Chapter 287: Two Moves

Chapter 287: Two Moves



This was Rain's first time perusing an excellent-quality breathing technique.

Previously, the Bear Breath Technique was merely at the ordinary level. Even after combining it with the Inner Breath Technique he learned from Master Gunther, which improved it somewhat, it still only reached the fine quality level.

To reach the excellent quality level, it was still a significant step away.

On the other hand, Rain gradually realized that his current Bear King Breath seemed to have limitations in developing various aspects of his body.

Before he reached the Grand Knight level, this wasn't very noticeable.

This was because he had invested a lot of points into the Bear King Breath, making it feel like the technique significantly enhanced his physical attributes.

However, once Rain became a veteran Grand Knight, the weaknesses of the breathing technique gradually became apparent.

Otherwise, he wouldn't have proactively asked the instructor at the Swordbearer Division about breathing techniques.

Although Kraya expressed regret last night, apologizing for not realizing Rain's extraordinary talent and not teaching him a better breathing technique from the beginning.

However, Rain didn't take it to heart, as Kraya teaching him an ordinary Bear Breath Technique when he was just a young servant was already a great favor.

How could he blame her for the quality of the technique being insufficient?

Moreover, Kraya's judgment wasn't wrong.

The issue lay with him. He had a cheat, not an extraordinary talent.

While his talent is indeed outstanding now, it's only after using the cheat that he gained this talent.

Additionally, Rain's current body development primarily relies on point allocation and potion consumption, so the progress is very fast and isn't much influenced by the breathing technique.

However, if he could gain some insights and experience from this excellent-quality breathing technique, it would be a great thing, and Rain wouldn't miss the opportunity.

"Huh?"

"There are actually twenty-one poses?"

Laying out the 'Flame Lizard Breath Technique' on the desk, Rain was surprised to find that the parchment contained a total of twenty-one different poses for practice.

"This is three times the number of poses in the Bear Breath Technique!" Rain couldn't help but exclaim.

Just from the number of poses, Rain felt that the gap between the two techniques was much greater than he had imagined.

This made Rain's expression turn serious as he began to study it carefully.

Although Kraya suggested using it as a reference, Rain decided to try it out himself.

After all, the earlier poses seemed to be basic and wouldn't cause any problems if practiced.

Besides, he was now a veteran Grand Knight, and if he felt any abnormalities during practice, he could always stop.

The first pose of the Flame Lizard Breath Technique was quite challenging, similar to the 'Head-to-Knee Pose' from Rain's previous life's yoga, requiring a high level of flexibility.

Of course, this was in comparison to the Bear Breath Technique and beginners.

For Rain's current Grand Knight-level physical condition, this pose posed no difficulty.

A few seconds later, Rain was able to perform the Head-to-Knee Pose and began to breathe in and out according to the required rhythm.

Suddenly, the system notification sounded:

【You have practiced the Flame Lizard Breath Technique, and your comprehension has increased!】

【You have learned a new skill—Flame Lizard Breath Technique】

【Your skill Flame Lizard Breath Technique has improved, +1 experience】

【Detected that the host is practicing another breathing technique, Bear King Breath, and is attempting to fuse them】

【Fusion failed! The Flame Lizard Breath Technique has not met the minimum fusion requirement.】

"This is..."

Seeing this series of notifications, Rain read through them several times, gradually feeling elated.

According to the system's final notification, it was clear that the excellent-quality Flame Lizard Breath Technique and the fine-quality Bear King Breath could be fused.

However, certain conditions needed to be met.

Rain immediately thought back to his time learning the Inner Breath Technique from Master Gunther. The process of integrating it was similar.

It wasn't that the Inner Breath Technique could be integrated and enhance the Bear Breath Technique immediately upon learning.

Instead, it was only after certain conditions were met that the fusion succeeded.

"I remember, at that time, the Inner Breath Technique seemed to have reached level 3?"

"Or was it the feeling at that time? The subtle interaction between the Inner Breath Technique and the Bear Breath Technique." Rain pondered.

After some thought, Rain decided to practice all twenty-one poses of the 'Flame Lizard Breath Technique' before making any further decisions.

Perhaps this was one of the prerequisites for fusion.

Thus, Rain immediately began practicing the second pose.

Similarly, he quickly mastered it in less than half a minute.

Next, he moved on to the third pose.

...

After half an hour, Rain had practiced up to the seventeenth pose.

From around the eighth pose, Rain started to feel a slight discomfort in his body.

By the time he reached the seventeenth pose, this feeling became more noticeable.

It seemed that some hidden small muscle groups and fasciae in his body were being repeatedly stretched, something he hadn't experienced with the Bear King Breath before.

Additionally, certain muscle groups strengthened by the Bear King Breath seemed to be somewhat incompatible with the current Flame Lizard Breath Technique poses.

Of course, this didn't mean that Rain couldn't complete the entire set of poses.

With the physical prowess of a seasoned Grand Knight like Rain, performing the entire set of movements was naturally within his capabilities.

However, Rain felt a slight discomfort as he executed the movements, sensing that they were not enhancing his body but rather causing minor damage.

Rain's intuition was confirmed. As he had suspected, his body had already adapted to the initial breathing technique and made adjustments, gradually solidifying into a set pattern.

Abruptly changing the breathing technique would not only stall his progress for several years but could also lead to a decline in strength and severe physical damage years later if his body failed to adapt to the new technique.

Rain's intention, however, was not to switch breathing techniques.

After another half-hour, Rain wiped the sweat from his forehead, finally completing all twenty-one movements.

He glanced at the system panel, which displayed 'Flame Lizard Breath Technique Level 2 (2/300)'.

Rain was surprised at how quickly he had reached Level 2.

Initially, it had taken him four to five days to reach Level 2 in the Bear Breath Technique.

But now, with just one hour of practice, he had achieved Level 2 in a high-quality breathing technique.

This was to be expected, as a seasoned Grand Knight practicing this breathing technique was akin to a 'dimensional strike'.

At that moment, the system notification chimed again:

[Ding! Host's Flame Lizard Breath Technique has reached the minimum level to integrate with the Bear King Breath Technique. Current conditions are met for fusion. Fusion will consume 4 Golden Skill Points. Do you choose to proceed with the fusion? Yes/No?]



[Note: After fusion, the Bear King Breath Technique will no longer be displayed on the panel, but the host will still be able to use related secret techniques and derived High Techniques.]



[Note: The new breathing technique will combine the advantages of the Flame Lizard Breath Technique and the Bear King Breath Technique with improvements. The host's experience in the Bear King Breath Technique will be converted proportionally into experience for the improved new breathing technique.]



This news delighted Rain beyond measure.

He hadn't expected the fusion prompt to appear so quickly.

"Knock knock!" A sudden knock on the door startled Rain.

"Hmm? Who could it be so early in the morning?" Rain frowned slightly.

He was about to fuse the breathing techniques and was naturally annoyed at the interruption.

Opening the door, Rain found a capable-looking young woman, Olenna, standing outside.

"Good morning, Sir Rain," Olenna greeted with a smile. "I heard from the guards that you've already visited the training room. You're indeed diligent."

Rain couldn't refuse a smiling face, so he nodded and managed a faint smile. "Good morning, Lady Olenna. What brings you here?"

"Well, Sir Rain, I received a letter from Admiral Edward last night."

"The Admiral wishes that, after you finish your business here, you return to the Swordbearer Division as soon as possible. He's very interested in how you defeated the Epic Powerhouse."

"Oh, I see. I understand," Rain replied, his brow furrowing slightly.

This matter was indeed troublesome.

Rain had already thought of several explanations for how he had used the core skill of a Warhammer Wizard, 'Soul-Shattering Warhammer'.

However, deceiving Admiral Edward, an old fox like him, wouldn't be easy.

Rain's plan was to attribute this ability to the Skull Warhammer and claim that, as the skull shattered, he somehow gained this extraordinary ability.

Whether or not they believed him was not his concern.

The extraordinary world had its perks, and some strange phenomena did occur from time to time, so his explanation wouldn't be out of the ordinary.

As a wizard, Rain had a natural advantage when it came to explaining mysterious matters.

"By the way, there's one more thing," Olenna continued. "Admiral Edward wants the body of the Epic Powerhouse, the 'Ancient Hero Mong', to be sent to Minster as soon as possible."

"Admiral Edward will contact Archbishop Gomez of the Goddess Church to quickly investigate the origin of the enemy."

"After all, even in ancient times, Epic Powerhouses were well-known figures with names and backgrounds that could be traced back to historical records."

"This will greatly assist in removing the mark on your body," Olenna explained.

Rain nodded, his brow relaxing as he replied, "Of course, I'll be grateful if you could convey my clothes for more comfortable ones and express my gratitude to Admiral Edward."

Rain was pleasantly surprised that Edward would pay such attention to the mark on his body.

"It's no trouble, Sir Rain," Olenna assured him. "It's an honor for me. If the people in the division knew that I'd be returning with the body of an Epic Powerhouse, they'd be envious."

Olenna playfully flicked her hair and covered her mouth, letting out a light laugh.

"I'll contact the Admiral right away and make the arrangements," she continued. "In the meantime, I'll ensure that the body of the Epic Powerhouse is handled with the utmost care."

"Of course, Your Excellency Rain. I won't disturb you any further."

"Safe travels!"

---

Minster, Akson Auction House.

Viscount Fabien received a distinguished guest from the Imperial Capital, the younger brother of Marquis Orland—Drake Orland.

Their arrival was unexpected for both Fabien and Roland.

Fabien had assumed that the headquarters would send someone to apologize to Rain, but he never imagined it would be someone like Drake, who was clearly not here to apologize.

The Ancient Golem Fang held significant importance for Marquis Orland, and it seemed unlikely to acquire it elsewhere in a short time. Hence, Drake's visit.

"Viscount Fabien, I need you to deliver this invitation to the Swordbearer Division in Minster, to an old friend of mine." The middle-aged man, dressed in noble hunting attire, handed Fabien a lavish invitation with a smile.

"Of course, Lord Drake. I'll personally deliver it." Fabien took the invitation and immediately left the room to board a carriage.

Out of curiosity, he glanced at the recipient's name on the invitation, which read, 'Dear Colonel Stanley.'

Stanley? He had heard of this name; apparently, he was a high-ranking member of the Swordbearer Division.

Half an hour later.

"Hmm? Drake is in Minster?" Colonel Stanley received the invitation, his eyebrows furrowing slightly.

He had a good relationship with Drake, but not to the extent that Drake would travel to Minster specifically to see him. They were once classmates at the Imperial Royal Academy.

"Unless he's passing by, he must have a favor to ask of me. But what could I possibly help him with here?"

The Swordbearer organization primarily dealt with official matters, and tasks were usually assigned through official channels.

Soon, the two met.

After some pleasantries, Drake smiled and said, "Stanley, I have a small favor to ask of you, my old classmate."

"Drake, with your current status and position, if you can't handle it, how could I possibly be of help?" Stanley smiled back.

"Haha, this matter falls within your authority."

"Oh? Within my authority? Is it regarding the Swordbearer Division in Minster?" Stanley's smile faded.

He hadn't expected that his old classmate, Drake, would actually need his help.

"Yes."

"It might happen soon, perhaps today or tomorrow. A Swordbearer in the Minster Division may die in an accident, and I need you to suppress the news to prevent it from spreading."

Drake spoke in a cryptic manner.

"Hmm?" Stanley's expression turned serious as he thought for a moment. "Is there no room for negotiation?"

"There's almost no chance. Moreover, this isn't my intention; it's the wish of my brother, Marquis Orland. Old classmate, I'm counting on you."

Stanley remained silent, as he naturally didn't want to be involved in such matters.

However, sometimes there was no choice.

For instance, the imperial nobility held privileged status compared to commoners.

But within the nobility, there were different ranks and levels. The upper echelon, with their long-standing heritage, possessed privileges within privileges, and the dukes and marquises were at the very top.

"Then you must ensure the necessary compensation is provided." Stanley sighed and reluctantly nodded.

"Of course, on this matter, I won't make it difficult for you, my old classmate." Drake smiled and nodded upon seeing Stanley's agreement.

Suddenly, Stanley remembered something.

"By the way, old classmate, what's the name of that Swordbearer?"

"Don't worry, it's not someone with a significant influence; it's a newcomer, but I've heard they're quite capable." Drake replied nonchalantly.

Stanley's expression changed!

A newcomer?

The word immediately made him think of one person.

Capable, you say? Stanley's eyes began to twitch slightly.

Could it be!

His expression turned serious as he stared intently at Drake, asking anxiously, "Drake, please don't tell me it's Rain?"

"Hmm? How did you know?" Drake was taken aback.

He initially thought that Stanley had recruited this new Swordbearer, perhaps as a follower.

"Damn!"

Stanley's face turned pale as he cursed.

Ever since becoming Admiral Edward's secretary, he had refrained from using such foul language.

"Drake! Do you know what you're doing?!"

---

Meanwhile, at the Hubert Duke Manor in Mayorst County City.

In Kraya's study.

"Kraya, I have a question regarding the Bloodline Breath Technique."

"What's the difference between the Bloodline Breath Technique and other breath techniques?" Rain wanted to clarify the fusion of breath techniques, as he was entirely unfamiliar with the Bloodline Breath Technique.

After all, he currently had enough Golden Skill Points to attempt the fusion at any time.

"Of course, regarding..." Just as Kraya was about to explain, Rain interrupted her.

"Kraya, I just remembered that Duke Hubert seems to be looking for you. Why don't you go see him first, and we can continue our conversation later?"

"Hmm?" Kraya looked at Rain in confusion, but the next second, she seemed to understand and nodded, leaving the room.

"Who's eavesdropping over there?" Rain's eyes narrowed as he scanned a dark corner of the room, sensing a faint presence that had been lingering since he entered. Initially, he thought it might be a secret guard of the Hubert family.

But upon further reflection, he dismissed that idea. During the intense battles of the past two days, he hadn't seen any sign of such 'Shadow Guards.'

This meant that even if they existed, their numbers would be extremely limited, likely dedicated to protecting the severely injured Hubert Duke.

"Hehe, a sharp perception indeed. No wonder Grant died by your hand; it wasn't a coincidence." A voice echoed through the room, seemingly emanating from multiple corners, making it impossible to pinpoint the speaker's location.

Grant? Rain instantly realized the speaker's identity.

He had assumed the person to be from the Darkflame Church.

But now, it seemed more likely that they were sent by the Akson Auction House's headquarters in the capital, or perhaps a friend of Grant, the 'Ice Messenger.'

"Are you from the Akson Auction House headquarters in the capital?" Rain asked in a deep voice.

"Whether I am or not, it doesn't matter to the dead. I'll give you a chance. Hand over the Ancient Golem Fang voluntarily, and I'll make your death more pleasant."

"You're asking for death!" Rain's anger surged, perhaps influenced by the mark on his body.

A dangerous aura began to emanate from him.

"Hehe, asking for death? Let me give you a taste of pain first." Elaihu narrowed his eyes.

He had read Rain's intelligence report and knew that Rain had defeated Grant in three moves. But he believed that if it were a sneak attack, he could achieve the same result.

After reviewing Rain's experiences, Elaihu was confident in his assessment. He believed that Rain's weapon, like his own, was special.

It was this element of surprise that allowed Grant to be defeated in three moves.

"Swoosh!"

A throwing weapon resembling a dagger shot out from the corner, rapidly heading towards Rain.

Due to the close distance and incredible speed, Rain didn't dodge or evade. Instead, he started spinning like a top, creating a whirlwind in the room accompanied by a sharp whistling sound.

Elaihu was caught off guard by Rain's decision to counterattack instead of dodging.

"Ding ding ding!"

A hooded, slender man in dark leather armor appeared, wielding dual daggers with incredible speed, deflecting over a dozen four-pronged darts that had been thrown at him.

"I've got you now, little mouse!" Elaihu declared.

But as soon as he spoke, alarm bells rang in his head. A gust of wind hit his face, and a shadow descended from above, striking him with force.

In the blink of an eye, Elaihu crossed his daggers above his head to block Rain's slash.

"Clang!!!"

A harsh sound of metal clashing filled the air, followed by Elaihu's painful scream.

His head had been split open by Rain's sword, and if he hadn't instinctively ducked at the last moment, his head would have been cleaved in two.

Elaihu was momentarily stunned. What had he just witnessed? Rain's sword had bent at a nearly ninety-degree angle!

Realizing he was in serious trouble, Elaihu decided to take the offensive. He advanced towards Rain, rapidly stabbing with his daggers dozens of times, aiming for vital points on Rain's body.

"Clang! Clang! Clang!"

After just one stab, Elaihu realized something was wrong. His artifact-level daggers, which had pierced Rain's armor, couldn't penetrate any further, meeting immense resistance.

"Is that all?" Rain sneered.

"Swish, swish, swish!"

In an instant, Elaihu's body was riddled with dozens of blood holes, caused by Rain's fingers, which had transformed into sharp blades.

Elaihu's eyes widened, and his entire body shook uncontrollably.

"Pfft!"

Four more blood holes appeared on his forehead.

The guards outside heard the commotion and rushed into the room. They were stunned by the scene: the room filled with debris, the walls covered in four-pronged darts, and Rain holding a slender man in dark leather armor, his neck twisted at an unnatural angle.

"Sir Rain, are you alright?" the guards asked, their eyes wide with shock.

"I'm fine. You can clean up in here," Rain instructed.

"Yes, sir!" the guards responded.

"It's not the Darkflame Church. It's a personal matter, Kraya. I might have to return to Minster for a while," Rain explained.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end