Chapter 290: Metal Barrier

Chapter 290: Metal Barrier



Upon arriving at the entrance of the Swordsmaster Branch, Ren noticed a luxurious carriage already parked outside.

An older man with a handlebar mustache, dressed in hunting attire, was waiting by the carriage. Seeing Ren, Fabien approached with a smile, greeting him warmly.

"Lord Ren, forgive my intrusion. I'm Fabien from the Arcsen Auction House."

"Perhaps there was some misunderstanding in our previous communication."

"Oh? So, in your opinion, the two attempts on my life were just a misunderstanding that can be easily dismissed, Lord Fabien?" Ren waved his hand, interrupting him.

Fabien's face turned slightly embarrassed, but he quickly explained his purpose, "Well, that's why I'm here in person. Even Lord Drake has come all the way from the Imperial Capital to discuss this matter with you. He's waiting at the nearby Mona Cafe. Would you be so kind as to join him for a chat?"

Following Fabien's gesture, Ren looked ahead and spotted a cafe not too far away.

Stepping into the cafe, Ren saw a slightly plump middle-aged man with a meticulously combed back-combed hairstyle waiting inside. The spacious and bright surroundings offered no signs of an ambush.

At the same time, he brought up the repurchase of the Ancient Giant's Tusk.

Ren felt that the man's words were likely true.

"Smooth, smooth," Drake said stiffly.

"Well, Lord Ren, according to the rules, this is an item that can only be exchanged at the Swordsmaster Headquarters after reaching the Mithril rank. However, due to this mission, which you are aware of, Admiral Edward personally communicated with the headquarters."

But as she opened the door, she suddenly froze in shock!

Ren's previous strike that knocked down the obsidian giant had left a deep impression on him.

"Ah!!!

However, Drake never expected that Ren would use the Giant's Tusk.

As Ren entered, the man's face lit up with a smile, and he stood up to greet him, "Lord Ren, it's a pleasure to meet you for the first time. I'm Drake Orlenz."

Meanwhile...

"A certain amount of metal slivers, does that imply multiple metal slivers? And does this certain amount refer to the total volume or the total weight that cannot exceed a certain limit?"

In her bedroom, the young girl Brino, dressed in a white woolen dress, stared out the window, lost in thought.

Feeling that her talents might come at a high cost, she wondered if this was an attempt to win her over. She also questioned how much profit 2% of the shares would bring.

This time, as Ren reactivated the 'Metal Barrier' spell, two kite shields, one in front and one behind, began to slowly rotate around him.

Accompanied by Fabien, Ren headed towards the cafe, located twenty to thirty meters away.

Although he couldn't guarantee an invincible position in battle, Ren's safety was undoubtedly significantly enhanced.

Although the man's gaze seemed to be averted, Brino felt like he was staring at her, sending chills down her spine.

There was no denying this fact, as many within the branch were already aware of it.

This was Ren's first time meeting the leader of the Swordsmaster Branch in Minster.

"After all, to be precise, this is at most just a metal sliver in the shape of a shield."

Drake smiled and waved his hand dismissively.

Indeed, the 'Metal Barrier' spell, with its three-second casting time, had no combat power to speak of.

As expected, after Drake's agreement, he continued, "By the way, Lord Ren, there's one more thing. The Ancient Giant's Tusk holds special significance for Marquis Orlenz, so I wonder if you'd be willing to let us purchase it back."

"How could this be?"

This was their first meeting, but it was one-sided.

Previously, the fire-based spell 'High-Temperature Field' was far more challenging than 'Scorching Touch'.

This wasn't part of the original plan.

However, as the shields rotated according to his consciousness, the consumption of psychic energy began to increase significantly.

If 'Metal Barrier' could be turned into a combat technique, it would be like gaining an additional layer of protection.

After some thought, Ren decided to head to the training hall.

Soon, accompanied by the efficient middle-aged woman Olena, Ren arrived at Admiral Edward's office on the top floor of the administrative building.

At that moment, a system notification appeared:

Admiral Edward took the file, glanced through it, and his expression turned solemn. He stood up and asked, "Hmm? Are you sure?"

The reply Ren received indicated that he could take the initiative to make amends by offering the Arcsen Auction House's Minster branch, which originally belonged to the Orlenz family, as compensation to Ren.

"My future attribute point allocation plan will have to undergo significant changes."

"Hmm? What's this?"

Ren remembered that Lady Red Queen Menya should have been there, and logically, there shouldn't have been any issues.

"What about the other three?"

Below the War Wizard (Legendary) panel, a brand-new icon appeared.

Ren searched for a long time but couldn't find any metal-based defensive spells.

Strictly speaking, this was the second time Ren had met Drake.

"Unfortunately, the Giant's Tusk has indeed been used."

"A metal shield integrated into a single piece should also count as a metal sliver."

"Let's give it a try first!"

Following this process, the other party would most likely not refuse.

As soon as it was attacked, the metal sliver would move at high speed to the direction of the incoming attack to block it, following his consciousness.

In the afternoon, just as Ren was about to visit the Exchange Hall again, Olena rushed to his dormitory.

"Of course, Admiral," Ren smiled.

"It's confirmed, I've verified it with the Southern Sea Fleet," Colonel Stanley said.

"It seems Lord Ren has agreed?" Drak's smile grew brighter.

Olena spoke up at the right moment.

Only Ren himself knew that he didn't have any defensive metal-based spells as his innate talent. The 'Metal Barrier' before him was his first.

However, he didn't expect that at this very moment, he would acquire a rare, defensive rank-one metal-based spell.

Unlike 'Advanced Steel Body,' which tested the skin's defense, Ren could test it himself with a dagger.

At this moment, Colonel Stanley, whom Ren had met a few times, walked in with a serious expression, holding a document, and said, "Sir, you might want to take a look at this first."

Remember, he was the one who was supposed to be hung! But... metal slivers?

Without hesitation, Ren untied the cord on the parchment and carefully examined it.

Because at the end of the corridor in the room, she suddenly saw the boy, holding the female puppet doll, with black eyes staring straight at her.

Seeing Ren's displeased expression, the other party smiled and said:

Additionally, Ren confirmed that the quantity mentioned in the spell description referred to the total weight of the metal slivers, not the number of slivers.

"Thank you very much for your help," Ren bowed.

The other party smiled and extended their hand, gesturing for Ren to open it.

"Ren, I've been observing your performance in the recent tasks, and I must say, I'm truly amazed! Especially your achievement in assassinating the Ancient Hero Monge, it exceeded my expectations of you."

Since Admiral Edward might find time to meet with him in the afternoon, Ren had already considered that he wouldn't engage in lengthy discussions with the other party.

"The second matter is that I hope you won't leave the Minster Swordsmen Branch so soon. You've just joined the Swordsmen, and I think you should take some time to settle down in the branch."

This was a continuous guiding spell, and when he wasn't under attack, the metal slivers (shields) would slowly surround him, remaining in a floating state.

"Sorry, Ren, I have to go to the Duke of Minster right now. We'll have to chat another time." Admiral Edward apologized.

"Is there a problem?" Ren glanced at the other party with a smile.

The entire coffee shop had been booked by the other party, and there were obviously knights guarding the entrance.

That was indeed not a small amount.

Ren knew this was due to the complexity of field-based spells.

Additionally, the other party should also consider safety factors; if it were a private residence, he might not agree.

"No, Lord Ren, this... the transfer of our shares will still take a few days. The Arcsen Auction House has a rule that when trading shares, we need to seek the approval of the major shareholders."

It seemed that the arrangement showed a little sincerity.

Furthermore, whether the item was present or not, this was something that a Diviner, a higher-level Diviner, could easily determine through divination.

"Of course, I hope everything goes smoothly." Ren smiled and stood up.

After carefully reading the description of 'Metal Barrier,' Ren began to pace around the room, one hand on his chest and the other stroking his chin, deep in thought.

The icon on the parchment depicted a hooded, gray-robed figure holding a short staff, surrounded by multiple shield-like metal slivers.

"Is it using shields for defense? But why is the movement so slow?" Ren frowned.

"Of course."

"Thank you for your praise, Admiral." Ren bowed slightly and smiled.

The conditions weren't bad; they were too generous, and Ren secretly felt that the other party might have more tricks up their sleeve.

Therefore, he was also a bit unsure of how to handle the current situation.

[Your skill 'Metal Barrier' has improved. Experience +3]



The water-membrane steel knight armor he wore was becoming less and less capable of withstanding the intensity of the battles he faced.

But now, it seemed like these issues could be put on hold.

In the upper district of Minster, within a wealthy merchant's villa.

With this, the fifty kilograms of hardened fine gold in his hands had mostly been transformed into three kite shields.

This was why he had chosen Metal Transformation as his innate talent, and the results were excellent so far.

"Having an additional defensive spell isn't a bad thing."

"Of course, rest assured, for now, I haven't considered leaving the Swordsmen Branch," Ren smiled and said.

"First, regarding the mark on your body, I've already discussed it with Archbishop Gomez of the Minster Goddess Church. He will personally help you remove the mark."

"If you want to quickly enhance your combat power, you'll need to allocate skill points to reduce the casting time." Ren pondered.

At the same time, Ren could also control the metal slivers with his consciousness, for example, having two shields floating around him in the same direction.

Unexpectedly, they were pure black.

Ren quickly found the critical point through repeated attempts.

"Although you should already have a defensive metal spell, this one is one of the best options I can help you apply for at the Swordmaster Headquarters."

"That's it?"

Then she seemed to forget what happened next.

Ren initially thought he was talking to Viscount Fabien in front of him, but now it seems not.

He could consider using both Skill Points and Golden Skill Points to upgrade 'Metal Barrier' to quickly build combat power.

"Yes, sir." Ren hesitated for a moment and nodded immediately.

"Greetings, Viscount Ren. Please take a seat," Admiral Edward smiled kindly, his eyes scanning Ren up and down.

[You have learned a new skill - Metal Barrier]



This morning, she visited the art exhibition of the oil painting master Franco Van Clive.

"On behalf of Marquis Orlenz, I would like to apologize for the previous incident. In this regard, the Marquis is willing to offer 2% of the shares of the Arcsen Auction House's Minster Branch as compensation."

"You're so young, and your future is bright. Surviving in battle is the most important thing." Admiral Edward explained the reason for the defensive spell.

"I'm sorry, but those ancient giant ogre fangs were used by me?"

Ren took it with a puzzled look and glanced at Edward.

Knowing that his brother Orlenz's mind is not big enough, Ren immediately returned to the Swordmaster Branch.

"Then I have something here that I believe will interest you." Admiral Edward smiled mysteriously and took out an old parchment from his drawer, handing it to Ren.

"Yes, if that's the case, I agree." Ren nodded.

This scene couldn't help but make Ren even more delighted.

"The other party is very concerned about the ancient giant ogre fangs, and they are willing to pay 2% of the shares of the Minster Branch to have the opportunity to trade peacefully with you."

"The people below didn't understand before. Your spoils of war naturally belong to you, but this time we are buying."

"That's it?"

At his current tier, enemies that can be considered formal opponents are very strong. They either have no weaknesses or specialize in a certain direction, like Galina, who is not easy to deal with.

Additionally, Ren could feel that in this floating state, the consumption of psychic energy was not significant.

The kite shield pulled out a shadow and quickly stopped in front of him.

The content of the painting was also vaguely eerie, as if a little boy was holding a female doll, looking into the distance.

"Also, although I have initially mastered the Metal Barrier, I still need to test the defensive power of this spell."

"Good day, Admiral Edward." Ren bowed respectfully.

"These 2% shares of the Minster Branch are my compensation for the mental loss. I hope the other party won't play any more tricks."

But when Brino thought of the painting, she couldn't help but associate it with the other party's eyes.

"However, you need to take time these two days to visit Archbishop Gomez, who wants to understand the strength of your mark first."

"As long as Viscount Ren doesn't mind the previous misunderstanding, and when there's trouble at the Minster Auction House Branch, Viscount Ren can help out as well."

Ren looked at the kite shield in his hand and nodded in satisfaction, immediately starting to try it out.

The Iron Hammer and Rose Chamber, managed by the beautiful woman Jennifer, had only accumulated this much profit in half a year.

"Can I have both pieces together?" Ren immediately thought of another question.

Perhaps he should contact Vinonica. Returning to the dormitory, Ren couldn't hide his excitement. He immediately opened the scroll and read it eagerly, growing more delighted as he continued.

Ren nodded but didn't speak.

Originally, Ren planned to use Golden Skill Points to upgrade his Breath Technique, quickly enhancing his physical attributes.

Although the spell 'Metal Barrier' came a bit late, it was indeed what he needed at the moment.

Ren immediately used his talent spell 'Metal Transformation' to transform the tempered mithril in his hand into a kite shield.

However, the complexity of the 'Metal Barrier' spell model far surpassed that of Metal Transformation.

"Very good, Viscount Ren. I heard from Olena that you are also a rare metal wizard?"

"I believe this fully demonstrates the sincerity of Marquis Orlenz and his sincere apology."

"The defense of two shields is better than one."

He understood a little.

"Greetings, Lord Drak." Ren nodded.

Ren discovered that this was not only a defensive metal spell but also a field spell.

Ren then transformed another kite shield.

Effect of the spell 'Metal Barrier': It causes a certain amount of metal slivers to float within a two-meter range around the caster, blocking any attacks intended to harm the caster. Requires casting materials: any metal slivers.

Ren used his regular Skill Points to upgrade Extraordinary Combat Techniques, as one of the prerequisites for the epic profession 'Thousand Blade King' is the requirement for nine techniques.

No enemy will wait three seconds for you to finish casting before attacking.

Since the news of Ren receiving the Red Dragon Scales from Lady Mena reached the capital, and after contacting the Imperial City, his older brother, Marquis Orlenz, decided to make some concessions.

Could something have happened to the Southern Sea Fleet?

The person before him was an elderly man in an admiral's uniform, with sharp tiger-like eyes that exuded a sense of authority, and although there were some crow's feet at the corners of his eyes, it did not diminish his imposing demeanor; instead, it gave him a sense of gravitas and experience.

Brino's heart skipped a beat, but she still thought she was seeing things.

"However, the required medals and merit points for the exchange cannot be waived, not even by me," Admiral Edward said with a wave of his hand and a smile.

After more than twenty failed attempts, Ren finally succeeded! A sturdy kite shield appeared a meter away from Ren, its surface facing outward, slowly orbiting him.

Metal Barrier Lv.1 Effect: Consumes a certain amount of psychic energy to drive a specific amount of metal slivers using a particular spell model, causing them to float around the caster within a two-meter radius, blocking any attacks intended to harm the caster.

"I wanted to meet you in person and also discuss a few matters with you," Admiral Edward said with a smile.

He was like the sun, and the two kite shields were like Mars and Mercury orbiting him.

At that moment, she seemed to see a slightly strange painting; at least, she had never seen a similar work by Master Franco, as the style was vastly different.

However, when he subconsciously accelerated the shield, a "Whoosh!" sound tore through the air.

But if the item was truly missing, would his brother, Marquis Orlenz, still agree to give Ren a share?

This surprised Ren!

Ren nodded.

"So, how about three days from now?" Drak wiped the fine beads of sweat from his forehead and said.

Since the meeting place was arranged at the entrance of the Swordmaster Branch, it saved a considerable amount of travel time.

"Alright," Ren nodded.

In an instant, another kite shield made of tempered mithril appeared in Ren's hand.

"Sir Ren, Admiral Edward has returned. If you have the time now, please accompany me to meet him,"

No matter the difficulty, as long as he succeeded once, it meant that the skill would be engraved on the Warhammer Wizard's panel, allowing for quick enhancement through further allocation of skill points.

However, the new spell 'Metal Barrier' still needed to be tested with external assistance.

"Oh? What price do I have to pay?" Ren smiled and asked.

"How strange!"

This was too rare.

"Thank you, Admiral," Ren bowed slightly.

Brino shook her head and decided to take a walk in the garden to clear her mind.

"What? What happened?" Drak looked at Ren in disbelief, his entire body suddenly standing up.

"Metal Barrier!" Ren exclaimed, his eyes widening in shock.

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At the same time, Ren also had a question.

So that was the case. "Thump, thump, thump!"

The size of the shield was much smaller than Ren's kite shield, only about the size of a palm.

[You have learned Metal Barrier and your understanding of it has increased!]



"And it seems there's still room for improvement."

Currently, Ren's defense primarily relied on his innate talent, 'Steel Body'.

However, Admiral Edward just mentioned the Southern Sea Fleet?

He had already understood the other party's general intention.

It turned out to be a defensive spell of the Metal Element!

"Otherwise..."

"But if that's the case..."

Before engaging in actual combat, it was necessary to understand the upper limit of 'Metal Barrier's' defensive capabilities, ensuring a clear grasp of its potential.

She rubbed her eyes and looked again.

Although the spell was successfully cast, Ren felt a sense of heaviness in his mind, and the three kite shields floating around him, even in their slow-moving state, caused his psychic energy consumption to rise sharply.

With the other party's attitude and intention now understood,

Huh? A yearly income of two to three hundred thousand Imperial Gold?

"It seems the total amount has exceeded the limit, and we'll need to reduce it slightly."

(Note: Requires casting material - metal slivers of any material.) (Note: Casting time 3 seconds, duration proportional to the caster's psychic energy, can be canceled at will.) "Three seconds casting time is too long!"

"Hmm?"

He was certain that the branch's exchange catalog did not include this spell, which was why he had chosen 'Metal Transformation' instead.

Seeing Ren deep in thought and not speaking, Fabien beside him could not hold back any longer. He glanced at Drak and said, "Sir Ren, you may not be aware, but even a 2% dividend from the Minster Auction House branch would yield an annual income of around two to three hundred thousand Imperial Gold, which is not a small sum. Moreover, there will be continuous income in the future."

"Sir Ren, your time is precious, so I'll get straight to the point."

Below the icon, there was a line of small text: Metal Barrier Lv.1 (1/100)



"Bang!"

Brino screamed and slammed the door shut!

Her chest heaved, and her breathing quickened!

Because the boy in the painting had suddenly appeared a few meters in front of her at the end of the corridor, continuing to stare at her intently.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end