Chapter 287: Two Techniques

Chapter 287: Two Techniques



This was Ren's first time studying a high-quality Breath Technique.

The Great Bear Breath he had learned previously was only of basic quality, and even with the Inner Breath Technique he acquired from Master Gunther, the combined effect was merely an improved version.

According to the tier or quality, it could be classified as a fine-quality technique.

It was still a full tier below the excellent quality.

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

Before reaching the Great Knight tier, this wasn't noticeable.

The reason was that he had allocated a significant number of points to the Bear King Breath, elevating it to a high tier, so the technique's enhancement of his physical attributes was quite evident.

However, as Ren advanced to the Great Knight tier, especially the Senior Great Knight tier, the shortcomings of the Breath Technique became more apparent.

Otherwise, Ren wouldn't have proactively inquired about Breath Techniques from the instructor of the Swordsmen Branch.

Although Clara had expressed her apologies last night, implying that she hadn't anticipated Ren's exceptional talent and felt sorry for not teaching him a better Breath Technique initially, Ren didn't mind.

He couldn't possibly blame her for the quality of the technique, especially since Clara had already shown her discernment by teaching him the basic Great Bear Breath when he was still a page.

The issue lay with Ren himself; he was cheating, not exceptionally talented.

While it was true that his talent had become outstanding, it was only after cheating that he gained this talent.

Additionally, Ren's current physical development primarily relied on point allocation and the consumption of potions, so the progress was swift and not significantly influenced by the Breath Technique.

However, if he could gain insights and experience from this excellent-quality Breath Technique, it would undoubtedly be a fantastic opportunity, and Ren wouldn't pass it up.

"Huh?"

"There are actually twenty-one different training postures?"

As Ren spread the Firemane Lizard Breath Technique scroll on his desk, he was surprised to find a total of twenty-one distinct training postures illustrated on it.

"This is three times the number of postures in the Great Bear Breath!" Ren exclaimed.

Just from the number of postures, Ren felt the gap between the two techniques was even more significant than he had imagined.

Ren's expression turned solemn as he carefully examined the scroll.

Although Clara had suggested it as a reference, Ren decided to give it a try.

After all, the initial postures seemed like basic movements, and practicing them wouldn't present any issues.

Moreover, he was now a Senior Great Knight, and if he felt any discomfort during the training, he could stop at any time.

The first posture of the Firemane Lizard Breath was quite challenging, similar to the 'Reverse Head to Knee Pose' from Ren's past life's yoga, requiring excellent flexibility.

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

For Ren's current Great Knight physique, this posture was effortless.

Within seconds, Ren assumed the Reverse Head to Knee Pose and began exhaling and inhaling according to the required rhythm.

Suddenly, the system notification sounded:

[You have practiced the Firemane Lizard Breath Technique, and your understanding has improved!]



[You have learned a new skill - Firemane Lizard Breath Technique.]



[Your Firemane Lizard Breath Technique skill has improved. Experience gained: +1]



[Host's practice of the Bear King Breath Technique, another Breath Technique, has been detected. Fusion process initiated.]



[Fusion failed! The Firemane Lizard Breath Technique does not meet the minimum requirements for fusion.]



"Hmm..."

After carefully reading through this series of notifications several times, Ren's heart gradually filled with delight.

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

However, the fusion required satisfying specific conditions.

Ren immediately recalled his previous experience with Master Gunther, where the fusion of the Inner Breath Technique with the Great Bear Breath was similar.

It wasn't that learning the Inner Breath Technique automatically enhanced the Great Bear Breath; it was the fulfillment of certain conditions that led to a successful fusion.

"I remember that the Inner Breath Technique had reached level 3, right?"

"Or was it that the subtle interaction between the Inner Breath Technique and the Great Bear Breath Technique served as the criterion? Ren contemplated.

After some thought, Ren decided to practice all twenty-one postures of the Firemane Lizard Breath Technique before making any conclusions.

Who knows, it might be a prerequisite for fusion.

Ren immediately began practicing the second posture.

In less than half a minute, he swiftly mastered it.

Moving on to the third posture...

Half an hour later, Ren had practiced up to the seventeenth posture.

Around the eighth posture, Ren started to feel a slight discomfort in his body.

By the seventeenth posture, this sensation became more pronounced.

It felt like certain hidden small muscles and tendons were being stretched repeatedly, something that hadn't occurred during his practice of the Bear King Breath Technique.

Additionally, some muscles strengthened by the Bear King Breath seemed to clash subtly with the Firemane Lizard Breath movements.

However, this didn't mean Ren couldn't perform the entire set of movements.

Ren, a seasoned Peak Knight, easily executed the entire set of movements with his exceptional physical prowess. However, he felt that the routine didn't enhance his abilities as expected and even caused minor injuries.

Ren understood the reason for this.

As the Swordsman instructor had mentioned before, his body had already adapted to the initial Breath Technique, modifying and adjusting to it, resulting in a gradual solidification of his practice.

Suddenly changing the Breath Technique would not only stall his progress for several years but might also lead to a regression in strength and further bodily harm after a few years.

Nevertheless, Ren's intention was not to replace the Breath Technique.

Half an hour later, Ren wiped the sweat from his forehead, finally completing the twenty-one movements.

He glanced at the system panel, which displayed 'Firemane Lizard Breath Technique lv2 (2/300)'.

He was surprised to have reached the Excellent Tier level 2 so quickly.

Initially, it took him four to five days to reach level 2 in the Bear King Breath Technique.

Now, he had achieved level 2 in just one hour, and this was an Excellent Quality Breath Technique.

However, this made sense as Ren, an experienced Peak Knight, was already proficient in the Breath Technique, making it a 'dimensional strike' for him.

At that moment, the system notification rang again:

[Ding! Detected host's Firemane Lizard Breath Technique has reached the minimum level to integrate with Bear King Breath Technique. Current conditions are met for fusion into a new Breath Technique. Consumes 4 Golden Skill Points. Do you choose to fuse?]



[Note: After fusion, Bear King Breath Technique will no longer be displayed on the panel, but the host can still use related secrets and derived techniques. Host's experience in Bear King Breath Technique will be converted proportionally into experience for the improved new Breath Technique.]



Ren was overjoyed by this unexpected fusion prompt.

He never imagined that the fusion notification would appear so soon.

"Knock, knock, knock!" A knock on the door suddenly interrupted him.

"Hmm? Who's here so early?" Ren frowned slightly.

He was in the middle of fusing the Breath Technique, and the interruption was naturally annoying.

Ren opened the door and saw the efficient young woman, Olena, outside.

"Good morning, Ren. I just heard from the servants that you've been to the training grounds already. I'm glad to see you're up and about. You're truly diligent," Olena greeted him with a smile.

Ren nodded, forcing a smile, and said, "Good morning, Olena. What's the matter?"

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

"Admiral Edward is interested in your encounter with the Epic Powerhouse and would like you to visit the Swordsman Branch once this matter is resolved."

"I understand." Ren furrowed his brows slightly.

This matter was actually quite troublesome.

Ren had already thought of several explanations for using the Warhammer Wizard's core skill, 'Soul Shattering Warhammer'.

However, it wouldn't be easy to deceive Admiral Edward, a cunning old fox.

Ren's initial idea was to attribute this ability to the Skull Battle Hammer.

As the Skull Battle Hammer shattered, somehow, he gained this unique ability.

Whether it was believable or not was not his concern.

The Superhuman world had its quirks, and such phenomena occasionally occurred; his ability wasn't exceptionally exaggerated.

Additionally, as a Wizard, he had a natural advantage in explaining mysterious matters.

"By the way, Admiral Edward also requested the body of the Epic Powerhouse, 'Ancient Hero Monge', to be returned to the Swordsman Branch as soon as possible."

"Admiral Edward will contact Archbishop Gomez of the Goddess Church to investigate the origins of the Epic Powerhouse promptly."

"After all, Epic Powerhouses, even in ancient times, were influential figures whose backgrounds could be traced in ancient records."

"This will greatly assist in removing the seal ring mark from your body." Olena explained.

Ren nodded, his brows relaxing, and said, "Of course, I'll trouble you with this matter, Olena. Please convey my gratitude to Admiral Edward."

This was a pleasant surprise; he didn't expect Edward to attach such importance to the seal ring mark on his body.

"It's no trouble, Ren. It's my honor. If the people in the branch knew I'd be returning with the body of an Epic Powerhouse, I wonder how many would be envious."

Olena tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, covering her smile with her hand.

"I'll contact the Griffin Knight escort immediately, and we'll return to Minster via military airship."

"Yes, I'll stay for a couple more days to observe the situation. If all goes well, I'll return to Minster soon," Ren nodded.

Although, from a task perspective, the three Golden Rank missions, 'Defeat 'Blooded' Raksool', 'Investigate the truth behind the Maestus County attack', and 'Protect the County City of Maestus', were successfully completed.

However, from a personal standpoint, as Kreya's Guardian Knight, he couldn't simply leave.

At the very least, he needed to observe for a couple more days to ensure everything was in order before returning to Minster.

"Alright, Ren. I won't disturb you further."

"Have a safe journey!"

---

Minster, Arcsen Auction House, Third Floor.

A lavish study on the third floor.

Viscount Fabien and Asani were greeted by a distinguished guest from the Imperial Capital, Drak Orlenz, the younger brother of Marquis Orlenz.

The arrival of the guest was unexpected for both of them.

Viscount Fabien had initially assumed that the organization would send someone to apologize to Ren, but he never imagined that such a prominent figure would come. Clearly, this was not someone sent to apologize.

The ancient giant fang held significant value for Marquis Orlenz, and it seemed that it would be challenging to purchase one in the short term, which was why Drak Orlenz had come personally.

"Viscount Fabien, I have a favor to ask of you. Please deliver this invitation to the Swordsman Branch in Minster, to an old friend of mine," said the middle-aged man in noble hunting attire, handing a lavish invitation to Viscount Fabien with a smile.

"Of course, I'll personally see to it, Drak," Fabien replied, promptly leaving the room and boarding his carriage.

Curious, he glanced at the invitation and noticed the salutation, 'Dear Stanley.'

Stanley? He had heard of this name, seemingly a high-ranking member of the Swordsman Branch.

Half an hour later.

"Hmm? Drak is in Minster?" Stanley, upon receiving the invitation, furrowed his brows.

Their relationship was amicable, but not to the extent that Drak would come to Minster personally. They were once classmates at the Royal Academy.

"If it's not a coincidence, then there must be something you need my help with?"

The Swordsman Organization primarily dealt with official matters, and tasks originated from official channels.

Soon, the two met.

After some pleasantries, Drak smiled and said, "Stanley, I have a small favor to ask. I need your help, old classmate."

"Drak, if it's beyond your current authority, how can I possibly assist?" Stanley smiled and replied.

Read the unedited version on 69shu! 6=9+shu_ba, the first to publish this novel.

"Hehe, this matter happens to be within your jurisdiction, so..."

"Oh? Within my jurisdiction? Is it the Swordsman Branch in Minster?" Stanley's smile faded.

He hadn't expected that his old classmate, Drak, would have a request for him.

"Yes."

"It will be within these few days, possibly today or tomorrow. A Swordsman from the Minster Branch might die in an accident, but this matter still requires your intervention to prevent further complications," Drak said cryptically.

"Hmm?" Stanley's expression turned solemn as he thought for a moment, "There's no possibility of communication?"

"There's basically no possibility. Also, this isn't my decision, it's my brother Marquis Orlenz's decision. Old classmate, I'm asking you for a favor."

Marquis Orlenz?

Stanley fell silent, naturally reluctant to do such a thing.

But sometimes, he had no choice.

Just as Imperial nobles held privileges compared to commoners, there were hierarchies within the nobility.

In reality, the nobility had its own hierarchies, with the longest-standing lineages at the top, the dukes and marquises, being the most privileged.

"Then you must ensure the compensation is done properly," Stanley sighed, reluctantly nodding.

"That's only natural, and I won't put you in a difficult position, old classmate," Drak said, seeing Stanley's agreement.

Suddenly, Stanley thought of something.

"By the way, old classmate, what's the name of that Swordsman?" he asked.

"Don't worry, he's not a veteran with significant influence. He's a newcomer, but I've heard he's quite capable," Drak replied nonchalantly.

Stanley's face changed!

A newcomer?

Hearing this word, Stanley's eyes twitched.

Capable?

"Drak, don't tell me it's Ren?" Stanley asked anxiously, his gaze fixed on Drak.

"Hmm? How did you know it's Ren?" Drak was taken aback.

He immediately assumed that Stanley must have recruited this newcomer Swordsman, perhaps as a follower.

"Fuck!"

Stanley's expression changed drastically, and he abruptly stood up, cursing.

Ever since he became Admiral Edward's aide, it had been a while since he last swore.

"Drak! You damn well know what you're doing!"

---

Meanwhile, in Maester County, Habsburg Castle.

In Creya's study.

"Creya, I have something to ask about the Bloodline Breath Technique."

"Is there a difference between the Bloodline Breath Technique and other breath techniques?" Ren intended to ask about the technique's fusion, wanting to clarify before proceeding.

After all, he now had sufficient Golden Skill Points to attempt the fusion.

"Of course, regarding..." Creya began to explain, but Ren interrupted her.

"Creya, I just remembered, it seems that Habsburg Count is looking for you. Why don't you go see him first, and we can continue our chat later?"

"Hmm?"

"Clara looked at Ren with a puzzled expression, but a moment later, she seemed to understand something and nodded, leaving the room."

"Who's eavesdropping?" Ren's eyes narrowed as he looked towards a dark corner of the room.

Since he entered the room, he had sensed a faint aura, and initially, he thought it was some kind of secret guard of the Habsburg family.

But after careful consideration, he realized it was probably not the case.

Because in the intense battles of the past two days, he hadn't seen any sign of a 'Shadow Guard'.

In other words, even if there were such guards, their numbers should be very limited, and they should be closely guarding the severely injured Habus Earl.

"Hehe, a sharp perception, indeed. Grant's death at your hands was not a coincidence."

A voice echoed in the room.

However, this voice seemed to be in surround sound, as if coming from several corners of the room, making it impossible to pinpoint the speaker's location.

Grant? Ren instantly realized the origin of the voice.

He had thought the speaker was from the Black Flame Cult.

But now it seemed otherwise; it was someone sent by the Arcsen Auction House's headquarters, or perhaps a friend of the 'Ice Messenger' Grant.

"Are you from the Imperial Arcsen Auction House headquarters?" Ren asked in a low voice.

"Whether or not it has anything to do with the dead, I'll give you a chance. Hand over the ancient giant's fang, and I'll make your death quick and painless."

"You're asking for death!"

For reasons unknown, perhaps due to the influence of the seal ring mark, Ren felt a surge of anger towards the person threatening him.

A dangerous aura began to emanate from Ren's body.

"Hehe, asking for death? Let me teach you a lesson first." Elyso narrowed his eyes and said.

He had read Ren's intelligence report and knew that Ren had defeated Grant in three moves. But he believed that if it were an ambush, he could do the same.

His artifact-tier dagger had the unique ability to pierce through various elemental shields.

After reading some of Ren's experiences, Elyso was convinced that his judgment was correct, and the weapon in Ren's hand was likely as special as his own.

It was with this advantage that Ren could defeat Grant in three moves.

"Swish!"

A dagger-like throwing weapon shot out from the corner, rapidly heading towards Ren.

Due to the close distance and lightning-fast speed, Ren had little room to dodge.

But Elyso's originally smiling face suddenly froze!

Because he saw Ren not dodging but instead spinning like a top, causing a whirlwind in the room, accompanied by a sharp whistling sound.

Obviously, Elyso hadn't expected Ren to counter his thrown weapon with such an immediate response.

Instantly, countless four-pronged darts filled the room, forcing him to reveal his position.

"Ding ding dang!"

A hooded, slender man in dark leather armor appeared, wielding a pair of daggers and swiftly deflecting over a dozen darts with incredible speed.

"Got you, little mouse!"

Before he could finish his sentence, Elyso felt a jolt of alarm as a gust of wind hit his face, and a dark shadow slashed down from above.

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

"Clang!!!"

A piercing sound of metal clashing filled the air, but the next second, Elyso screamed in pain!

His head had been slashed in half by Ren's sword, and only his instinctive ducking of his neck had saved him from a fatal blow.

Elyso was stunned for a moment.

What had he just seen?

Ren's greatsword was bent!

And not just a little, but almost at a ninety-degree angle.

Injured in one move, Elyso knew that he had to fight for his life.

In an instant, his face hardened, and instead of retreating, he advanced towards Ren, stabbing with both hands dozens of times.

"Clang! Clang! Clang!"

After just one stab, Elyso felt something was off. His artifact-tier dagger, after piercing Ren's armor, couldn't penetrate any further, meeting immense resistance.

"Is that so?" Ren seemed to smirk.

"Swoosh swoosh swoosh!"

In the blink of an eye, dozens of blood holes appeared on Elyso's body, caused by Ren's instantaneously deformed blade-like brass knuckles.

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

"Pfft!"

Four more blood holes appeared on his forehead, and he died instantly.

Ren had used only two moves, 'Blade Storm' and 'Heavy Punch Combo'.

One less move than the 'Ice Messenger'.

At this moment, the guards heard the commotion in the room and rushed in.

Seeing the room filled with debris, countless four-pronged darts on the walls, and Ren holding a slender leather-armored man with a twisted neck, the guards were stunned.

"Ren, are you okay?" the guards asked, their eyes wide with shock.

"I'm fine. You can clean up here," Ren replied.

"Yes, Ren," the guards obeyed.

At this moment, Clara rushed in, seeing the scene, and asked, "Ren, are you alright? Was it the Black Flame Cult?"

"No, it wasn't the Cult," Ren shook his head.

"It was my own business. I might have to return to Minster for a while," Ren said.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end