen at the Maister Military Supply, which included a 'Strength Potion' with similar effects, but only effective for Knight-level consumers.

Ren never expected that the first general knowledge course would be taught by the incredibly strong Instructor Marcus.

Hence, this situation arose.

Generally, if there was only a one-level difference in breathing technique quality, few knights would choose to do so.

Otherwise, according to his level 14 Bear King Breathing Technique, if it wasn't for the stat increase from allocating points, but through normal cultivation, his attributes would be even stronger.

Ren suddenly understood!

"Ren, what other weapons are you proficient in?"

Goodness! Instructor, is that what you should be saying? Sensing Ren's gaze, Kurman coughed and said solemnly, "Cough, this is a well-known secret. It's not a problem to reasonably exploit the loopholes."

This couldn't help but bring a smile to their faces. Hey! This was a brute encountering an even more brutal one! In the previous battle, Ren didn't use point allocation to restore his stamina. Otherwise, even if Kurman was a Peak Grand Knight, he would have been worn down by Ren until his stamina was exhausted.

Although this was just a test, Ren didn't plan to go easy or cheat. Instead, he focused intently, wanting to accurately assess his shortcomings for future improvement.

"Clang!!!"

With this exchange, Ren estimated Kurman's strength to be that of a Peak Grand Knight.

Kurman was half a head taller than Ren, standing at around 2.1 meters.

Kurman looked at Ren with a strange expression, as if asking, 'Why would you ask such a question?'

Ren looked at Kurman, unsure of what to say for a moment.

"I heard a few days ago that during the preliminary exam, someone knocked out an obsidian golem with a single hammer strike. Today, I finally get to see this person." Kurman smiled and said.

Kurman's expression turned serious as he spoke.

This confirmed what Angus had said during lunch—the Swordbearer instructors, in terms of strength, weren't the strongest in the division, but most of them had extensive teaching experience.

"Generating income is the priority when it comes to cost-cutting!"

There were too many desirable things, and not enough 'money'! "No, I must go to the Task Hall tomorrow."

'Rapid Current Chamber', 'Sandy Floor Hall', 'Marsh Room'? He recognized each word, but somehow, the combined phrase sounded a bit incomprehensible.

"However, I feel that the development of your overall physical qualities is still somewhat weak."

Was it about Merit Points again?

Could it be that Kurman lost to a newcomer? How embarrassing! At this moment, the door to the small training room suddenly opened. Although both Kurman and Ren were drenched in sweat, they emerged with beaming smiles.

Potent Strength Potion?

Ren had barely practiced breathing techniques for a year, and compared to the knights who started at the age of ten, he was seven or eight years behind. Moreover, the development of the body through breathing techniques wasn't instantaneous but required consistent effort over time.

Hearing Kurman's words, Ren didn't refute but silently thought to himself, 'I can allocate points, so it's not a problem.' He thought of a question, 'Why can't I change my breathing technique?' Ren decided to ask, "Instructor Kurman, is it not possible to change breathing techniques?"

"Next, I should also look into the fees for the Rapid Current Chamber."

Ren nodded in agreement.

In an instant, Kurman's entire body expanded, firmly blocking Ren's second strike.

The Potent Strength Potion was effective even for Grand Knights, making it even more valuable.

At the same time, the system rewarded experience points: 【Your skill, Tokkar Hammer Technique, has improved. Experience +671】

The two of them went into a small room? What a missed opportunity! A few people were eagerly anticipating Kurman giving Ren a good lesson, but to their disappointment, the door to the small training room was closed.

Kurman patted Ren's shoulder encouragingly and said, "Your improved Great Bear Breathing Technique isn't bad and is sufficient. But enhancing combat power isn't limited to just advanced breathing techniques." "Ren, think about it from another perspective. If your strength and speed are great enough, who could withstand your hammer strike?" Kurman made a hammer-swinging gesture with his right hand and said boldly.

Loan?

Kurman, stronger than even a barbarian, had such meticulous thoughts.

Could it be that his future job as a 【Deadly Poison Master】 would be discovered there? As Ren's thoughts wandered, Kurman pointed to the greatsword on Ren's back and said, "Yes! Ren, let me remind you. If you choose a two-handed greatsword as your secondary weapon, I personally think it's not suitable."

"Task Evaluation Medals can be split when exchanging, but not for higher-level exchanges. In other words, a gold medal can be exchanged for three silver medals, but not the other way around."

Although Ren didn't win, he felt more immersed and exhilarated in this battle than when he defeated the obsidian golem with a single hammer strike.

That evening, Ren returned to his room and closed the door, deep in thought.

"Alright, I'll trouble Instructor Kurman for guidance." Ren bowed slightly.

Ren's eyebrows furrowed in surprise, and he listened intently.

Of course, this was a secret he kept to himself.

"Additionally, there are potent agility potions, potent constitution potions, and more."

At this point, Kulman hesitated before continuing, "This is due to historical reasons and practical combat considerations. In ancient times, extraordinary individuals led hunting parties to slay beasts."

Ren nodded and smiled.

This further proved that his well-developed physique was accompanied by a sharp mind. "Today, I'll start by explaining why most of the Empire's special departments operate in squad formations for missions." Marcus' deep voice resonated in the hall.

"The promotion rule is a three-tier system. If you're at the Bronze rank, earning three Bronze medals will promote you to the Silver rank, and so on."

"What a pity! The Great Bear Breath Technique you've been practicing is only an ordinary-quality breathing technique. Even with some modifications, it barely reaches the excellent level."

"On the other hand, if you take on missions one rank above your current level and succeed, the rewards will be higher. But if you fail, you'll lose a certain number of merit points." Marcus added.

Soon, Ren realized that Kulman's second hammer strike was more powerful than the first, and before he could catch his breath, the third hammer swiftly followed, making Kulman's heavy hammer attacks relentless!

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"Oh, I almost forgot. Tomorrow, I need to check the exchange conditions for the Fog Combination Potion."

This was the first time Ren had encountered someone who could withstand his full-power attacks head-on.

Normally, adjusting a Knight's breathing technique is a lengthy process. Even with an advanced breathing technique, it would still require a significant amount of time and energy to master.

Ren had previously wondered why the Swordbearers operated in squad formations.

More importantly, the system's fusion function would combine and improve similar combat techniques, just like the previous example of Basic Archery and Blood Rage Archery.

"Since some of you are new to the Swordbearer division and may not have held positions in the Empire's functional departments, you likely have no merit points. However, many training sessions, facilities, and potions within the division require merit points."

But the problem was that he hadn't been promoted to a full-fledged Wizard yet.

"For example, the most common extraordinary individuals in the Empire are Knights, and they often have multiple Knight attendants forming a combat squad around a formal Knight, which is the foundation of the Empire's security."

"Of course, there's a cooldown period between uses of this potion, and its effectiveness will decrease as your body develops resistance," Kulman reminded him.

"If you have acquaintances, you can directly purchase it from them with gold coins, saving you from spending merit points in the exchange hall."

This should be manageable, as he still had 12 remaining attribute points! "Regarding this, my suggestion is to use specific potions to enhance your training and focus on physical quality improvement." Kulman quickly offered his advice.

The clanging of weapons was deafening! Even those in the hall could clearly hear the sound of clashing weapons. Many turned their heads towards the commotion, their faces filled with regret, as if to say, 'It's a shame we can't witness Ren and Instructor Kulman's match.'

Soon, he reached the limit of his current physical qualities.

However, for others, this seemed like a significant issue.

At this moment, Ren finally had the chance to carefully observe Kulman, the war hammer instructor. Kulman's skin was slightly tanned, either from the sun or his natural complexion, and his muscles were incredibly well-defined, resembling iron lumps.

"During the lengthy breathing technique adjustment period, your physical development will likely stagnate, and your overall strength may remain unchanged."

"The organization has considered this situation and implemented the loan measure."

"Thank you, Instructor!" Ren sincerely expressed his gratitude.

Ren understood Kulman's intention upon hearing this.

He had been planning to visit the Task Hall today, and coincidentally, Marcus began discussing related topics.

Ren was well aware of the purpose of this match—to receive advice and suggestions from Kulman as an instructor, not to gain an unfair advantage.

"Thank you for your guidance, Instructor Kulman," Ren said, bowing slightly.

Indeed.

This model closely resembled the Empire's oldest combat core, the Knight Squad, which had evolved over time.

"Clang! Clang!"

Ren's eyes narrowed in concentration.

Such formidable strength! Before the fight, Kulman had told Ren not to hold back, so it didn't take long for Ren to activate his Intermediate Gigapower talent.

Hmm? Ren's eyebrows rose in surprise as he glanced at Kulman in astonishment.

Kulman, seeing Ren's silence, assumed he was feeling down.

The next moment, "Whoosh!"

"Haha, these three places all use magic for enhanced training.

The Jet Stream Chamber enhances physical qualities by enduring the force of the rushing water.

Ren glanced at Kurman in surprise, thinking to himself, "The Swordbearer instructors are indeed competent, with an eye for talent."

For the first time, Ren managed to push Kurman back a few steps!

After listening to Kurman's explanation, Ren merely nodded and didn't ask any further questions.

Suddenly!

"Squad missions are exclusive to captains. You already know this."

"Missions are categorized into designated and non-designated types. Designated missions offer substantial rewards."

"For example, the Potent Strength Potion, a training aid for Peak Knights, provides a gradual boost to the user's strength over a two-week period, with the final growth varying from person to person, approximately half to one level."

"Lastly, regarding loans..." Marcus took a sip of water and continued.

As the only one among the newcomers who could undertake missions, he listened intently.

"By the way, Instructor Kurman, what do you mean by physical quality enhancement training?"

Today, he benefited greatly from Kurman's guidance.

"Next, I'll explain some common knowledge about missions. Each person can only accept missions within one level above or below their own. In your case, at the Black Iron Rank, you can accept missions up to the Bronze Rank."

Two figures flashed past each other and quickly clashed.

(Note: The experience gained from this battle is subject to the exclusive talent 'Elementary Extraordinary Comprehension', resulting in a 30% increase. 【You have experienced a battle, and your Weapon Master (Legendary) experience has increased by 198.】

Ren recalled that Naya, who had the potential to be a sorcerer, had her elemental affinity tested before. Her fire affinity was 71, and her metal affinity was 72.

Ren and Kurman stood face-to-face in the center of the arena.

This meant that he didn't have to go through a lengthy breathing technique adaptation period and could quickly master the improved advanced breathing technique.

As Ren's muscles bulged, he suddenly stood half a head taller than Kurman. For the first time, Kurman's expression changed, revealing a look of surprise! "Clang!"

Whoever said 'muscles without brains'? Clearly, it's muscles with brains! Additionally, the Royal Alchemists Association Minster Province Branch?

Otherwise, high-level players would take on low-level missions, exchange the rewards for higher-level medals, and leave no missions for newcomers.

"It's too heavy and will noticeably slow you down."

"Once you reach the Silver Rank, you can accept Gold, Silver, and Bronze Rank missions. However, be aware that accepting missions one rank lower than your current rank will result in reduced rewards."

Obviously, these two types of magic were his top choices.

In a Swordbearer squad, the members typically provide support, while the captain takes on the combat and defense roles.

"If it's about combat techniques in hammer techniques, I'd say you and I are not far apart. I don't have much to teach you in that regard."

But for Ren, it wasn't the case.

As Ren activated Limit Break, his speed and strength surged. However, Kurman reacted swiftly, and after another clash, he quickly matched Ren's speed and strength at the Limit Break level! Thus, the battle returned to the previous stalemate, with Kurman continuing to increase the power and speed of each strike.

However, Ren's Great Bear Breath Technique seemed to be less effective. After all, he had only practiced it for a year.

The next morning, the special training schedule included a general knowledge course.

His evaluation report was an exception. As Ren followed Kurman to a small training room on the side, the other newcomers in the hall looked disappointed.

After listening to Marcus's explanation, Ren's suspicions were confirmed.

This was the normal evaluation report.

The combat power of large feral beasts was formidable, mainly due to their strength or speed! Feral beasts don't practice breathing techniques. "So, as I said earlier, I suggest you take medication during the next step of your training."

At this moment, Kurman looked around and whispered to Ren, "By the way, the Royal Alchemists Association Minster Province Branch is right next to our Swordbearer division."

The audience below was startled by this revelation, and Ren was no exception.

"In the upcoming match, I'll gradually increase my strength and speed. Ren, you can go all out without holding back. After defeating the Obsidian Golem, in my eyes, you're already a master at my level. I won't underestimate you."

"

Previously, he had been thinking of joining the Imperial Swordbearers and searching for metal-based magic.

"Based on your potential and effort, you can make purchases in advance and repay the borrowed Merit Points within a certain period by completing missions."

It was possible to do this?

Ren's eyes widened in surprise!

According to his potential, he could 'loan' and purchase Defensive Level 1 Spell, Metal Transformation Spell, Fog Combination Potion, and Potent Strength Potion. That shouldn't be excessive, right?

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end